U.S.A. FLEET.

Hokitika Guardian, 12 August 1925, Page 2

U.S.A. FLEET.

[Australia & X.Z. Cable Association

ARRIVAL AT AUCKLAND. AUCKLAND, Augift If

The entry of the American Battle Kb-ci to Auckland provided a magnificent spectacle, as the great ships rounded North Head in turn. and anchored in the stream. Bright sunshine prevailed, and the scene as the -nlutcs of the gutt' were exchanged between tha flagship ‘California," and Kurt Cant ley. w ith seaplanes dashing about on tin- harbour, was inn-t impressive. The Elect was inter in arriving ’ban cxpci-tcil ala! vainui-- official > : 1 ! 1 - do laved Iho civic reception which all railed a great gathering. Deputy -Mayot Wardnok spoke on behalf of the city, ami Sir James Parr, represented tile Government.

Admiral Robinson, who vas cheered on rising said it was difficult to respond properly to the welcome that had been given. “Perhaps’’ he said, “you don’t all know or realise that, next to Canada. New Zealand i- now my nearest neighbour. We have moved to Tutnila, and you have moved to Rain, and we can see each oilier on a clear dav.”

lie continued:—“The ships of Knifed States fleet which steamed in today dressed in more sombre colours than those of the groat white fleet of 1908, equal it in personnel, and have a greater tonnage. They carry a message of friendship and goodwill from the people of the United States of America to the people of New Zealand. One of your commentators at the lime of out memorable visit of BIOS, said "friends to-day, the two nations will lie comrades to-morrow in the conservation of their rights ami privileges against tin possible aggression of the foreigner,” and so it came to lie that we were comrades in the Great World War. Tin world recognises the progress of the sons and the sacrifices of the daughters of New Zealand, and so wo now conn to you as comrades, treading tin pleasant paths of peace, and always ready to uphold the right." fClioeri and applause). A large number of men were given shore leave, and the streets of the city were crowded with sailors tonight. There was a reception by the United States Consul at the Town Hall, a brilliant spectacle being provided.

To-morrow, five bundl'd! men of the fleet, will leave for Hamilton, as me guests ol the Government, and 011 Friday, Admiral Robinson and 200 officers will leave for Rotorua.

A SOCIAL WIHRL. WELI.INGTTON. Aug. 11. The Government buildings, the Town Hall and the public buildings were beautifully illuminated to-night. The programme for this evening was as under: 5 p.m. civic reception at the Town Flail; 7 p.m. Government House dinner to Admiral Count/, and the priueinal officers; 8 p.m. the Independent Order of Oddfellows’ welcome to the American Lodge at the Concert Chamlier: 8 p.m. private dance. To-morrow's 1 rogrnmmc- 10 a.m.. ceremonial march through the city: 1 p.m.. the Government luncheon to Admiral Connlz and the principal officers at the Town Hall; 3 p.m. to 5 p.lll. reception to the matron and nurses of the Fleet hv the Trained Nurses’ Association at their club. Kensington St.; 7 p.m. eliihroom and dance at Town Hall : 8 p.m. Fvan's Bav Yacht ('lull's dance for 50 men ; 8.30 p.m. American Consul-General's reception to Admiral Coontz and the principal officers at the Ambassador, Ball to 25 officers by the Mayor. Councillors. citizens of Lower Hint: a private dance to 25 officers.