COMMANDER BYRD

Hokitika Guardian, 7 November 1928, Page 6

COMMANDER BYRD

RECEPTION TO PARTY

[ By Telegraph, Per Press Association.J

Wellington, Nov. s

Enthusiastic scenes were witnessed in the concert chambers of the I own Hall to-night, when Commander Byrd and party were accorded a civic reception. The A layer (Air G. A. Troup) said: “We -want you to feel, while you are with us, that you are amongst friends. (Applause). For between your great country and our there has always been the greatest goodwill and friendly feelings. (Applause).) In you. Commander Byrd, we are all especially interested. (Applause), f'or we have been thrilled by your intrepid flights to the North Bole and later across the Atlantic ocean Iron: America to Europe. (Applause). No individual in this world save yourself can be credited with having accomplished both of these daring tasks, (Applause), and when you reach the South Pole, as we believe and trust vou will, then you will have added lurfiier laurels to your already lull life and experiences.” (Applause).

Speaking on (behalf ol the Governinont. Sir Francis Bel! said that the race to the Pole between Byrd and Wilkins was nearly equal to that between Scott and Amundsen. “I don t think I cun fairly say i hope Commander Byrd will get there first, said Sir Francis Bell, amidst laughter, “hut I hope the best man will get there first.” (Applause). He hoped Byrd would return with further laurels. (Applause). When he did return bis reception would he no less hearty than if the feat had been performed by a New Zealander. (Applause). Cheers greeted Commander Byrd when he rose to reply. “I wish to express my very deep gratitude and appreciation for this wonderful reception and for the hospitality that New Zealand is showing us. In* said, when the ,-initialise had subsided. ‘\ s ir I‘raiU'i-, Bell mentioned that Sir Hubert Wilkins is about to fly over our way. Sir Hubert Wilkins is a friend of mine. ) admire him greatly (applause) and all the members ol ihe expedition and myself want m .wish them the best, of luck. (Applause). AYe have told him that if lie Hies to the Ross Sea area, be is welcome to our landing field. AmilatiseV Tim last time I saw him in New York la- said he was going to Ilv over that way. so wo hope to sec him down there. (Applause). Scott is one of my boyhood heroes. (Applause). I road In's hook time and again, and in honour of liis memory and that of the great Shaekleton (applause) we are going to carry with us on our flight to the South Pole the British flag.” (Loud applause).