“ Very Distinguished Commander-in-Chief ”

Manawatu Times, Volume 69, Issue 64, 18 March 1944, Page 5

“ Very Distinguished Commander-in-Chief ”

GENERAL MacARTHUR HONOURED IN AUSTRALIA Received Friday, 10.30 p.m. CANBERRA, March 17. Matters vitally affecting Australia’s future war role were discussed to-day by Mr. Curtin and General MacArtbur. Mr. Curtin indicated that the subjects to be raised at the forthcoming Prime Ministers’ conference in London were among the subjects examined to-night. General MacArthur will be the guest of honour at a State dinner to mark tlio second anniversary of his arrival in Australia. In a broadcast to Americans to-day Mr. Curtin said: “In the two years that have followed General MacArthur’s arrival from the Philippines the forces under his command have performed deeds of gallantry and ingenious efficiency which reflect the highest credit on themselves, their countries and their very distinguished command-er-in-chief. The name of MacArthur stands even higher to-day in Australia than it did two years ago when his arrival proved such a tonic to Australia.”

General MacArthur was to-day invested at Government House with the insignia for the military division of the G.C.B. The Governor-General (Lord Gowrie) left his sick bed to which he had been confined for several weeks to perform the investiture. “I should like to convey to you on

behalf of the people of Australia our grateful thanks for all you have done lor us during tho last two years,” saffl Lord Gowrie. “You assumed the command in this area at the most critical period in Australia’s history. You inspired us all with confidence the moment you arrived and we now know that confidence was abundantly Justified.” “I regard this insignia as a sytbol of the magnificent valour of the soldiers whom it was my signal fortune to command in the vital Papuan campaign.” said General MacArthur on receiving the insignia. “I shall wear it in their honour. ’'