ANTARCTIC GREETINGS

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 852, 21 December 1929, Page 11

ANTARCTIC GREETINGS

MESSAGES OF GOODWILL FOR BYRD ALSO FROM HIM Reed. 9.5 a.m. NEW YORK, Friday. Mr. Herbert Brookes, Australian Agent-General in the United States, gave the Australian Press Association the following message, sent to Commander Richard Byrd;,—“My fellowAustralians rejoice witli the citizens of your republic in the successful and safe accomplishment of one of the greatest feats of history. As the representatives of Australia in the United States, I desire to join all Americans in sending you and your brave companions best wishes for Christmas and the safe return in the New Year.”

Commander Byrd replied:—“We are all delighted to get your message, especially so on account of our friendship and admiration for your countrymen, Sir Douglas Mawson and Sir Hubert Wilkins. Sir Douglas Mawson’s work is certain to be of very great scientific value and we are at this time waiting to receive Sir Hubert Wilkins, who finishes his great flight at this base. He will receive a warm reception from all the inhabitants of Little America, who join me in best wishes to you and your fellow-countrymen in Australia.” The Bill advancing Commander R. E. Byrd to the rank of rear-admiral on the retired list of the Navy was passed by the Senate on Friday, and sent to the House of Representatives. Commander Byrd has been awarded the David Livingstone Centenary Medal, so the National Geographic Society announces.