U-series. Cruiser HMNZS Achilles leaves New Zealand convoy. Part 2 of 4

Rights Information
Year
1940
Reference
11193
Media type
Audio
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Rights Information
Year
1940
Reference
11193
Media type
Audio
Series
U series
Duration
00:03:44
Credits
RNZ Collection

Part 2 of 4
A series of recordings by Mobile unit commentator Doug Laurenson [Military Service no. 34957], made on board the troopship "Empress of Japan" three days out from New Zealand, en-route to Egypt. He describes the scene from the deck as the cruiser "HMNZS Achilles" prepares to depart from the convoy of troop transports it has been escorting, to return to New Zealand. He describes Achilles as it comes alongside, with sailors in blue jackets clustered on her decks. She is flying a string of flags, complimenting the ships she is farewelling. Th emen on Doug's troopship are feeling the effects of recent inoculations, with sore arms.

This item is part of a collection of recordings made by the Mobile Broadcasting Units, which travelled overseas with New Zealand forces between 1940-1945. They recorded New Zealanders' experiences of war and messages to their families and friends, which were sent back home to be played on a weekly radio programme.