G. H.(Sandy) Weir, a member of the New Zealand expeditionary force which landed in Samoa during World War I, recalls the landing and congratulates Samoa on its independence. "Talofa. I am speaking to you as a former member of the New Zealand military party, 1500-strong, which on daybreak on August 29, 1914 arrived off the port of Apia in the troopships Moeraki and Monowai. Escorted by a naval force consisting of Australian, French and New Zealand ships, headed by the Australian battle cruiser, Australia. Though it is so long ago, surviving members of the expedition vividly recollect the events and scenes of that far-away morning which was to prove so fateful in the history of Western Samoa. The troops had been roused before dawn in preparation for landing. Nerves were somewhat on edge, as there was the possibility that the island was garrisoned and strong resistance from shore would have made the approach to the beach in the ships' open lifeboats very uncomfortable. As it turns out, there was no opposition and the expedition was soon ashore and in control of the territory, which up 'til then had been held by Germany. The party remained on the island for eight months and was then relieved for service in other theatres. The troops formed a high opinion of the Samoan people whom they found friendly and hospitable. They were good at games and our fellows had many enjoyable contests with them, particularly at cricket, in which the local chaps were very proficient with the round bat peculiar to the Samoan type of cricket. Members of the 1914 expedition I'm sure, would all like to congratulate the Samoan people on launching out to paddle their own catamaran. We wish them happiness and prosperity as a nation. Tofa mai feleni. Manuia." Transcript by Sound Archives/Ngā Taonga Kōrero