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The Nelson Photo News

 

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Goodwill Visit By H.M.S. Achilles

Nelson was host to the men of the British frigate H.M.S. Achilles for four days this month. While here, the British Navy made many friends and reciprocal hospitality abounded.

Because their ship carried the same name as the New Zealand cruiser which featured prominently in the sinking of the German pocket battleship Graf Spee, the crew probably relived the Battle of the River Plate many times, but being the gentlemen they were, they probably took as much pleasure in hearing the numerous versions of the historic battle, as the former members of the H.M.N.Z.S. Achilles did in the telling. We think the crew of Achilles enjoyed Nelson and we know many Nelsonians who enjoyed the visit.

(We know this copy of "Photo News" will be read by some of the crew. Many thanks to George, Jacko and others of CPO No.2 Mess, for your hospitality — Editor).

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The frigate H.M.S. Achilles glides into Port Nelson at the start of her four-day visit

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For a short time Ricky Peters was a Petty Officer in the R.N. Mrs Raelyn Peters looks quite keen on the young seaman.

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A visit to the bridge was made by former Chief of the New Zealand Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Washbourn, C.B., D.S.O., O.B.E., centre, and Mrs Washbourn. With them is the captain of the Achilles, Commander K. A. Low. Admiral Washbourn was the gunnery officer on the H.M.N.Z.S. Achilles during the Battle of the River Plate. He and Mrs Washbourn are now retired in Golden Bay

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It must be the uniform that attracts them, or it might be the good looks. Anyway seamen (especially R.N.) have a way with the girls. Making friends with Aleyne Ingham, Rona Sedman, Janice Briggs, Charmaine Burns and Alison Holmwood were ordinary seamen Allan Martin and John Clark

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Little John Gourdie had trouble on one of the ladders, so Geoff Rose stepped in and gave a hand

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Barry Hills and Neil Senior appear impressed with the 4.5s

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"Hell luv! You're not going to stick that in my finger?" Chief Petty Officer Peter Jackson doesn't look too happy about Mrs Isabel Wood taking a blood sample before a blood-donoring session. Other Chiefs George Shalin, Paul Taylor and Stephen Ganesby (nearest) think it's a great joke. Your turn next fellers!

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The flight deck was alive with visitors while the ship was open to the public
Bradley Helem receives a bit of assistance down a ladder from Mrs Marlene Salthouse

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The Royal Navy's "Maoris" gave a lively version of the haka as the ship departed

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Six members of the Achilles Sea Scout Troop had the thrill of a trip to Wellington on the frigate

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And so it's farewell Achilles. Hundreds of people bid the ship bon voyage