Ever since that fateful
Fourth of August, 1914, I have remained steadfast in my confidence that,
whether fortune frowned or smiled, the Royal Navy would once more prove
the sure shield of the British Empire in the hour of trial. Never in its
history has the Royal Navy, with God's help, done greater things for us
or better sustained its old glories and the chivalry of the sea. With
full and grateful hearts the peoples of the British Empire salute the
White, the Red, and the Blue Ensigns, and those who have given their
lives for the Flag. I am proud to have served in the Navy. I am prouder
still to be its Head upon this memorable Day.
GEORGE, R.I.
[Illustration: H.M. KING GEORGE V.]
(The "women" to whom the King referred were the famous "Wrens," so called
because the initials of the Women's Royal Naval Service--W.R.N.S.--can
easily be turned into "Wrens." Everything that women could do they did;
and did it well.)
(The White Ensign is the flag of the Navy: white, divided into four by
the red St. George's Cross, and with the Union Jack in the upper inside
quarter.
Pages:
381
382
383
384
385
386
387
388
389
390
391
392
393
394
395
396
397
398
399
400
401
402
403
404
405