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General Freyberg to the Prime Minister

Your inspiring message of congratulation to the Division from the Government and people of New Zealand has just reached us, having been delayed owing to congestion in signals traffic.² An extract has been published in orders and will, I know, be deeply appreciated by all ranks. We are indeed glad that on this occasion the atmosphere of victory replaces the grim stories of withdrawals and rearguards which the Government and people of New Zealand have borne so unflinchingly for the last two years. May it mark the turning of the tide leading to final victory and our return home. This success has been a proud moment for us all and one which the New Zealand Division deserves after fighting so many gallant battles against very great odds.

I deeply appreciated your personal message to me and am glad my reports before the offensive and from the battlefield have been of help to you.

A brief account of the campaign for publication follows.