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[Page 154]
The Chief of the General Staff.
Melbourne:
Sir;
Now that the Naval and Military Expeditionary Force which left Australia under my command in August last has completed its period of service, and been disbanded, I forward herewith for historical purposes at the termination of the Campaign, copies of Diary, Despatches, Reports, Messages and other documents, which are more particularly enumerated in attached list.
The Diary and Despatches are very full and practically contain a complete record of all the doings of the Force, as well as an account of the transactions connected with the Military Administration of the Colony of German New Guinea under my regime, so that any further comment by me now would be mere surplusage.
I desire, however, in this my final report, to briefly refer to the good service rendered by the undermentioned Officers:-
Brigade Staff:
Major F.B. Heritage, Brigade Major and Military Secretary, commanded Expedition to New Ireland, occupied the Island, secured release of British Consul, and captured three Ships of the Enemy at Gardner Island. Commanded Expedition that took possession of the Admiralty and Hermit Groups.
Captain R.J.A. Travers, Staff Captaiin: Displayed considerable dash and colness in action. Did good work as Intelligence Officer.
Lieutenant B. Holmes, A.D.C.: Maintained occupation of New Ireland with a small detail of troops until permanent Garrison was provided. Restored law and order amongst a large native population.
Lieut. Colonel N.R. Howse, V.C.
Major F.A. Maguire
Both rendered valuable work as Principal Medical Officers, and their services have already formed the subject of eulogistic references in my despatches.
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