(_November 11, 1918_)
THE NAVY
To the Right Hon. Sir Eric Geddes, G.B.E., K.C.B.,
M.P., First Lord of the Admiralty
Now that the last and most formidable of our enemies has acknowledged
the triumph of the Allied arms on behalf of right and justice, I
wish to express my praise and thankfulness to the officers, men, and
women of the Royal Navy and Marines, with their comrades of the Fleet
auxiliaries and mercantile marine, who for more than four years have
kept open the sea, protected our shores, and given us safety.
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, nor better sustained its old glories and the chivalry of
the seas.
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 on this memorable day.