V-E Day In Tonga

rE news of the cessation of hostilities in Europe was made known in Nukualofa by the sounding of an air-raid siren mounted on a lorry and driven through the streets. This started simultaneously with the ringing of church bells; and crowds of Tongans everywhere gave their battle shout, “fakaulu,” joined with the “tum-tum-tum” of lalis.

A two days’ public holiday was ob served on May 8 and 9. Crowds went down to the Mala’e (at the back of the Post Office) on the second day for the combined Church Service of Thanksgiv ing, at which the Tonga Defence Force and the United States Navy paraded The queen of Tonga attended, and also the British Agent and Consul (Mr.

C. W. T. Johnson), with Chiefs, Govern ment Ministers and high officials. (See photo.) Lakalakas and other dances were per formed after the Thanksgiving Service.

Captain Viggo Rasmussen, the well known Central Pacific trader, schooner captain, and of recent years Resident Agent of Penrhyn Island, Cook Group, is at present in hospital in New Zealand.

He was flown there following a stroke, which resulted in partial paralysis. Cap tain Rasmussen has been in failing health for a considerable time.