HM VISIT TO THE GRAND FLEET [Main Title]

King George V's visit to the Fleet at Scapa Flow in June 1917, and investiture of Jutland honours.

(Reel 1) Opening pan across fleet anchorage (note HMS Neptune). The King is seen onboard a succession of battleships, watching marchpasts of the crews - HMS Queen Elizabeth (Colossus Class in background), HMS King George V and Ajax of Second Battle Squadron, HMS Barham and Hercules. Various senior officers are seen waiting, or in company with the King. The emphasis is upon the personalities involved, and there are few general views or details of the ships, except for some close-ups of gun turrets. (Reel 2) The King inspects a minesweeping trawler and HMS Plassy, before going onboard HMS Princess Royal for the investiture ceremony. Pakenham, Napier, Alexander-Sinclair, and Bruce receive honours. March round of officers and men. High-angle medium shot as the King, standing on top of B turret, receives the cheers of the crew massed on the focsle. Final low-angle medium close-up of fluttering White Ensign. (Reel 3) Miscellaneous scenes after the investiture. Medium shot group of officers and men around after turrets. Sturdee with KCMG. Beatty, Evan-Thomas and Nicholson with CBs. The King and Sturdee converse. Pan over Beatty's staff (including Japanese naval representative), assembled for royal presentation. Admiral de Robeck talks with his staff. Beatty on the quarterdeck. Admiral Madden poses with staff - Madden reads a despatch, looks through his telescope, etc. Ratings cheer HM. Crew leaves the focsle and disperses after applauding the King. Sturdee, the King, Prince Albert and Lord Cromer stroll beneath 4-inch casements. The party inspects a minesweeping drifter. Medium shot group - Beatty, Phillimore, Japanese officers. US Navy shore party stands at ease.

35mm