This photo, taken on July 31 1918, shows the American troops that were welcomed into Barry. The welcome was a surprise to the soliders: as the SS Morvada travelled through the Bristol Channel, only a few on board knew the final destination.

Barry residents, however, knew of the ship's arrival, and lined the streets to welcome the American soliders.

An excerpt from chapter 12 of The Delta of the Triple Elevens – The History of Batter D, 311th Field Artillery US Army by William Elmer Bachman, entitled A Royal Welsh Reception, explains the scene:

"It was perfect weather for such a visit, the first ever paid to Barry by a large body of American troops, and Barry's reception was wholehearted. The citizens turned out in great force enthusiasm was manifest on every side, and this, despite the fact that, owing to the unavoidable delay of the ship's arrival, the people had to wait several hours while the Morvada rested at anchor in the harbour until docking could be accomplished at 9:00 AM.

"While preparations to dock were in progress crowds lingered on the piers. The soldiers amused themselves by tossing one cent pieces to Welsh children. Immediately a demand for American cigarettes and chewing gum arose in the older Welshmen.

"The crowds on the town itself were in holiday attire. The vessels in dock were gay with bunting. Flags were displayed from shop windows, the municipal offices and the fire brigade station while from the summit of Barry Railway Company's offices "Old Glory" was flying to the breeze.

"As the Morvada docked and the command was given for the troops to debark, loud welcome was sounded by sonorous Hooters, screaming sirens and shrill ship and loco whistles.

"At 10:00 o'clock the soldiers were assembled on terra firma once more. Parade formation was ordered in answer to the glad welcome plans of the inhabitants. "British troops, with rifles at present arms and bayonets glistening in the sun, formed a guard of honour that lined both sides of the streets in Barry, through which the American troops passed in royal welcome. The march preceded until King's Square was reached, where official ceremony of welcome to the town was enacted. "Here the officers and men formed in the large public square in front of the municipal officers, where councillor George Wareham, J.P., as chairman of the District Council, extended to the Americans a hearty welcome. "Lieutenant Colonel Bradbridge, of the Lancashire Fusiliers, addressing Colonel C. G. Mortimer, in command of the 311th, said he had been commanded by His Majesty, the King, to welcome to all the shores of Great Britain. "Each soldier was then presented with a copy of an autographed letter from King George 5th bidding God-speed and every success. The letter was as follows: " Soldiers of the United States the people of the British Isles welcome you on your way to take your stand beside the armies of many nations now fighting in the old world the great battle for human freedom the allies will gain new heart and spirit in your company I wish that I could shake the hand of each one of you and bid you Godspeed on your mission. George R I, Windsor Castle. " Thank you to the Victorian Barry Experience