The N class destroyer HMAS NAPIER, (CAPT S. H. T. Arliss, RN, CAPT(D), 7th flotilla), was commissioned. NAPIER was laid down in Fairfield Shipbuilding & Engineering co Ltd, Govan, Scotland, on 26 July 1939, and launched on 22 May 1940. CAPT Arliss was the brother of the actor George Arliss.