7th Division
200-784: Captain John Anderson Chalk (22 July 1916 – 21 March 2001) was an officer of the Papuan Infantry Battalion during the Second World War . He led the first ground attack on Papuan territory against Imperial Japanese forces which had landed at Buna and Gona . Along with 35 or 40 soldiers under his command he led an ambush of 1,000 Japanese troops. John Anderson Chalk was born on 22 July 1916 to Elizabeth Anderson and Arthur Pridham Chalk at Brisbane in Queensland , Australia . Chalk enlisted in
400-585: A Japanese squad . The survivors then attempted to withdraw, only to clash with another PIB platoon and were killed, with one Papuan wounded. That evening the Japanese counter-attacked the Papuan positions around the Mission, only to be driven back after heavy fighting which resulted in a number of civilian casualties after the village had been accidentally hit by stray small-arms fire. By first light on 22 September
600-618: A Japanese attempt to push the Australians off the hills and into the Ramu Valley, the attack was followed by moves against positions held by the 2/6th Independent Company on 8 December which forced a number to be withdrawn, while other elements were cut-off. However, in the days that followed the Australians regrouped, while reinforcements moved forward as the Japanese dug-in. On 9 December the Japanese held positions above Kesawai were heavily attacked by Allied aircraft. Meanwhile, many of
800-507: A defence of the Kokoda airstrip in the hope reinforcements would arrive in time to support him. Leaving around 40 troops at Deniki, he took the remaining 77 men and was deployed around Kokoda by midday on 28 July. Maroubra Force engaged the Japanese in the first unsuccessful defence of the Kokoda airstrip on the night of 28/29 July 1942. At 02:00 on 29 July the Japanese commenced a mortar barrage, supported by machine-gun fire, before charging up
1000-406: A depot company was added to the establishment to supply trained replacements. Depot Company included native recruits in training, recovering wounded native soldiers awaiting re-posting as reinforcements, and native soldiers employed on guard duties and camp construction. A period of training followed as the new native recruits were taught weapons handling, while the Australians learnt the language of
1200-519: A determined Japanese counterattack. In November, the 25th Brigade relieved the 21st as the offensive was maintained, and later in December and into January heavy fighting took place around Shaggy Ridge , a 6.5-kilometre (4.0 mi) long spur dotted by several rocky outcrops. The Japanese had established numerous strong posts and positions along the ridge, blocking the Australian advance towards
1400-440: A few Australian officers and NCOs and a handful of Papuans, the force withdrew to Oivi with the 39th Battalion after losing six men missing. Concerned by the state of his men and with no Australian troops between Kokoda and C Company, 39th Battalion (which departed Illolo on the 23rd and was still moving up the track), Owen requested reinforcements be flown in. Hoping to halt the advance, the Australians and Papuans dug in at Oivi on
1600-463: A force, including the 2/2nd Pioneer Battalion , and engineers from 2/6th Field Company married up with B Company, PIB, at Kirkland's Crossing after moving overland from Tsili Tsili, and began to prepare the airfield. With the campaign reaching a crucial point, a combined landing at Nadzab by US paratroopers and Australian artillery took place on 5 September. During the landing the Papuans picqueted
1800-550: A further two men were wounded on Mount Tambu while attached to K Company. On 9 August a patrol from 4 Platoon clashed with a Japanese pillbox which they assaulted with grenades, losing one Papuan wounded. The Australian 15th and 42nd Battalions were then committed to the fighting, and the PIB provided guides as they moved into position. Further attempts by the Americans finally succeeded in capturing Roosevelt Ridge , after establishing
2000-481: A headquarters at Old Yanga village. 1 Platoon moved north along the Busu to take over from 11 Platoon, C Company, while 5 Platoon was still operating around Labu Swamp. 4 Platoon patrolled to Gwabadik village and from there to Musom, then north towards Kemen. 3 Platoon moved to Sugarloaf to be attached to the 15th Battalion . Over the following days 4 and 5 Platoon had contacts with small groups of Japanese fleeing Lae. On
2200-487: A heavy defeat at Guadalcanal , Horii was ordered onto the defensive and this proved to be the limit of the Japanese advance. By mid-September the PIB was withdrawn from the front, and moved back to Sogeri near Port Moresby for respite and to re-equip. A small detachment of two Australian sergeants and six Papuans remained at Uberi Village at the southern end of the Kokoda Track, from where they carried out patrols under
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#17327870281422400-492: A lodgement at the western end and reducing the remaining defences with artillery between 12–14 August. On 12 August a company-sized Japanese force from I/162nd Battalion was detected after leaving Salamaua and was believed to be moving against the Allied rear positions and artillery located around Tambu Bay. The raiding party were followed by an American force which succeeded in dispersing a small group south-east of Mount Tambu on
2600-579: A minor skirmish with the Japanese at Naruapan. Unopposed, B Company continued up the Markham Valley, linking up with the 2/6th Independent Company at Marawasa. At Haus Sak Sak on the southern side of the Upper Ramu they set up camp, with the Papuans patrolling the area to the north. Company Headquarters then moved to Kaigulan on the north bank of the Ramu. On 3 October a patrol from 6 Platoon ran into
2800-643: A new camp at Boisi for a period of rest. By 27 September A Company had returned to Tambu Bay in preparation to leave for Lae. Losses during the Salamaua campaign amounted to two killed and 14 wounded. Australian units had been operating in the Markham Valley since the Japanese landing at Lae in March 1942. Initially these forces had been limited to the NGVR; however, they were later replaced by AIF units. The 57th/60th Battalion , 15th Brigade took over responsibility for
3000-528: A number of small reconnaissance parties which had been dispatched to Obu near Yule Island in the Gulf of Papua , as well as to Hisiu on the west coast, Rigo, and the Owen Stanley Range. These parties were detailed to be alert for possible infiltration by Japanese paratroops as well as to rescue downed Allied aircrew. Port Moresby was bombed by Japanese aircraft at 03:00 on the morning of 3 February,
3200-593: A party from 6 Platoon was fired on near Deep Creek. As the patrols continued the Papuans developed a detailed map of the area and Japanese movements, while continuing to observe Japanese dispositions on the northern bank. A 50-man patrol moved through to the Buang River in mid-July. On 24 July a Papuan soldier was killed by a bomb dropped by Japanese aircraft as they flew over the New Mari villages en route to Lae. The following day B Company suffered further losses after
3400-562: A patrol killing two Japanese after crossing the flooded Busu River near Boana, while another on 16 September killed five Japanese. 8 Platoon was then detached to the 2/14th Battalion at Camp Diddy and moved towards Boana with the aim of cutting off any Japanese withdrawing from Lae. 6 Platoon, which had originally been left to patrol the Nadzab–Lae area, was then recalled and moved up the Markham River, occupying Sasiang. On 19 September
3600-422: A patrol led by Sergeant Owen Reynolds was ambushed at close range near Deep Creek. A Papuan corporal took command after Reynolds was mortally wounded, withdrawing the patrol under heavy fire. On 1 August a party of engineers was escorted by 8 Platoon to the Markham River as part of a reconnaissance to identify possible crossing points for an assault on Nadzab. On 9 August, a patrol from 8 Platoon to New Labu Island
3800-414: A patrol under Lieutenant Thomas Bruce departed by canoe to investigate an island downstream near Anjetti. As they attempted to land they were engaged by a group of Japanese. Bruce was killed in the opening volley, and although the patrol managed to reach the safety of the river bank it was later discovered that six Papuans were also missing. Despite efforts to find them, their bodies were never recovered. Over
4000-536: A period of intensive training followed. In August Logan sought an additional 107 recruits to continue the expansion of the battalion, with C Company being formed in November 1941. Meanwhile, Lieutenant Alan Hooper took over as officer commanding B Company, after Standfield and a number of other officers from the battalion, including Watson, were detached to various headquarters and units based in New Guinea. Watson
4200-548: A period of training and regrouping followed. Meanwhile, the 7th Division cleared Shaggy Ridge on 23 January 1944. In June 1944 B Company, PIB—still under the command of Chalk—returned to Dumpu, relieving the carrier company of the Australian 11th Division . From mid August to 9 November patrols of the area were conducted from Dumpu, while others were also conducted from Annenberg towards the Kreram River to west, as well as downstream to Schillings Plantation. On 9 November
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#17327870281424400-512: A platoon from D Company, 2/6th Battalion to act as beach party to deploy lights at the landing zone, and a PIB company to hold the Japanese garrison in place at Cape Dinga on the southern flank. Prior to the landing, on the evening of 28 June A Company, PIB under the command of Hitchcock had moved from Buso to Cape Roon by canoe, from where the Japanese positions at Cape Dinga could be observed. Numbering five Australian officers, 18 Papuan and Australian NCOs, and 119 Papuan soldiers in three platoons,
4600-628: A series of battles within the broader New Guinea campaign of World War II . The campaigns began with an Allied offensive in the Ramu Valley , from 19 September 1943, and concluded when Allied troops entered Madang on 24 April 1944. During the campaign, Australian forces – supported by Australian and US aircraft – advanced through the Markham Valley and Ramu Valleys during which there were minor clashes with Japanese forces, which withdrew towards their main defensive line in
4800-471: A sizable Japanese force. A similar four-man patrol later penetrated Japanese lines near Wareo and remained in position for two days. The observation post also continued to be manned. On 20 November a patrol along the coastal track encountered significant Japanese forces south of Bonga and was forced to withdraw. Markham and Ramu Valley %E2%80%93 Finisterre Range campaign 18th Army The Markham Valley, Ramu Valley and Finisterre Range campaigns were
5000-508: A small group of Japanese at Bopi, capturing a prisoner. The headquarters then moved to Dumpu airstrip. On 13 October a platoon patrol of the foothills behind Kumbrarum located a Japanese gun that had been shelling the 31st Battalion , and it was later destroyed by an airstrike. 7 Platoon then patrolled up the bank of the Faria River to Guy's Post on the eastern side of Shaggy Ridge, while a section patrol continued to Mount Prothero, crossing
5200-442: A three-man standing patrol on the perimeter near Kesawai killed one Japanese soldier and wounded another. On 30 November a platoon crossed the Ramu, patrolling into Waimeriba village. From 1 December 1943, B Company, PIB came under command of the 25th Brigade and occupied positions on the banks of Evapia River prior to the arrival of the 7th Division. The Papuans sent out a clearing patrol north-east of Kesawai No. 1 which reported
5400-439: A waterproof cape, clasp knife and lanyard, two pairs of khaki shorts and shirts per year, two green sashes, sulus for working and sleeping, in addition to a mosquito net, blankets, plates and eating utensils, webbing, rifle, bayonet, and helmet. Rations were more generous than those given to the police, and included butter and jam. The battalion would ultimately serve in many of the Allied campaigns in New Guinea; however, due to
5600-426: The 2/6th Independent Company prepared to attack Kaiapit, and a section of Papuans from 7 Platoon accompanied them to contact the local people and start to repair the airstrip once it had been secured for use in an emergency. The commandos assaulted Kaiapit late that afternoon, seizing an outpost following a number of bayonet charges, before digging-in that evening. The rest of B Company, PIB had remained at Sangan but
5800-734: The Australian Army at Enoggera in Queensland on 27 June 1940. On 22 July 1942, following the Japanese landings, Chalk was moving to occupy the Sangara Mission Station. Approaching on the Gona Road they realised that the Japanese had preceded them. Chalk despatched a night patrol and their reconnaissance confirmed the Japanese were in Sangara. Chalk sent a runner to appraise their commander, W. T. Watson, of
6000-521: The Australian New Guinea Administrative Unit (ANGAU) and New Guinea Force . Headquarters Company also included the battalion Q Store . In addition to holding the usual equipment required of any Australian unit, due to the unique makeup of the PIB it had the added challenge of obtaining specific food and clothing required by native soldiers. The Signals Section was responsible for maintaining communications within
6200-625: The Battle of the Coral Sea in early May the Japanese invasion fleet bound for Port Moresby had been forced to turn back, while on 4 June the Japanese were decisively beaten at Midway by the US Navy. Despite these setbacks though Japanese forces in Rabaul and Lae appeared to be preparing an attack against Port Moresby from northern Papua, via Buna and Kokoda. During this time the only Allied unit in
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6400-606: The Finisterre Range . A central geographical and strategic feature of these campaigns was the imposing Shaggy Ridge , running north–south in the Finisterres; this was the scene of a climactic battle during which the Australians assaulted the Japanese positions in December 1943 and January 1944. Following the fighting around Shaggy Ridge, the Japanese withdrew towards the northern coast of New Guinea , where they were pursued by Australian and US forces advancing through
6600-527: The Pacific Islands Regiment (PIR) in November 1944. In 1945, it was deployed to Bougainville where the battalion's companies were spread across the fronts from Bonis to Buin during the final months of the war. Such was their effectiveness that the Japanese referred to the PIB as "Green Shadows" due to their ability to fade into and appear from the jungle unexpectedly, with its soldiers becoming noted for their ferocity and tenacity. After
6800-507: The Saruwaged Mountains , operating from Gawan and Musom in the south, Boana in the west, and Mount Salawaket in the north-east. Landing on Red Beach on 5 September, after leaving 10 Platoon to dig-in on the beach, the Papuan company moved west towards Lae. That morning Japanese bombers had attacked the beach, causing a large number of allied casualties. One of the Papuans from 10 Platoon subsequently died of his wounds. Meanwhile,
7000-621: The Second World War . Formed in early 1940 in Port Moresby to help defend the territory in the event of a Japanese invasion, its soldiers were primarily Papuan natives led by Australian officers and non-commissioned officers . Following the outbreak of the Pacific War , the PIB served in many of the Allied campaigns in New Guinea; however, due to the nature of its role its sub-units mainly operated separately, attached to larger Australian and US Army units and formations. Slow in forming,
7200-763: The South West Pacific Area still actively engaging the Japanese was Kanga Force, made up of the NGVR and the 1st and 2/5th Independent Companies , fighting a guerrilla campaign against the Japanese around Lae and Salamaua. In June 1942 Morris tasked the PIB with reconnoitring the Awala– Tufi –Ioma area. To meet the Japanese threat the Allies planned to construct airstrips in the Buna– Dobodura area to facilitate operations against Rabaul and to secure it in order to forestall any advance from that direction. As
7400-419: The 13th. With the pursuit continuing, a PIB platoon was tasked with guarding a US artillery battery on the southern side of Tambu Bay on 12 August, and was reinforced by another platoon two days later. Clashes between patrolling Australian and US infantry and the Japanese continued over the following days and by 16 August the raiders had split into three groups. Attacking the Australian and US gunlines that morning
7600-415: The 2/17th Battalion had been holding on at Jivevaneng but were running low on supplies and their lines of communication had become cut. On 19 October a PIB patrol succeeded in moving across country from Tareko to Jivevaneng with supplies. Following the completion of its operations around Lae, 11 Platoon rejoined the remainder of C Company. Heavily tasked, on 23 October the company was ordered to support both
7800-515: The 2/17th Battalion was involved in the fighting on the morning on the 16th coming under heavy fire, although it was able to withdraw without loss. The Japanese then moved in reinforcements in an attempt to dislodge the Allied forces, threatening the area between Scarlet Beach and Siki Creek. On 18 October a Papuan patrol reported Japanese on the Song River. However, after heavy fighting the Japanese counter-attack finally ran out of steam. Meanwhile,
8000-483: The 20th Brigade and 22nd Battalion, and the 24th and 26th Brigades. PIB patrols attached to the 2/43rd Battalion reconnoitred the strategically important Bonga– Gusika track, as well as Pino Hill and the Exchange and Oriental features which dominated it. Strongly contested, control of the area change hands a number of times during the fighting, and the patrols observed Japanese movements over the next few days. Following
8200-528: The 27th Independent Engineer Regiment. The II/78th and two companies of the III/78th were deployed forward around Kankiryo and Shaggy Ridge, with the I/78th spread out around Saipa and Yokopi and the remaining two companies of the III/78th at Yaula, the 239th Infantry Regiment held the rear around Madang, Erima and Bogadjim, along with 2,000 unassigned reinforcements; this was a force of about 12,000 men. It faced
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8400-542: The 39th Battalion and PIB fell back to Deniki. Although they beat off a number of Japanese attacks over the following week, on 14 August they were forced to commence withdrawing over the Owen Stanley Range to Isurava. At the height of the fighting Lieutenant General Sydney Rowell 's I Corps headquarters arrived at Port Moresby, and he assumed command of New Guinea Force from Morris on 12 August 1942. Blamey subsequently ordered Major General Arthur Allen 's veteran Australian 7th Division —recently returned from fighting in
8600-407: The 39th Battalion and PIB were reinforced by the 53rd Battalion and the headquarters of the 30th Brigade under the command of Brigadier Selwyn Porter . By the 23 August the 21st Brigade had also arrived at Isurava, under the command of Brigadier Arnold Potts . These reinforcements proved pivotal in temporarily halting Japanese progress, but the Australians increasingly faced a major supply problem and
8800-492: The 39th Battalion was withdrawn to reduce the logistic burden. On the evening of 25 August 1942, the Japanese staged a landing at Milne Bay , on the eastern tip of New Guinea, to reduce the Allied airfields that had been established there. Despite initial success, the force was subsequently destroyed by the Australians with the survivors forced to evacuate by sea on 4–5 September. Meanwhile, during this time Horii's South Seas Detachment had continued to make strong progress along
9000-718: The 8th Division's third brigade—less the battalion at Rabaul—was to be dispersed piecemeal in Timor and Ambon . In July 1941, the 1st Independent Company was deployed to Kavieng on New Ireland to protect the airfield, while sections were sent to Namatanai in central New Ireland, Vila in the New Hebrides , Tulagi on Guadalcanal , Buka Passage in Bougainville , and Lorengau on Manus Island to act as observers. The 2/22nd Battalion began arriving in Rabaul in March and April 1941, while additional units were added to
9200-408: The Allied command, and with more than 5,000 troops in the area Scarlet Beach was strongly defended. Following a naval bombardment, the landing went ahead before dawn at around 0500 on the morning of 22 September. Due to the darkness, a strong current, and faulty maps, a navigational error resulted in the first and second waves mistakenly landing at Siki Cove , approximately 900 metres (1,000 yd) to
9400-513: The Allies launched Operations Reckless and Persecution , and consequently they remained in the Wewak area. US forces from the 41st Infantry Division subsequently landed at Aitape and in mid- to late 1944, US and Japanese forces clashed during the Battle of Driniumor River . In late 1944, the Australian 6th Division arrived to relieve the US garrison, and the Australian forces subsequently launched
9600-741: The Allies time to reinforce Australia. Being the only Allied force in the area until the arrival of Kanga Force at Wau in May, the NGVR subsequently monitored the Japanese bases which had been established in the Huon Gulf region, establishing observation posts overlooking the main approaches and reporting on Japanese movements. Meanwhile, elements of the US Fifth Air Force began arriving in Port Moresby, commencing bombing operations against Japanese positions at Lae, Salamaua and Rabaul, with
9800-454: The Americans to capture the high ground in late July and early August also failed, despite the landing of artillery. Over 1–9 August the PIB conducted patrols, both independently and attached to the Americans. During this time Hitchcock had to be evacuated to hospital following an attack on Allied artillery positions by Japanese aircraft. On 5 August, 5 Platoon was attacked by Japanese on the ridge above Boisi, losing one killed. Later that night
10000-467: The Americans to continue forward. The same day A Company, PIB received reinforcements, including one officer and six NCOs, all European, who arrived from Bisiatabu. With Tambu Bay occupied, the US 2/162nd Battalion began landing there the same evening. Yet with a key ridgeline known as Roosevelt Ridge remaining in Japanese hands the area was not secure. A PIB platoon was sent up the western side on 22 July, while two US companies unsuccessfully attacked from
10200-631: The Australian 7th Division for operations in the Markham and Ramu Valleys . C Company, PIB under Captain Anthony Leutchford departed on 27 August, moving to Dobuduru to be attached to the Australian 9th Division for the landing at Lae. Over the period 30 June to 4 July 1943, the US 162nd Regimental Combat Team made an unopposed landing at Nassau Bay and established a beachhead there as part of Operation Cartwheel . Australian support included
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#173278702814210400-524: The Australian 7th Division, consisting of approximately 17,000 men, under Vasey, and made up of the 18th , 21st and 25th Brigades , along with the 2/6th Commando Squadron . The campaign began in September 1943 following the 7th Division's drive on Lae , as part of the wider New Guinea campaign , which saw the 9th Division carrying out operations along the Huon Peninsula on the coast to
10600-482: The Australian and US battalions in the area. Meanwhile, the remainder of the Company continued to patrol over 6–7 September without contact. Finally, by 8 September the Japanese began to withdraw from Salamaua. On 11 September the elements from A Company, PIB which had remained on Charlie Hill, cautiously moved into Salamaua which they found largely destroyed, with decaying food, rubbish and Japanese corpses strewn among
10800-423: The Australians lost 14 killed and 23 wounded. B Company, PIB moved forward to Kaiapit on 21 September to join the commandos. With the Japanese remaining in the area its two platoons occupied a number of positions astride the track from Kaiapit to the Mission and on Mission Hill, while transport aircraft began to land on the hastily cleared airstrip with reinforcements. In the late afternoon a Papuan platoon attacked
11000-685: The Australians to resume their offensive in an attempt to capture the high ground around Sattelberg and advance to the Gusika–Wareo line, while Japanese supply lines were attacked. In early November an observation post was established, while PIB and 2/43rd Battalion patrols watched Japanese movements on the Gusik–Wareo track. Patrols also probed north, locating a number of Japanese units in the vicinity of Bonga and Pino Hill. A five-man PIB patrol disguised as local villagers set up an observation post north of Bonga between 9 and 11 November, from where they detected
11200-462: The Australians, the advance through the Markham, Ramu and Faria Valleys proved to be a hard slog. Casualties for the 7th Division between 18 September 1943 and 8 April 1944 amounted to 204 killed and 464 wounded. Disease took an even greater toll with 13,576 personnel being evacuated. Japanese estimates of their own casualties indicate losses of 800 killed, 400 wounded and 800 dead from disease. With
11400-433: The Australians. Shortly after Shaggy Ridge was captured, the 18th Brigade was replaced by the 15th Brigade, a Militia formation. As the Australians began consolidating their position, the 7th Division was ordered to limit its exploitation, while supplies were pushed forward of Kankiryo. Meanwhile, in an effort to harass the Japanese rearguard, the 57th/60th Infantry Battalion undertook a program of long range patrols to
11600-429: The Busu and Burep Rivers, while one was below Musom village downstream. Over the next few days reconnaissance patrols clashed with the Japanese, killing a number of them. With the 7th and 9th Divisions converging on Lae the town fell to the Australians on 16 September. As Japanese forces attempted to escape a number were killed by PIB patrols during a series of clashes and ambushes up to 19 September. Although C Company
11800-525: The Finisterres Ranges at Kankiryo Saddle, in the direction of Madang. Meanwhile, a small force had withdrawn directly down the Ramu Valley. B Company, PIB under command of Chalk was subsequently attached to the 21st Brigade which was tasked with harassing this group. During a number of patrols in September extended operations ranged as far north as the Annenberg villages before being involved in
12000-446: The Finisterres and along the coast from Saidor . Following the capture of Madang , the Japanese eventually withdrew to Wewak where further fighting took place in 1944 and 1945. During September 1943, Australian forces from Major General George Vasey 's 7th Division , advancing from Nadzab , had captured Lae , as part of a pincer undertaken in conjunction with Major General George Wootten 's 9th Division , which had advanced along
12200-520: The Huon peninsula , assisting in the capture of Finschhafen and Sattelberg , and pursuing the Japanese as they retreated along the northern coastline towards Saidor in 1943–1944. The battalion was temporarily withdrawn from operations to reorganise in 1944, and together with several New Guinea Infantry Battalions (NGIBs) that were subsequently raised by the Australian Army, the PIB was formed into
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#173278702814212400-678: The Ioma, Mambare , Morobe , Waria River, and Garaina areas. A platoon from A Company under Lieutenant John Izatt was already in position at Waria River and was attached to B Company. On 24 June the battalion headquarters under Watson and C Company moved forward from Port Moresby to the Kokoda–Awala area. Meanwhile, B Company, 39th Battalion was sent overland via the Kokoda Track to secure the Buna area and prepare to oppose any Japanese advance, while
12600-701: The Japanese South Sea's Force landed further south at Salamaua the same day. After observing the landings another NGVR detachment skirmished with the Japanese and attempted to demolish the airfield before withdrawing across the Francisco River, destroying the bridge across the river mouth as they went. The Japanese then occupied Salamaua and, after leaving a section at the river, the men of the NGVR moved south to Mubo . The Japanese were now within 160 kilometres (100 mi) of Port Moresby but were required to pause to consolidate their gains, allowing
12800-542: The Japanese South Seas Force under Horii clashed with understrength Australian forces at Awala on 23 July, before forcing them back to Kokoda. During the PIB's first engagement Lieutenant John Chalk 's platoon had participated in an ambush of the Japanese troops advancing towards Kokoda. Chalk and a scout party had moved to Sangara on the night of 22 July where they observed a Japanese force camped. The next morning he reported their arrival by runner and
13000-457: The Japanese at Tambu Bay and by 14 July they had been able to confirm that Tambu Bay and Dot Inlet were occupied by the Japanese who had fortified the area. A two-man reconnaissance team scouted to the mouth of the lagoon, 3 kilometres (1.9 mi) south of Tambu Bay, and located a Japanese observation post on the northern side, while approximately 200 Japanese soldiers were seen to be dug-in at Boisi in anticipation of an Allied landing. The scouting
13200-440: The Japanese had withdrawn from Kaiapit. Elsewhere, 8 Platoon—which was still detached—had been involved with a number of other units in the pursuit of a large Japanese force of approximately 300 retreating from Lae, but had been unable to make contact before the Australian force was withdrawn to be retasked. With Kaiapit now secured the Papuans were given the task of patrolling ahead of the pursuing Australian force as they followed
13400-452: The Japanese into the Ramu Valley. While operations were continuing in the Markham Valley to the north-west, C Company, PIB under the command of Leutchford had been operating with the 9th Division following its landing at Lae . The Papuans carried out scouting and reconnaissance patrols on the coastal plain to the east of the town and in the mountain ranges to the north, and later harassed retreating Japanese troops attempting to move through
13600-501: The Japanese presence. The runner returned with a reply, written on cardboard, "You will engage the enemy." Given the numerical disadvantage Chalk withdrew and set up an ambush on a hill near the road. He later reported: The Japanese eventually arrived, preceded by native carriers, so I had to hold my fire until the Japanese soldiers came into view. I gave the order to fire and immediately the Japanese swung into action with mortars and 'woodpecker' machine guns. The men then withdrew into
13800-462: The Japanese remained in strong possession of the Finisterre Range , and their positions at Kankiryo Saddle north of the Ramu river and the 1,500 m (4,900 ft) high razorback ridge named Shaggy Ridge, continued to threaten the airfields. This threat manifested itself in the road that the Japanese were attempting to build from Madang on the coast inland to Nadzab , via Bogadjim, along which they were hoping to advance through to Dumpu. Thus,
14000-464: The Japanese were repulsed, while the guns remained intact. That morning a Papuan platoon also clashed with the Japanese, killing three and a native guide just after midday, before establishing an ambush above the 1700 feature during the afternoon. A patrol encountered a large Japanese force on a narrow spur and the platoon was forced to withdraw before being surrounded, moving down the track towards Cochrane Beach where they were resupplied. They reoccupied
14200-500: The Japanese withdrew to Crater Hill . From there, they had good observation of the saddle to the south-west, and they established a strong position. The Australians surrounded the position and over the course of a week reduced the position with patrolling and air attacks, forcing the Japanese defenders to abandon the position on 31 January 1944, and fall back to Paipa. Casualties during the fighting to secure Shaggy Ridge amounted to up to 500 Japanese killed, and 46 killed and 147 wounded for
14400-463: The Japanese. The loss of the airstrip at Kokoda forced the Australians to send the other two companies of the 39th Battalion, and the remaining battalions of the 30th Brigade—the 49th and 53rd Battalions—overland, rather than reinforcing by air. Meanwhile, the wounded would now have to be carried out by native porters and supplies air dropped. Major Allan Cameron—brigade major of the 30th Brigade—temporarily took command of Maroubra Force on 4 August and
14600-486: The Kankiryo Saddle and Shaggy Ridge were of vital strategic importance for both the Japanese and the Australians. For the Japanese, it provided a strong obstacle to the Australian advance north towards the coast, while also offering them the ground along which they could launch their own offensive in order to recapture the territory they had lost earlier in the campaign. For the Australians, the Japanese positions on
14800-415: The Kokoda Track. After the Japanese resumed their advance on 26 August the Australians mounted a series of delaying actions before falling back to Eora Creek on 30 August, Templeton's Crossing on 2 September, and Efogi three days later . Although the outnumbered Australian opposition was becoming increasingly effective and the Japanese were beginning to experience the strain of an over extended supply line,
15000-661: The Middle East, Australian fears of Japanese intentions in the Pacific grew. However, with the bulk of Australian military and naval forces in the Middle East, defensive preparations remained limited. Two brigades from the 8th Division were dispatched to Singapore and then Malaya in February 1941, while a Militia battalion would be stationed between Port Moresby and Thursday Island . Additionally, plans were made for an AIF battalion to garrison Rabaul on New Britain , and
15200-465: The Middle East—to embark for New Guinea. The 18th Brigade was ordered to Milne Bay while the 21st and 25th Brigades would go to Port Moresby. The Japanese continued to commit men and supplies to the fighting along the Kokoda Track, with 13,500 men landed at Gona and Buna by August. Yet the Japanese did not press the Australians following their withdrawal from Deniki, and during the next 10 days
15400-579: The PIB had been cut-off in the Ambasi–Ioma area. One platoon attempted to escape south to Port Moresby but was dispersed or killed, including Smith who was executed by the Japanese after being captured. B Company, PIB had also been isolated when the Japanese landed in the Buna–Gona area in July, and had been ordered to maintain contact with the Japanese and send reports of their activities as they continued to patrol
15600-481: The PIB had moved from Hanuabada to the 9-Mile area, and were tasked with supplying rock from the quarry for airfield development and the construction of dispersal bays at 7-Mile Airstrip . The PIB subsequently conducted a number of small patrols from Redscar Bay to Rigo, and inland to the foot of the Owen Stanley Range , which served as an occasional relief from heavy labouring. These patrols consisted of
15800-554: The PIB on 27 May 1940 and it began forming at Port Moresby on 1 June. The unit's establishment was initially limited to one company of six officers and 137 men, although it was planned to increase to 252 men in 1941, and 294 in 1942. Logan had previously been the Headquarters Officer of the Royal Papuan Constabulary (RPC), while the battalion second-in-command and officer commanding A Company
16000-543: The PIB proceeded as scheduled, with the second and third companies forming in 1941. In May, the establishment of the battalion had been increased, and in April Logan requested another 100 men from the government. B Company was formed from a nucleus of 62 recruits which arrived from Buna on 12 May under the command of Captain Ernest Standfield, a former planter. While the chief argument for the formation of
16200-401: The PIB survivors had started to make their way back; even still, by that evening of those that had been on the 5800 feature, Bishop, four Australian NCOs, and 12 Papuans remained missing. Over next few days a number of others made it through to the forward positions of the 2/25th Battalion around Kesawai, and by 11 December Bishop, two NCOs and one wounded Papuan had been located, accounting for
16400-571: The PIB tasked with search and rescue for downed airmen. On 11 March, Jesser and Corporal Kimani with a section of PIB were at Buna, having marched all night from Kokoda in response to advice that a Japanese landing was expected at Buna that day. They were in time to observe a Japanese seaplane fire on a launch belonging to the Anglican mission and a group of civilians, including the local bishop (Bishop Strong). The seaplane landed 275 metres (300 yd) out to sea near Buna. Jesser and Kimani engaged
16600-536: The PIB took over responsibility for guarding key points around Port Moresby from the RPC, including the oil storage facilities, wireless station, military headquarters, power station and the telephone exchange, while also assisting in road construction and undertaking further training. Despite the worsening strategic situation as the war continued overseas, the pattern of life in Papua continued relatively unchanged from that of
16800-537: The PIB was already north of the Owen Stanley Range at the entrance of the Kokoda Track. Maroubra Force arrived at Kokoda on 15 July. Yet despite initial Allied patrols and engineer reconnaissance into the area, the Japanese had ultimately been able to move faster, seizing the initiative. As a result, these small parties would ultimately be the first to make contact with the Imperial Japanese forces upon their landing in Papua. Having already captured much of
17000-444: The PIB was believed to have killed at least as many Japanese, losing 15 men killed and 35 wounded during the seven months of the Papuan campaign. After the battalion returned to Port Moresby in early 1943 the administrative requirements of the unit changed, and the headquarters was subsequently stationed at Bisiatabu, with the rifle companies in the future operating independently under different Australian or US divisions. The respite
17200-549: The PIB's defensive duties, with the battalion being used in a pioneer role. Morris subsequently planned to spread the NGVR and PIB widely as part of a reconnaissance screen. The first air attacks on Rabaul began on 4 January 1942. Within days the Japanese had succeeded in destroying the bulk of the defending aircraft, while further attacks targeted shipping in the harbour and shore installations. Lieutenant Colonel John Scanlan considered he would need an entire brigade to defend Rabaul, yet with an invasion imminent all he could do
17400-707: The Papuan Infantry Battalion (PIB), was approved by the Lieutenant-Governor of Papua, Sir Hubert Murray , on 19 April 1940. This was in contrast to the situation in New Guinea where the provisions of the League of Nations mandate under which German New Guinea had been entrusted to Australia in 1920 following its capture during the First World War had prevented the raising of armed forces there prior to hostilities. Meanwhile,
17600-678: The Papuans and New Guineans under their command, as well as native bush craft. On 1 May 1943, Battalion Headquarters and the Training Depot occupied a camp at Bisiatabu. A Company, PIB under the command of Captain Ernest Hitchcock was the first company to return to action. Departing on 30 May 1943, it came under the command of the US 41st Division for operations at Nassau Bay . B Company, PIB under Captain John Chalk left Bisiatabu on 18 June 1943, moving to Wau to be attached to
17800-460: The Papuans, had succeeded in driving the Japanese from the Ramu Valley and into the Finisterres; however, supply problems prevented further advances. During this time the remainder of the company had been resting at Kumbarum, awaiting the return of the other patrols. On 6 November they moved forward into the Yogi River region, 10 kilometres (6 mi) to the west. 6 and 7 Platoons then crossed
18000-569: The Protectorate of British New Guinea. Police Motu was adopted as the common language of the battalion. Rates of pay were equivalent to those of the constabulary, while service was for two years. Logan flew to Kokoda on 6 June to collect the first enlistments, and walked back to Port Moresby, arriving on 1 July. Three warrant officers from the Australian Instructional Corps (AIC) were temporarily posted to
18200-592: The Ramu Valley and into the Finisterre Range, towards Bogadjim near Madang on the northern coast. The Japanese formation in the campaign was the Nakai Detachment, a brigade -sized formation detached from the Japanese 20th Division under Major General Masutaro Nakai . The area was defended by several battalions of the 78th Infantry Regiment , supported by the 26th Artillery Regiment and
18400-540: The Ramu, patrolling the area around Mount Otto on the edge of the Central Highlands. The 7th Division had been tasked with preventing Japanese penetration of the Ramu and Markham Valleys using screening patrols during October and November. On 9 November B Company, PIB was ordered to relieve the 2/6th Independent Company around Kesawai, and it subsequently crossed the Evapia River and commenced patrols in
18600-739: The Waria–Kumusi River region. In September Watson ordered the detachment in the Kumusi area to concentrate around Garaina–Morobe–Mambare from where they would be reinforced. Moving via a route which avoided the Japanese, C Company and battalion headquarters transited Yule Island on 23 September, and after departing Kairuku, crossed the Owen Stanley Range to Garaina, moving then to Popoi on the Waria River, with some men continuing to Ioma. They joined B Company in October and were tasked with contacting
18800-493: The advancing Australians. Reaching the mission station 9 Platoon found it deserted, and it was subsequently occupied. An area of tactical importance due to its dominating position and the observation it provided, D Company, 2/17th Battalion pushed past the mission, and by 25 September was 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) west before meeting resistance. Confronted by a strong Japanese force, the Australians were forced back to Jivevaneng, but repelled six strong attacks on their position over
19000-442: The aircraft with rifles, driving it off. On 21 March, the beleaguered garrison at Port Moresby was strengthened by the arrival of Kittyhawk fighters from No. 75 Squadron RAAF . Throughout March, April and May the PIB continued patrolling, while men not involved in these operations were employed at the quarry and the aerodrome in Port Moresby. No contact was made with the Japanese during this period. Following their defeat during
19200-503: The approach between the Song River and North Hill. To replace Leutchford, Dick Gore from A Company was promoted to captain and took over command of C Company. PIB patrols operated in a number of areas, with platoons scouting Japanese positions and providing guides to the Australian battalions. With demand for the Papuans high, the sections were scattered and command and control became difficult. On 12 October C Company, PIB came under
19400-587: The area and the road through the Watut Valley to Bulolo and Wau in June 1943. B Company, PIB under the command of Captain John Chalk, was subsequently attached to the battalion for scouting and patrolling, leaving Port Moresby on 26 June and flying to Wau, before moving to Bulolo and then down the track to the Wampit River where they established a base on 1 July. Allocated a large area of operations, B Company
19600-557: The area around the 5800 feature. One patrol clashed with a Japanese patrol of around 20 men, coming under heavy fire before repelling them. The company then took up defensive positions to guard the area from the Kesawai villages to the northern ridge of the 5800 feature. Continuing to patrol the area, information on Japanese activity was gained from the villages to the north, while a number of minor clashes with small Japanese groups occurred, resulting in one Papuan being wounded. On 26 November
19800-480: The area between the Kumusi and Waria Rivers had largely been cleared of Japanese forces, with the only significant fighting being an ambush of 14 Japanese at Mogado near the mouth of the Kumusi. Coming under the command of the US 41st Division that month, the PIB advanced with the Americans. After reaching Morobe, they were ordered to return to Bisiatabu, near Port Moresby, for rest, reorganisation and further training, arriving there on 24 April. At this time elements of
20000-512: The area clear, while another patrol from the 5800 feature observed a large Japanese force to the north of the Taipa villages but avoided contact. Later a section from 7 Platoon killed a Japanese officer and wounded a soldier in an ambush. Meanwhile, there had been other signs of Japanese movement detected in the area, indicating the possibility of a major action against Allied forces in the Ramu Valley and Finisterres. Japanese forces were more active in
20200-416: The area villagers informed them the Japanese were withdrawing towards Sattelberg . Patrols also continued in the lower Markham, and north of Lae another difficult patrol was conducted over a 10-day period from Bungalumba to Mount Saruwaket via a disused and overgrown track. They subsequently detected a group of Japanese that had crossed the range towards Iloko and Sio . By the end of November A Company, minus
20400-605: The battalion and with other units in the Port Moresby area by field telephone, with Papuans and New Guineans attached to the section being taught all aspects of the maintenance and operation of the switchboard and line equipment. Although the War Establishment provided for a Regimental Medical Officer and medical orderlies (all Europeans), no permanent medical staff were posted to the unit until June 1943. Prior to this, orderlies were supplied by ANGAU on attachment, although there were occasions during subsequent operations when
20600-405: The battalion had been in action since July 1942; many had been among the first parties over the Owen Stanley Range in June, while the remainder had been in the group that had come forward in September. Due to the harsh conditions prevailing in wartime New Guinea this was a long time to be in action and the battalion was considered to be in need of a break. Although never numbering more than 300 men,
20800-401: The battalion had been the value of the knowledge native soldiers would provide of local conditions, with the expansion of the unit many of the officers and NCOs posted into it were from Australian infantry, engineer and artillery units based in Port Moresby, rather than local expatriates. Indeed, with the main role of the unit envisioned to be scouting and reconnaissance—tasks in which it was felt
21000-447: The battalion to fill the vacant company sergeant major and platoon commander positions. Meanwhile, after finalising the initial recruitment process and the issue of equipment at Konedobu , near Hanuabada village, 4.8 kilometres (3.0 mi) from Port Moresby, the battalion was allocated a camp at the future site of Murray Barracks in Port Moresby, and began weapons training in late August 1940. Following three months of basic training
21200-420: The beach as the Australians and Papuans pushed the Japanese defenders back over the next half hour, by which time Leutchford had died of his wounds. Meanwhile, although a section had become separated and was forced to fight past a number of bunkers, 9 Platoon overran the Japanese trenches and dug-in. Several members were wounded in the fighting during this period. Despite the initial confusion caused by landing in
21400-538: The beach to regroup, with Lieutenant Colin Rice assuming temporary command as the platoons prepared to set off towards their objectives. 10 Platoon cleared the beach north toward Bonga which was found to have been vacated, while 9 Platoon moved south, conducting a reconnaissance along the Sattelberg Road in the direction of Tareko. The following morning they moved up the road towards Jivevaneng , probing in front of
21600-415: The beach. They then came under fire from both Japanese and Australian troops and sustained several men wounded. 9 Platoon and Company Headquarters then landed with the third wave containing the 2/15th Battalion at Scarlet Beach. Strongly resisted by the Japanese who held their fire until the last moment, the Australian force landed under heavy machine-gun fire. The craft carrying the Papuans was hit, damaging
21800-564: The capture of Madang, the Allies finally effectively secured the Huon Peninsula; nevertheless, the Allies were unable to prevent the Japanese defenders from withdrawing and, as a result, they were unsuccessful in completely destroying them. Following the fall of Madang, the remnants of the Japanese 18th Army eventually withdrew to the Wewak area with the intention of falling back to Hollandia . That base fell before they could arrive after
22000-411: The coast from the east of Lae. Heavy rain had held up the Australian advance and much of the garrison had managed to withdraw inland, prior to the capture of the town. To follow these forces up, the 9th Division's focus then shifted to the Huon Peninsula , while the 7th Division – following the capture of Kaiapit – advanced from there to Dumpu and Marawasa, to prepare for the Australian advance through
22200-414: The coast, where they were aiming to secure Bogadjim and Madang. The initial attacks on Shaggy Ridge began on 27 December with a heavy artillery and air preparation of the Japanese positions around The Pimple , a steep rocky outcrop, which commanded the southern half of the position and had prevented the Australians advancing over the previous two months. These preparatory fires were followed by an assault up
22400-407: The command of Lieutenant Ed Bishop on the forward perimeter, on a spur to the north of the feature. After midnight on 7/8 December the booby traps in front of 7 Platoon exploded as a large Japanese force estimated at approximately two companies assaulted the forward Papuan section, guided by hostile natives. The Papuans stood-to defend their position, and succeeded in holding the attackers at bay for
22600-626: The command of Major General Allan Boase took over from the 7th, and they subsequently linked up with US forces on the coast around Rimba as they pushed forward along an axis bounded by the Kabenau and Nuru Rivers. Bogadjim was reached on 13 April and on 23 April troops from the 8th Brigade came ashore there, effecting a link up between the 5th Division , which had been advancing along the coast from Saidor , which had been secured by US and Australian forces in January ;– February 1944. Madang
22800-417: The command of the 25th Brigade. The Japanese began to withdraw from Kokoda on 24 September to establish a defensive position on the north coast, but were closely followed by the Australians who recaptured Kokoda on 2 November. Further fighting continued into November and December as Australian and US forces assaulted the Japanese beachheads, in what later became known as the Battle of Buna–Gona . After some of
23000-421: The company position cut there was no chance of resupply. The platoon was forced to withdraw with Bishop leading a breakout, during which heavy casualties were inflicted on the Japanese. However, with the men forced to move individually many became separated, while several were injured by their own booby-traps, and others were wounded by Japanese fire as they attempted to move back to Australian lines. After occupying
23200-410: The company prepared to attack the Japanese garrison which was estimated at 300 men from III/102nd Battalion. Following several reconnaissance patrols, Hitchcock finalised plans for the assault. On the evening of 30 June they formed up in a creek just south of Cape Dinga. 5 Platoon under Lieutenant Charles Bishop was tasked with securing the heights, while 4 Platoon under Sergeant Bob MacIlwain would attack
23400-525: The company were detached as scouts working with the Americans. After concentrating at Boisi, they rested for several days. Now under divisional control, the Papuans prepared to move towards Salamaua with orders to conduct reconnaissance and to cut off any Japanese withdrawing through the area. Setting out on 28 August a Papuan patrol under Lieutenant Dick Gore observed a Japanese force in Lokanu before moving inland to bypass them. Leaving some men at Charlie Hill,
23600-419: The compulsory evacuation of all remaining European women and children to Australia was ordered on 12 December. Following the surprise attack on the US fleet A Company, PIB was relieved of its duties unloading ships at the wharf to man defensive positions and mount a 24-hour watch. Meanwhile, scattered across the islands to the north, the 270 men of the 1st Independent Company were all that lay between Rabaul and
23800-400: The confusion some PIB soldiers at Awala deserted, although a few withdrew with the Australians. Watson then withdrew with his headquarters from Awala to Ongahambo, but was soon forced to fall back to Wairope . Meanwhile, Jesser's party on the northern flank was in danger of being cut-off. Slashing their way through the bush to Wairope, the following morning they found that Watson had ordered
24000-416: The costliest fighting of the war for the Australians, Gona was recaptured on 9 December 1942, and Buna on 3 January 1943. The Japanese began to abandon Sanananda on 13 January following an unsuccessful Australian assault the day before, while mopping up operations were completed on 22 January. At the same time elements of the PIB and 39th Battalion had been withdrawing along the Kokoda track, other members of
24200-477: The crossing of the Markham and assault on Nadzab. The PIB subsequently manned staging camps and guard posts along the river, which were in place by 27 August. In early September they patrolled between Mount Ngaroneno and the mouth of the Watut River to ensure it was clear of Japanese forces. Meanwhile, a small party crossed the Markham in a rubber dingy, scouting towards the proposed drop zone. On 4 September,
24400-412: The days that followed reinforcements were flown to Annenberg, while aircraft flew reconnaissance missions over Anjetti but were unable to locate the Japanese force. In late November the company, minus 6 Platoon, was ordered to return to Bisiatabu near Port Moresby. Meanwhile, 6 Platoon remained at Annenberg, continuing routine patrolling until early January 1945 when it was also withdrawn. While B Company
24600-425: The defeat of the Japanese counter-offensive the Australians were ordered to clear the area and secure the coastline north to Sio. The Japanese were subsequently observed using the area as an evacuation and supply route before the patrol withdrew. Elements of the PIB and 2/43rd Battalion then scouted Pino Hill in preparation for retaking the area. These patrols detected Japanese reinforcements landing by barge, prompting
24800-493: The defenders captured. The survivors withdrew into the interior, moving south across New Britain to the Open Bay and Wide Bay areas, and west, for eventual evacuation. In total more than 400 servicemen and civilians escaped. Many were less fortunate. A total of 160 wounded and sick Australian soldiers were captured and subsequently murdered by the Japanese at Tol Plantation. Later, the Japanese naval prison ship Montevideo Maru
25000-409: The defenders were increasingly exhausted and reduced by disease and sickness as a result of their exertions and the harsh terrain. Potts handed over command to Porter on 10 September, who subsequently withdrew to Ioribaiwa, checking a Japanese attack there the following day. With the brigades of Allen's 7th Division now reinforcing Maroubra Force, the PIB was organised into teams of stretcher bearers and
25200-475: The direct command of the 9th Division and was tasked with gathering information about the terrain and deep patrolling into the Bonga–Warea and Wareo –Sattelberg–Mararuo areas. The Japanese counter-attack against Jivevaneng and Scarlet Beach on 16–17 October subsequently failed, and they were pushed back into the mountains towards Sattelberg and Wareo. A section from 10 Platoon occupying a guard position in front of
25400-478: The east, while the 7th moved towards the west. Carrying out a number of smaller-scale operations, the units of the 21st and 25th Brigades advanced up the Markham and Ramu Valleys. Apart from a significant engagement around Kaiapit , where the 2/6th Commando Squadron captured the village and killed over 200 Japanese. The Australians were barely resisted as they advanced and they arrived in Dumpu in early October. During
25600-468: The east, with another attempt later in the day also failing before they were pushed off the ridge two days later. During fighting on 26 July, A Company, PIB suffered its first fatality, with the death of an Australian corporal attached to I Company on Mount Tambu. From 22 to 24 July two PIB platoons held defensive positions near Boisi, while several sections guarded the track towards Mount Tambu to cut off any Japanese trying to withdraw. Further attempts by
25800-471: The encirclement of Lae, following landings to its east by the 9th Division which had begun the day before. Moving forward to the Erap River, B Company, PIB set up camp and began patrolling the western approaches to Nadzab. During a patrol with US infantry on 13 September, one Australian and two Americans were killed when they were ambushed. A number of patrols subsequently clashed with the Japanese, with
26000-683: The end of the war the battalion was used to guard Japanese prisoners of war, before being disbanded in August 1946. In 1951, the PIR was reformed, drawing its lineage from the PIB and NGIBs. Following the outbreak of the Second World War in Europe on 3 September 1939, limited defensive preparations began in the Australian administered territories of Papua and New Guinea . In Papua, the raising of an all-volunteer unit of native soldiers led by Australian officers and non-commissioned officers (NCOs), known as
26200-450: The entire advance, the Australian and American forces in the Ramu Valley were supplied by air. The capture of the Ramu Valley, allowed a forward airbase to be developed at Gusap . Following this, the 7th Division provided security for a number of airfields that were constructed in the territory they had captured in the valleys. To assist with this, the 6th Machine Gun Battalion was brought up from Port Moresby to defend Gusap. However,
26400-488: The feature that night and dug-in. The following day they clashed with more Japanese patrols, ambushing them and forcing their withdrawal under the cover of artillery, which then compelled the Papuans to retire again. Hitchcock ordered the patrols continue, and the Papuans were sent back up the ridgeline, patrolling until relieved by US forces. With the raid having failed, the surviving Japanese attempted to withdraw to Mount Tambu but were pursued by Australian and US patrols, with
26600-680: The fighting and were missing. Meanwhile, Smith reported that the Japanese had landed at the mouth of the Kumusi River, while Izatt stated on 1 August that he had been forced to withdraw from Ioma after destroying the government station there. Running low on food he attempted to contact B Company, PIB under Hooper, operating in the Waria-Opi River area. PIB patrols operating in the Iomai–Warioa–Ambasi area were ordered by Watson to remain in location and attempt to maintain contact with
26800-415: The first members of the PIB were not officially posted in until March 1941. By 1942 it consisted of only three companies , all of which were under-strength and poorly equipped. It was subsequently employed on scouting, reconnaissance and surveillance patrols against the Japanese, where the natural bushcraft of its native soldiers could be used to their advantage. The PIB was sent forward in June 1942 to patrol
27000-435: The first of many heavy air raids. Allied air defences were almost non-existent, and the raids significantly reduced civilian morale, while several PIB recruits deserted. Following the bombing of Port Moresby, in early February the civil administration in Papua was replaced by military control. ANGAU was formed to administer both Papua and New Guinea in a unified military government, following their hurried amalgamation. Watson
27200-462: The following days before being relieved by two platoons from the 2/43rd Battalion under Captain Eric Grant. On 30 September Grant's understrength company and the Papuans from 9 Platoon were surrounded and cut-off but were able to hold off a number of attacks over the next four days. An attempt by two other Australian companies to break through failed before a PIB sergeant and a group of scouts from
27400-585: The force. Designated Lark Force , it tasks included protecting the airfields at Lakunai and Vunakanau and the seaplane base in Simpson Harbour , as well as forming an "advanced observation line" to provide early warning of Japanese movements. The position was increasingly viewed as untenable, but the garrison was reinforced with four Lockheed Hudson bombers and ten obsolete CAC Wirraway reconnaissance aircraft from No. 24 Squadron RAAF , and by December it had grown to 1,400 men. The planned expansion of
27600-463: The high ground signalled threat and their commander, Vasey, came to the decision that he would have to launch an offensive in order to capture this ground. This led to a number of battles in the steep mountains of the Finnisterres. In October, battles took place at Palliser's Hill, and then later at Johns' Knoll where the Australians first managed to capture the knoll and then held it against
27800-495: The jungle and rejoined the main force. His service ended on 17 October 1945 with his discharge from the army. At this time he was serving with the Papuan Infantry Battalion with the rank of Captain . Chalk died in Queensland, Australia in March 2001 at the age of 84. Papuan Infantry Battalion The Papuan Infantry Battalion (PIB) was a unit of the Australian Army raised in the Territory of Papua for service during
28000-439: The landing mechanism and jamming the ramp half-open, which forced them to disembark over the side into deep water. First out, Leutchford was shot almost immediately. Badly wounded, he soon fell unconscious. Still heavily engaged, he was supported in the water by a Papuan police sergeant attached to the company for the operation, and was then dragged ashore with the assistance of a nearby Australian soldier. Heavy fighting continued on
28200-480: The large Japanese base at Truk in the Caroline Islands. Australian defences in Papua remained limited and were centred on Port Moresby, consisting of approximately 1,000 only partially trained Militia from the 49th Battalion , two six-inch coastal guns, a 3.7-inch anti-aircraft battery and a few Consolidated PBY Catalina flying boats, in addition to the locally recruited PIB which was still forming, and
28400-559: The last of the missing. Total PIB casualties during the fighting had been three killed and two wounded. On 16 December the company moved again, crossing the Ramu River to establish a patrol base to cover the Kobon–Koropa–Soly River area. From this position the company continued to patrol until 3 January 1944. Following six months of active service it was withdrawn, returning to Bisiatabu near Port Moresby for rest. After leave,
28600-528: The local people to maintain order following the departure of the civil administration, and with rescuing downed Allied airmen. Numbering just 150 men, the PIB attacked Japanese parties retreating to the north coast in November after their defeat at Oivi–Gorari . In January 1943, they intercepted Japanese forces north of Buna and, the following month, assisted in the destruction of Japanese remnants in Papua—killing 200 and capturing three prisoners. By March 1943
28800-406: The main force was finally guided into the position by two Papuans that had been sent out to through Japanese lines. On 4 October they led the encircled force out carrying their wounded, just hours before a relief force finally pushed its way through. Meanwhile, Finschhafen had fallen two days earlier. During this time 10 Platoon had been working with the 2/3rd Pioneer Battalion which was guarding
29000-456: The majority of the force being destroyed. Skirmishes occurred west of the 1700 feature, with the Papuans dispersing a force of approximately 20 Japanese on 18 August. By 20 August A Company, PIB occupied a line from Scout Ridge north of Boisi to the 1700 feature behind Salus, and the ridgeline just north of Salus Lakes, in an area which had been mostly cleared of the Japanese. They then began to move towards Boisi. During this time other members of
29200-650: The men were without medical support, or were supported by medics from the US Army. Until August 1941 the PIB continued to be used guarding vulnerable points, constructing roads and working on the wharves, while further training also occurred during this time. However, in September the unit was allocated the task of defending the area from Napa Napa to Jolers Bay. Following a reconnaissance, A and B Companies moved into their allocated areas and began constructing roads for tactical movement and defensive positions. Although required to continue to provide guards at key installations,
29400-524: The morning of 13 October a 4 Platoon patrol attacked a group of hungry Japanese in Kemen, killing eight soldiers and capturing two officers. On 15 October, 5 Platoon located Japanese equipment and other evidence of a group moving towards Markham Point; making contact the following day they killed five. On 17 October two sections from A Company were detached to the 29th/46th Battalion during mopping up operations between Mongi River and Finschhafen. While patrolling
29600-473: The natural bushcraft of the natives could be utilised to their greatest potential—the drawbacks of junior leaders without local experience was apparent. The terms of service of the new recruits included enlistment for three years, with pay at a rate of 10 shillings per month for the first year, 15 in the second, and one pound in the third, with lance corporals paid 25 shillings, corporals 30 shillings, and sergeants 40 shillings. Equipment provided included
29800-496: The nature of its role its sub-units would mainly operate separately, attached to larger Australian and US units and formations. As such, unlike the headquarters of standard Australian battalions, the PIB's headquarters was primarily employed as an administration and training company, and saw little action. One of the commanding officer's primary roles was to ensure members of the battalion were appropriately utilised and recognised for their service, and in this role regularly liaised with
30000-475: The next in the series of amphibious operations. From there they would begin the advance towards Sio, further around the coast on the northern side of the Huon Peninsula. C Company, PIB under Leutchford (minus 11 Platoon which remained at Lae until early November) was detailed to be part of the landing at Scarlet Beach . They would be tasked with patrolling and helping ANGAU recruit local carriers. However, Japanese strength had been significantly underestimated by
30200-423: The next two hours for the loss of two men killed, while a runner broke through and alerted the platoon commander. The Japanese then attacked the platoon main defensive position from two sides. At 03:00 Chalk attempted to contact 7 Platoon by field telephone, but was unsuccessful. The fighting continued until around 0900, by which time 7 Platoon had run out of ammunition. Surrounded and with the telephone wires back to
30400-462: The night of 26/27 July, yet the Japanese proved too strong and once again the defenders were driven back. Templeton was killed and Watson took command, withdrawing through Deniki on 27 July. At Deniki they joined up with the remainder of B Company, 39th Battalion now personally commanded by Owen who had come forward to take over. Moving back to Kokoda, they were also rejoined by a number of the men that had been cut-off at Oivi. Owen decided to attempt
30600-479: The north coast of Papua between Buna and the Waria River , while other platoons would screen possible avenues of approach to Port Moresby, with a second patrol from A Company departing for Rigo on 20 February, and a third a week later. On 8 March 1942, approximately 3,000 Japanese naval troops landed unopposed at Lae forcing the NGVR detachment there to withdraw west towards Nadzab , while another battalion from
30800-479: The north. A landing by two US battalions around the Yalau Plantation pushed the Japanese further back, but nevertheless, their rearguards continued to provide determined resistance and the Australians advanced towards Bogadjim, pursuing the Japanese forces as they withdrew. Yaula was captured on 4 April linking up with elements of the 2/2nd Commando Squadron . A few days later, the 11th Division , under
31000-410: The northern coast of Papua and was dispersed over a wide area. These small parties were the first to make contact with the Imperial Japanese forces upon their landing in Papua, before participating in the Kokoda Track campaign . As part of Maroubra Force , the PIB fought alongside the Australian 39th Battalion at Kokoda, Deniki, and Isurava as the Japanese forced them back along the Kokoda track, but
31200-471: The northern end of Shaggy Ridge, known as Prothero I and II; the 2/9th Infantry Battalion would attack northwards along Shaggy Ridge itself, to take McCaughey's Knoll, by way of Green Sniper's Pimple; and the 2/10th Infantry Battalion would advance along Faria Ridge, which lay to the east of Shaggy Ridge and joined it at Kankiryo Saddle. After the Kankiryo Saddle was secured on 26 January 1944,
31400-569: The northern part of New Guinea in early 1942, the Japanese landed on the north-east coast of Papua , establishing beachheads at Buna, Gona and Sanananda . On the night of 21/22 July, 3,000 Japanese landed near Gona in an attempt to advance south overland through the mountains of the Owen Stanley Range to seize Port Moresby as part of a strategy of isolating Australia from the United States. Initially only limited Australian forces were available to oppose them, and after making rapid progress,
31600-409: The part-time volunteer NGVR. These forces came under the operational command of the 8th Military District commanded by Major General Basil Morris . However, with the Japanese soon expected to attempt to seize Rabaul and Port Moresby the remainder of the 30th Brigade was brought forward, with the 39th and 53rd Battalions arriving in Port Moresby on 3 January. These units gradually took over
31800-480: The paternalistic concerns of the civilian administration regarding native welfare and unease about providing the indigenous population with arms and military training meant they were not enlisted into the New Guinea Volunteer Rifles (NGVR) which was also forming at that time, with recruiting for the NGVR limited to Europeans only. Major Leonard Logan was appointed as commanding officer of
32000-412: The position and destroyed the gun and killed its crew using grenades, while the Australians fought the Japanese inside the tunnel. A heavy engagement developed as the Japanese attempted to reinforce the position, with the fighting continuing until dusk before they were forced to retreat. The Australians also withdrew, moving back to Bobdubi. A number of Papuan sections were still detached, operating with
32200-473: The position, the Japanese fired a number of flares which signalled a line of carriers to bring up reinforcements and supplies. At 11:00 a Papuan lance corporal made it back to the company position and reported the situation, while later a sergeant and 10 native soldiers also returned. However, with most of 7 Platoon till missing, Chalk was ordered to withdraw B Company, PIB to the Evapia River . Part of
32400-459: The pre-war years. Slow in forming, the first members of the PIB were not officially posted in until March 1941. At this time contingency plans for the defence of Papua and New Guinea envisioned the deployment of Australian forces to Rabaul and Port Moresby, while the defence of Lae and Salamaua would be left to the NGVR. As the war with Germany and Italy continued in Europe, North Africa and
32600-544: The range at the top of the Mindjim River , moving through Japanese territory for seven days. On 22 October, 6 Platoon departed on seven day patrol of the headwaters of the Mene River. On their return a section with fifty carriers attached patrolled deep into the ranges near Kankiryo Ridge over 13 days, returning without making contact with the Japanese. By late October the 7th Division and its attachments, including
32800-599: The remainder of C Company married-up with the 2/4th Independent Company and moved to the Singaua Plantation. 9 Platoon then moved to the Busu River crossing, being attached to the 24th Brigade for the advance along the coastal route. At the same time 10 and 11 Platoons advanced in front of the 26th Brigade as it moved up the Burep River via the inland route. By 10 September the platoons were between
33000-402: The remainder of the company continued south the next day before taking up positions along a creek east of Mount Tambu. The Papuans were then tasked with finding a Japanese artillery piece located on the ridgeline below Nuknuk which controlled the approaches from Komiatum towards Salamaua. The gun had been mounted on a section of railway track and was being concealed in a tunnel cut into the side of
33200-430: The ridge, preventing it from being targeted by Allied aircraft and counter-battery fire. A patrol from 4 Platoon was able to determine its approximate position after questioning the local people, and a small group of three Papuans under Lance Corporal Bengari then infiltrated Japanese lines to confirm its location. After pin-pointing the gun they returned to Komiatum. Bengari then guided an Australian company-sized patrol to
33400-424: The river before crossing in an attempt to encircle them. Attacking the Australians and Papuans with mortars and heavy machine-guns, many PIB soldiers again withdrew into the bush. Some eventually met up with the main party and others moved back to Kokoda, yet many deserted. Elements of the PIB and B Company, 39th Battalion again clashed with the Japanese at Gorari on 25 July, killing or wounding 15. Yet reduced to only
33600-415: The ruins. They subsequently withdrew. The Papuans were then tasked with clearing the beach from Kela Point, Malolo Mission, Buakap and Busama. Patrolling to the ridge overlooking the mission no Japanese were observed. However, on 13 September when the Papuans entered Malolo they were engaged by a Japanese machine-gun from long range, which was then destroyed by 1 Platoon. Company Headquarters was then set up in
33800-535: The sections on the Mongi River, was back at Old Yanga where they prepared to move to Finschhafen. Meanwhile, there were also 100 local recruits at Old Yanga, and this later became PIB Sub-Depot Lae. While the Lae campaign continued, the 7th Division pursued the Japanese into the Ramu Valley as they retreated following the fighting at Kaiapit. The main Japanese force withdrew via a route to the north from Dumpu , over
34000-475: The situation worsened, the PIB—with a strength of just 30 officers and 280 men—was sent forward to patrol the northern coast of Papua and was subsequently dispersed over a wide area. Along with the 39th Battalion (less one company), and supply and medical detachments, they formed part Maroubra Force . Under the command of Lieutenant Colonel William Owen , the commanding officer of the 39th Battalion, Maroubra Force
34200-402: The south bank of the Markham, and with the pioneers successfully establishing a beachhead they then crossed with the engineers. As the airdrop proceeded, the Papuans were tasked with assisting to secure the upper Markham Valley against any possible Japanese move to reinforce Lae from Madang . With Nadzab captured preparations began to allow the Australian 7th Division to fly in so as to complete
34400-409: The south, and avoiding the main Japanese defences as a result. The third wave landed correctly at Scarlet Beach and found itself heavily engaged . 10 Platoon landed on the northern end of Siki Cove with the second wave of the 2/13th and 2/17th Battalions and was unopposed. Moving up the beach quickly to the palm trees they turned towards Katika to the south to attack Japanese positions defending
34600-540: The steep slope at the northern end of the position. Owen was killed and Watson again took temporary command, leading a fighting withdrawal towards the village of Deniki, 1 mile (1.6 km) back along the Kokoda Track towards Isurava . For his bravery and leadership, Watson was later awarded the Distinguished Service Order . Australian losses at Kokoda had consisted of two killed and seven or eight wounded; however, many more had become cut-off during
34800-467: The steep slopes of The Pimple by the 2/16th Infantry Battalion , which employed ladders made out of bamboo to help scale the face of the slope. Held up overnight by a Japanese pillbox, the 2/16th resorted to explosives to destroy it. Early in the new year, the 15th and 18th Brigades relieved the 21st and 25th Brigades around Shaggy Ridge, and planning for a new offensive began. The major Australian attack on Shaggy Ridge – codenamed Operation Cutthroat –
35000-419: The subsequent attack against Salamaua, while heavy artillery landed at Nassau Bay was able to shell the area in preparation. The US 3/162nd Battalion landed at Nassau Bay on 6 July. The PIB advanced along the coast ahead of the US 162nd Infantry Regiment and reached Lake Salus on 9 July before pushing on to Tambu Bay as they followed up the withdrawing Japanese. Hitchcock's men were the first to make contact with
35200-410: The two Bassis villages and capture the Japanese telescope located there. On 1 July a patrol moving along the beach to Nassau Bay killed three Japanese in foxholes. Bishop moved up the ridgeline but met heavy resistance, and the platoon was eventually forced to withdraw. Meanwhile, moving along the beach MacIlwain found one of the villages deserted and the other defended by a strong bunker position, which
35400-400: The village, and from there they patrolled along the beach through Busama, towards the swamps around Labu. Sweeping through the area, the main Japanese force was found to have withdrawn, while the Papuans moved as far as the mouth of the Markham River and then through the swamps to the foothills. Following the return of the Company's various detachments it concentrated at Malolo, before moving to
35600-473: The west, while the Australian positions in this area were dangerously dispersed, with a large distance between the Papuans around the 5800 feature and the 2/6th Independent Company to their left on the Solu River, with this gap considered to be vulnerable to infiltration. By 7 December B Company, PIB was located on a position astride the main track running north-south on the 5800 feature, with 7 Platoon under
35800-473: The wire footbridge destroyed and were forced to swim across the Kumusi River to escape. Watson then retired to Gorari, nearer to Kokoda while the bulk of the PIB and B Company, 39th Battalion remained on the west bank. The PIB was then joined by a platoon under Templeton, ambushing the Japanese the following day as they crossed the Kumusi in rubber boats. Forced to withdraw, the Japanese moved further along
36000-408: The wrong place, the Australians eventually regained control of the scattered troops and disentangled the different units which had become intermingled on the beach. By daylight they had succeeded in securing the beach and the jungle fringe, mopping up the fixed Japanese defences behind it and then pushing through them, before beginning to consolidate the beachhead. At dawn C Company, PIB moved back to
36200-580: Was Major William Watson , a miner and former artillery officer in the First Australian Imperial Force (AIF) who had lived in New Guinea for many years. Enlistments in the PIB began in June 1940, with the first 63 recruits being current or former members of the RPC, a connection which allowed the unit to claim a lineage to the Armed Native Constabulary, which had been formed in the late 19th-century to police
36400-431: Was assigned the task of evacuating sick and wounded Australian soldiers back along the Kokoda Track. On 14 September command of the forward areas was taken over by Brigadier Kenneth Eather . Heavy fighting continued around Ioribaiwa for the following week, before the Australians were again forced back, this time to Imita Ridge. By 17 September the Japanese were almost in sight of Port Moresby itself. However, following
36600-421: Was attacked by a group of Japanese and hostile villagers, with two Papuans and a number of Japanese killed. Although costly, the patrol confirmed the Japanese were unaware of Allied preparations to attack Nadzab. B Company continued patrolling the southern bank of the Markham River, reporting on troop movements and dispositions. On 24 August they came under command of New Guinea Force and were ordered to prepare for
36800-483: Was earmarked for the upcoming landing at Finschhafen, the need to cut-off the Japanese retreat meant 11 Platoon would remain behind at Gawan, north of Lae, while the remainder of the company redeployed. 11 Platoon was then tasked with patrolling to Mililunga and along the Boana track until relieved by A Company in late October. By 28 September A Company, PIB had completed their redeployment from Tambu Bay to Lae, establishing
37000-412: Was fighting in the Markham and Ramu Valley campaign, A and C Companies were involved in the capture of Finschafen and Sattelberg, before pursuing the Japanese along the northern coastline of the Huon Peninsula towards Saidor between September 1943 and January 1944. With the fall of Lae occurring more quickly than expected the 20th Brigade of the 9th Division had been retasked to capture Finschhafen in
37200-402: Was later confirmed to be highly accurate. The American advance on Tambu Bay commenced on 18 July, with two companies from the US 3/162nd Battalion moving north along the inland track, and another company moving along the coast; each using guides from the PIB. On 20 July a PIB platoon attacked a Japanese outpost south of Boisi which was holding up the advance of K Company, killing four and allowing
37400-434: Was later ordered forward to a point 1.6 kilometres (1 mi) from Kaipit with the reserve ammunition and to cover the wounded. In position just after dawn the next morning they clashed with a group of Japanese, killing five of them. During the day the Japanese counter-attacked the Australians but were driven out of Kaiapit with very heavy losses. Japanese casualties included 214 killed and a further 50 probably killed, while
37600-586: Was launched by the 18th Brigade on 19–20 January. The 2/4th Field Regiment , which established its guns around the Lake area to the west of the Mosia River, and south of Guy's Post, while stores were brought up to that position by jeep. The brigade's three battalions were to converge on the Kankiryo Saddle from three different directions: the 2/12th Infantry Battalion was to advance from Canning's Saddle, east of Shaggy Ridge, and attack two well-defended knolls on
37800-532: Was ordered by Watson to engage them. That night, Chalk and his 40-man platoon ambushed Japanese forces from a hill overlooking the Gona– Sangara road, killing several before withdrawing into the jungle as they quickly responded with small arms and mortar fire. Meanwhile, elements of B Company, 39th Battalion under Captain Sam Templeton had begun arriving and they moved to cover the Papuan withdrawal. In
38000-705: Was ordered to recapture Kokoda. By the first week in August reinforcements had arrived in Deniki, including both A and C Company, 39th Battalion, while further forces were moving up the Kokoda Track. The Australian force now consisted of 31 officers and 443 other ranks of the 39th Battalion; eight Australians and 35 native troops of the PIB; and two officers and 12 native members of ANGAU; a total of 533 men. Although poorly equipped and short on supplies, Cameron planned to attack an estimated Japanese force of 300 to 400 men at Kokoda. The Australians attempted to retake Kokoda on 8 August, but with both sides suffering heavy casualties,
38200-425: Was recalled soon after hostilities commenced, succeeding Logan as commanding officer of the PIB on 16 February after the later was evacuated from Papua due to illness and was forced to retire. The PIB was subsequently employed in scouting, reconnaissance and surveillance patrols against the Japanese. On 19 February, a platoon from A Company under the command of Lieutenant Harold Jesser was ordered by Morris to patrol
38400-483: Was redeploy some of his limited force, while the remaining aircraft were withdrawn and the airfields cratered. The Japanese South Seas Force of approximately 5,300 men under the command of Major General Tomitarō Horii landed at Rabaul in the early hours of 23 January 1942. Outnumbered, Lark Force was quickly overrun in the ensuing fighting , with the Japanese completing the capture of the town within 24 hours. Australian losses were heavy, with 28 men killed and most of
38600-443: Was seconded to Base Headquarters as civilian recruiting officer, while Standfield was detailed to work on the supply line road from Bulldog to Wau , as defensive preparations continued. On 1 December, A Company was withdrawn from defence work and tasked with unloading cargo from shipping at the wharf in Port Moresby. The Japanese began aerial reconnaissance over Rabaul soon after the attack on Pearl Harbor on 7 December 1941, and
38800-459: Was short, as following the recapture of Buna and Sanananda, the Allies planned to move on Lae as part of a series of counter-offensive actions. The PIB was tasked to assist and was reinforced in preparation for these operations, with its strength increased to include a battalion headquarters, headquarter company—including a signals and a pioneer platoon—and three rifle companies. As a result, additional Australian and native personnel were required, and
39000-460: Was subsequently taken on 24–25 April by troops from the 8th and 15th Brigades, while the 30th Infantry Battalion secured Alexishafen the following day. A follow-up landing was made by the 37th/52nd Infantry Battalion on Karkar Island , while the 35th Infantry Battalion secured a large quantity of abandoned Japanese stores at Hansa Bay, and pushed patrols towards the Sepik River . For
39200-475: Was sunk off the west coast of Luzon in the South China Sea on 1 July 1942 after she was torpedoed by the submarine USS Sturgeon , resulting in the loss of 1,035 lives, most of them Australian civilians and prisoners of war from Rabaul. By 1942, the PIB consisted of only three understrength and poorly equipped companies. Total manning included approximately 300 indigenous Papuans. In late January,
39400-495: Was tasked with delaying a Japanese advance from Awala to Kokoda, preventing movement towards Port Moresby through a gap in the Owen Stanley Range near Kokoda, and resisting any airborne landings in the area. A platoon from B Company, PIB under Lieutenant Arthur Smith departed Port Moresby on 7 June to patrol the Barena–Buna area, with the remainder of the company following on 14 June under the command of Hooper, tasked with patrolling
39600-410: Was tasked with patrolling the southern bank of the Markham River, from Wanton River to New Labu Island. Standing patrols and platoon outposts were established, with 6 Platoon at Oomsis and 8 Platoon at Bob's Camp, while additional detachments operated out of Ngaragooma and Deep Creek. Meanwhile, 7 Platoon was detached to the 57th/60th Battalion at Tsili Tsili . The first contact occurred on 9 July, when
39800-410: Was then set on fire. The bodies of 26 Japanese were later recovered. With the position captured, Hitchcock moved north to Tabali Creek . After making contact with American forces, the Papuans continued attacking the Japanese on the northern coast of Cape Dinga, while blocking any attempt to escape inland. The Japanese at Nassau Bay subsequently withdrew, affording the Allied forces a supply point for
40000-401: Was withdrawn before the campaign finally turned in favour of the Australians. Following the recapture of the northern beachheads of Buna , Gona and Sanananda , the Allies moved onto the offensive in New Guinea. The PIB took part in the advance to Salamaua in 1943, before fighting along the Markham , Ramu , and Sepik rivers during the Ramu Valley – Finisterre Range campaign , and on
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