Kokoda Trail Memorial Plaque. Canberra. Australia.
S 35° 16.820 E 149° 09.060
55H E 695625 N 6093747
A bronze memorial plaque in Canberra's Remembrance Park tells the story of the Kokoda Trail. The engraved inscription describes the courage and fortitude displayed by the men who fought the Japanese on the Kokoda Trail in Papua New Guinea in 1942.
Waymark Code: WM8MNW
Location: Australian Capital Territory, Australia
Date Posted: 04/19/2010
Views: 15
The inscription reads:
The Japanese attack on Port Moresby in May 1942 was repulsed at the battle of the Coral Sea, a month later their navy was severely damaged at the Battle of Midway. These events prompted another approach to Moresby and on 22 July, 2,000 Japanese were landed near Gona with the aim of crossing the Owen Stanley Range via the tortuous Kokoda Trail (track).
During the next week 80 Australians and Papuans fought delaying actions, culminating in a battle at Kokoda Village. The Japanese force rose to 10,000 whilst advancing along the Kokoda Trail. They were constantly delayed by defensive action particularly at Isurava and Brigade Hill. However, by mid- September the Australians (reduced from 3,000 to 300 men) were forced back to Imita Ridge, 42 km from Moresby,
The Japanese were then ordered to withdraw as their 5,000 remaining men and supplies were totally exhausted, and their army at Guadacanal (Solomon Islands) was on the defensive against the Americans.
On 23 September the Australians, now 2,600 strong, moved northwards to recover the trail, encountering major opposition only at Templeton's and Era creek. Kokoda was entered unopposed on 2 November. The Japanese rearguard was destroyed near Gorari.
5,000 Japanese survived and joined 4,000 fresh troops around Gona and Buna, Australian and American forces captured these strongholds by January 1943 incurring heavy casualties on both sides.
The Papuan carriers played an important role in the defence of the Kokoda Trail, they transported Australian casualties and supplies. Their loyalty will be remembered forever.
Type of Resource: Memorial
Other from above - Please Specify: Plaque
Relevant Website: [Web Link]
Date if Relevant: Not listed
Relevant Position in Armed Forces: Not listed
Nationality: Not listed
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