What did the soldiers eat on the Kokoda Track?
In late 1942, new ration types replaced the “bully beef and biscuits” standard ration, and included tinned fruit, dried potatoes, sausages, vegetables, jam, butter and beans. Dehydrated mutton was also a standard ration and was considered one of the finest foods of the campaign.
What happened to the 53rd battalion?
As numbers dwindled, the battalion was merged with the 55th Battalion in March 1919, although they were disbanded a month later on 11 April 1919. During its active service, the 53rd Battalion suffered 2,294 casualties of which 647 were killed.
What battalions fought at Kokoda?
The first fighting occurred between elements of the Papuan Infantry Battalion and the 39th Australian Infantry Battalion at Awala on 23 July. Although steadily reinforced by the battalions of 30th and 21st Brigades, the Australian force was unable to hold back the Japanese.
Why were the 39th battalion sent to Kokoda?
In June 1942, as the military situation in New Guinea deteriorated further, the battalion received orders to move up the Kokoda Track in order to act as a blocking force against the possibility of a Japanese advance overland from the north.
What was the role of the 53rd Battalion in Kokoda?
A second battalion, the 53rd, had trekked from Port Moresby and Honner sent it towards Abuari to protect a side-track over which the Japanese could also advance. Coming up the Kokoda Track in the second half of August were reinforcements in the shape of the 21st Brigade, Australian Imperial Force.
What was the 53rd Battalion in the Australian Army?
The 53rd Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army.
Who was Australian soldier in Kokoda in 1942?
For the Australian soldiers sent to serve in the Owen Stanleys in 1942, the surroundings were a shock. Lieutenant Don Simonson, 39th Battalion, from the temperate climate of Victoria, recalled his first encounter with the Kokoda Track:
When did the war come to the Kokoda Track?
War came to the Kokoda Track in July 1942. Over 600 Australian’s died during this time along with a further 1000 wounded. This book explores the involvement of Australian soldiers and illustrates their wartime experiences. The Kokoda Track is a narrow, jungle-enclosed, pathway across the Owen Stanley Range over the roof of Papua.
