The Battle of Milne Bay

The Battle of Milne Bay is remembered as the first land defeat of the Japanese during the Pacific campaign in World War II. Fought in Papua New Guinea between 25 August and 7 September 1942, it was a significant turning point in the war. Australian forces, along with American support, successfully defended the area against Japanese invasion. The battle’s outcome played a crucial role in safeguarding Australia’s security.

The bay was of strategic importance for both the Allies and the Japanese. For the Allies, the bay was a defensive bastion guarding the maritime approaches to Port Moresby and a base to launch air operations to support the American landings at Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands. For the Japanese, Milne Bay represented a base from which to attack Allied shipping in the south-west Pacific and to provide air support to their attack along the Kokoda Track.

From the beginning, the Japanese were at a disadvantage. Landing 11 kilometres east of their intended landing area, their intelligence had significantly underestimated the Allied numbers. Whereas the Japanese believed there no more than a few hundred troops defending the airstrip, there were actually almost 9,000 Allied troops including two Australian infantry brigades - the 7th and the 18th. The Allies had the additional advantage of having air support close at hand - the 75 and 76 RAAF Squadrons, both equipped with P-40 fighter bombers, were also based at Milne Bay.

Join Frank Meoni, Curator of the Milne Bay Memorial Library and Research Centre as he discusses the lead up to the Battle of Milne Bay from both sides, the effect of external events on the battle, the conduct of the battle, and the effect of the battle on other operations.

After the talk, visitors can stay to explore the Memorial Galleries, embarking on an interactive journey from the First World War to today, before taking time to reflect on the remarkable stories of bravery and sacrifice in the tranquil parklands.
Anzac Square Memorial Galleries is located at 285 Ann Street, Brisbane. Entry is through the double brass doors located beneath the Shrine of Remembrance.

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