Recon on the Kokoda Trail PTO (id:#66131)

(Dispatches from the Bunker #54 ID: DB171)   [next]   [previous]

The Kokoda Trail south of Kokoda, Papua New Guinea 1942-08-06 (2 others)

Overview:

The Japanese, after landing on the north side of the island, moved to seize Kokoda and the beginning of the trail that bore its name. It led through the Owen-Stanley plateau and mountain range until descending on the southern, coastal plain and the very crucial anchorage at Port Moresby. The ANZACs put up a spirited defense under Lt. Colonel William T. Owens, but had to relinquish the village before being cut off from the trail itself. After retreating south, there was a pause, and then orders from both sides for aggressive recon patrols.

Defender: Australian (Elements of the Australian 39th Infantry Battalion and local Papuan infantry)  

Errata (source)