Invasion of Buna–Gona
Videos
The invasion of Buna–Gona, called Operation RI by the Japanese, was a military operation by Imperial Japanese forces to occupy the Buna–Gona area in the Territory of Papua during the Pacific campaign
Aerial reconnaissance photo of Gona shortly after the Japanese landings. (AWM128399)
Wreck of the Ayatosan Maru, a transport which was sunk during the initial landing shortly after disembarkation. AWM014871
The crossing of the Kumusi River at Wairopi later in the campaign. AWM128149
Soldiers of a Special Naval Landing Force are preparing their Type 97 mortars for firing
Papuan Infantry Battalion
Videos
The Papuan Infantry Battalion was a unit of the Australian Army raised in the Territory of Papua for service during the Second World War. Formed in early 1940 in Port Moresby to help defend the territ
Sergeant Bengari of A Company, PIB on 5 August 1944
Members of the Papuan Infantry Battalion at Port Moresby, January 1941
Members of the PIB and Royal Papuan Constabulary being briefed before a patrol around Waiwai, south of Buna, in October 1942
PIB soldiers around Bisiatabu, July 1943