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War memorial · Alotau, Milne Bay
Milne Bay Memorial
Memorial on the Alotau waterfront dedicated to the Australians, Papuans and allied forces who fought and died in the Battle of Milne Bay in 1942, with an interpretation area and panels.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Milne Bay Memorial
The Milne Bay Memorial is on the Alotau waterfront, close to the town centre. It honours the Australians, the Papuans and the allied forces who fought and died in the Battle of Milne Bay, fought between 25 August and 7 September 1942.
In that August, a Japanese force landed on the north shore of the bay intending to seize the allied airstrips there. Australian troops, supported by American engineers and aircraft from two Royal Australian Air Force squadrons, halted the advance and forced a withdrawal. The battle is remembered as one of the first defeats of Japanese ground forces in the Pacific War.
Beside the memorial, an interpretation area with panels tells the story of the battle, the combat locations and the role of the local population. Remembrance ceremonies are held there on the battle’s anniversary, at the end of August.
Visits are usually combined with the Turnbull Field Memorial and the area of the former KB mission on guided tours covering the history of 1942.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Best time
In the morning, before the heat strengthens, or late afternoon, when the light falls across the bay.
How to get there
On the Alotau waterfront, a few minutes’ walk from the town centre.
Tip
Read the panels before visiting the battle sites: they help you locate Turnbull Field and the KB mission.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Milne Bay Memorial
What was the Battle of Milne Bay?
It was the fight from 25 August to 7 September 1942 in which Australian troops, with American support and air forces, repelled a Japanese landing in the bay. It is remembered as one of the first defeats of Japanese ground forces in the Pacific War.
Where is the Milne Bay Memorial?
On the Alotau waterfront, near the town centre, with an interpretation area beside it.
Are there ceremonies at the Milne Bay Memorial?
Yes, on the battle’s anniversary at the end of August. Check the dates and programme for each year before you go.