Hiking the Ghost Mountain Trail to Buna: Part 7, Battle of Buna

This is Episode Seven of my trek on the WWII Kapa Kapa Trail in Papua New Guinea, following the same path as the 32nd Red Arrow soldiers in World War II. The soldiers were known as the Ghost Mountain Boys, and my grandfather was one of them. When he was in hospice, I decided I would try to follow his trail across the Owen Stanley Mountains from Gaba Gaba to Buna, like the soldiers did in 1942.
The end goal for me was to reach Buna, the same as it was for the soldiers. For me, Buna was a place to relax and reflect. For the Ghost Mountain Boys, it was their first battle. Already weakened from malaria, dysentery, and other jungle ailments, they had to fight against the entrenched Japanese.
If you've seen the other videos in this series, you know I struggled. I knew this would be hard, but it was so far beyond my expectations. But it was worth it to reach the sea at Buna - the beach the soldiers called "Maggot Beach".
In this video, there's more about what the soldiers went through - the battle, losing their friends. You'll also learn about how this battle was more or less forgotten. Few Americans - other than those of us whose family members fought there - know the story of it.
BOOKS:
*The Ghost Mountain Boys: amzn.to/3wLga9t
* The story of the American WWII soldiers who trekked through here on their way to Buna
* The Kapa Kapa: amzn.to/4adVLbw
* What you need to know to hike this trail today. Elevation profiles, information on the villages along the way, and more.
* Victory in Papua: amzn.to/4adVLbw
* Part of the official history of the U.S. Army in World War II series, chronicling the strategic efforts to defeat Japanese forces in Papua New Guinea.
* Our Jungle Road to Tokyo: amzn.to/43QsFND
* A memoir by General Eichelberger who commanded the troops in the Battle of Buna, detailing the challenges and strategic victories of Allied forces in the Pacific.
* 32 Answered: A South Carolina Veterans' Story: amzn.to/3wufR3k
* The stories of the South Carolina Veterans who served in the 32nd Red Arrow Division
Note: Some links are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. It doesn't cost you anything and helps support the channel. Please consider purchasing from one of these links - thank you!
This journey is more than a hike; it's a personal quest that tests my limits, connects me to my grandfather, and delves into the heart of history, struggle, and resilience - all set against the stunning backdrop of the jungles, mountains, and vibrant culture of Papua New Guinea.
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[@MrTgomah]

I absolutely loved your story Donna. Your grandpa and the others were the superman of that time, so much respect coming from this peace time Marine.

[@vickylowton2106]

Thank you for sharing your grandfather’s story - it has been so interesting following your journey. What an adventure!

[@writerjill]

As a US Army veteran (generations after your grandfather), I really appreciate that you put all this effort into telling these soldiers’ stories. What an incredible tribute to your grandfather and the men who served with him 🇺🇸❤️

[@peggytazelaar6350]

Great job on the video Wonder Woman. I can't believe it's been 6 years since you were there Donna. I hope it works out for you to go again sure enjoyed your story.

[@DBecker-ed3rf]

Congratulations on completing that trip. I look forward to seeing your next version this year.
I was surprised to hear you talk about your grandfather’s unit as that was the very same as my father served in, G company in the 126th. My father would have missed your grandfather as he entered service in Aitape as a replacement after the Buna campaign. He went to Leyte and ended the war on the Villa Verde trail on Luzon, Philippines.
By the end of that trail there were only about 26 men left standing in G company due to both diseases and war casualties.

[@monymiller]

Hi Donna! Howdy from Texas! I just found your account and I had to tell you how you are inspiring me! I am almost 51 and am 2 days away from my first motorcycle lesson! I am so scared but can't shake the bug! My husband has recently gotten back into riding. (He got a dual sport...a Honda crf300L). Anyway, I am very nervous but your channel made me feel better about at least trying!! 🏍️😎

[@SomeBoldAdventure]

I'm so excited for you! I was so nervous that I wouldn't figure out how to do it - that I wouldn't be coordinated enough. The class was intimidating for me - I don't do well under pressure, but I got through it and I LOVE riding now . I hope you do too!

[@monymiller]

@@SomeBoldAdventure Thank you for the reply! My lesson got cancelled due to thunder storms...I had driven all the way there and way nervously waiting, then the storms rolled in! Ugh! But we rescheduled for this weekend so fingers crossed. I am actually doing this lesson at a dirt bike motor park. The guys were more than happy to teach me and I figure if I fall, dirt will be better than concrete? lol. Anyway, then I'll prepare for the MSF in a couple of months. It feels crazy to be starting this journey at this age, but like you said, no time like the present! I sure wish Texas and Michigan were closer, and we could ride together :) Thanks again for the encouragement...will continue to follow your adventures!

[@olivedrabgarage6243]

G'day Donna, thank you so much for making this series of videos of your father and the men of the 32nd that sacrificed so much to defend and save my country and countrymen from the Japanese onslaught.
Its fantastic to see these old photos and mentions of Southport and Camp Cable on the Gold Coast and Scenic Rim/Logan Shire. The camp is rapidly being turned into a high density housing estate called Yarrabilba and aoon any evidence that hasn't been dug up from the ground yet will be lost forever.
Its also rather unfortunate that bugger all monuments, flags, memorials and significant structures recognising the US during WW2 have been erected or even exist. The history isn't taught in our schools anymore and so many people I speak with about this specific subject don't know anything about...not even the consteuctuon workers on the Camp Cable site know that I see everyday.
Your perseverance to preserve this history is admirable and inspirational. I am still very much wanting to do my documentary on Camp Cable as soon as I can financially. But in the meantime I can reference your videos for people to view who are interested.
Im looking forward to your 2024 trip, filming and editing is laborious but well worth the effort and you are recording and preserving history. Im also looking forward to catching up with you when i finally get myself into a position to start on my documentary that I'd like to do for my channel.
Best wishes and good health, i feel your pain with your knees as I have a double new operation coming up this year. Your aussie friend, Gav 😉👍🏻🇦🇺🇺🇸