As a Samoan living in this great country, every year I go to Anzac parades and always honor those who fought for this beautiful freedom country, and its everyone's obligation to continue to keep it safe, build this country, and remember those who gave their lives ... Also thank you for this informative video I love it when maps are included makes it more engaging in my opinion.
NZer here. I have *huge* respect for the Australian military and especially those who fought in the Kokoda Campaign. Absolutely abysmal conditions - mountains, valleys, jungle and mud - and a vicious and ruthless enemy.
History is written by the winners, but as I watched this movie it became clear that the Japanese were much more tactically prepared than the Australians. Their defeat was a result of the supply shortage. It is possible to perceive the mastermind of the Japanese commander, especially in flanking maneuvers. Well done.
You are right. The Initial Australian formations that engaged the Japanese were Citizen Military Forces (CMF) not regular soldiers of the Australian Imperial Forces (AIF). The CMF were disparagingly called Chocos. However they put up a magnificent fight and kept the Japanese busy until battle hardened troops returned from North Africa. Once the 9th, 6th and 7th Divisions redeployed form North Africa and the Mediterranean the Japanese went on the back foot until they were routed. Finchhaffen, Lae, Kokoda, Buna, Gona, Milne Bay, Guadalcanal, Wau etc saw the Japanese crushed by the unstoppable alliance of the US and Australia. However I was mildly surprised to see a lot of Indian soldiers graves at the Bita Paka War Cemetery outside of Rabaul.
I am always amazed by there bravery. We need to remember them and all those who have served or are currently serving. This history and show of respect should be part of every schools curriculum.
My great great uncle Bert Warman was apart of the 2nd\14th Infantry Battalion. I was told a story of how he passed and to this day, he is still considered MIA as they still haven’t recovered his remains in Kokoda. This is a really cool video, gives me some insight on what those poor blokes went through and what they were up against.
This is EXCELLENT. I have seen many videos about the Owen Stanley campaign (as it was called at the time). I also have several books about the campaign and I have walked the track, so I know what the terrain and jungle is like. I consider that this is the BEST explanation of the campaign that I have seen. I was surprised at how clear the explanation of the campaign was, so much better than many I have seen previously. Many kudos to "The Cove". I can only think of one criticism in the whole video. The pronunciation of the names, Ioribaiwa and Imita ridges and some other names. However, sorry, that is really nitpicking and the rest of the entire video is absolutely correct and is excellent. Yes, kudos to "The Cove".
I did 2 years in the CMF, 1967-69, 18th Light Anti Aircraft, Kogarah, NSW on a Bofors 40MM, bloody lovely bit of kit. Then did 21 years in the RAAF, Comms, G-G, G-A-G. I must say this. What I've just seen here, is much more than a mere Account. It's a a narrative, an Historical document, whether it be written on paper, electronic, or otherwise..
Thank you, thank you, thank you. This video was recommended by YT and I eagerly watched, hoping to glean more information about where my father served. He passed away about 2 and 1/2 years ago, having hit the century mark. We were close but he only shared snippets of his experiences. Now, when it's too late, I want to know more. Let this be a cautionary tale. Lap up as much as you can from your elders. My dad was very fond of people who were interested and interesting. I strive for that.
My grandfather served 1938-1946 as a medic saw service in the 3/14th across the top end & New Guinea. I often wonder if we are now worthy of such gallantry, one can only hope. “Lest We Forget”
Incredible that Australian militia outfought the Japanese troops who were trained at the Rape of Nanking, they were the best troops that Japan had, and they lost.
I have a theory about this. In Australia at that time and for awhile after you could make a bit of cash by cleaning up foxes and rabbits on farmers properties. Lots of young men did this for extra cash. Obviously this was done with rifles. Lots of young men knew how to shoot. I've never even seen my Dad hold a gun but he has a couple of fox furs with little holes in the back of the head he kept from his youth.
I don’t know were you get your facts but it’s absurd to think that the Japanese fighting at kakoda were also at Nanking five years earlier, a good historian never embellishes the facts 🇦🇺
@@user-vo4uk2xf3g Right... Coz five years is such a short period of time that no one could've moved anywhere further than their own street. Ships existed back then you know, as did trains and horses etc.
@@user-vo4uk2xf3g Easily verified by looking at the origin of the troops in the South Seas Detachment, which was primarily the 144th Regiment. Interestingly their commander Horii was one of the goons that staged the Shanghai Incident. He was given the Kokoda task after his force captured Guam from an overwhelmingly superior American force.
To give some perspective to the story my ex's uncle was a marksman in New Guinea, when he came home to Balmain NSW his sister my mum in-law did not recognize him. that's how bad it was up there for the troops. God bless you Peter Cameron and thank you, gone but not forgotten.
Nice editing and i bet it takes a lot of time and effort to animate those maps and that, not to mention the research, I'm impressed by your work, liked and subbed
@@Tylar122 I am 20 years old. Stop being a wuss and have some pride in your nation. If it's so traumatic, why are you here? Go back to your safe space.
My uncle Lieutenant Richard Roy Tanner, who served with the 2/2 Battalion, was killed in action during the offensive at Templetons crossing after serving at Tobruk, Crete and Bangladesh.
Thank you for this wonderful presentation. Also special thanks from someone whose Grandfather fought there, for referencing the Kokoda Trail. That is what those who fought there called it, and, as you point out, what is referenced on the battle honour. Unfortunately John Howard referenced it as the track, and our media have run with that name ever since. 🇦🇺
@@Skipper.17 Each to there own, but my point of reference is someone who was actually on the ground at the time. Not some Canberra poindexter who did some research once, years later.
@@Wedgetail96 www.awm.gov.au/articles/blog/the-kokoda-track-or-trail It’s not some ‘poindexter’ as you say, the terms were interchangeable at the time of the campaign
@@Wedgetail96 www.awm.gov.au/articles/blog/the-kokoda-track-or-trail Both are correct because both of them were used interchangeably at that time, no Canberra ‘poindexter’ as you put it was needed to change it. You may not believe me, but believe the war historians from the Australian War memorial.
It should have been noted that the Japanese had attempted to land directly at Port Moresby, but were turned back by US naval forces at the Battle of the Coral Sea. The subsequent attempt to attack overland was hastily planned and poorly supplied. The Japanese made matters worse for themselves by abusing the native Papuans - no Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels would help them!
I am amazed that not more is mentioned about the horrendous conditions - steep mountainous terrain, treacherous slippery trails, dreadful climate, and other hazards of the steamy tropics.
Fantastic channel here, I'm glad I found it. Is there any chance that your team could discuss the actions after the conclusion? The Kokoda trail is very well covered in media, but I would love to have more information about the Salamaua-Lae campaign and Aitape-Wewak. My grandfather served in the 2/5 Battalion and it would be nice to have something to share with my kids about his experiences.
Yes my grandfather (PNG) highlands recalled being recruited as an interpreter to a certain "Mr Hagen" and did what i assume was reconnaisance work along the Aitape-Wewak area keeping track of the japanese advance. Id love to know where i could possible find more information on that. He described accurately bombs being dropped by the japanese on them and the unfortunate delayed explosion of one that killed the only other interpreter that could speak our native toungue. Ive always wondered if records were kept of my grandfathers involvement as they eventually made it to a boat and travelled down to port moresby where he was discharged with a piece of paper back to the highlands..which he thought was worthless and threw away
@@colkur5007 That's interesting, and I'd also like to hear more about the involvement of the Papuans during those campaigns. My grandfather had nothing but praise and admiration for them and said they were fearless and dependable in their aid for the troops. He told me stories of papuans trading japanese 'proof of death' trophies for grenades to use to go fishing with.
I believe they did a collaborative effort in order to tell the stories of the RAR’s battle honours? They made a community post about the episode on Korea.
My Great Great Uncle died on Brigade Hill, was able to do the trek in 2011 in honour of him, it was a pretty tough trek, without months of fighting, can't imagine what it'd be like with fighting, still bullets, casings, guns etc there on the track and in huts.
Jungle is an unforgiving terrain to conduct a warfare and especially in maintaining the supply line。With land-based transportation severely hindered by the thick jungle，air transport seems to be the only viable method to deliver much needed supplies to combatants in the jungle。However，unlike helicopter，fixed-wing aircraft needs a long airstrip to conduct landing and departure in order to bring in supplies。From the airstrip，the supplies had to be brought to combatants by foot。Jungle warfare is absolutely a logistical nightmare。
The 39th called it a track the yank called it a trail and the 39th never gave up the fight my uncle was in the 39th battalion advanced unit the first to be there as a Bren gun op .they fought&won the fight to protect the country only two vets from the 39th are alive living in Victoria now .the ones who have passed on will still be remembered for their mateship courgette endurance& sacrifice they gave
Just found, easy sub. I was a digger straight out of highschool lol. Edit oh wow. So, I joined the reserves in highschool, at 11/28 Infantry Battalion( Res) in western Australia, then transfered to the regular army and 3RAR once I finished highschool. It was very cool to see the mention of my first unit in the list of inherited battle honours.
I joined in 1977 from the New England area to Kapooka and straight to 1 RAR (Townsville) in the middle of winter. we arrived in battle dress while our gear was shipped by rail a few weeks later. took a few days to be issued pd's .. fk it was hot.
@@becs2635 oh, and I had another 3 months at the School of Infantry in Singleton before going to battalion, where I got posted to small arms training section as a gofer. I spent a lot of time in weird places on barely used ranges saying "good shot sir, maintain that point of aim" for 8 hrs a day. Edit I was born in 1976 and I don't think Kapooka has changed much, tbh. A little less bastardisation and the steyr is a hell of a lot easier to manage than the slr, but otherwise, it hasn't changed.
Every Grade 5 child in Primary School MUST be taught this history. Thank you for this short video. Regarding Infantry fighting, it was predominantly Australian Infantry Forces who first beat Rommels forces in Africa with some assistance from United Kingdom, Indian, Lybian Arab, Kiwi, Polish and Chechoslovakian Forces who were the first to win a battle, holding out in the Siege of Tobruk against Hitlers Nazi's Siege of Tobruk took place between 10 April and 27 November 1941, during the Western Desert campaign (1940-1943) of the Second World War. An Allied force, consisting mostly of the 9th Australian Division, commanded by Lieutenant-General Leslie Morshead, was besieged in the North African port of Tobruk by German and Italian forces. The tenacious defenders quickly became known as the Rats of Tobruk. And agian it was Australian Infantry who first turned around the Japanese advance in the Pacific. Remarkable.
Excellent presentation. I particularly enjoyed the animation and thank you for not omitting the blue on blue mistake and the error of the 3rd militia. So many of these types of videos turn into glossy propaganda presentations by not providing all the facts. I would love to be able to do similar videos (perhaps you could email me some tips).
You guys skipped the defense of Rabaul by the Lark force 2/22nd AIB. I would love to see a video. In memory of Jack and Bob Russell, they died defending Australia. Cheers
Thank you for your comment. While the name 'Kokoda Track' is often used in regular communication, as you have noted from our video, 'Kokoda Trail' is the formal name of the battle honour as displayed on the colours of the lineage units. The Australian War Memorial history entry on Kokoda also uses 'Kokoda Trail', stating "'Kokoda Trail' and 'Kokoda Track' have been used interchangeably since the Second World War and the former was adopted by the Battles Nomenclature Committee as the official British Commonwealth battle honour in October 1957." Of course, in everyday conversation, either can be used.
You neglect to relate the humiliation of the 53rd and the early fights of the campaign. You also neglect to discuss the political dimensions of the removal of leaders like Clowes and Potts. Missing also is the effect MacArthur had on the political and tactical situation. This stands as a good school room narrative capable of creating excellent discussion under the hands of a dedicated history teacher. No one is going to get the bends coming up from here.
Well, yes, but it's a 16 minute video. You are correct, but how long do you want the video to be? I consider that this is the BEST explanation of the Owen Stanley campaign (as it was called at the time) that I have seen, and I have seen quite a few.
Actually, that's not correct. The Japanese landed on the north coast with about 10,000 troops. Initially the Australian forces (39th battalion and 53rd battalion) were only hundreds, (perhaps a thousand) and when reinforced by the 25th Brigade, numbered about 3,000. Other troops were fed in but Australia did not have the larger army. Yes, Brigadier Potts was fired and (my personal opinion) that was a disgusting decision by Blamey. He had no understanding at all of what the terrain and fighting conditions were like.
@@markshaw5159 Aus forces = 30k, Jap forces = 13k... less than half. It was an Allied Victory but the Japs had a far smaller force and was on the offense, fighting in a terrain that farrr benefited defenders.
The Japanese Emporer did not surrender. He sent minions in his place. Which was permitted by the US as it had already started to prepare to counter the USSR.
You are correct. I have a copy of the surrender document (translated). Not once was the word "surrender" written. In fact, what was written by the Japanese was " - - - the war situation has developed not necessarily to Japan's advantage, - - - " That is a direct quote.
Thank you for your comment. While the name 'Kokoda Track' is often used in regular communication, as you have noted from our video, 'Kokoda Trail' is the formal name of the battle honour as displayed on the colours of the lineage units. The Australian War Memorial history entry on Kokoda also uses 'Kokoda Trail', stating "'Kokoda Trail' and 'Kokoda Track' have been used interchangeably since the Second World War and the former was adopted by the Battles Nomenclature Committee as the official British Commonwealth battle honour in October 1957." Of course, in everyday conversation, either can be used.
My Great-Uncle, Pvt "Jim" Rogerson", lost his life to a Japanese sniper in the "Battle Of Brigade Hill" at Mission Ridge, on Sept 7th, 1942. He was there as part of the 2/27th Battalion's (Adelaide Scots) re-inforcement of Maroubra Force... Australian ANZAC Legend.. R.I.P. We could never give these men the respect and graitude they deserve, the things they went through for freedom, are unknowable by civilians. If you would like to view his "Last Post Ceremony", with 3 Colour Honour Guard, and hear his story, please go here: th-cam.com/video/YYgdp9ej_2M/w-d-xo.html
Let's face it no victory here = enemy boots on the ground in Aus. These soldiers and local PNG are/were humble saviours. A lesson lost to many today. Lest we forget.
While the campaign was important for the Australians psychological sense of safety, it was irrelevant for the wider Pacific war and strategic operations.
As a Samoan living in this great country, every year I go to Anzac parades and always honor those who fought for this beautiful freedom country, and its everyone's obligation to continue to keep it safe, build this country, and remember those who gave their lives ... Also thank you for this informative video I love it when maps are included makes it more engaging in my opinion.
I also liked and subscribed =)
Onya mate, we need more Aussies just like you 👍
Shout out to the boys from the Operations Room channel for their tactical grid layout of both this and Battle of Kapyong.
Talofa lava
Thank you!
NZer here.
I have *huge* respect for the Australian military and especially those who fought in the Kokoda Campaign.
Absolutely abysmal conditions - mountains, valleys, jungle and mud - and a vicious and ruthless enemy.
History is written by the winners, but as I watched this movie it became clear that the Japanese were much more tactically prepared than the Australians. Their defeat was a result of the supply shortage. It is possible to perceive the mastermind of the Japanese commander, especially in flanking maneuvers. Well done.
You are right. The Initial Australian formations that engaged the Japanese were Citizen Military Forces (CMF) not regular soldiers of the Australian Imperial Forces (AIF). The CMF were disparagingly called Chocos. However they put up a magnificent fight and kept the Japanese busy until battle hardened troops returned from North Africa. Once the 9th, 6th and 7th Divisions redeployed form North Africa and the Mediterranean the Japanese went on the back foot until they were routed. Finchhaffen, Lae, Kokoda, Buna, Gona, Milne Bay, Guadalcanal, Wau etc saw the Japanese crushed by the unstoppable alliance of the US and Australia. However I was mildly surprised to see a lot of Indian soldiers graves at the Bita Paka War Cemetery outside of Rabaul.
Fark. We are moving forward fullspeed now. Great channel.
Thank you for keeping the background music to an absolute minimum.
Having walked the trail im astounded how accurate the depictions of the towns are in the animations!
I imagine the animators etc walked the trail too, which is good.
I didnt see any towns animated but ok?
Track not trail
I am always amazed by there bravery. We need to remember them and all those who have served or are currently serving. This history and show of respect should be part of every schools curriculum.
Best Aussie war channel getting around keep it up!!
My great great uncle Bert Warman was apart of the 2nd\14th Infantry Battalion. I was told a story of how he passed and to this day, he is still considered MIA as they still haven’t recovered his remains in Kokoda. This is a really cool video, gives me some insight on what those poor blokes went through and what they were up against.
I am so proud of your uncle. But this video didnt show any depictions of what he went through
@@chrisrace744 No the video didn’t, but it showed what he and other Anzacs at that time were up against, to which I didn’t have much knowledge about.
Be proud my Great Grandfather was an Anzac and my grandfather a rat of Tubrok... I've been a full-time 😊😊😊fireman for 20yrs.
And after 20yrs of service my grandfather made me call him " Jimmy, not Granpa " he said I served for only 4 years. 😢😢
This shows how experienced and well managed Japanese forces were. Even with limited supplies they made very strategic decisions.
This is EXCELLENT. I have seen many videos about the Owen Stanley campaign (as it was called at the time). I also have several books about the campaign and I have walked the track, so I know what the terrain and jungle is like. I consider that this is the BEST explanation of the campaign that I have seen. I was surprised at how clear the explanation of the campaign was, so much better than many I have seen previously. Many kudos to "The Cove". I can only think of one criticism in the whole video. The pronunciation of the names, Ioribaiwa and Imita ridges and some other names. However, sorry, that is really nitpicking and the rest of the entire video is absolutely correct and is excellent. Yes, kudos to "The Cove".
I did 2 years in the CMF, 1967-69, 18th Light Anti Aircraft, Kogarah, NSW on a Bofors 40MM, bloody lovely bit of kit. Then did 21 years in the RAAF, Comms, G-G, G-A-G. I must say this. What I've just seen here, is much more than a mere Account. It's a a narrative, an Historical document, whether it be written on paper, electronic, or otherwise..
Thank you, thank you, thank you. This video was recommended by YT and I eagerly watched, hoping to glean more information about where my father served. He passed away about 2 and 1/2 years ago, having hit the century mark. We were close but he only shared snippets of his experiences. Now, when it's too late, I want to know more. Let this be a cautionary tale. Lap up as much as you can from your elders. My dad was very fond of people who were interested and interesting. I strive for that.
My grandfather served 1938-1946 as a medic saw service in the 3/14th across the top end & New Guinea. I often wonder if we are now worthy of such gallantry, one can only hope. “Lest We Forget”
My great grandad had to do the Kokoda trail in WW2 too. He diddled with my mum and my uncles so F him
You mean 2/14th? Queensland Mounted Infantry?
@@SenorTucano negative, his service records state 3/14th medical attachment.
Incredible that Australian militia outfought the Japanese troops who were trained at the Rape of Nanking, they were the best troops that Japan had, and they lost.
I have a theory about this. In Australia at that time and for awhile after you could make a bit of cash by cleaning up foxes and rabbits on farmers properties. Lots of young men did this for extra cash. Obviously this was done with rifles. Lots of young men knew how to shoot. I've never even seen my Dad hold a gun but he has a couple of fox furs with little holes in the back of the head he kept from his youth.
I don’t know were you get your facts but it’s absurd to think that the Japanese fighting at kakoda were also at Nanking five years earlier, a good historian never embellishes the facts 🇦🇺
@@user-vo4uk2xf3g
Right... Coz five years is such a short period of time that no one could've moved anywhere further than their own street.
Ships existed back then you know, as did trains and horses etc.
You all need to read a couple of books.
@@user-vo4uk2xf3g Easily verified by looking at the origin of the troops in the South Seas Detachment, which was primarily the 144th Regiment. Interestingly their commander Horii was one of the goons that staged the Shanghai Incident. He was given the Kokoda task after his force captured Guam from an overwhelmingly superior American force.
To give some perspective to the story my ex's uncle was a marksman in New Guinea, when he came home to Balmain NSW his sister my mum in-law did not recognize him. that's how bad it was up there for the troops. God bless you Peter Cameron and thank you, gone but not forgotten.
A marksman ? In the jungle contacts are no more than 30 meters or closer 😂😂😂
@@zaynevanday142 There were still marksman & snipers operating in Vietnam...
They didn't have scissors to cut their hair or trim their facial hair?
@@ralphjune9798 Are you allowed to vote???
@@johnhewett2525 Yeah, and i vote FREE DAVID MCBRIDE!!!
Nice editing and i bet it takes a lot of time and effort to animate those maps and that, not to mention the research, I'm impressed by your work, liked and subbed
This is a fantastic, clear, and well presented video. Thank you so much for the effort here. Fantastic! Get it in schools!
They don't teach this in schools. It's a trigger point for kids who are averse to violent or are sensitive to such topics.
@@Tylar122 What? i learned this in school.
@@ImperialKnight86 okay boomer. Kids do not need this trauma
@@Tylar122 I am 20 years old. Stop being a wuss and have some pride in your nation.
If it's so traumatic, why are you here? Go back to your safe space.
@@Tylar122 trauma?? this is history lol, aint none gonna cry like dawg, this is what is wrong with australia. Its people like you
Just excellent. Just perfect to accompany Peter FitzSimon's book, 'Kokoda'.
Thank you for this video, I understand the Kokoda campaign a lot better!!
My uncle Lieutenant Richard Roy Tanner, who served with the 2/2 Battalion, was killed in action during the offensive at Templetons crossing after serving at Tobruk, Crete and Bangladesh.
🫡
Thank you for this wonderful presentation. Also special thanks from someone whose Grandfather fought there, for referencing the Kokoda Trail. That is what those who fought there called it, and, as you point out, what is referenced on the battle honour. Unfortunately John Howard referenced it as the track, and our media have run with that name ever since. 🇦🇺
That’s not true about the track/trail name. It’s well referenced that both names are correct and both of them were used at the time.
@@Skipper.17 Each to there own, but my point of reference is someone who was actually on the ground at the time. Not some Canberra poindexter who did some research once, years later.
@@Wedgetail96 www.awm.gov.au/articles/blog/the-kokoda-track-or-trail
It’s not some ‘poindexter’ as you say, the terms were interchangeable at the time of the campaign
I always knew it as the trail but thought that "I" must have gotten it wrong as everyone calls it the track. Thanks for trying to "say it as it is".
@@Wedgetail96 www.awm.gov.au/articles/blog/the-kokoda-track-or-trail
Both are correct because both of them were used interchangeably at that time, no Canberra ‘poindexter’ as you put it was needed to change it. You may not believe me, but believe the war historians from the Australian War memorial.
Great work mate, well done!
Excellent narration. Thank you!
Amazing video, insane to see my great-grandfather's unit, the 2/1st BN's actions in Kokoda
Many people are unaware how hard the Australian army fought and served with honor and brains and bravery
The conditions of PNG were otherworldly! Unbelievable! ANZAC!
Such Madness and bravery. The great loss of lives the suffering of families left behind. May all who lived to see such times find the Great Peace.
Brilliant video, well done on the animations!
It should have been noted that the Japanese had attempted to land directly at Port Moresby, but were turned back by US naval forces at the Battle of the Coral Sea. The subsequent attempt to attack overland was hastily planned and poorly supplied. The Japanese made matters worse for themselves by abusing the native Papuans - no Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels would help them!
yes it sounds like while this was a amazing job by aussies, it might have not worked out for the japs had they tried to use it ?
And Australian Naval forces along with RAAF.
Such bravery & sacrifice! Thank you.
I am amazed that not more is mentioned about the horrendous conditions - steep mountainous terrain, treacherous slippery trails, dreadful climate, and other hazards of the steamy tropics.
Fantastic channel here, I'm glad I found it.
Is there any chance that your team could discuss the actions after the conclusion?
The Kokoda trail is very well covered in media, but I would love to have more information about the Salamaua-Lae campaign and Aitape-Wewak.
My grandfather served in the 2/5 Battalion and it would be nice to have something to share with my kids about his experiences.
Yes my grandfather (PNG) highlands recalled being recruited as an interpreter to a certain "Mr Hagen" and did what i assume was reconnaisance work along the Aitape-Wewak area keeping track of the japanese advance. Id love to know where i could possible find more information on that. He described accurately bombs being dropped by the japanese on them and the unfortunate delayed explosion of one that killed the only other interpreter that could speak our native toungue. Ive always wondered if records were kept of my grandfathers involvement as they eventually made it to a boat and travelled down to port moresby where he was discharged with a piece of paper back to the highlands..which he thought was worthless and threw away
@@colkur5007 That's interesting, and I'd also like to hear more about the involvement of the Papuans during those campaigns.
My grandfather had nothing but praise and admiration for them and said they were fearless and dependable in their aid for the troops.
He told me stories of papuans trading japanese 'proof of death' trophies for grenades to use to go fishing with.
This is fantastic. Please do more on the Afghan Op Slipper deployments. Thank you!
How good. Love these videos! I look forward to seeing more about the Australian army! Aussie Aussie aussie
Quality stuff! Would love to see more
Magnificent, thank you.
Lest we forget!
My grandfather fought and my great uncle perished there.
My uncle Bernard kilgarriff served with Australian 2.16 infantry regiment at kokoda track in the second world war
You need to put some scales on the maps so we can see the distances!
You forgot John French VC from Crow's Nest QLD, but excellent series Army, Well Done!
No he got his VC at Milne Bay didn't he?
I'm getting Operations Room vibes from the video.
I believe they did a collaborative effort in order to tell the stories of the RAR’s battle honours? They made a community post about the episode on Korea.
This gave me chills. I can't imagine being in those situations.
My Great Great Uncle died on Brigade Hill, was able to do the trek in 2011 in honour of him, it was a pretty tough trek, without months of fighting, can't imagine what it'd be like with fighting, still bullets, casings, guns etc there on the track and in huts.
My uncle Claude fell there too. The 2/14th and those poor undertrained blokes from the 39th covered themselves in glory.
Logistics played a big part!
Jungle is an unforgiving terrain to conduct a warfare and especially in maintaining the supply line。With land-based transportation severely hindered by the thick jungle，air transport seems to be the only viable method to deliver much needed supplies to combatants in the jungle。However，unlike helicopter，fixed-wing aircraft needs a long airstrip to conduct landing and departure in order to bring in supplies。From the airstrip，the supplies had to be brought to combatants by foot。Jungle warfare is absolutely a logistical nightmare。
My great grandfather served in this battle. He survived the campaign.
The 39th called it a track the yank called it a trail and the 39th never gave up the fight my uncle was in the 39th battalion advanced unit the first to be there as a Bren gun op .they fought&won the fight to protect the country only two vets from the 39th are alive living in Victoria now .the ones who have passed on will still be remembered for their mateship courgette endurance& sacrifice they gave
Just found, easy sub. I was a digger straight out of highschool lol.
Edit oh wow. So, I joined the reserves in highschool, at 11/28 Infantry Battalion( Res) in western Australia, then transfered to the regular army and 3RAR once I finished highschool. It was very cool to see the mention of my first unit in the list of inherited battle honours.
Nice work.
I joined in 1977 from the New England area to Kapooka and straight to 1 RAR (Townsville) in the middle of winter. we arrived in battle dress while our gear was shipped by rail a few weeks later. took a few days to be issued pd's .. fk it was hot.
@@becs2635 oh, and I had another 3 months at the School of Infantry in Singleton before going to battalion, where I got posted to small arms training section as a gofer. I spent a lot of time in weird places on barely used ranges saying "good shot sir, maintain that point of aim" for 8 hrs a day.
Edit I was born in 1976 and I don't think Kapooka has changed much, tbh. A little less bastardisation and the steyr is a hell of a lot easier to manage than the slr, but otherwise, it hasn't changed.
@@DJSockmonkeyMusic I doff my cap to everyone that has served in the ADF
great video!
Every Grade 5 child in Primary School MUST be taught this history. Thank you for this short video. Regarding Infantry fighting, it was predominantly Australian Infantry Forces who first beat Rommels forces in Africa with some assistance from United Kingdom, Indian, Lybian Arab, Kiwi, Polish and Chechoslovakian Forces who were the first to win a battle, holding out in the Siege of Tobruk against Hitlers Nazi's Siege of Tobruk took place between 10 April and 27 November 1941, during the Western Desert campaign (1940-1943) of the Second World War. An Allied force, consisting mostly of the 9th Australian Division, commanded by Lieutenant-General Leslie Morshead, was besieged in the North African port of Tobruk by German and Italian forces. The tenacious defenders quickly became known as the Rats of Tobruk. And agian it was Australian Infantry who first turned around the Japanese advance in the Pacific.
Remarkable.
This is awesome! Could you do the battle of Shaggy Ridge? I think that is where my great uncle was killed. Would love to know more about it.
Fantastic work!!!
Excellent presentation. I particularly enjoyed the animation and thank you for not omitting the blue on blue mistake and the error of the 3rd militia. So many of these types of videos turn into glossy propaganda presentations by not providing all the facts. I would love to be able to do similar videos (perhaps you could email me some tips).
You guys skipped the defense of Rabaul by the Lark force 2/22nd AIB. I would love to see a video. In memory of Jack and Bob Russell, they died defending Australia. Cheers
You forgot that first raid on Darwin, was more aggressive than 07/12/41 on peal harbour... and the same carrier group. Our day of infamy
Two of my uncles fought in these battles and have their names on the War memorials.
My grandfather was on kokoda through the war as an medical
great video
A good animation but fails to mention the 25th brigade/ 7Div efforts in this campaign.
My great uncle was in the 2/14th. He got a military cross for his actions but was unfortunately killed soon after.
Excellent vid
Always thought its weird that everyone mentions the a bombs but never the 1.5million Russians invading Manchuria
Just was wondering why the term trail is used often and not the Australian vernacular track? 🤔😖🙄
Thank you for your comment. While the name 'Kokoda Track' is often used in regular communication, as you have noted from our video, 'Kokoda Trail' is the formal name of the battle honour as displayed on the colours of the lineage units. The Australian War Memorial history entry on Kokoda also uses 'Kokoda Trail', stating "'Kokoda Trail' and 'Kokoda Track' have been used interchangeably since the Second World War and the former was adopted by the Battles Nomenclature Committee as the official British Commonwealth battle honour in October 1957." Of course, in everyday conversation, either can be used.
@@covearmy ok, thanks for the clarification. I would just assume that track was the official version not trail. I stand corrected. 👍😁
Need to amend your highlighted area of French Indochina at the introduction, Siam (Thailand) was never occupied by the French
Nice vid
nice one mate
Is this a reupload? I feel like ive seen this video
awesome
9:54 Geez, even a fool like me would know to put sentries. That's hardcore incompetence dude.
Brave men
You neglect to relate the humiliation of the 53rd and the early fights of the campaign. You also neglect to discuss the political dimensions of the removal of leaders like Clowes and Potts. Missing also is the effect MacArthur had on the political and tactical situation. This stands as a good school room narrative capable of creating excellent discussion under the hands of a dedicated history teacher. No one is going to get the bends coming up from here.
Very many things that weren't mentioned. So? It's a 16 minute video.
@@hazchemel fair call. I wasn't being mean.
but is this a government made or financed video ?
@@hthring ever since King John revised Australian History decreeing this is so! Yeah, gubba says wot gubba wants.
Well, yes, but it's a 16 minute video. You are correct, but how long do you want the video to be? I consider that this is the BEST explanation of the Owen Stanley campaign (as it was called at the time) that I have seen, and I have seen quite a few.
Awesome, Subbed and go ANZAC's!
Also - Australia had the bigger army and then their top commanders got fired for under performing.
Actually, that's not correct. The Japanese landed on the north coast with about 10,000 troops. Initially the Australian forces (39th battalion and 53rd battalion) were only hundreds, (perhaps a thousand) and when reinforced by the 25th Brigade, numbered about 3,000. Other troops were fed in but Australia did not have the larger army. Yes, Brigadier Potts was fired and (my personal opinion) that was a disgusting decision by Blamey. He had no understanding at all of what the terrain and fighting conditions were like.
@@markshaw5159 Aus forces = 30k, Jap forces = 13k... less than half. It was an Allied Victory but the Japs had a far smaller force and was on the offense, fighting in a terrain that farrr benefited defenders.
Australian losses 625.
Japan losses 2,050
Bigger the troop numbers the more likely they will win. @@parallel38
What became or the remaining 2/27th guys who were lost for three weeks?
The Japanese Emporer did not surrender. He sent minions in his place. Which was permitted by the US as it had already started to prepare to counter the USSR.
You are correct. I have a copy of the surrender document (translated). Not once was the word "surrender" written. In fact, what was written by the Japanese was " - - - the war situation has developed not necessarily to Japan's advantage, - - - " That is a direct quote.
I wonder if this was when the Japanese realized that conquering Australia was not going to happen?
5:00 Huh? htf did alpha escape?
My grandfather was deployed to Milne Bay, and was lucky to get out alive when the Japanese attacked
Kokoda track, not Trail.
Thank you for your comment. While the name 'Kokoda Track' is often used in regular communication, as you have noted from our video, 'Kokoda Trail' is the formal name of the battle honour as displayed on the colours of the lineage units. The Australian War Memorial history entry on Kokoda also uses 'Kokoda Trail', stating "'Kokoda Trail' and 'Kokoda Track' have been used interchangeably since the Second World War and the former was adopted by the Battles Nomenclature Committee as the official British Commonwealth battle honour in October 1957." Of course, in everyday conversation, either can be used.
i know theres tobruk incomeing great vids
Ignores the Burma campaign?
In a video about the New Guinea campaign, probably....
great video, just saying the A-Bombs ended the war is a bit wrong mate
Instasubbed
Are any of these units the ones that got called "Chockos"?
39th battalion were reservists.
Chocolate Soldiers, in fact.
Track not trail
My Great-Uncle, Pvt "Jim" Rogerson", lost his life to a Japanese sniper in the "Battle Of Brigade Hill" at Mission Ridge, on Sept 7th, 1942.
He was there as part of the 2/27th Battalion's (Adelaide Scots) re-inforcement of Maroubra Force...
Australian ANZAC Legend.. R.I.P. We could never give these men the respect and graitude they deserve, the things they went through for freedom, are unknowable by civilians.
If you would like to view his "Last Post Ceremony", with 3 Colour Honour Guard, and hear his story, please go here:
th-cam.com/video/YYgdp9ej_2M/w-d-xo.html
When Australians were Australian
Let's face it no victory here = enemy boots on the ground in Aus. These soldiers and local PNG are/were humble saviours. A lesson lost to many today. Lest we forget.
???
Japan didn't surrender because of the atom bombs - she surrendered because Russia declared war on her
That is so true. They wanted to surrender to the US because the Russian would take and destroy them all.
!
Nowadays, Australian youth are upset at being misgendered.
Nowadays, baby boomers are beside themselves with fear over negative gearing being taken away....
why didn't they use A-10 Warthogs? how stupid???
Speaking of stupid....
While the campaign was important for the Australians psychological sense of safety, it was irrelevant for the wider Pacific war and strategic operations.
Well, except for the Japanese resources it soaked up that might otherwise have gone to the Solomon Islands....
B
God bless our DIGGERS.
Australians fought well, but were liuccky the Japanese supply support was not good, otherwise we may have lost port moresby.
Indeed. And the US won the Battle of Coral Sea. Not to mention that the Japanese were also fighting on the Solomon Islands.