Description
The Battle for Milne Bay in New Guinea was a story of true grit, determination, and valour; it was the moment when the Imperial Japanese Army tasted defeat on land for the first time in nearly three centuries. In the space of two weeks, the Japanese attempt to capture Milne Bay was halted, and any ambitions they might have held to invade Australia, thwarted.
And that victory was due in no small part to the Kittyhawks of 75 and 76 Squadrons RAAF. Robert Taylor’s powerful new painting depicts Kittyhawks from 75 and & 76 Squadrons RAAF, returning to No 1 Strip after attacking Japanese positions during the Battle for Milne Bay. Under the starboard wing of the lead aircraft, ‘Polly’, the smoke of action is clearly visible as the Japanese press from their landing site, along the coast towards the airstrip. ‘Polly’, now beautifully restored, resides in the Australian War Memorial Museum in Canberra, a tribute to the men and machines who stopped the Japanese in New Guinea.
By: Robert Taylor
