Location
Island in the Torres Straits, near Cape York Peninsula and Horn Island.

History
The US Army had an administrative HQ on the island commanded by Col. Langford beginning on October 5, 1942, occupying the prewar court house building. The island was supposed to be defended by white soldiers, with Torres Straights Infantry company as a reserve force. Instructions if the Japanese attempted to occupy the island, defenders were to destroy all boats.

Units based at Thursday Island
HQ Torres Straits Force
Costal Defence Artillery (Turtle, Goods, Milman, Endeavour, King)
Anti-aircraft batteries 34, 35, 157
17th Australian Field Comapny
Torres Straights Infantry Company

Contribute Information
Do you have photos or additional information to add?

Last Updated
October 1, 2009