Location
A track, built be the Americans connects Tanahmerah to Jayapura (Hollandia) to the east.

American Landing
Following a naval bombardment, elements of the US Army 19th and 21st Infantry Regiments made landings on the beaches of Tanahmerah Bay, code named Red Beach 1 and Red Beach 2.

Today
Several tanks hulks lie to the east of Depapre at the base of the track.

Ki-43 Oscar (Salvaged)
Ace Richard Bong scored his 27th kill reportedly, this Oscar which crashed into Tanahmerah Bay. Reportedly, General Kenney ordered a Navy Salvage Team to salvage the Oscar to confirm the kill thus there be no doubt he passed Rickenbackers WWI record. The Japanese pilot was still in the cocopit when the divers brought it to the surface. But, it is possible this salvage was an unrealted wreck, claimed to be Bong's kill for public relations purposes. Do you know any more about this salvage, or photos of this aircraft? Contribute Information.

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Last Updated
October 1, 2009