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    Matapau (Karasin) West Sepik Province Papua New Guinea (PNG)
Location
Lat 3° 20' 52S Long 142° 59' 49E  Matapau is located at an elevation of 256' / 71m on the north coast of New Guinea. Also known as Karasin. Prewar and during World War II located in the Territory of New Guinea. Today located in the Aitape-Lumi District of West Sepik Province in Papua New Guinea (PNG).

Wartime History
During 1943 occupied by the Japanese Army until early the end of December 1944. During the middle of 1944 attacked by Allied aircraft targeting Japanese troops.

Allied missions against Matapau
July 6, 1944–August 13, 1944

July 6, 1944
(FEAF) B-25s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers attack troops south of Matapau.

August 13, 1944
(FEAF) P-47s and P-39s hit Cape Wom, troops at Matapau.

On January 1, 1945 the Australian Army 2/11th Infantry Battalion advanced to the Danmap River area routing the Japanese from the high ground beyond Matapau. During January 2, 1945 during the early hours of the morning, a small Japanese force inflitrated the frontline but failed to find any gaps then launched a full scale attack that was defeated by Australian Army small arms fire and artillery support. When the attack failed, the Australians pursued the retreating enemy to the east.

Afterwards, developed into an Australian Army staging area to support future operations including Matilda tanks from 2/4 Armoured Regiment, C Squadron.

Beaufort Mark VIII Serial Number A9-622
Pilot Hall crashed September 3, 1945

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Last Updated
January 18, 2023

 

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