Port Moresby
Port Moresby is the modern capital of Papua New Guinea (PNG). It is full of war history, and during the war was teaming with to tens of thousands of Allied personnel. Although most evidence of the war are gone, for those who know where to look, there are plenty of interesting sites and locations.

John Douglas
During my time in Moresby, I had the privilege to meet John Douglas: wreck detective and frequent contributor to the Pacific Wreck Database. Like everyone who is interested in this subject, John is a fascinating person, and a good friend. Together we did our favorite things: talk about WWII, and look at wrecks!

Marston Matting
Everywhere you look, there are pieces of Marston Matting, or PSP (Pierced Steel Planking).

Jackson Airport
This is the modern airport that is the entry point to PNG. Landing at this airport makes always made me feel awe for the history you are touching down onto. One can almost "feel" the ghost like presence of Allied fighters and bombers that called this strip home during the war. At the far end of the strip, there are still WWII revetments and the mothballed hulks of two DC-3 used by the PNG Defense Force.

PNG National Museum
Pacific Wreck Database has the pleasure of meeting curator Senea Greh, and touring the museum, which includes a number of interesting WWII items.

Paga Hill / Monga Point
There are two gun mounts here, and an extensive network of communication, ammunition and command bunkers built into the hill. The area has commanding views over the entire city and harbor.

MV MacDhui
One of the most striking features of Fairfax Harbor is the half submerged wreck of this Burns Philp and Co. Ltd. sunk by Japanese bombers.

27th Air Depot
Today, this location is inside the city's botanical gardens. Although only the concrete slabs that once support the various support echelon the sense of wartime history is strong, as are rumors of bared aircraft parts and engines...

Tatana Island
Small Island that the US built a causeway to. This is where many Liberty Ships docked and were unloaded.

Troops Club
Troops Club in Port Moresby operated by the US Canteen Services.

Return to Main Page