21 June 1942

In a clear indication that High Command knows the likely Japanese intentions, General Blamey orders Gen Morris in Moresby to secure the Kokoda area in the northern foothills of the Owen Stanley Range.

Lieutenant Ted Money of 39th Battalion dies from burns he received in the Japanese bombing of MV Macdhui four days ago. Sgt Ron Stewart, also seriously burned in the attack, remains in a critical condition and is not expected to live. Ted Money's death means the 39th has now lost four killed and seven wounded from the Macdhui attack.