12 February 1942

Papua’s Civil Administration recognizes the increasing likelihood of a Japanese invasion by today officially handing over control of the Territory to the Australian Army.

Immediately, the young troops of 39^th Battalion receive orders to begin night patrols, connecting with their comrades from the 49^th Battalion to protect Moresby’s aerodrome, harbor, major installations and all military bases.

11 February 1942

Tensions rise sharply as Australian gunners rush to their posts around Moresby airport and harbor when Japanese planes circle high above them.

It’s soon clear that they are reconnaissance aircraft as they remain far too high for anti-aircraft guns to reach them. They disappear without incident, leaving the garrison troops talking about an imminent invasion.

10 January 1942

Young Diggers of 39^th Battalion cheer as six Alllied bombers take off from Moresby aerodrome heading off to attack Japanese ships off Gasmata, on the southern coast of New Britain Island.

The Japanese ships are working out of Rabaul, the capital of New Britain, where Admiral Yamamoto has established his Pacific headquarters.

The Diggers spirits drop later in the day when the bombers return and they realize two have been lost in the action.

9 February 1942

News filters through to the young Diggers of 39^th Battalion in Morseby of enemy landings in Singapore, bringing increased tensions and rumours of imminent invasion in New Guinea.

At last the garrison troops start shooting practice, including machine guns and mortars as the reality of the situation sinks in, even to the New Guinea High Command.

8 February 1942

The tropical wet season hits with full force, bringing torrential rain to Moresby. The town is inundated and the roads are soon impassable making it impossible to transport supplies or ammunition.

The troops from 39^th Battalion troops resort to using native carriers to get supplies through to their company positions. On the bright side, the weather prevents any further enemy air raids.