Toowoomba is set to commemorate one of the most important battles in Australia's World War II history on Saturday in remembrance of the Battle of Milne Bay.
The 25th/49th Battalion will participate in a Freedom of Entry March, commemoration service and black-tie dinner to remember the occasion of August/September 1942 when the Darling Downs' 25th Battalion played a key role in repelling Japanese forces in Papua New Guinea at the Battle of Milne Bay.
Toowoomba Region Mayor Paul Antonio said Saturday would be a big occasion for the Region in remembering the heroic efforts of men from the Darling Downs at Milne Bay in 1942.
"80 years ago, men from this Region stood toe to toe and faced down a Japanese enemy that was held-bent on invading our country.
"On St Patrick's Day 1942 the Darling Downs 25th Battalion left Cabarlah Barracks and marched down the steep range to the siding at Spring Bluff. The soldiers boarded trains bound for the Brisbane Exhibition Grounds, Townsville and eventually Milne Bay.
"More than 200 did not return from battles with the Japanese at Milne Bay in 1942 and Bouganville in 1945.
"1942 stands as one of the most significant years in Australia's wartime history. As Australians fought in defence of our shores, there were major battles in Papua: along the Kokoda Track, at Milne Bay and at the Beacheads of Buna, Gona and, in early 1943, Sanananda.
"The Battle of Milne Bay was hailed at the time as the first significant defeat of a Japanese force on land in the Second World War and an important morale booster for the Allies.
"The actions of the brave men of the Darling Downs' 25th Battalion played a key role in defending Australia from a Japanese invasion. The victory at Milne Bay will go down in history as one of the most important battles that Australia has ever won.
"This weekend we honour and pay our respects to those lost defending our nation. May they never be forgotten," Mayor Antonio said.
The Freedom of Entry March and commemoration service will take place this Saturday 27 August at the Mother's Memorial in Toowoomba's CBD from 2pm followed by a Black Tie dinner at the Milne Bay Army Depot.
