More skeletons, this time armed with swords. Again I was just after some more very generic Skellies to use as all pupose ones for games like “The Silver Bayonet”.

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Thiis now gives me two units of ten skeletons.I have twelve more to put together to finish off the Wargames Atlantic box set.

Some more 54mm figures tomorrow.

Put some skeletons together today but that’s all. Hopefully more on these tomorrow when’if I bounce back.

To Salamaua by Phillip Bradley is a captivating historical account that will engage readers interested in the lesser-known battles of World War II and the courage of soldiers who fought in the jungles of New Guinea. The book highlights the valiant efforts of these soldiers and the intricate planning of military operations that shaped the war’s outcome. Readers will explore the harrowing experiences faced on the front lines and the challenging terrain, revealing the resilience of those who served.

Following his acclaimed book, The Battle for Wau, Phillip Bradley focuses on the Salamaua campaign, an incredibly significant chapter in the history of the Australian Army’s first offensive in New Guinea during World War II. Starting with the crucial air-sea battle of the Bismarck Sea, this title not only recounts the intense military engagements but also delves into the strategic significance of the location.

The narrative tells the story of the fierce land battles for the ridges surrounding the Japanese base in Salamaua, where both the natural terrain and the determination of the soldiers played critical roles. From Mount Tambu to Old Vickers and across the Francisco River, the Australians and their American allies faced immense challenges as they fought tirelessly to redirect the Imperial Japanese Army from the key location of Lae, a vital objective in the broader campaign.

2/5th Infantry Battalion soldiers around Mount Tambu, July 1943

To Salamaua presents the entire campaign in one volume for the first time, intricately covering the strategic background that shaped the decisions of military leaders and the geopolitical implications of the engagement. It delves deeply into the heated and intense conflicts that marked the engagement, showcasing not only the grand maneuvers of armies but also the smaller skirmishes that had significant repercussions. The harsh realities of the front lines are vividly described, capturing the unforgiving nature of the battlefield and the psychological toll on soldiers, including the sacrifices made by individuals who displayed remarkable bravery in the face of overwhelming odds.

USAF B24 flying over Salamaua

This extraordinary tale not only highlights the military tactics used, drawing on extensive research and firsthand accounts, but also sheds light on the personal experiences of those involved, portraying their hopes, fears, and dreams. It ultimately paints a vivid picture of courage, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of victory in the face of adversity, reminding readers that behind every statistic lies a soldier’s story, a testament to the human spirit during times of conflict.

I really enjoyed this one.

Although the PIAT was the official infantry anti-tank ordnance, it was rarely used by the Australians in the Pacific theater of World War II.

Not because tanks were not often faced, although this was true, but primarily because the US Bazooka was more powerful, easier to obtain, and had no spring mechanism that could dislocate a soldier’s shoulder upon firing.

The Bazooka’s effectiveness against armored vehicles made it the preferred choice among troops, who appreciated its reliability in combat situations. Additionally, the logistical challenges of supplying PIATs and training soldiers to use them effectively contributed to the Australian forces’ preference for the simpler and more familiar American alternative.

As a result, while the PIAT remained officially designated for infantry use, its practical application on the battlefield was significantly diminished, reflecting the broader adaptation and integration of American weaponry within Allied forces in the Pacific campaigns, which ultimately shaped tactics and operational success throughout the conflict.

PIAT in use by the Australian at Balikpapa, Borneo in 1945.

Although the light 50mm mortar was available in the Pacific, the 3 inch mortar was the primary and most reliable form of artillery utilized in the dense jungle environments, where the unique challenges of the terrain demanded more effective firepower.

The heavier weight of the 3 inch shell was specifically designed to break through the thick canopy before detonating, ensuring maximum impact against enemy positions concealed underneath. In contrast, the light mortar proved to be of little utility in such conditions, as its smaller projectiles often failed to reach the enemy or achieve the desired destructive effect.

This disparity in effectiveness led to the perception that the lightweight option was inadequate for the harsh realities of jungle warfare, although it is worth noting that various military regulations and lists, including those of the Australian forces, still included the light mortar as part of their inventory, perhaps highlighting its versatility in different combat scenarios or more open battlefields.

My 54mm Jungle Division Platoon has the option for both. The medium mortar would always be the weapon of choice, however if you only wish to use it for a smoke barrage or if you have a few points remaining the light mortar can be useful.

In addition the Light mortar has the capacity to move and fire so can be an advantage if you are the attacker in a scenario.

The light mortar was strong due to its simplicity and light weight, which made it an ideal choice for various military applications. Weighing in at under 24 kg with 18 bombs, it allowed for easier transport and deployment in diverse terrains. Its straightforward design meant that troops could be trained with minimal time investment, ensuring that even those with little experience could quickly become proficient.

Although the HE round was relatively small, aggregating them at the Company level was sometimes used to maximise effects. Because it was organic to the Platoon HQ, it would be available immediately, and without complication.

More tomorrow

Four more sections of the 20mm city terrain have been put together, but not yet painted.

Three residential compounds and dilapidated Mosque.

They need a bit more work like doors and windows and painting which I hope to finish in the near future.

See you tomorrow.

Another 54mm support option, this time the Vicker’s medium Machinegun

This set makes a very good vignette as well as an excellent support option.

Again the detail is superb.

Hopefully more options tomorrow, although maybe something patriotic for Australia day!.

This second Expeditionary Force 54mm Australian Squad is also based on the late war Jungle Division reorganisation.

The ten man squad

Three men armed with Owen Gun (SMG)

NCO with Owen Gun and Bren Gunner

5 men armed with rifle

This Expeditionary Force 54mm Australian Squad is based on the late war Jungle Division reorganisation.

The ten man squad

Three men armed with Owen Gun (SMG)

NCO with Owen Gun and Bren Gunner

Tomorrow the battle report I had hoped to have finished for today.

Another offering from Expeditionary Force Miniatures. This time from their HQ boxed set.

I have since replaced the standing rifleman with a kneeling one as it fitted a lot better into the “vignette”. I have also added a slouch hat on top of the radio.

Again the quality of poses and casting is excellent. I cannot recommend these figures more highly. I will do a thorough review when I have put together all of the Australian figures.

A battle report from last night will be up next.