The United States 7th Fleet is responsible for operations in the Western Pacific Ocean. It was formed on March 15, 1943, in Brisbane, Australia, during World War II. The fleet was initially commanded by Vice Admiral Arthur S. Carpender, and it consisted of the cruisers USS Minneapolis and USS New Orleans, and four destroyers. During […]
The Dutch and USA’s 7th Fleet Read More »
During World War II, Archerfield Airport in Brisbane, Australia played a crucial role as a major air base for the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF). Serving as a strategic hub, it facilitated operations, logistics, and support for American air units in the Pacific theater. The USAAF’s Arrival Following the attack on Pearl Harbor in
United States Army Air Forces at Archerfield Airport during World War II Read More »
Columbia, often referred to as Lady Columbia, is a powerful symbol and female national personification of the United States. Representing the ideals and aspirations of the nation, Columbia has played a significant role in American iconography and cultural imagery throughout history. The origins of Columbia can be traced back to the late 18th century, during
During World War II, Archerfield Airport, located in Brisbane, Australia, served as an important airfield for the Australian, American and Dutch forces. The presence of British air units at was limited, and they were not stationed there for the full duration of the war. The majority of British air units deployed to Archerfield were present
Archerfield Airport – situated next to the extended Camp Columbia area Read More »
The 577th Ordnance Ammunition Company arrived in Brisbane on 13 June 1943 where they set up the Darra Ordnance Ammunition Depot (or Dump as they called it) in Brisbane. They were responsible for the storage, maintenance, and distribution of ammunition and explosives in support of military operations. They played a vital role in ensuring the
Darra Ammunition Dump (Inala) Maps and Photos Read More »
The following information includes segments from the publication “Pauleen a young woman’s wartime experience at an Officer Candidate School” The author is Noel W Wallis and it was published by the Richlands, Inala and Suburbs Group Inc. A copy of the publication was donated by the History Group to the Camp Columbia Heritage Association. During World
American Officer Candidate School in Brisbane Read More »
Darra Ordnance Depot: role and significance During World War II the Darra Ordnance Depot—situated along Archerfield Road—played a crucial role in the South West Pacific theatre. Constructed in early 1942, the site quickly became one of the largest munitions depots in the region, supporting the logistical needs of Allied forces and acting as a major
Darra Ordnance Depot and freak explosion Read More »
This is possible the last remaining hut of the military barracks at Camp Columbia Wacol Station Road At the time Ed make the picture above, the site was visited by the local kangaroos. One of them is also visible on that picture. Any further information is very welcome. See also: Buildings and facilities during the
Last remaining hut of the military barracks at Camp Columbia Read More »
A large area in and around Wacol – which was nearly all bush land at that time – was selected as its major staging camp for the US Army in the South West Pacific. Here weapons, ammunition and equipment in transit were assembled or processed. A range of military facilities were build in the area
Staging Camp Columbia – 1942 Read More »
Officer Candidate School During 1942/1943 the Americans established the Officer Candidate School (OCS), on the other side of the railway in Wacol, in the area known as Camp area 3. They provided training for nine different army branches and was of the most comprehensive schools of its kind in the world. They provide training for:
African Americans at Camp Columbia Read More »
At the Yeronga Memorial Park in Brisbane the American WACS are also commemorated. There are still plans underway to also add a plaque to the Commemoration Wall at the Memorial for the Dutch and KNIL women (Royal Netherlands East Indies Army). However, there were objections as this memorial is just for Australian Forces. Since then
Acknowledging the Women Army Corps in operating from Brisbane in WWII Read More »
