80th Anniversary - US Marines in Ballarat 1943

80th Anniversary US Marines in Ballarat 1943

On July 6, 1942, the Japanese moved a force consisting of troops and labourers to Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands and began constructing an airfield. This was seen as a threat to the region.

The Battle of Guadalcanal, (August 1942–February 1943), a series of World War 2 land and sea clashes between Allied and Japanese forces on and around Guadalcanal one of the southern Solomon Islands in the South Pacific. The fighting on Guadalcanal marked a turning point in favour of the Allies in the Pacific War.

Following the Guadalcanal campaign, the 11th Marine regiment, 1st Marine division, United States Marine Corp encamped at Victoria Park and called Ballarat home from January to October 1943.

On Saturday  February 25th, the 80th anniversary of the US Marines stay in Ballarat was held. The service was held in Peacock Hall. Thanks to Rob Simmonds for coordinating this event and to our students who attended to support the event. 

The plaque below will be placed in Victoria Park to commemorate the anniversary of 1943.