Private Wally JohnsonPrint Page
The sculpture commemorates Private William Oswald Wallace (Wally) Johnson of Moe who was wounded in the Battle of Salamoa in New Guinea during World War Two. The sculpture is modeled on one of the iconic images of World ar Two taken by Australian war photographer Damien Parer.
The photograph shows during the advance on Salamaua, in Papua New Guinea, Sergeant Gordon Ayre MM, a 58th / 59th Battalion bandsman from Shepparton, Victoria, in pouring rain assists a wounded mate, Private Wally Johnson, of the same unit, across Franscisco Creek to an advanced regimental aid post. Johnson had been wounded by a Japanese grenade on the 13th July 1943 during an attack on the "coconuts" area. Sergeant Ayre was awarded the military medal for his performance during this action.
Location
Address: | 63 - 67 Albert Street, Foyer, Moe RSL , Moe, 3825 |
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State: | VIC |
Area: | AUS |
GPS Coordinates: | Lat: -38.174885 Long: 146.262679 Note: GPS Coordinates are approximate. |
Details
Monument Type: | Sculpture |
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Monument Theme: | People |
Sub-Theme: | Military |
Dedication
This tribute to Pvt. Wally Johnson of Moe,
Wounded at the battle for Salamoa in New Guinea during World War 2, typifies the courage and sacrifice of all Australians who have served their country in time of war and conflict.