The 2/24th Australian Infantry Battalion Association was uniquely granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1990 - to our knowledge the only/first Battalion Association in Australia to be granted this honour. Council acknowledges its appreciation of the contribution made by this Unit to community peace and national democracy and congratulates “Wangaratta’s Own” 2/24 Australian Infantry Battalion Association on its Fiftieth Anniversary since formation.The 2/24th Australian Infantry Battalion Association was uniquely granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1990 - to our knowledge the only/first Battalion Association in Australia to be granted this honour. Council acknowledges its appreciation of the contribution made by this Unit to community peace and national democracy and congratulates “Wangaratta’s Own” 2/24 Australian Infantry Battalion Association on its Fiftieth Anniversary since formation.Brown timber and gold gilt edged frame containing document with three signatures and red seal. A plaque is attached to glass on lower edge below document.Plaque reads - On 18 November 1994 the City of Wangaratta the Shires of Wangaratta, Oxley and part of the Shires of Benalla, Yarrawonga and Beechworth were amalgamated to create what is now the Rural City of Wangaratta. On 9 November 1996 the Commissioners and Citizens Proudly conferred "Freedom of Entry to the Rural City of Wangaratta" on the 2/24th Infantry Battalion Association.freedom of the city of wangaratta, 2/24th australian infantry battalion association

"Wangaratta's Own", the 2nd 24th Battalion was formed in Wangaratta on 1st July 1940, during World War Two. They camped at the Wangaratta Showgrounds, where they trained until they marched out of Wangaratta on 28th September 1940. Before they marched out Alan MacFarlane and the Battalion were presented with the Battalion pennant by Wangaratta Mayor, Cr Thomas Nolan. They fought in . On 28th September 1990, the 50th anniversary of the Battalion leaving Wangaratta, (retired) Alan MacFarlane, President of the 2nd 24th Battalion Association were presented the Freedom of the City and represented with the Battalion pennant by Wangaratta Mayor, Cr Kevin Gleeson & Cr Val Gleeson, Cr Thomas Nolan's son in law & daughter. This was an Army Battalion formed in Wangaratta. The young men interacted with the businesses, sporting & social societies & families of Wangaratta in the early 1940's. Lifelong friendships were made."Wangaratta's Own", the 2nd 24th Battalion was formed in Wangaratta on 1st July 1940, during World War Two. They camped at the Wangaratta Showgrounds, where they trained until they marched out of Wangaratta on 28th September 1940. Before they marched out Alan MacFarlane and the Battalion were presented with the Battalion pennant by Wangaratta Mayor, Cr Thomas Nolan. They fought in . On 28th September 1990, the 50th anniversary of the Battalion leaving Wangaratta, (retired) Alan MacFarlane, President of the 2nd 24th Battalion Association were presented the Freedom of the City and represented with the Battalion pennant by Wangaratta Mayor, Cr Kevin Gleeson & Cr Val Gleeson, Cr Thomas Nolan's son in law & daughter. army battalion wangaratta's own world war two

The Battle of Tarakan was the first stage in the Borneo campaign of 1945. It began with an amphibious landing by Australian forces on 1 May, code-named Operation Oboe One. While the battle ended with success for the Allied forces over the Japanese defenders, this victory is generally regarded as having not justified its costs. 225 Australian soldiers of the 26th Brigade, 9th Division, 2nd Australian Imperial Force were once buried here. They were killed in the Battle of Tarakan (1 May - 21 June 1945) or died due to their wounds until 15 August 1945.The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1996 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour. Reproduced black and white photograph of a monument/cenotaph and lawn grave sites with white crosses.Handwritten on rear - Tarakan Cemetery2/24th battalion, wangaratta, tarakan

September 30,1945 - The official dedication service and unveiling of the Cenotaph at Tarakan War Cemetery The Battle of Tarakan was the first stage in the Borneo campaign of 1945. It began with an amphibious landing by Australian forces on 1 May, code-named Operation Oboe One. While the battle ended with success for the Allied forces over the Japanese defenders, this victory is generally regarded as having not justified its costs. 225 Australian soldiers of the 26th Brigade, 9th Division, 2nd Australian Imperial Force were once buried here. They were killed in the Battle of Tarakan (1 May - 21 June 1945) or died due to their wounds until 15 August 1945.The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1996 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour. Reproduced black and white photograph of monument/cenotaph and catafalque party2/24th battalion, tarakan, cenotaph

The famous Tobruk Fig Tree was named because it marked the entrance to a network of underground caves used to treat wounded soldiers. It became known as the Fig Tree Hospital. The caves became a place where wounded soldiers could be stabilized before being transferred to the Australian General Hospital. The Fig Tree was the only feature in an otherwise barren desert and an easy target for German artillery who heavily shelled the site for several hours per day. A cutting from the tree was brought back to Australia and planted at Melbourne's Shrine of Remembrance.The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1996 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour. Reproduced black and white photograph of four soldiers under large tree - one soldier in dugout under tree watching two stretcher bearers carry out wounded soldierHandwritten on rear - Fig Tree Tobruk 2/24th battalion, fig tree, tobruk

Unit colour patches on uniforms indicate soldiers are members of the 2/24th Battalion.The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1996 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour. Reproduced black and white photograph of group of armed soldiers at rest in open barren landscape Stamped on rear - resting en route2/24th battalion, wangaratta, middle east

image of soldiers wearing shorts loading stretcher into rear of vehicle most likely taken during the middle east campaign in 1941 one of whom is possibly Francis Williams VX 34295 of the 2/24th Battalion.The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1996 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour. Reproduced black and white photograph of seven soldiers of which four are loading a stretcher into rear of vehicle.Handwritten on rear - Tobruk 1941 Left Francis William ? ???2/24th battalion, tobruk, ww2, middle east

Black and white image of large sign in the desert/barren location. Sign reads DO NOT LEAVE YOUR VEHICLE UNATTENDED IN ALEXANDRIA, OR IT MAY BE STOLEN.The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1996 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour. Reproduced black and white photograph of large warning sign in English in open barren landscape.2/24th battalion, ww2, middle east, alexandria

On 4 April 1935 the ship was launched by Elizabeth, Duchess of York, one of the daughters of the Earl of Strathmore, soon to become queen. In 1938 the ship brought the Australian cricket team, including Don Bradman, to England for the 1938 Ashes series On 31 March 1940, the vessel was requisitioned by the Ministry of War Transport, and served as a troop ship, with no major incidents in that role during the rest of the Second World War. The 2/24th Battalion raised in Wangaratta in July 1940 sailed for the Middle East on the troopship RMS "Strathmore" arriving in Palestine in December 1940.The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1996 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour. Reproduced photograph of ship at seaStrathmore carried 2/242/24th battalion, wangaratta, rms strathmore, ww2

SATTELBERG AREA, NEW GUINEA. 1943-11-15. A PATROL OF THE 2/24TH. AUSTRALIAN INFANTRY BATTALION LEAVING THE BATTALION LINES. SHOWN ARE: VX14320. PRIVATE A. W. M. CORCORAN. (1) VX75910 PRIVATE N. W. JONES. (2) VX33860 LIEUTENANT J. H. CAPLE. (3) VX75647 PRIVATE P. L. MATHIESON. (4) VX31579 CORPORAL R. W. WEBB. (5) VX75207 PRIVATE D. N. MUIR. (6) NX73554 PRIVATE H. T. ROCHE. (7) VX76785 PRIVATE R. W. RICE. (8)The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1990 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honourReproduced black and white photograph of armed soldier on patrol in jungle terrain2/24th battalion, new guinea, ww2

SATTELBERG AREA, NEW GUINEA. 1943-11-15. TROOPS OF THE 2/24TH. AUSTRALIAN INFANTRY BATTALION EATING MEAL DURING A LULL IN THE BATTLE FOR SATTELBERG. THEY ARE: NX10044 ACTING SERGEANT Stewart COLDHAM. (1) VX68432 PRIVATE Harold ANQUETAL. (2) VX80603 PRIVATE Thomas. F. BRYCE. (3) VX41167 PRIVATE Samuel T. SHERLOCK. (4) VX28432 LANCE CORPORAL Kenneth G. NORRIS. (5) ACTING CORPORAL Ralph F. KENYON. (6) VX43055 SIGNALMAN Ernest W. HORNER. (7) NX33751 PRIVATE Arol. J. PEIRCY. (8) VX71588 SIGNALMAN Francis. J. KELLY. (9) VX26381 PRIVATE John BUNNETT. NX86910 SIGNALMAN Ronald E. AMERY. QX13958 SERGEANT James S. GREGORY. SX30255 PRIVATE Cyril MARSHALL VX29721 SIGNALMAN Martin W. REIDY.The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1990 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honourReproduced black and white photograph of large group of soldiers having a meal. Soldiers are seated in the foreground and five standing behind. Nearly all have shirts removed.2/24th battalion, new guinea, ww2

RAVENSHOE, QLD. 1944-06-19. THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, ALLIED LAND FORCES, SOUTH WEST PACIFIC AREA, VX1 GENERAL SIR THOMAS BLAMEY, GBE., KCB., CMG., DSO., ED., AND HIS STAFF WATCHING PERSONNEL OF HEADQUARTERS COMPANY, 2/24TH INFANTRY BATTALION ENGAGED IN THEIR 3" MORTAR DRILL DURING HIS TOUR OF INSPECTION OF ARMY UNITS IN THE ATHERTON AREA. IDENTIFIED PERSONNEL ARE:- QX6408 LIEUTENANT COLONEL A.B. GILLESPIE, COMMANDING 2/24TH INFANTRY BATTALION (2) VX48762 CAPTAIN A.W. OAKLEY (3); PRIVATE C.C. DAWES (4); PRIVATE TUCKER (5); PRIVATE COONEY (6); NX376 BRIGADIER D.A. WHITEHEAD, DSO., MC., ED., COMMANDING, 26TH INFANTRY BRIGADE (7); VX20308 LIEUTENANT-GENERAL F.H. BERRYMAN, CBE., DSO., GENERAL OFFICER COMMANDING, 1ST AUSTRALIAN CORPS (8); NX35000 LIEUTENANT-GENERAL V.A.H. STURDEE, CB., CBE., DSO., GENERAL OFFICER COMMANDING, FIRST AUSTRALIAN ARMY (9); NX7 MAJOR-GENERAL G.F. WOOTTEN, CBE., DSO., GENERAL OFFICER COMMANDING, 9TH DIVISION (10); PRIVATE R.S. O'BRIEN (11); PRIVATE S. ROSMAN (12); NX12371 MAJOR N.B. TREBECK (13).The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1990 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honourReproduced black and white photograph of three soldiers in foreground demonstrate use of equipment whilst soldiers and Officers in the background watch on.2/24th battalion, ravenshoe, general blamey

LANGEMAK BAY, NEW GUINEA, 1943-10-28. MEMBERS OF THE 2/24TH AUSTRALIAN INFANTRY BATTALION BOARDING BARGES AT THE BEACHHEAD.The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1990 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honourReproduced black and white photograph of soldiers on shoreline boarding barge2/24th battalion, new guinea, ww2

On December 16 1940 the 2/24th Battalion arrived at Dimra Camp in Palestine prior to and following the Siege of Tobruk in 1941The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1996 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour. Reproduced black and white photograph of camel train on dirt track with white tents on right and small buildings and tents on left."Dimra Camp" handwritten on note adhered to rear.2/24th battalion, ww2, middle east, palestine

On December 16 1940 the 2/24th Battalion arrived at Dimra Camp in Palestine where they were based prior to and following the Siege of Tobruk in 1941. Whilst in camp the band entertained the troops.The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1996 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour. Reproduced black and white photograph depicts soldiers playing brass instruments seated in two rows in a semi circle facing conductor in the open.Handwritten on rear 2/24 Band"Dimra Camp" prior to Tobruk 19412/24th battalion, ww2, middle east, palestine

View of HQ Australian Army Services Corps Issuing Depot on Tarakan Island. The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1996 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour. Reproduced black and white photograph of tent structures with supplies and vehicles in foreground. Handwritten on rear - Tarakan2/24th battalion, wangaratta, tarakan, ww2

Image appears to be of rural village and outlying buildings on Tarakan Island The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1996 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour. Reproduced black and white photograph of distant village in countrysideOn rear - Tarakan2/24th battalion, tarakan, ww2

Image appears to be of Army camp based near/at rural village with outlying buildings on Tarakan Island The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1996 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour. Reproduced black and white photograph of two rows of long buildings with four men between one small building and two rows of tent like structures in the foreground. There are small buildings and smoke rising in the background.On rear - Boxing ring on Tarakan2/24th battalion, tarakan, ww2

Prior to the Second World War Tarakan Island was part of the Dutch East Indies and an important oil-producing centre. In early 1942 it was occupied by the Japanese. The primary objective for the Allied attack on Tarakan (code-named "Oboe One") was to secure and develop the island's airstrip so that it could be used to provide air cover for subsequent landings in Brunei, Labuan and Balikpapan. The secondary objective for the operation was to secure Tarakan's oilfields and bring them into operation as a source of oil for the Allied forces. As part of the 26th Brigade the 2/24 Battalion landed at Tarakan on May1 1945. The task of capturing Tarakan's airstrip was assigned to the 2/24th Battalion. The Battalion's initial attack on the airstrip on the night of 2 May was delayed when the Japanese set off large explosive charges, and the airstrip was not secured until 5 MayThe 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1996 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour. Reproduced black and white photograph of metal pylon structures with man standing in bombed foreground Handwritten on rear - Oil wells on Tarakan2/24th battalion, tarakan, ww2

TROOPS OF THE 2/24TH. AUSTRALIAN INFANTRY BATTALION ON PATROL IN THE SATTELBERG AREA, NEW GUINEA IN 1943 DURING WW2The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1990 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honourReproduced black and white photograph of five soldiers patrolling in dense jungle terraiin2/24th battalion, new guinea, ww2

RAVENSHOE, QLD. 1944-06-19. THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, ALLIED LAND FORCES, SOUTH WEST PACIFIC AREA, VX1 GENERAL SIR THOMAS BLAMEY, GBE., KCB., CMG., DSO., ED., AND HIS STAFF WATCHING PERSONNEL OF HEADQUARTERS COMPANY, 2/24TH INFANTRY BATTALION ENGAGED IN THEIR 3" MORTAR DRILL DURING HIS TOUR OF INSPECTION OF ARMY UNITS IN THE ATHERTON AREAThe 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1990 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honourReproduced black and white photograph of soldiers and Army Officer watching on as two soldiers in foreground demonstrate equipment2/24th battalion, ww2, ravenshoe, blamey

Image depicts a group of 14 men who served with the 2/24 Battalion during World War 2 attending annual reunion in Wangaratta in November 2002. They include:- VX24987 Clifford GIERSCH DOB 16/12/1918 POB Culcairn; Bill WILLIAMS; VX15247 Alan MacFARLANE DOB 13/9/1908 POB England; VX43349 Leslie HANSEN DOB 26/1/1920 POB Coburg POW 5/1941; VX34601 Murray BURLES DOB 12/9/1919 POB Hobart; VX44006 Robert CLARK DOB 15/1/1920 POB Glenhuntly; VX34767 Thomas ANDERSON DOB 31/5/1914 POB Hamilton POW 5/1941 VX34505 James HUGHES DOB 28/5/1920 POB Castlemaine POW 5/1941; VX31279 Eric EDWARDS DOB 3/8/1916 POB Mordialloc POW 1/5/1941 VX29686 Gordon POIDEVIN DOB 30/3/1917 POB Corowa POW 3/5/1941; VX34760 Reginald GUNNING DOB 29/1/1919 POB Branxholme VX46233 Robert KEE DOB 10/11/1916 POB Sydney; VX45356 Douglas GRAY DOB 16/8/1918 POB Bendigo (Bugler) VX40320 Edgar SHILLING DOB 12/7/1918 POB England; The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1990 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour.Colour photograph of 14 men in two rows with Australian flag in background. Attached plaque contained 12 names2/24th battalion, wangaratta

Members of the 2/24th Battalion marching in Wangaratta. The Unit was raised in Wangaratta in July 1940 and the photograph was taken in late 1940 prior to overseas deployment to the middle east during WW2The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1990 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour. Reproduced photograph of soldiers marching along street lined with parked vehiclesHandwritten on rear - 2/24th Marching in Wangaratta late 19402/24th battalion, wangaratta, ww2

Image relates to the 2/24th Battalion however Iocation and identities of soldiers are unknown.The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1990 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour. Reproduced photograph of group of 17 soldiers in two rows with front row kneeling. A large warehouse is in the background.2/24th battalion, wangaratta

In July 1940, the 2/24th Battalion was formed in Wangaratta. On the 27th September, after weeks of hard training the Battalion marched out to Bonegilla to continue training prior to overseas deployment to the Middle East in November, 1940. This image depicts soldiers resting during the 60 mile march.The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1990 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour.Reproduced black and white photograph of unknown soldiers sitting on the ground in bush land. Night bivouac enroute to Bonegilla2/24th battalion, wangaratta

In July 1940, the 2/24th Battalion was formed in Wangaratta. On the 27th September, after weeks of hard training the Battalion marched out to Bonegilla to continue training prior to overseas deployment to the Middle East in November, 1940. This image depicts soldiers resting during the 60 mile march.The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1990 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour.Reproduced black and white photograph of 4 unknown soldiers sitting on the ground. Resting enroute to Bonegilla2/24th battalion, wangaratta

Image depicts a group of 11 men who served with the 2/24 Battalion during World War 2 attending annual reunion in Wangaratta in November 2003. They include:- Back Row: VX34601 Murray BURLES DOB 12/9/1919 POB Hobart; Bill WILLIAMS VX43349 Leslie HANSEN DOB 26/1/1920 POB Coburg POW 5/1941; VX31699 Alan NICHOLSON DOB 27/10/1918 POB Korumburra POW 1/5/1941; VX15247 Alan MacFARLANE DOB 13/9/1918 POB England; Front Row: VX44006 Robert CLARKE DOB 15/1/1920 POB Glenhuntly; VX48597 Dr Guy ROBERTSON DOB 4/7/1918 POB St Arnaud, RMO VX34767 Thomas ANDERSON DOB 31/5/1914 POB Hamilton POW 5/1941 VX29686 Gordon POIDEVIN DOB 30/3/1917 POB Corowa POW 3/5/1941; VX45356 Douglas GRAY DOB 16/8/1918 POB Bendigo (Bugler) The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1990 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour.Colour photograph of 11 men standing and seated in two rows 2/24th battalion, wangaratta

Image depicts a group of 5 soldiers all believed to be under 16 years who served with the 2nd AIF in the Middle East in 1941. VX56792 George COKER DOB 11/9/1921 - 2/24 Battalion - was wounded in action on 31/10/1942. SLUNINGS not listed as serving with the 2/24 Battalion. The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1990 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour.Reproduced sepia photograph of 5 soldiers seated and all wearing slouch hats Attached on rear - 2nd AIF Babes Middle East 1941 - All under 16 years Back Row - Laycock 2/21 / Unknown 2/23 Front Row - Coker 2/24 / Slunings 2/24 / Unknown 2/242/24th battalion, wangaratta, george coker

Image depicts soldiers of the 2/24 Battalion Carrier Platoon after the battle of El Alamein in 1945.The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1990 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour.Reproduced black and white photograph of unknown soldiers seated in four rows.2/24th battalion, wangaratta

In July 1940, the 2/24th Battalion was formed in Wangaratta. On the 27th September, after weeks of hard training the Battalion marched out to Bonegilla to continue training prior to overseas deployment to the Middle East in November, 1940. This image depicts soldiers bathing and washing during the 60 mile march.The 2/24th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, which served during World War II .A unit of all-volunteers, it was formed in July 1940 from primarily Victorian volunteers and was known as "Wangaratta's Own" because of the time the battalion spent in the town during its formative period prior to deployment overseas. It served in North Africa in 1941–1942 as part of the 26th Brigade, which was assigned to the 7th Division, before being reassigned to the 9th Division. In early 1943, the battalion returned to Australia and later took part in campaigns against the Japanese in New Guinea in 1943–1944 and Borneo in 1945, before being disbanded in 1946. The 2/24th suffered the highest number of casualties of any 2nd AIF infantry battalion. The Unit was granted the Freedom of the City by the Rural City of Wangaratta in 1990 and one of the first, if not the first, to receive this type of honour.Reproduced black and white photograph of unknown soldiers bathing and sitting on a river bank in bush land. Washing enroute to Bonegilla2/24th battalion, wangaratta