29/07/2026
Kokoda - On this day - 29 JULY 1942
The First Sacrifices of the 39th Battalion
When the first Japanese troops landed at Gona and Buna on the north coast of PNG on 21 - 22 July 1942, the young militia soldiers of the 39th Battalion knew their courage and resolve would soon be tested to the limit.
Few imagined just how quickly the real cost would be measured in lives.
As mentioned in a previous post, Captain Sam Templeton, respected and admired by his men for his calm leadership and courage, commanded the battalion’s forward company (B Company) as it met the advancing Japanese. Vastly outnumbered, Templeton’s men fought a determined delaying action, buying precious time for Australia to reinforce the Kokoda Track.
During this battle, Templeton was captured and killed. His body was never recovered, but his leadership and courage became part of the Kokoda legend.
The following day, as the Australians continued to fall back through dense jungle under relentless pressure, Private Thomas Charles Herbert was killed In Action (KIA) near Oivi.
Close by, Private Leslie Alan Speechley disappeared and was never seen again. Authorities later came to the conclusion that he was killed during the withdrawal.
These men were among the very first Australians troops to give their lives defending the Kokoda Track.
By 29 July the battalion had withdrawn to Kokoda itself. There, Lieutenant Colonel William Owen, Commanding Officer of the 39th Battalion, personally moved forward to assess Japanese strengths and positions prior to launching a counterattack.
As he stood in the defensive position encouraging his young charges and observing the enemy, a single bullet struck him in the head, killing him instantly.
His death deprived the battalion of a highly experienced commander at the very moment his leadership was needed most.
The fighting for Kokoda claimed three more soldiers that day.
Private Harold Bould was killed during the battle, while Privates Victor Holness and Reginald Tierney disappeared in the chaos and were later presumed dead.
In just four days, the 39th Battalion had lost its inspirational company commander, its commanding officer, and five young soldiers.
Yet the battalion remained in the fight.
Their stubborn resistance around Oivi, Gorari and Kokoda delayed the Japanese advance, giving Australia valuable time to bring experienced AIF battalions into Papua.
Those precious days would prove decisive in the campaign that followed.
Today we remember Captain Samuel Templeton, Lieutenant Colonel William Owen, Private Thomas Herbert, Private Leslie Speechley, Private Harold Bould, Private Victor Holness and Private Reginald Tierney. Their sacrifice marked the beginning of one of Australia’s greatest military stories, and their courage continues to inspire all who walk the Kokoda Track.
At Australian Battlefield Treks and Tours we visit all of the sites that are mentioned in our “On this Day” updates and pay our respects to all of the heroes.
Lest we forget.
https://ozbattlefieldtours.com.au/
