Accession Number | 101097 |
---|---|
Collection type | Photograph |
Object type | Negative |
Date made | 24 October 1943 |
Conflict |
Second World War, 1939-1945 |
Copyright |
Item copyright: Copyright expired - public domain This item is in the Public Domain |
Aitape, New Guinea. 24 October 1943. A photograph found on the body of a dead Japanese soldier ...
Aitape, New Guinea. 24 October 1943. A photograph found on the body of a dead Japanese soldier showing, from left to right, NX143314 Sergeant (Sgt) Leonard G. Siffleet of "M" Special Unit with Private (Pte) Pattiwahl and Pte Reharin, Ambonese members of the Netherlands East Indies Forces. The three men are standing blindfolded on open ground and Siffleet has a thin rope tied around his upper body and arms. The three men were executed by order of Vice Admiral Kamada, the commander of the Japanese Naval Forces at Aitape, after they were captured on reconnaissance behind enemy lines. Admiral Kamada was later tried for the murder of other prisoners at Balikpapan, Borneo. The Japanese soldier standing behind the three men is 3rd Class Seaman Onodera.