The motor ship Deutgan (S-108) of the Small Ships Section, United States Army Services of Supply, ...

The motor ship Deutgan (S-108) of the Small Ships Section, United States Army Services of Supply, Southwest Pacific Area (USA SOS SWPA), docked at a wharf. Originally built as an explosives lighter, the Deutgan was accquired from the Explosives Department, Victorian Government on 22 September 1942, and was converted to a cargo ship. For some time the Deutgan was based at Milne Bay, transporting men and supplies to other locations in Papua New Guinea. It was bombed and strafed by Japanese aircraft at Finschhafen on 26 December 1943 with minimal damage. Initially Australian ships were requisitioned and chartered by the Small Ships Section. Construction of ships for USA SOS SWPA commenced in Australia in 1942. Approximately 3000 vessels were constructed, including freighters, launches, tugs, towboats, lighters, rescue and salvage boats and a large number of barges. An additional 4000 lifeboats and dinghies were built. Around 3000 Australians enlisted in the Small Ships Section during the Second World War. They were not inducted members of the US Army, but were civilians attached to the Army. They were often too young, too old or physically ineligible to serve in the Australian armed forces. (This image is from the collection of Arthur James Carfax-Foster who served with the Small Ships Section from September 1943 until January 1946).