| Accession Number | P03308.002 |
|---|---|
| Collection type | Photograph |
| Object type | Black & white - Print silver gelatin |
| Maker |
Unknown |
| Place made | Pacific Islands: New Caledonia, Noumea, Ouen Toro |
| Date made | c May 1941 |
| Conflict |
Second World War, 1939-1945 |
| Copyright |
Item copyright: Copyright expired - public domain
|
A number of officers and men from Robin Force observing the test firing of one of two six inch ...
Description
A number of officers and men from Robin Force observing the test firing of one of two six inch heavy coastal artillery guns in a battery recently completed at Ouen Toro, a position overlooking Noumea. The target (not in view) was towed between the lighthouse on Amedee Island and Ouen Toro. The two six inch New Zealand manufactured guns were part of the reinforcements sent by the Australian War Cabinet to bolster the Free French forces defending New Caledonia. Robin Force consisted mainly of the 3rd Independent (Commando) Company, but also included an artillery component commanded by NX71033 Captain (Capt) Charles Harris Arnell Carty Salmon, Royal Australian Artillery (RAA). The gunners and supporting engineers arrived at Noumea on 21 July 1941 and commenced work on the two gun positions. Capt Carty-Salmon's team quickly constructed the gun emplacements, assembled the guns with support from local labour and trained the Free French Militia in their use.