Attraction Guide: Bomana War Cemetery, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea

Bomana War Cemetery Guide

A Place of Remembrance: Honouring the Fallen at Bomana Guide

Bomana War Cemetery is a poignant and deeply moving site in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, dedicated to the Commonwealth soldiers who lost their lives during World War II. It serves as a place of remembrance and reflection, offering visitors a chance to pay their respects to the brave men and women who fought in the Pacific campaign. The meticulously maintained grounds and rows of headstones create a powerful atmosphere of solemnity and gratitude. The cemetery primarily commemorates those who died during the New Guinea campaign, particularly the battles around Port Moresby, Kokoda, and Milne Bay. The battles fought in this region were crucial in halting the Japanese advance towards Australia. The cemetery was established after the war and contains the remains of soldiers from Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, India, and New Zealand. The names of those whose bodies were never recovered are inscribed on the memorial walls. Visitors can wander through the serene grounds, reading the inscriptions on the headstones and reflecting on the sacrifices made. The cemetery provides a quiet space for contemplation and remembrance. Guided tours are sometimes available, offering deeper insights into the history of the battles and the stories of the individuals buried there. The site is a powerful reminder of the human cost of war and the importance of peace.