10 things to do in Popondetta War Cemetery Popondetta (Northern) Papua New Guinea
Popondetta War Cemetery in Northern Papua New Guinea is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by the Allied Forces during World War II. Located on the site of the former Popondetta Airfield, the cemetery is the final resting place of over 1,000 servicemen and women who lost their lives in the Pacific campaign. Here are 10 things to do when visiting Popondetta War Cemetery.
1. Pay Your Respects: The most important thing to do when visiting Popondetta War Cemetery is to pay your respects to those who gave their lives in the service of their country. Take your time to read the inscriptions on the headstones and reflect on the sacrifices made by the soldiers and their families.
2. Take a Guided Tour: Popondetta War Cemetery offers guided tours of the cemetery and its grounds. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can provide detailed information about the cemetery and the people interred there.
3. Visit the Memorial Wall: The Memorial Wall at Popondetta War Cemetery is a testament to the courage and bravery of the Allied Forces. The wall is inscribed with the names of those who died in the Pacific campaign and serves as a reminder of their ultimate sacrifice.
4. Attend a Remembrance Service: Every year, Popondetta War Cemetery holds a Remembrance Service to commemorate the fallen. The service is attended by members of the Australian and New Zealand Armed Forces, as well as members of the public.
5. Visit the Popondetta Airfield: Popondetta War Cemetery is located on the site of the former Popondetta Airfield, which played an important role in the Pacific campaign. Today, the airfield is a memorial and museum dedicated to the history of the region and the people who served there.
6. Take a Hike: The grounds of Popondetta War Cemetery are surrounded by lush rainforest and rolling hills. Take a hike through the area to explore the natural beauty of the region and get a sense of the region’s history and culture.
7. Visit the Popondetta War Museum: The Popondetta War Museum is located on the grounds of the cemetery and contains a wealth of artifacts and information about the Pacific campaign and the people who served there. The museum is open to the public and admission is free.
8. Attend a Special Event: Popondetta War Cemetery hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including lectures, concerts, and exhibitions. These events provide a unique opportunity to learn about the region’s history and culture.
9. Visit the Popondetta War Memorial Park: The Popondetta War Memorial Park is located next to the cemetery and contains a variety of memorials dedicated to the fallen. Take a stroll through the park and read the inscriptions on the memorials to learn more about the people who served in the Pacific campaign.
10. Explore the Local Area: Popondetta War Cemetery is located in Northern Papua New Guinea, an area with a rich culture and history. Take some time to explore the local area and discover the unique sights, sounds, and flavors of the region.
Visiting Popondetta War Cemetery is a humbling and moving experience. Take your time to pay your respects to the fallen and explore the area’s history and culture.