6th Australian Division

The 6th Australian Division was created for the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) during WWI.  In 1940, it was re-raised and was the first division in the newly-formed Second AIF.  Initially commanded by Lieutenant General Thomas Blamey, the 6th Division served in the UK, North Africa and the Middle East, Greece, Crete and finally New Guinea, including on the Kokoda Track.  At Aitape-Wewak, the men suffered from the inhospitable terrain; many drowned attempting to cross flood-swollen rivers or from tropical diseases and the campaign cost the division its highest number of casualties. Two members of 6th division were awarded the Victoria Cross.