Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels

During WWII, Papua New Guinean war carriers were given the endearing name of ‘Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels’ by Australian soldiers.  While 650 Australians died during the Kokoda campaign, many believe that this number would have been significantly higher had it not been for the help of the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels who were sympathetic to the Australian troops.  They helped to transport essential Allied stores, equipment and stretchers over the difficult terrain, shaded sick or wounded soldiers with banana leaves, gave them water and found them native foods to eat.  ‘Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels’ referred to both the Papuans frizzy hair and their helpful role during the war.