Pacific Islands Regiment

"In 1944, the all-volunteer Papuan Infantry Battalion (PIB) and the 1st and 2nd New Guinea Infantry Battalions (NGIB) were amalgamated to form the Pacific Islands Regiment (PIR). They were joined by the 3rd New Guinea Infantry Battalion in 1945.  Each battalion had an establishment of about 77 European and 550 native soldiers.  The PIB fought alongside the 39th Battalion as part of Maroubra Force during the Kokoda campaign and also took part in campaigns at Salamaua, on the Huon Peninsula, at Markha, Ramu and on Bougainville.  The NGIB fought on Bougainville and at Aitape-Wewak alongside the 6th Division.  Approximately 3,500 Papuans and New Guineans served in the PIR."