Misima Medical Orderly

Decorated

Prom a Special Correspondent AN impressive little ceremony was per formed at Misima on March 16. when Corporal of the ANGAU medical section, was' presented with the Loyal Service Medal by the officer commanding the station.

Many Papuans have received such military honours and many more have richly deserved them. With few excep tions, their conduct during the war has been such as to reflect great credit on those great Australians, esnecially Sir Hubert Murray, who were charged with the preservation and development of the primitive Papuan race, and whose work has resulted in loyalty and steadfastness during the present war.

Corporal Ebenezer was in charge of the native hospital at Misima when hostili ties with Japan broke out. Though given an opportunity to leave, he remained at his post and gave useful service through out the troubled times that followed the withdrawal of the Government and the white community. The award of the medal has crowned his work and brought home to the fifteen hundred natives present, the fact that loyal and plucky conduct does not pass unnoticed.

Following the presentation and the singing of “God Save the King” by a native choir, a big kai kal and sports were held, and the whole proceedings was marked by the happy and contented mood of the natives under the resumed adminis tration by ANGAU.

Old hands from Misima will be glad to learn that the island is little changed.

The bush tracks may be a little more overgrown and deserted, and the absence of the lorries and gaiety of “steamer days” has made the island quieter, but it is still the same old Misima (without the beer, perhaps).

The “Fuzzies” are awaiting the master’s return. Prom the look of things they will offer a warm welcome home to their old friends of the mining community.