Lae War Cemetery
Morobe
Lae War Cemetery, established in 1944 and located in the heart of Lae city adjacent to the Botanical Gardens, is a significant military cemetery managed by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. It commemorates more than 2,800 soldiers, predominantly from the Commonwealth forces, who lost their lives during World War II in the Papua New Guinea campaigns, particularly the Salamaua–Lae campaign. The cemetery includes both identified and unidentified graves, with 444 unknown soldiers interred. Among the buried are 426 Indian soldiers captured by the Japanese and several decorated war heroes such as William Ellis Newton VC and Lieutenant Albert Chowne VC. The cemetery features a wide flight of steps leading to a colonnade framing the Cross of Sacrifice, a hallmark of Commonwealth war cemeteries. It serves not only as a resting place but also as a poignant reminder of the fierce battles fought in the region. Annual ANZAC dawn services are held here to honor the fallen, reflecting the cemetery’s ongoing cultural and commemorative significance.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to attend the annual ANZAC dawn service on April 25 for a moving commemoration. The cemetery is best visited during daylight hours to appreciate the solemn atmosphere and detailed memorials. Advance planning is recommended for those wishing to participate in ceremonies. Respectful attire and conduct are essential, as this is a place of remembrance. No specific ticketing is required, but guided tours may enhance understanding of the site's history.
Interesting facts
- •The cemetery contains the grave of William Ellis Newton, the only Australian airman awarded the Victoria Cross in the South West Pacific theatre during WWII.
- •426 Indian soldiers who were prisoners of war are buried here, reflecting the diverse Commonwealth forces involved.
- •The Lae Memorial within the cemetery commemorates 300 Australian servicemen with no known graves.
- •The Cross of Sacrifice, a common feature in Commonwealth war cemeteries, is prominently displayed at Lae War Cemetery.
History
The Lae War Cemetery was established in 1944 following the Allied recapture of Lae from Japanese forces during World War II.
The site commemorates soldiers who died in the Salamaua–Lae campaign and other battles in the Morobe Province.
It was dedicated by Lieutenant-General Sir Leslie Morshead and later came under the care of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission in 1947.
Over time, it has grown to include burials of soldiers recovered from the surrounding battlefields and prisoners who died in Japanese detention.
The cemetery has since become a central site for remembrance and military heritage in Papua New Guinea.
Place Guide
Cross of Sacrifice1944
A prominent stone cross rising from the cemetery forecourt, symbolizing the sacrifice of Commonwealth soldiers. It frames the central axis of the cemetery and is a focal point for commemorative ceremonies.
Lae Memorial1944
A memorial within the cemetery dedicated to 300 Australian servicemen who have no known grave. It features panels listing names and a compartment for cemetery registers.
Grave of William Ellis Newton VC1943
The resting place of William Ellis Newton, awarded the Victoria Cross for his bravery in 1943. He is the only Australian airman to receive this honor in the South West Pacific theatre.
Indian Soldiers' Section
A dedicated section for 426 Indian soldiers captured and held as prisoners of war by the Japanese, reflecting the multinational nature of the conflict.
