Censors Certificate.
The Fijian community wait for the return of their men who have been in the Solomon Islands as part of the allied team fighting Japan. The men have been on Guadalcanal, Florida, Munda, Vella Lavella, Kolombangara and Bougainville for the past 16 months. This film shows the Fijian troops in action as they helped repel the Japanese attacks around the airstrips in Bougainville.
Extract From Cameraman’s Report:
“One fellow was making good progress towards us dragging a box of grenades and a shirtful of Bren gun clips. When about twenty feet away he made a run for us. He nearly made it when a shot went through his hand, deflected off a clip and went on down through his leg. As he fell he threw the ammo, so that it landed within reach. We dragged him into a hole.”
Extract From Cameraman’s Report:
“At last we drew lots to return and bring up grenades. Camera was forgotten, I drew third and what a job that was I’ll never forget. We all made a trip and then started pitching as soon as the pins could be pulled.”
The troop ship arrives in Suva Bay and on board is the Fijian First Battalion. The British Governor Sir Phillip Mitchell and Ratu Sukuna on the legislative council are the first to greet them. His excellency greets the New Zealand CO Lieu. Col. Upton. Ratu Sukuna, leading chief welcomes the men. Half the officers of this battalion are New Zealanders.
The troops drive through Suva’s streets to Samabula Camp where friends and relatives arrive with gifts and greet their loved ones. Youngsters sit and listen to tales about battle experiences.
At the home of Ratu Sukuna, Lt. Isareli Korovulavula (the officer who travelled for 20 days without food in the Bougainville jungle. Five of which he carried an American airman on his back. Their aircraft had crashed after successfully guiding bombers to an enemy concentration, located by the Fijians.
Rugby football is a sport enjoyed by the Fijians. For some of the men however, they embark on a small ship bound for the homeland islands of Lau,100 miles east of Suva.
In the province of Ra and all the villages of the Fijian Islands people are preparing a feast to welcome home their men. Special kava is prepared and served to the guest of honour, the highest chief, then the men. Following, the women bring a consignment of hand woven mats as presents, then the dancing begins. Returned warriors perform also.
THE END A Ministry Of Information Film.