NEW CALEDONIA

Evening Post, Volume CXXXIII, Issue 134, 9 June 1942, Page 5

NEW CALEDONIA

AMERICAN GARRISON

POWERFUL FORCE ON ISLAND

(Hy Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright.) (Rec. 9 a.m.) NEW CALEDONIA, June 8. Here, perhaps more than anywhere else in the Pacific, America is giving the lie direct to the oftvoiced Australian fears that the Allies might be regarding the Japanese menace in this part of the world as a sideshow. American troops are here in strength and are splendidly equipped, reports the Australian official correspondent, lan Fitchett. On this island, only 800 miles from Australia, an army has come into being that seems perfect in all respects. The correspondent adds: The importance of this island to Australian and New Zealand defence needs no stressing. Whoever holds it holds the key to our lifelines. Modern bombers can span the waters between here and Australia in a matter of hours. RESEMBLES CRETE. In shape and structure, New Caledonia is like Crete, with the same central mountain system. Round its complete circumference lies the barrier reef, with few enough gaps to endanger an invasion fleet. Through these gaps shipping would have to cluster to reach the land beyond the boil of the surf on the treacherous reefs.

From their automatic weapons to their artillery, the American troops are equipped with everything of the best.

Living conditions are good. The climate is perfect, cattle graze in the uplands, and herds of deer1 abound in tens of thousands. Life goes on quietly, often monotonously, mostly spent in preparation and in waiting. Nevertheless, to the Americans, Australia and New Zealand owe the deepest debt of gratitude for what they are dding and are capable of doing in the coming crisis.