On 13 February, we were pleased to welcome visitors John Jones, the last surviving WW2 Coastwatcher, who was stationed in the Gilbert and Ellice Islands, and Peter McQuarrie, who has written several books about the Pacific Islands during the war.
Peter presented us with two of his books dealing with the Coastwatchers: Conflict in Kiribati and Strategic Atolls. These are very much appreciated and are available to members.
Unfortunately, Nobby Clark, who was also a Coastwatcher, but in a different area of the Pacific, was too ill to attend the meeting, but his daughter Cora arrived with photos and memorabilia and was able to share memories and information with Peter and John.
The photo above shows John in the memorial hall at Musick Point, standing in front of the Roll of Honour for Coastwatchers executed by Japanese soldiers.
John returned to Musick Point in September 2011 and recorded a video interview.