Deep Dive into the Archives
Special guest post written by UMD intern Ava Carlson Hello there! My name is Ava Carlson and I am interning here at the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center for the summer. This fall will be my final year studying at University of Minnesota Duluth for I will be graduating in the spring of […]
New WWII Postal Service Exhibit
Special Guest Blog post written by 2024 Summer Intern Cathy Taylor. When I started as an intern at The Richard I. Bong Museum for the summer, I wasn’t quite sure what my job would be like, what I would be doing. Within the first couple of weeks I met the daughter of Captain Clarence […]
Morning in the Village: Onward to the Next Site
Justin and the team wake at dawn to the sound of roosters crowing. The team spent a restful night here, embraced by the hospitality and warmth of the villagers. Today, they head back to the Bau Plantation, guided by the villagers who know the land and its secrets. The villagers guidance and input is essential […]
First Steps on Land
Mission: Marge As Justin and his team step ashore from their small boat the excitement is clear. The boat, adorned with the flags of Papua New Guinea and the United States, symbolizes the essential partnership that underpins this expedition. The local community’s support is invaluable, and their collaboration with Justin’s team highlights the shared respect […]
Embarking on the Expedition: Setting Sail from Madang
Justin and his team make their final preparations in Madang. Supplies are loaded into a small fishing boat, covered by a tarp to protect against the elements. This is the first leg of the real expedition, the point where the mission transitions from planning to execution. It’s hard not to think of Major Bong and […]
Building Partnerships: Meeting with Madang Officials
Justin and Steve’s journey in Madang extends beyond preparations and supplies. Today, they have a crucial meeting with the local officials, including the governor of Madang Province, Hon. Ramsey Pariwa. This meeting is vital for fostering the connections and securing the permissions necessary for their expedition. In the governor’s office, Justin carefully places the model […]
Stocking Up: Preparing for the Field in Madang
Justin and the team have arrived in Madang, their final stop before venturing into the dense jungles of Papua New Guinea. Their first task in this vibrant coastal town is to gather supplies for the field, ensuring they’re well-prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. At Anderson’s Market, Justin points out the biscuits and crackers—perfect […]
Continuing the Journey: From Port Moresby to Madang
Justin and his team prepare for the next leg of their journey. With bags packed and spirits high, they head to the airport, bound for Madang—a place that brings them one step closer to their ultimate goal. Amidst the hustle and bustle, Justin carefully cradles the model of “Marge,” the replica of Major Richard Ira […]
From Past to Present: A Journey to 14 Mile Drome
Mission: Marge Justin and his team have finally touched down in the capital city of Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. Their first stop is a place steeped in history—14 Mile Drome, a former airstrip during WWII. At 14 Mile Drome, they meet Thomas, a local historian who has dedicated himself to preserving the memories of […]
Journey Into History
Mission: Marge Bags packed and the model of “Marge” cradled with care in its box, Justin and his team embark on the first leg of their journey. As the miles pass beneath them, the model remains a constant companion. Hand-carried and guarded with vigilance, it serves as a reminder of the commitment and devotion to […]