Australian Soldier Farewelled with Honour in Indonesia

An unknown Australian soldier has been given a funeral with full military honours today, more than 70 years after being killed holding back Imperial Japanese forces in Kupang during World War Two.

He was a member of ‘Sparrow Force’ - one of 84 men to die defending a vital airstrip at Kupang from advancing Japanese troops. The soldier’s remains were unearthed during local construction work in 2013.

The man’s identity remains a mystery despite an intensive two year search for his family by the Australian Army. DNA drawn from the remains has failed to find a match. 94 people from 54 families have been tested. A recent public appeal has also proved unsuccessful.

Head of Australia’s Defence Staff in Indonesia, Brigadier John Gould says today’s activity highlights the enduring relationship between Australia and Indonesia.

‘We have just joined with Indonesia in celebrating 70 years of independence. We have been with Indonesia in spirit throughout that period. Both then and now, Australia and Indonesia have a shared interest in keeping our region safe,’ BRIG Gould said.

The ceremony, held at the Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery in Tantui – Ambon, was attended by the Head of Political and Economic Branch at the Australian Embassy, Dr Brad Armstrong, accompanied by a contingent of Australia’s Federation Guard and several local Indonesian authorities. The site is the final resting place to 2,000 Australian and allied troops who gave their lives during several years of fighting to push back Imperial Japan during World War Two.

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