H.M.A.S. MARGY
THE enemy's defence of
Tarakan in June 1945 was based on holding tenaciously to a series of
strong posts consisting of tunnels, bunkers and weapon-pits on steep
features and razor-backed ridges overlooking tracks. These positions
were usually well sited, camouflaged and protected by timber-work. Most
tunnels had entrances on either side of the hill feature, shielded by
grass-covered blast walls invisible at a distance of 20 yards. Except
around the shore the whole island is covered with dense rain forest and
heavy secondary growth. The only possible approach to these enemy
positions was along the exceeding narrow crests of the ridges leading
into them, and the enemy could easily deny their use with the fire of a
few rifles.
One such feature was that
known by the code name of 'Joyce' hill. From our OP on 'Margy' hill,
later christened by the troops 'HMAS Margy', we looked across into the
dense jungle growth covering the slopes of Joyce hill. Although he was
only 300 yards away we could see absolutely nothing of the Jap or of his
defences. We knew he was there in strength, for our patrols had suffered
many casualties in their efforts to gain information.
It was imperative to tear
down this impenetrable veil of jungle and let in the light of day so
that we could deal with the enemy; and the Gunners, in the form of
2nd/7th Field Regiment, were put on the job. Shells bursting in the
treetops tore down branches and stripped the trees of the tangled mass
of tropical vines. Gradually the outline of the crest of the ridge took
shape. A captured 75mm was sited just below our OP to engage targets of
opportunity and to knock down trees still obstructing the view.
Bigger and better guns and
more of them were now essential to finish the job. After much sweat two
25-pdrs, one 3.7-inch AA gun of 53rd Composite AA Regiment, two 2-pdr
guns, one tank (3-inch howitzer), four Vickers and an assortment of
mortars were fitted, like sardines in a tin, into the only possible gun
position, a tiny clearing on the crest of Margy. For some odd reason the
Jap, apart from one night raid, made no serious effort to interfere.
With this unique mixture of ordnance it was possible to put rounds into
tunnels and bunkers and simultaneously treat with fire both the forward
and reverse slopes. It really was an awe-inspiring and nerve-shattering
experience to watch and hear the 'broadsides' crash out. The whole hill
seemed to shrink and shake as the assorted ordnance concentrated their
united attentions on the slopes of Joyce hill. A patrol which moved up
close to the crest of the feature discovered that the Japs were using a
tall tree as an OP and had a strong bunker at the base of it. The 3.7
was lined up and the first shot knocked over the tree, OP and all.
Sights were lowered and with the Vickers cackling encouragement, the 3.7
sent shells crashing into the bunker.
And so it went on until
there was nothing left to shoot at. With the capture of this feature
organised resistance was at an end.
By Brigadier L.G.H. Dyke,
C.B.E., D.S.O., who was CCRA
