Wartime labourers Australia
During World War II, Australia faced a significant labor shortage due to the need for a large workforce to support military operations and industry. The Australian Army established Employment Companies to ensure a dedicated workforce for essential laboring tasks. These companies were composed of soldiers and sometimes included 'aliens', or 'non-British' citizens, to meet the demands of the war effort. The National Archives of Australia holds extensive records about Australia's defense and war efforts, including service records of Australians who served in the Second World War. These records can help learn more about the laborers who contributed to the war effort and their contributions to Australia's defense
After enlistment Aaron was taken on strength at Thursday Island to undertake his training with 11 Australian Infantry Brigade. On 10/10/1943 he embarked from Thursday Island aboard "Belinda" arriving at Merauke Papua on 17/10/1943. At the beginning of 1944 he was transferred to Horn Island. He contracted Malaria in March 1944 and was evacuated to No 6 Camp Hospital on Thursday Island. He was given Medical clearance in October 1944 and in November was detached to serve with the Royal Australian Navy. In January 1945 he was once again back in Papua at Merauke. For the next few months he was working between Merauke and Thursday Island, and in May 1945 was promoted to Lance Corporal. During WWII Aaron served a total of 1350 days, 1179 in Australia and 171 days in Merauke New Guinea. He had previously served with the Citizens Military Forces taking his total service from 2/10/1942 to 12/6/1946. Aaron completed his service as a Lance Sergeant. Eric Aron Anua, Son of Aaron Anua applied for his fathers medals in February 1980. The Protector of Islanders applied on behalf of Sgt Anua in 1952.