Snake Bay Patrol facts for kids

The Snake Bay Patrol was a special group of Indigenous Australians from Melville Island in the Northern Territory. They helped the Royal Australian Navy during World War II. This group was not officially part of the military, but they played a very important role in protecting Australia.

What Was the Snake Bay Patrol?

The Snake Bay Patrol was formed during World War II, a huge global conflict. After the city of Darwin was bombed in 1942, Australia needed more ways to protect its coast. Special units made up of Indigenous Australians were created to help. One of these was the Snake Bay Patrol.

The unit was started by Lieutenant J.W.B. Gribble from the Royal Australian Naval Volunteer Reserve. This happened during the Pacific War, which was part of World War II. Their main job was to look for any Japanese forces that might land on Melville Island.

About 35 local Indigenous Australian men joined the Patrol. They were not officially signed up as soldiers or sailors. However, they worked full-time and received training with firearms. They were also given naval uniforms and special ranks by Lieutenant Gribble. Even though they served bravely, they were not paid for their work at the time. Similar groups were also formed on Bathurst Island, the Cox Peninsula, and Groote Eylandt.

How They Helped in the War

During the war, the Snake Bay Patrol did many important jobs. They regularly patrolled the shores of Melville Island. They also helped rescue Allied pilots whose planes had crashed. Another key task was finding the location of dangerous naval mines in the water.

It is also believed that two members of the Patrol went on secret missions. They were part of reconnaissance teams that landed on Timor from Allied submarines. These missions helped gather important information for the Allies.

Getting Recognition and Medals

For many years after the war, the members of the Snake Bay Patrol did not receive official recognition. It was not until 1962 that they became eligible for service medals and payments for their help.

In December 1991, the few surviving members of the Patrol finally received compensation. This was for not being paid during the war. They were also awarded the Defence Medal and the War Medal. These medals were also given to the families of members who had already passed away. The next year, in 1992, the surviving men became eligible for veteran's benefits. This meant they could get support and services like other official war veterans.

See also

• Northern Territory Special Reconnaissance Unit
• Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion