Voices from the past, lessons for the future

Welcome to our dedicated space for the stories of the British Commonwealth Occupation Force (Australian Contingent). Here, we honour their service, sacrifices, and unwavering commitment to Australia, ensuring their legacy lives on for generations to come. Explore their journeys, triumphs, and the challenges they overcame.

Veteran Picture Albums

Discover personal stories through our extensive collection of veteran picture albums. These images capture the faces and moments of the men and women who served in the British Commonwealth Occupation Force, providing a poignant glimpse into their lives during and after their service in Japan. Each photograph tells a part of their unique journey, preserving their memory for families, fellow veterans, and all Australians who want to know what they saw.

 

Unit Picture Albums

Explore the camaraderie and shared experiences of the British Commonwealth Occupation Force units through our dedicated unit picture albums. These collections showcase the collective efforts and daily lives of various contingents, providing invaluable insights into their operations and the bonds forged during their service. Perfect for researchers, families, and anyone interested in Australian military history.

Veteran Story Videos

Listen to the direct accounts of our BCOF veterans in their own words through our compelling video albums. These recorded interviews and narratives bring their experiences to life, sharing firsthand memories of their service, the challenges they faced, and their reflections on the impact of their time in Japan. These stories are crucial for understanding their commitment to Australia.

Historic Video Archives

Journey back in time with our albums of historic videos, capturing the atmosphere and events surrounding the British Commonwealth Occupation Force's presence in Japan. These archival films offer unique perspectives on the post-war era, BCOF operations, and the conditions endured by our service members, including earthquakes, typhoons, and epidemics. An invaluable resource for historical understanding.

Records and War Diaries

Delve into the official and personal accounts of the British Commonwealth Occupation Force through our albums of records and war diaries. These documents provide detailed insights into daily operations, significant events, and the challenges faced by service members. From overseeing the destruction of Japanese war materials to navigating a complex environment, these records underscore their unwavering commitment to Australia.

You can find files of relevance you can upload, News Paper Articles, War Diaries and files on those who died in service as well as hundreds of pictures that show the conditions and people of japan. 

You need help just ask by sending email to the Association (bcofassociationadmin@gmail.com) or join our facebook page and chat to veterans families. (https://www.facebook.com/groups/1503252588113271)  

Stories for schools

Our dedicated albums for schools offer engaging and educational content tailored to help younger generations understand the vital role of the British Commonwealth Occupation Force. These resources simplify complex historical events, making the sacrifices and commitment of our veterans accessible and impactful for students, ensuring their legacy is understood and appreciated by future Australians.

Shortly we shall be posting these albums and files with the help of Dedicated teachers with 40 years experience 

Their commitment: The ultimate legacy

Above all, we want you to remember the profound commitment of our British Commonwealth Occupation Force veterans to Australia. Despite incredible disadvantage, enduring Earthquakes and Typhoons, epidemics and disease, hate and ambush, they continued their service until their task was completed. They ensured Japan became a trusted member of the world's society, bringing true peace to Australia and the world. Their dedication, often unrecognised for decades, is their enduring legacy.

View our latest work

Discover our collection of creative work and visual projects. Each piece showcases our attention to detail and commitment to delivering results that exceed expectations.

HMAS ARUNTA 

a Tribal-class destroyer, served in Japan as part of the British Commonwealth Occupation Force (BCOF) following World War II. Alongside other RAN vessels, she conducted patrols, deterred smuggling, enforced surrender terms, and facilitated naval logistics from 1946 through 1950

 

81st FIGHTER WING

No. 81 Fighter Wing formed the primary Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) fighter component of the British Commonwealth Occupation Force (BCOF) in Japan following World War II. Operating from a former kamikaze base in Bofu, the wing featured P-51 Mustang aircraft and flew patrols from 1946 until 1948. 

The main body of the Wing, comprising Nos. 76, 77, and 82 Squadrons, deployed to Bofu in March 1946.

The squadrons conducted daily patrols and maintained a peaceful occupation presence in the region.

 

AUSTRALIAN 34th INFANTRY BRIGADE 

Australian component of the British Commonwealth Occupation Force (BCOF) in Japan. Formed in late 1945, the Brigade Group was built around three core infantry battalions.

65th Battalion, 66th Battalion 67th Battalion  ( Now 1, 2 and 3 RAR.

1st Australian Armored Car Squadron Group

"A" Field Battery, Royal Australian Artillery

Royal Australian Engineers (RAE) detachment

130th Australian General Hospital

Various ancillary, signals, supply, and ordnance components including salvage and bomb disposal units.