Michael James McGrath was a war veteran in World War II – the last major world conflict to take place. He and his many soldiers fought alongside the Australian and New Zealand forces. His enlistment came early in the global conflict and his battalion was eventually assigned to the War in the Pacific. It is here. Michael James McGrath, a war hero, was killed in action.
Wars & Conflicts
He fought with honor in World War II in the 30th (Mixed) Battalion, B-Force. This is the 8th Brigade of the New Zealand 3rd Division. This was a Third Echelon Expeditionary Force. It is believed that Michael James McGrath was drafted into military service in 1940 when the war in Europe was still in its infancy.
Michael James McGrath – 30th Battalion
The 30th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the New Zealand 3rd Division raised for service in World War II. Known for their bravery and sacrifice, the unit served with distinction in the conflict. Today the battalion is one of the most well-known New Zealand military units.
It was originally formed in September 1940 and attracted personnel from New Zealand areas. These were in particular the districts of Otago and Canterbury. Michael James McGrath was one of the first people to join the battalion.
McGrath and his battalion were initially assigned to the 8th Brigade before later joining the 14th Brigade. That’s where Michael James McGrath served and experienced action in the Pacific. There they undertook garrison duties in Fiji to protect the island from possible Japanese attacks. After the war they were handed over to the US Army.
The NZEF was closely associated with the AIF for much of the war. The New Zealand contingent was too small to form a separate division, so the New Zealand and Australian divisions were combined to form the famous Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. Both divisions were commanded by General Godley.
The USS Arizona, the target ship of TF 38, was able to land its troops…
