Early last year Elizabeth Arek in Brisbane wrote to Jim Toner in Darwin seeking information about “a thin paperback book about the war heroes of PNG”. Her father, Christian, featured in the book.

Christian Arek was a Northern District policeman. As a constable, he took part in the first skirmish with the Japanese invaders at Buna in July 1942 and, in 1943, retrieved the remains of Lucian Tapedi, the Anglican martyr, for burial.

Ten years later, as an honoured and bemedalled Sergeant-Major, he was in London marching with the Royal Papua and New Guinea Constabulary contingent in the Coronation parade.

On 13 June last year, ASOPA PEOPLE put out an all points alert to see if a copy of the book could be found. Now, Eric Johns (ASOPA 1958-59) has located a copy of the book, which he is sending to Elizabeth. There are only two known copies of the book held in Australian collections.

Elizabeth writes: “Just got off the phone with my daughter, Renee. I am thrilled to know that I can get a copy of this book about my dad Christian Arek. Please extend my gratitude to everyone who made this possible.” Happy ending.