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Three Mile

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How did Three Mile get its name? You might think it’s because of some geographical quirk, and you wouldn’t be entirely wrong. Three Mile, this suburb we’re standing in right now, earned its name because it was roughly three miles from Port Moresby. This proximity to the capital city made Three Mile a strategic location, especially during World War II. Before the war, Three Mile housed the Kila Drome, Port Moresby’s first civilian airfield built in 1933. When the Pacific War erupted, the airfield found new importance. The US Army expanded and fortified Kila Drome, using it as a base for fighter planes, light bombers, and service aircraft. Imagine the roar of engines as A-24 dive bombers and A-20 Havocs took flight, the air thick with anticipation and the fear of impending conflict. The airfield saw its share of action, with Japanese bombers targeting it in frequent raids. The 8th Fighter Group, flying P-39 Airacobras and later P-38 Lightnings, was stationed here. They were joined by the 49th Fighter Group’s 8th Fighter Squadron, equipped with P-40 Warhawks. These brave pilots took to the skies from Three Mile, engaging in fierce dogfights above the idyllic landscape. By mid-1943, with the construction of new airfields at Dobodura and Milne Bay, Kila Drome’s role diminished. Today, the echoes of war have faded, replaced by the sounds of everyday life. The airfield is no more, absorbed by the Kila Police Barracks, a golf course, and a technical school. However, remnants of the past linger. Look closely, and you might spot the outlines of wartime taxiways or stumble upon a crumbling revetment, silent witnesses to a time when Three Mile played a pivotal role in the Pacific War.

The story of Three Mile in Port Moresby is just one of many fascinating insights you can discover with Explory. To experience the city beyond its surface, you need more than just a map – you need a smart guide that reveals the background, the culture, and the character of each place. With Explory’s city guide, you can dive deeper into Port Moresby and transform your visit into a unique city tour filled with stories that bring history and everyday life to light. Explory connects you with Port Moresby in a new way. Our guide doesn’t just show you where to go – it enriches your journey with context and atmosphere. Through carefully designed routes and storytelling, you’ll uncover hidden gems and unexpected highlights that even locals might miss. The audio guide makes the city come alive, allowing you to listen while you walk and explore at your own pace. Our city guide is ideal for travelers who want more than sightseeing. Whether your interest is culture, architecture, or local traditions, Explory enables authentic exploration. Each city tour is flexible and intuitive, helping you experience Port Moresby with freedom while still being guided by expert knowledge. By combining narrative, navigation, and discovery, Explory ensures your trip becomes an adventure filled with hidden gems and lasting impressions. Take the next step and download the Explory App today. Inside, you’ll find over 300 cities and more than 500,000 POIs and stories to explore. Whether you’re searching for a reliable guide, want to try an immersive audio guide, or plan a memorable city tour, Explory is your all-in-one companion. Begin your journey now and uncover the true essence of Port Moresby – only with Explory.

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