Dora – 9
Noting Amberley and Leverton makes me think I may have the wrong info on this – so, I suggest you have control – maybe let me know if Bankstown – is correct
My info suggests that it is indeed part of the 49th Pursuit Group and that the image is the 7th Pursuit Squadron in Bankstown.
The group moved to Australia and became part of Fifth Air Force in January 1942. It was redesignated as the 49th Fighter Group in May 1942. The unit received Curtiss P-40 Warhawks in Australia and, after training for a short time, provided air defence for the Northern Territory, being awarded a Distinguished Unit Citation for engaging the enemy in frequent and intense aerial combat while operating with limited materiel and facilities for the period March–August 1942.
The group moved to New Guinea in October 1942 to help stall the Japanese drive southward from Buna to Port Moresby. Engaged primarily in air defence of Port Moresby; also escorted bombers and transports, and attacked enemy installations, supply lines, and troop concentrations in support of Allied ground forces.
The 49th participated in the Allied offensive that pushed the Japanese back along the Kokoda Track, took part in the Battle of the Bismarck Sea in March 1943, fought for control of the approaches to Huon Gulf, and supported ground forces during the campaign in which the Allies eventually recovered New Guinea. It covered the landings on Noemfoor and had a part in. the conquest of Biak --- des col