Poplar, WI & Papua New Guinea: Unlikely Friendship Forged From WWII Wreck!
An extraordinary partnership has blossomed between Poplar, Wisconsin, USA, and Madang, Papua New Guinea, rooted in a shared history from World War II. The two locales have officially become sister cities, marking a commitment to cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
From War Wreckage to Sister Cities
The unlikely connection began in 2024 when the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center, in collaboration with Pacific Wrecks, located the wreckage of Major Richard Bong's P-38 Lightning aircraft, nicknamed "Marge." The plane had been lost in the jungles of Papua New Guinea for over eight decades.
Major Bong, a native of Poplar and America's top fighter ace, flew numerous missions over Papua New Guinea during the war, including operations near Madang. The discovery of his aircraft sparked a renewed interest in building bridges between the two regions.
Building a Lasting Connection
Representatives from the Bong Center and Sister Cities International traveled to Madang in July 2025 to formalize the partnership. Village Board Member Kory Gilderman and Madang Provincial Administrator Daniel Aloi signed the sister city agreement, outlining plans for collaboration on educational initiatives, cultural programs, and future exchanges.
- Educational Initiatives: Student involvement in projects promoting understanding.
- Cultural Programs: Sharing traditions and experiences.
- Future Exchanges: Visits and collaborations between residents.
Kory Gilderman has a personal connection to Madang; his grandfather served there during WWII, building the runways Major Bong utilized. This agreement is a way to recognize the shared history and build something positive for the future.
Papua New Guinea Sees Economic Boost from GST Cut
Beyond the sister city agreement, Papua New Guinea is also experiencing positive economic changes. A recent 10% Goods and Services Tax (GST) cut is having a significant impact on the lives of Papua New Guineans, with shops reporting increased customer traffic and sales, especially for essential goods. Residents are expressing optimism about the increased affordability and the potential for savings.