Vella Lavella
Vella Lavella is an island in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands. It lies to the west of New Georgia, but is considered one of the New Georgia Group. To its west are the Treasury Islands.
The sea around the island was the site of the Naval Battle of Vella Lavella in World War II. The Land Battle of Vella Lavella took place from 15 August to 9 October 1943.
During World War II, Barakoma Airfield on Vella Lavella was the home base for VMF-214 (the "Black Sheep," led by Gregory Boyington). For convenience, the TV series Baa, Baa, Black Sheep renamed the island to "Vella La Cava."
[1] overhead images show what may be the remains of the Marines' airfield.
Taken on 10 December 1943, this photo shows Vought F4U-1 Corsair aircraft of VMF-123 and VMF-124, Grumman F6F-3 Hellcats, a Douglas SBD Dauntless, and RNZAF Curtiss Kittyhawk Mk.IV (P-40F) at Barakoma Airfield
Vella Lavella girl with painted face and shell ear ornaments, c. 1900
Coordinates: 7°44′S 156°38′E / 7.733°S 156.633°E
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