The Village of Poplar, Wisconsin, and the City of Madang, Papua New Guinea, have officially entered into a sister city agreement, marking a significant step towards fostering international relations and cultural exchange. This partnership, formalized by Village Board Member Kory Gilderman and Madang Provincial Administrator Daniel Aloi, is built upon a foundation of shared history stemming from World War II, and a mutual desire to cultivate long-term cultural and educational opportunities.
The agreement outlines collaborative intentions focusing on educational initiatives, cultural programs, and future exchange opportunities. Both Poplar and Madang aim to involve students, veterans, and local residents in projects designed to enhance mutual understanding and cooperation. This initiative not only honors the past but also paves the way for a vibrant future of shared learning and growth.
While in Madang, the delegation engaged with city leaders, visited local educational institutions such as Divine Word University, and actively participated in various cultural exchange activities. This visit solidified the commitment to building lasting relationships and deepening the understanding between the two communities.
The WWII Connection: Major Richard Bong
The link between Poplar and Madang traces back to World War II, particularly through the experiences of Poplar native Major Richard Bong, recognized as America’s top fighter ace. Major Bong undertook numerous missions over Papua New Guinea, including operations in proximity to Madang. His service during the war established a profound connection between the two regions.
In 2024, a significant discovery further strengthened this bond. The Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center, in collaboration with the nonprofit organization Pacific Wrecks, successfully located ‘Marge’—Major Bong’s P-38 Lightning aircraft—in the jungles near Madang. The aircraft had crash-landed there in 1944, remaining hidden for decades until this recent expedition.
“The discovery of Marge ignited interest in building a meaningful relationship between the people of northern Wisconsin and Papua New Guinea,” said Kory Gilderman. This event not only brought historical artifacts to light but also sparked a renewed sense of connection and a desire to honor the shared sacrifices of the past.
This discovery underscored the enduring impact of WWII and the lasting friendships forged in the aftermath of the war. The recovery of ‘Marge’ serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made and the bonds that transcend geographical boundaries.
Personal Connections: Gilderman’s Family History
Adding another layer to the Poplar-Madang connection is Kory Gilderman’s personal family history. His grandfather, Robert G. Brown, served in Madang during World War II. Brown was involved in constructing the very runways that Major Bong utilized for his missions. This familial link further intertwines the histories of Poplar and Madang.
“This agreement is a way to recognize the history we share and to build something new from it,” stated Kory Gilderman. His personal connection to Madang through his grandfather’s service adds depth and meaning to his involvement in the sister city agreement.
Gilderman is set to represent Poplar in Madang, where he will deliver a presentation about the community. His unique perspective, informed by both historical and familial ties, will undoubtedly enrich the cultural exchange and strengthen the partnership between the two cities.
Statements from Leaders
Daniel Aloi, Madang Provincial Administrator, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are at the authentic beginning of this journey. We thank our friends in Poplar for this opportunity to build a foundation for our community’s progress.” His words reflect a sense of optimism and a commitment to fostering growth and development through international collaboration.
Aloi further emphasized the unique nature of this sister city relationship, noting, “This represents a unique moment in our history of sister city relationships. Let us celebrate how we, as people, have worked together to advance this partnership to the next level with the support of our friends.” His statement underscores the importance of human connection and collaboration in achieving meaningful progress.
Sister Cities International and the “7 for 70” Initiative
The establishment of the Poplar-Madang sister city agreement aligns with broader initiatives aimed at enhancing engagement with the Pacific Islands. In 2023, the U.S. launched the ‘7 for 70’ initiative, with the goal of creating seven sister city partnerships with Pacific Island nations by 2026, coinciding with Sister Cities International’s 70th Anniversary.
Carlo Capua, Board Chair of Sister Cities International, highlighted the significance of these partnerships, stating, “Today we witness an intersection of friendship through a shared history. What started as an accident during a world war has resulted in a foundation for peace.” His words capture the transformative potential of turning historical conflicts into opportunities for peace and collaboration.
The initiative is particularly meaningful as it leads up to Papua New Guinea’s 50th Anniversary of Independence. These partnerships not only honor the past but also pave the way for a brighter future of shared progress and mutual understanding.
Long Beach and Port Moresby: Another Partnership
In addition to the Poplar-Madang agreement, a delegation from Long Beach, California, is also set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Port Moresby on Friday, July 11. Both delegations are sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, highlighting the U.S. government’s commitment to fostering international relations.
These parallel efforts demonstrate a concerted approach to strengthening ties with Pacific Island nations and promoting cultural and educational exchange on a broader scale. The partnerships between Poplar, Madang, Long Beach, and Port Moresby exemplify the power of collaboration in building a more connected and understanding world.
Building Bridges for the Future
The sister city agreement between Poplar, Wisconsin, and Madang, Papua New Guinea, represents more than just a formal partnership. It is a testament to the enduring power of human connection, the importance of honoring shared history, and the potential for building a brighter future through collaboration and mutual understanding. This initiative not only strengthens ties between the two communities but also contributes to broader efforts to enhance engagement with the Pacific Islands and promote international goodwill.
As Kory Gilderman aptly stated, this agreement is “a way to recognize the history we share and to build something new from it.” By embracing their shared past and working together towards common goals, Poplar and Madang are setting an inspiring example for other communities around the world. The sister city partnership promises to yield lasting benefits for both cities, fostering cultural enrichment, educational opportunities, and enduring friendships.
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