B Company arrived in Kokoda in fairly good condition; however, were tremendously exhausted from the seven-day trek across the jungle. Once at Kokoda Captain Sam Templeton assigned each platoon defensive positions to engage and the Company made best endeavor to protect the area. From 14 July - 21 July the men trained and patrolled the area. They secured information and knowledge of the Kokoda area and grew in assurance of the jungle.

 Morning of 22 July, shelling and attack were heard in the distance. It was thought to be coming from the northern beaches of Buna. Captain Templeton was in contact with Port Moresby and it was confirmed that the Japanese had landed unopposed on the beaches at Buna. On this Captain Templeton prepared a proportion of his force (2 Platoons) with orders to move forward and search for the Japanese.