Description
Book SynopsisThe Battle for Milne Bay - Japan''s first defeat on land in the Second World War - was a defining moment in the evolution of the indomitable Australian fighting spirit. For the men of the AIF, the militia and the RAAF, it was the turning point in the Pacific, and their finest - though now largely forgotten - hour. Forgotten, until now.
In August 1942, Japan''s forces were unstoppable. Having conquered vast swathes of south-east Asia - Malaya, Singapore, the Dutch East Indies - and now invading New Guinea, many feared the Empire of the Rising Sun stood poised to knock down Australia''s northern door.
But first they needed Port Moresby. In the still of an August night, Japanese marines sailed quietly into Milne Bay, a long, malaria-ridden dead end at the far eastern tip of Papua, to unleash an audacious pincer movement. Unbeknown to them, however, a secret airstrip had been carved out of a coconut plantation by US Engineers, and a garrison of Australian troops had
Trade Review
Veitch has done a wonderful job . . . a fast-paced and thrilling tale * Daily Telegraph on Michael Veitch's Barney Greatrex *
Veitch has done a wonderful job . . . a fast-paced and thrilling tale * Daily Telegraph on Michael Veitch's Barney Greatrex *
should be part of Australian military folklore * Adelaide Advertiser on Michael Veitch's 44 Days *
should be part of Australian military folklore * Adelaide Advertiser on Michael Veitch's 44 Days *
fascinating . . . Veitch brings the story vividly to life * Sydney Morning Herald on Michael Veitch's Barney Greatrex *
fascinating . . . Veitch brings the story vividly to life * Sydney Morning Herald on Michael Veitch's Barney Greatrex *
