Resolute: The Australian Air War in Burma, 1942-1945

(Paperback)

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

In this compelling account of a forgotten war, the vital yet largely overlooked contribution of Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) aircrew during the Burma campaign of 19421945 is brought to life in the first detailed history of their service and sacrifice.

More than 1,500 Australian airmen were engaged in the air war across the Southeast Asian theatre. Integrated into Royal Air Force (RAF) squadrons centred on the Burma campaign, were joined by other Australians serving directly within the RAF. These airmen flew a wide range of aircraftfighters, bombers, flying boats, dive bombers, medical evacuation planes, and transportsacross one of the most challenging and diverse combat environments of the war.

They undertook perilous sorties over the Hump into China, dropped agents into Burma, Thailand, Malaya, and Indo-China, and conducted bombing raids and ground attacks on targets throughout Southeast Asia. They delivered vital supplies to forward troops and flew anti-submarine patrols and convoy protection missions across the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean. More than 300 Australian airmen lost their lives during these operations.

Operating in extreme conditionsacross rugged terrain, through monsoonal weather, and in a relentless tropical climatethese Australians faced a determined Japanese enemy. Their courage and endurance proved significant in the monumental struggle to turn defeat into victory in Burma.

Resolute, researched and written by Andrew Kilsby and Daryl Moranboth sons of World War Two RAAF veterans, and following the success of their edited volumeIn the Fight: Australians and the War in Burma 19421945reveals the triumphs and tragedies of Australia's forgotten air war in the Burma theatre.

Author Bio

Andrew Kilsbyis an independent historian with a particular interest in military, business and biographical history. He lived and worked in Asia for nearly two decades.Andrew has a PhD in history from the University of NSW and is a graduate of RMC Duntroon, and author of a number of history publications. Editing, and writing for,In the Fighthas brought together his interest in highlighting the unsung wartime contributions of Australians, both service and civilians, as well as bringing together new perspectives on what, for Australians in the Burma campaign at least, has become known as a forgotten war.