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 1942-1945 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 aircraft-fighters, bombers, flying boats, dive bombers, medical evacuation planes, and transports-across 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 conditions-across rugged terrain, through monsoonal weather, and in a relentless tropical climate-these 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 Moran-both sons of World War Two RAAF veterans, and following the success of their edited volume In the Fight: Australians and the War in Burma 1942-1945-reveals the triumphs and tragedies of Australia's forgotten air war in the Burma theatre.
Features the first comprehensive Nominal Roll of RAAF personnel who served in the Burma Campaign, along with a detailed record of deaths, decorations, and awards.
