When one thinks of combatants during the Second World War, one basically thinks of the primary participants. Especially in the early years of the war, the British relied quite heavily on troops from the Commonwealth to help fight against the Germans, and amongst the best of those were the men of the Second Australian Imperial Force (AIF). Their fathers had fought with great distinction and honor in WWI as part of the First Australian Imperial Force, and the men who chose to fight in WWII maintained that high spirit and reputation for fighting tenacity. When the Japanese attacked nearby lands in late 1941, it was the Australians who helped to stem the tide in the jungles and mountains of New Guinea, often at a very high casualty rate as much from disease as from the Japanese.

In his book, Mark Johnston tells the story of these men and the wide variety of uniforms and weapons utilized by these men in their campaigns.

The Elite series is more about the dress and equipment of the fighting soldier than it is about the battles that they fought. But without a background as to the organization of the various units and the conditions under which they fought, the gear and garb would seem a bit odd.

The book starts with an introduction to the Australian war effort, then goes through the organization of Australian units, something that is a bit different from the norm in many ways. Then there is a long section on campaigns where each one is given a brief synopsis. The final section is on the make-up of the various AIF Infantry divisions.

Throughout there are superb period photographs and the excellent illustrations of Carlos Chagas, which really help bring to life the way these men looked when in combat.

An overall outstanding reference on World War 2 Aussie troops and their equipment. One that the enthusiast simply has to have in his reference library.

July 2007

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