AUSTRALIAN MILITARY WORLD WAR II –
th Australian Division 1940–46 is a comprehensive military history book written by acclaimed historian Mark Johnston. First published in 2002 by Allen & Unwin, the work stands as a unique, image-driven narrative of the most famous Australian division of World War II. [1]
Book Overview
The book chronicles the entire wartime history of the 9th Australian Infantry Division, from its early formation through its high-casualty campaigns across two vastly different theatres of war. It uniquely blends expert commentary with a powerful visual record, featuring many previously unpublished photographs sourced directly from the private collections of veterans.
Key Historical Milestones Covered:
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- The Rats of Tobruk (1941): The division gained lasting international renown for enduring the famous, brutal siege in North Africa.
- The Battle of El Alamein (1942): Their crucial contribution to this major turning point earned high praise from Field Marshal Rommel and British General Bernard Montgomery, who famously eulogised them as “that magnificent 9th”.
- New Guinea Campaign (1943): Shifting focus to the war against Japan, the division executed the largest amphibious landing by Australian forces since Gallipoli, followed by intense jungle fighting. [1, 2]
- Borneo Campaigns (1945): The book addresses the complex, final operational deployments of the division before demobilisation.
Features & Format
- Statistical Tables: Includes detailed, groundbreaking lists covering division commanders, casualty counts, and decorations/awards for bravery.
- Human Elements: Captures both the confronting realities of frontline combat and the distinct humour and downtime of the Australian “diggers”.
First Edition.