Australia lost its innocence in 1942. Japan had conquered Asia and the
Pacific, and were at our doorstep. Our finest troops were fighting in the Middle
East. All that stood between the Japanese and our homeland was a handful of
18-year-old militia troops who had never fired a shot in anger.
What compelled these men who saved Australia to push the boundaries of
endurance, courage and mateship to overcome the rampant enemy that outnumbered
them six to one?
Told through the eyes of the Diggers who fought on the Kokoda Track in Papua
New Guinea, 'The Spirit of Kokoda' is the inspirational story of how those young
men and the AIF veterans repelled the Japanese. More than that, it is an
exploration of the spirit that enabled the troops the prevail against
overwhelming odds.
The book is written to honour the Diggers and their achievements, especially
for those who never returned. It is a story of Australian sacrifice, fortitude
and courage.
Contents:
Acknowledgements
Introduction to the 2005 Edition
Foreword
Australian Army Structure 1942
Prologue
God's Garden
Here We Go Again
At Our Doorstep
No Give In
In the Nick of Tiome
Survival
War's Random Selection
The Tide Turns
Against the Odds
Lest We Forget
Swan Songs
Full Circle
Lessons From the Track
A Virtual Trek
Notes
Bibliography
Index
