Few Australians would be aware that the second deadliest air attack on Australia occurred in the northwest at Broome on 3 March 1942. That day a squadron of Zeros flew a daring and ultra-long range mission from Timor - the longest fighter mission ever flown. The timing was perfect - several flying boats packed full of evacuees had just landed. Over 80 people were killed, many of them Dutch women and children, and 22 large aircraft were destroyed.
Against the background of the desperate eleventh hour aerial evacuation of Java, 'Zero Hour in Broome' gives a full account of this deadly attack. Many of these events have not been analysed since the Australian Offical History of World War II. Following extensive research, the book debunks myths and inaccuracies propagated by the Official History:
- Why does the Official History over-state the amount of evacuees moving through Broome?
- The disaster at Broome occurred largely because of lack on control over military flying boats. Did the attitude of Qantas contribute to this outcome?
- The United States Navy set up a flying boat base at Exmouth Gulf and its ex-Java flying boats arrived safely. Why were the other flying boats not directed there?
- Why was nobody in command of the local defence fourses at Broome during the attack?
- Despite prompting, the General of Western Command failed to exercise initiative at this critical time. Why is this part of his record missing from his Offical History biography?
- On 1 March the USAAF pleaded with the RAAF for extra aircraft to assist with the airlift, but none were available? Why were 100 aircraft at Geraldton ignored?
- What was the successful Japanese strategy that denied to use of the northwest airbases?
For the first time since the Official History, all of the raids awainst WA in 1942 are explained.
'Zero Hour in Broome' contains a fully illustrated aviation history section, explaining the diverse types' histories and movements and involvement in the airlift operations. Presented in a unique and highly readable format this book is supported by detailed appendices.
Contents
Foreword
Introduction
1. Broome Attacked from the Air
2. Through Japanese Eyes
3. March 1942: War in Western Australia
4. 3 March 1942: Other Events
5. Evacuation
6. From Broome to Port Headland
7. Attacked Again
8. Avoiding the Blame
9. The Java Evacuation Myth
Afterword
Appendices
List of Works Consulted
Index
