The Principles of War - Lessons from Military History on Strategy, Tactics, Doctrine and Leadership.
104 - The 39th Battalion on the Kokoda Track
Oct 25, 2023
Dr. David Cameron, an expert on the Kokoda Campaign and author of over twenty military history books, sheds light on the legendary 39th Battalion. He details its formation and preparation for combat, emphasizing their hardships while enduring health challenges like dysentery and malaria. Dr. Cameron also compares the battalion's experiences to those of the 53rd Battalion, revealing key factors in their remarkable resilience against Japanese forces on the treacherous Kokoda Track.
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Quick takeaways
- The 39th Battalion's success in the Kokoda Campaign stemmed from effective leadership and the integration of experienced officers from the Second AIF.
- Despite challenges in formal training, the battalion demonstrated resilience and teamwork in combat, significantly delaying Japanese advances.
Deep dives
Formation and Background of the 39th Battalion
The 39th Battalion gained its reputation as one of Australia's prominent fighting units during World War II, particularly in the Kokoda campaign. Initially formed in 1939, its soldiers included many World War I veterans who brought extensive experience to the battalion. Under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Ralph Honner, the 39th was tasked with defending Australia against a feared Japanese invasion, particularly following the fall of Port Moresby. This backdrop of urgency for preparation allowed the battalion to rapidly integrate experienced officers and NCOs from the Second AIF who had previously fought in various theaters.
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