Borneo 1945

This captivating account details the last major Allied operation in the South-West Pacific and the largest Australian military campaign of World War II. Following the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941, Japanese forces quickly invaded Borneo, and within two months, the entire island had fallen, forcing Dutch and British Indian defenders to retreat. By April 1942, the Dutch East Indies were fully under Japanese control, a situation that would persist for another three years.

In late 1944, the US landings in the Philippines effectively severed Borneo’s critical oil and resource supply to Japan, making it a key strategic target for the Allies. Under the command of General Douglas MacArthur, the recapture of Borneo became a priority. This book delves into the planning and execution of Operation Oboe, a complex mission led by Australian forces but involving naval and special operations units from the United States, Britain, and the Netherlands.

The operation is broken down into six distinct stages, each involving amphibious landings. Richly illustrated with battle scene artwork, detailed maps, and photographs, the book brings to life pivotal events like the captures of Tarakan, Labuan, Brunei, and Sarawak. It also highlights the guerrilla campaigns led by Allied special forces and the pivotal landing at Balikpapan by the Australian 7th Infantry Division, which marked a turning point in this intense campaign.