The Coast Watchers

Populist in presentation and not a definitive history of The Coast Watchers but a very readable book none the less. I would suggest that for the novice on the subject, such as myself, this is a good place to start.

Following a few of the individuals and the events that surrounded their Coast Watching, author Patrick Lindsay has presented a well-researched book with good footnotes and an excellent bibliography.

Many of the watchers were in fact civilians prior to the Japanese invasion of the south Pacific Islands and one has to admire their tenacity in the face of grave danger. Lindsay states that 36 died in action. As US Commander Admiral Fitch wrote “Your constant, efficient, courteous work with (his) staff has been of great value to me and all Air Services engaged in the South Pacific. Your efforts have been worthy of your superb coast-watching organisation which since the start of the campaign has merited the deep gratitude and the highest-possible admiration of all Air Forces and specially all Flyers”

Recommended to any that have an interest in a small Force that played a vital role in the war in the Pacific.