The Battle Of The Generals
Published October 2024
The Battle Of The Generals
MacArt`hur, Blamey and the defence of Australia in World War II
- Roland Perry
best-selling author of more than two million books
Paperback I $34.99 I Military History I Allen & Unwin I 384 pages
From one of Australia’s most respected and prolific authors, comes a rousing true story of two great Allied generals of the Pacific War, 1941-1945, who face off against the Imperial Japanese Army – and each other.
The son of a drover, Tom Blamey, was one of ten children. He gained respect, rising through the military ranks, first as a front-line soldier on Gallipoli, before unprecedented experience as chief-of staff of the 1st AIF under the exacting eye of General Sir John Monash, who masterminded major battles of WW1. Douglas MacArthur, in contrast, was born into a military life, the son of an American General, whose parents used their social weight to smooth over any incidents. Blamey was a talented, precise and detailed professional whilst MacArthur was bold with a theatrical flair and a carefully crafted image.
In March 1942 the Japanese had swarmed the Philippines, forcing then US General MacArthur to flee with his family, escaping by the skin of their teeth to the nearest safe country - Australia.
Meanwhile, Australia's foremost general, Tom Blamey, was ordered home from the Middle East by Prime Minister Curtin to tackle the military emergency suddenly facing the nation, with invasion appearing imminent.
These two generals, both with colourful pasts and intensely clashing personalities, were tasked with defending Australia against the Japanese war machine. One would lead us to victory, the other would claim the glory.
Drawing on archival sources and interviews, Roland Perry recreates the characters and action, in precise detail. The Battle of the Generals is the engaging and dramatic story of two intriguing men and the desperate defence of Australia in World War II.
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Roland Perry
Roland Perry OAM is one of Australia’s best-known authors whose books have sold more than two million copies. He has published 40 books, many of them bestsellers, including Bill the Bastard, Horrie the War Dog, The Australian Light Horse, The Changi Brownlow, Monash & Chauvel, and Anzac Sniper.