by Peter Williams
Softcover (7.25×9.75 inches). 96 pages. 2026.
Subtitle: Japanese Defeat in Papua
The Japanese, foiled at the landing of Milne Bay (Papua New Guinea) and rebuffed at the Battle of Coral Sea, launched an attack via an overland route to try and capture Port Moresby. The Kokoda Trail was narrow and went through jungle and over mountains, but the Japanese advanced against the Australians.
Initial success of outflanking defensive position after position ended in a halt as the Japanese Command sent reinforcements to Guadalcanal. The reinforced Australians then counter-attacked. So began a to-and-fro campaign among the mountains and jungle.
As with all volumes in the series, this one outlines a strategic background, commanders, plans, forces, and chronology. Three OOBs (Milne Bay (September 1942), Kokoda Trail July-November 1942, and Buna-Kona (November 1942-January 1943) drill down to the battalion level. Then comes an overview of the campaign, hitting the high and low points for both sides.
Logistics, terrain, and weather proved to be significant handicaps for both sides. The Japanese force, on a shoestring to begin with, withered as Guadalcanal drew off troops. Eventually, numbers and supplies outweighed fighting spirit and the Japanese were pushed back to their launching point and the Australians and US went on to capture Buna-Kona area. It’s all well explained.
The booklet contains 56 black and white photos, four color photos, seven color maps, two color illustrations, one 3D map, and three color two-page action illustrations.
Years ago, I played in a Command Decision scenario based on the Japanese attack along the Kokoda Trail. The jungle proved as difficult to navigate on the tabletop as in history, although I managed to cut off half an Australian battalion. This booklet will give you the basics for a number of scenarios.
Enjoyed it.
— Reviewed by Russ Lockwood
