Wewak Mission Coastwatchers At War In New Guinea

Biography & Memoir History Australiana

Wewak Mission: Coastwatchers at War in New Guinea by Lionel Percy Vivian Veale recounts the shadow-war fought along New Guinea’s coasts where small bands of Australian coastwatchers relayed Japanese movements to Allied forces. Drawing on first-hand accounts and wartime records, this 2002 Australian hardcover keeps the pace of a thriller while remaining solid military history.

Veale’s narrative follows volunteers from Armidale cadet days to the 33rd Battalion and secret outposts around Kavieng, showing how local knowledge tipped the balance in the South-West Pacific. Geography, true combat stories and the author’s own recollections blend into a vivid portrait of wartime New Guinea.

Collectors will appreciate the crisp, unmarked pages and tight binding; the original dust jacket is present, spine shows only a fine cut. Light foxing on the top edge is external only—internal paper remains bright. Two front endpapers carry gift inscriptions, adding period character without affecting readability.

Ideal for enthusiasts of Australian military history, New Guinea campaigns, or rare regional titles, this 310-page first edition from a smoke-free home is ready for the shelf or field pack.