Throughout the Far East & the Pacific, the land, sea & air battles in the war between the Allies & Japan has often been covered by books focusing on particular elements or campaigns.
Here aided by some very helpful tables, the author provides a wide ranging & highly researched account covering many different theatres, whilst taking a look at the military strengths & the tactics used by both the Allied & Axis countries.

From the end of the first world war what remained of many countries armed forces were cut & the men demobilised. Brian's engaging narrative then explains how these countries transitioned into the fighting strengths of the second world war, through to the surrender of Japan in 1945 & the end of the conflict.

Some of the battles covered were thought of as being solely between American & Japanese forces. Interestingly the author reveals that there was also involvement by British & Commonwealth forces too, albeit sometimes in a lesser role that has over time been 'forgotten'.

The fight against the Japanese is an important part of the second world war. Yet despite this, my own reading hasn't concentrated enough on these campaigns.
I have certainly found this book to be of huge benefit, not just in learning so much more, but it has provided an incentive to want to push on & read more.
This review copy is the first of three books written by Brian that I now possess. I have recently bought two others based on some glowing online reviews.
From my own personal experience of 'Forgotten War', I can honestly say that I am really looking forward to picking up those in the near future, for this book has been an absolute pleasure to read.

History Book Chat

"Brian E Walter's Forgotten War is a fantastic addition to the Pacific Theatre bibliography".

Classic Military Vehicle Magazine - Issue 273, February 2024

In 250 pages of narrative such a wide-ranging series of campaigns over a vast area can only be skimmed over, but by concise, accurate writing, the author has delivered a worthy single volume narrative. This should be a must have book that is readable in itself that also offers a starting point to further reading.

RAF Historical Society Journal

This book isn’t the first to draw attention to this often-forgotten chapter of World War II history, but Mr. Walter’s narrative is comprehensive, engaging and insightful. He reminds us that British and Commonwealth veterans of the Pacific share a special bond because of “the sad reality that their sacrifices and exploits largely went unnoticed in their home countries.

The Wall Street Journal