'Brilliantly researched and sympathetically told, 44 DAYS is more than just a fitting tribute to brave but overlooked heroes. It's also a top read.' DAILY TELEGRAPH

The epic World War II story of the heroes of Australia's 75 Squadron - and the 44 days when these brave and barely trained pilots fought alone against the Japanese.

In March and April 1942, RAAF 75 Squadron bravely defended Port Moresby for 44 days when Australia truly stood alone against the Japanese. This group of raw young recruits scrambled ceaselessly in their Kittyhawk fighters to an extraordinary and heroic battle, the story of which has been left largely untold.

The recruits had almost nothing going for them against the Japanese war machine, except for one extraordinary leader named John Jackson, a balding, tubby Queenslander - at 35 possibly the oldest fighter pilot in the world - who said little, led from the front, and who had absolutely no sense of physical fear.

Time and time again this brave group were hurled into battle, against all odds and logic, and succeeded in mauling a far superior enemy - whilst also fighting against the air force hierarchy. After relentless attack, the squadron was almost wiped out by the time relief came, having succeeded in their mission - but also paying a terrible price.

Michael Veitch, actor, presenter and critically acclaimed author, brings to life the incredible exploits and tragic sacrifices of this courageous squadron of Australian heroes.

About the Author
Michael Veitch is well known as an author, actor and former ABC television and radio presenter. His books include the critically acclaimed accounts of Australian airmen in World War II, 44 Days, Heroes of the Skies, Fly, Flak, Barney Greatrex, Turning Point and The Battle of the Bismarck Sea. He lives in the Yarra Valley, outside Melbourne.

Reviews
An entertaining and comprehensive tour . . . Few readers will remain unmoved. * SYDNEY MORNING HERALD on THE FORGOTTEN ISLANDS *
A rich and enjoyable island-hopping journey. * SUNDAY HERALD SUN on THE FORGOTTEN ISLANDS *
compelling * SYDNEY MORNING HERALD on HEROES OF THE SKIES *
Tells the epic Second World War story of Australia's 75 Squadron. * Sunshine Coast Sunday *
Brilliantly researched and sympathetically told. A fitting tribute to brave but overlooked heroes. A top read. * Adelaide Advertiser, Sunday Territorian, The Daily Telegraph *
Included in Going Out v Staying In * Sunday Herald Sun *
Vividly describes the extremely brave men, who with little preparation or material support, flew missions in Kittyhawks against the superior Japanese Zero aircraft. * Readplus *
Epic WWII story. * Sunday Herald Sun *
Review * Good Reading *
heroism abounds in [44 Days] * Weekend Gold Coast Bulletin *
profoundly moving and stunningly written * Sunshine Coast Sunday *
well crafted, flowing and... an enjoyable read * Flightpath Magazine *
This is a book for all those whose passion is military aviation * Australian Defence Magazine *
thank you Michael Veitch * Golden Plains Miner *



Book Information
ISBN 9780733638817
Author Michael Veitch
Format Paperback
Page Count 336
Imprint Hachette Australia
Publisher Hachette Australia
Weight(grams) 320g
Dimensions(mm) 198mm * 130mm * 30mm