A book by two authors, one of them an Allora local, delves into the war years of the brave men of the 2/26 Battalion.

Read through the personal interviews, family stories and archive research of the military history and personal history of the men compiled by two dedicated women, daughters of two of the soldiers – Norm Newport and Bill Anderson – who were mates in the 2/26 Battalion.

The authors, Lyn Wright and Lyn Anderson, have also become firm friends after teaming up to compile this book to ensure the men of the 2/26 Battalion will not be forgotten.

The book has taken 20 years on and off to fïnish the 900 pages with research carried out throughout the Darling Downs talking to families and mates in Toowoomba, Clifton, Allora, Warwick, Killarney, Stanthorpe and Goondiwindi.

It’s known that eleven men were from around this area. The 2/26 Battalion was the only infantry battalion formed in Queensland in World War II.

This battalion received tough disciplined training to become a very efficient fighting force against the Japanese, then, after surrender the men became prisoners of war for three horrendous years.

The Battalion Story, compiled by the late Lt. Col. (R) Ron Magarry, lists the over 1200 men who at some time were part of the 2/26 Battalion.

While many stories will never be known, The Men of the 2/26 Battalion gives the reader an insight to the experience of most of the men who enlisted and were assigned to the 2/26 Battalion.

The book was launched on 15 August 2022 to remember that day 77 years ago when World War II ended and prisoners of war were liberated.

As an introductory offer – authors’ special price – only $90 with money donated to the Allora & District Historical Society.

For book orders or inquiries contact Lyn Wright by Facebook Messenger or lynwright007@gmail.com

This article appeared in the Allora Advertiser, 7 September 2022.