Killer Bees the story of the Australian Independent Companies and Commandos 1942-1945 – Dr. Gregory Blake

In the heart of wartime jungles, ‘The Killer Bees’, Australia’s elite soldiers, redefined warfare, shaping history in unconventional ways.

In the throes of World War II, Australia’s Independent Companies and Commandos forged a daring path to victory. Comprising an extraordinary breed of soldiers, they redefined warfare with their unique, unconventional approach. At odds with traditional military norms, these exceptional units carved their own style and set their own rules.

Australia’s jungle Commandos, the Killer Bees where a special breed, tough, resilient, sharp and deadly. Venturing deep into the jungles of Timor, New Guinea, and Bougainville, they mastered tactics and procedures entirely their own, becoming unrivalled jungle warfare experts. Their audacious spirit and skills played a pivotal role in Australia’s critical military campaigns from 1942 to 1945, safeguarding the nation during a period of existential threat.

The Killer Bees unravels the heroic journeys of these exceptional soldiers and their units as they waged a relentless war against Japan. In a time when Australia’s very existence hung in the balance, the Independent Companies and Commandos emerged as unsung heroes, crafting a legacy of valour, innovation, and tenacity.

About the presenter
Dr. Gregory Blake is a retired History teacher. He has been interested in military history since his earliest years and has over time written numerous articles related to military events throughout history.

He has an MA and PhD in history from UNSW Canberra (ADFA) the subject of the PhD being the Australian Independent Companies and Commandos 1940-1945.

He has had four military history books published. Killer Bees the story of the Australian Independent Companies and Commandos 1942-1945 is his fifth military history book.

Greg is an accomplished illustrator and has illustrated for magazines and books. He was at one time both a Trooper and an Officer with 4/19th PWLH in the Australian Army Reserve. Greg now lives in Bendigo, Victoria

The Book: Out 03/07/2024