Christopher Jary has done it again. Writing in partnership with Bill Franklin (who’s uncle was second-in command of the Royal West Kents), Christopher has produced a first class account of the 2nd Dorset’s battle at Kohima that culminated with D Company, together with the famous Grant tank commanded by Sergeant Gerry Waterhouse, capturing the tennis court and clearing the bunkers that dominated it and the Deputy Commissioner’s bungalow on 13th May. I interviewed a veteran of this day many years ago who said that for the first time they could see Japanese running from their positions, down the hill to the Treasury area. The men were so excited they just stood there and cheered, feeling it a bit unsporting to chase after the running Japanese with bullets.
This wasn’t yet the end of the battle for Kohima, but it was the end of the battle for the northern part of the ridge that had begun as far back as the morning of 4th April 1944. It was the beginning of the end of one of the great sieges of the Second World War. So much was at stake but after weeks of brutal slog-fighting the first victory at Kohima had been secured, and it was the wonderful 2nd Dorsets that had done it.
Christopher should need no introduction to you. This, I think, is his 12th book. He’s a superb historian and writes beautifully. You’ll love this. I only wish that every battalion in the 2nd Division (and 161st Brigade of the 5th Indian Division) had its own account like this - they all deserve it. Something for Christopher to put on his list?
Please buy your copy from the Kohima Educational Trust here.
