This was an unknown story to me of how a fleet of Australian fishing boats, trawlers and schooners supplied US and Australian forces in the Pacific – and helped turn the course of World War II.

“The Rag Tag Fleet” by Ian W. Shaw is a well-regarded historical account that tells the little-known story of the U.S. Army’s Small Ships Section during World War II. The book meticulously chronicles the formation and evolution of this unique fleet, highlighting the challenges faced by the Australian vessels and their dedicated civilian crews as they operated in perilous conditions. It focuses on the critical role this improvised fleet played in supporting Allied forces in the Pacific, particularly during the brutal New Guinea campaign, where their agility and resourcefulness made a significant impact on logistics and troop movements. Shaw’s narrative provides insight into the camaraderie and bravery of those involved, revealing how these maritime heroes navigated treacherous waters and played a crucial part in turning the tide of war, often overcoming incredible odds in their quest to deliver supplies and reinforcements at a time when every mission counted.

The central theme of the book is the “Rag Tag Fleet” itself—a motley collection of Australian fishing boats, schooners, trawlers, and even yachts that were pressed into service by the American military during a time of great need. With limited naval assets available, this eclectic fleet became a vital logistical lifeline, transporting essential supplies, ammunition, food, and medical equipment to Allied troops fighting in remote and challenging locations like Buna on the New Guinea coast. Each vessel carried its own story, often reflecting the personal sacrifices of their civilian crews who answered the call to duty. The crews were primarily Australian civilians who were either too young, too old, or medically unfit for regular military service, yet they demonstrated remarkable resilience and bravery, navigating treacherous waters under daunting conditions, often with little to no naval training. Their contribution was not merely practical; it was a testament to the spirit of camaraderie and determination that characterized the Australian home front during the war, highlighting the significant role that ordinary citizens played in supporting the larger war effort against formidable odds.

Shaw’s narrative goes beyond a simple military history by bringing the stories of the individual men to life.

One fascinating story is about an Australian logistics officer who found himself in a peculiar situation with a boatload of cement he couldn’t use. This unexpected surplus left him with a pressing dilemma, as his real need was for good quality lumber to repair his fleet, which some American engineers happened to have in abundance. Realizing the potential for a mutually beneficial exchange, he cleverly arranged a trade of cement for lumber that would satisfy both parties. To the surprise of those around him, the supply of cement never seemed to dwindle, as he devised an ingenious plan; he discreetly paid local villagers to steal some of it back each time to facilitate the next trade! This shrewd approach kept his operations running smoothly.

The book highlights the bravery, ingenuity, and the difficult conditions these Australian mariners faced, detailing the daily risks from Japanese air attacks, disease (malaria, dysentery), and the perilous, uncharted waters. It is a tribute to the men who risked their lives without the official recognition of a formal military service. A significant part of the story is the post-war fight for these men to be acknowledged and receive the same rights as other veterans, a battle they eventually won.

Shaw should be praised for his thorough research, which draws on a wide range of sources to create a detailed and authentic account. The book is a fast-paced and easy-to-read historical “yarn,” with Shaw’s writing style noted for its ability to create a compelling and dramatic narrative that captures the action and danger of the crews’ experiences. “The Rag Tag Fleet” is highly recommended for anyone interested in Australian military history, the Pacific theatre of World War II, or just a great true-life adventure story.

The book vividly describes the logistical problems facing military action in the South west pacific. I consider it a great read and a valuable and fitting tribute to the courage and sacrifice of these civilian mariners.

THE RAG TAG FLEET is the unknown story of the final months of 1942 – when these men ran the gauntlet of Japanese air attacks, malaria and dysentery, reefs, and shallow, shark-infested waters to support the US and Australian troops that defeated the entrenched Japanese forces at Buna on the New Guinea coast, and so helped turn the war in the Allies’ favour. Their bravery, ingenuity and mettle helped turn the tide of the war. For the first time, their story is told.