War - Ww2 - The Coast-Watchers Poem by Paul Warren

When the Japanese came down in 1942 for conquest so clear
Australia was threatened and invasion was near
Brave men in the islands and New Guinea mainland
Stayed in place behind enemy lines in the Allies plan

With locals they reported plane and ship movement
Especially in these dark times as they went
Bravery was the call and safety always not guaranteed
But the information was vital for the Allies to succeed

Keeping one step ahead of the Japanese
Betrayed sometimes for the Japanese to appease
Meant they slept on the ground with one eye open
Needing luck on their side and submarines to depend

These Australian officers of the Royal Australian Navy Reserve
Fought the Second World War in their covert deserve
At the end of this war Allied Commanders went on to say
Their contribution exceeded their numbers in their way.

© Paul Warren Poetry