Chemical Warfare in Australia

"Chemical Warfare in Australia" by Geoff Plunkett is a comprehensive historical account of Australia's involvement in chemical warfare from 1914 to the present day. Here is a detailed overview of the book, including key themes, plot summary, and critical reception:

Key Themes

1. Preparations and Training:

   • The book explores the preparations made by Australia to use chemical warfare, particularly during the interwar period. It highlights the comprehensive training conducted and the significant stocks of chemical weapons held.

2. Importation and Storage:

   • It delves into the importation and storage of chemical warfare agents, detailing the various types of mustard gas and other chemical weapons stored at 14 major depots.

3. Incidents and Accidents:

   • The book sheds light on little-known incidents, such as the death of a wharf laborer due to mustard contamination and the casual attitude of RAAF armourers handling these materials.

4. Organizational and Bureaucratic Aspects:

   • It examines the organizational structure and bureaucratic use of euphemisms related to chemical warfare, such as "Smoke Curtain Installations" for aircraft.

5. Historical Context and International Relations:

   • The book provides historical context, including the fear of Japanese aggression and the reluctance of some military leaders to authorize the use of chemical weapons, as exemplified by General MacArthur's experience during World War I.

Plot Summary

The book is structured around several key chapters:

1. Chemical Warfare Agents in Australia:

   • This chapter provides an overview of the chemical warfare agents used and stored in Australia.

2. Armourers Remember: The Need for Secrecy:

   • This section focuses on the experiences of armourers who handled chemical weapons, highlighting the need for secrecy and the limited supervision provided during their work.

3. Chemical Warfare Organisation:

   • It discusses the organizational structure of chemical warfare units within the Australian military.

4. Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Training:

   • The chapter details the training conducted by the RAAF for handling chemical warfare agents.

5. Army Training and Units:

   • It explores the training and units involved in chemical warfare within the Australian Army.

6. Production and Storage:

   • This section covers the production and storage of chemical weapons, including the daily routines at these sites.

7. Transportation: Armourers' Stories:

   • The chapter shares stories from armourers about the transportation of chemical weapons.

8. Chemical Warfare Plan:

   • It outlines the plans for using chemical warfare in response to enemy actions, particularly focusing on the threat from Japan.

9. Experimental Stations and Brook Island Trials:

   • The book discusses the experimental stations and the Brook Island Trials, which were live trials of chemical warfare agents.

10. Liaison: Interservice and International:

    • This section examines the interservice and international liaison related to chemical warfare.

11. Accidents, Incidents, and Medical Treatment:

    • It highlights accidents and incidents involving chemical warfare agents and the medical treatment provided.

12. Stocktake Policy and Disposal:

    • The final chapter discusses the stocktake policy and disposal of chemical warfare stocks, including the decontamination of areas and the death of an individual due to handling a drum of mustard gas.

Critical Reception

The book has received positive reviews for its comprehensive and detailed account of Australia's involvement in chemical warfare. Here are some key points from the critical reception:

• Historical Significance: The book is praised for shedding light on previously unknown incidents and providing a detailed historical account of Australia's preparations and use of chemical warfare.
• Research and Documentation: The thorough research and documentation are highlighted as strengths of the book, making it a valuable resource for historians and military enthusiasts.
• Engaging Narrative: The book is noted for its engaging narrative, which makes complex historical information accessible to a broad audience.

Overall, "Chemical Warfare in Australia" by Geoff Plunkett is a significant contribution to the field of military history, offering a comprehensive and engaging account of Australia's involvement in chemical warfare.