Review of Robin Gerster and Peter Pierce (eds.), 'On the War-Path: An Anthology of Australian Military Travel': Carlton, Vic., Melbourne University Press, 2004. Pp. xii + 350. Paper. ISBN 0522850871. RRP. $AU39-95

Abstract

This fine collection of descriptions of soldiers and other servicemen's travelling - and then of 'war tourism' in later times by survivors or the relatives and friends of the dead - is an unexpected yet remarkably satisfying collection of pieces which combine both the 'folklore of travel' and the distinctly personal tone of those recalling experiences truly memorable for them. Each extract from the original much longer works evokes compassion, laughter, memories and, above all - and especially for the older reader - the strongest emotions. This must be compassionate empathy and identification with one's own curiosity when first travelling overseas. This was/ is especially the case if much of that travel should have been made by sea, especially in the initial departure and first landfalls /visits to new and quite unfamiliar countries.