Secret Heroes of World War II

Spies, scientists and other heroes

By Eric Chaline

Published by Exisle Publishing
RRP $39.99 in hardback | ISBN 9781921966125

A quick look through this book rather belies the title of ‘secret heroes’. Certainly, some of the names are little known but others, such as Robert Oppenheimer, Howard Florey, Alan Turing and Barnes Wallis are well known figures in the Allied fight to defeat Nazi Germany.

Among the espionage heroes, Australian readers will recognise Nancy Wake. Among the escape heroes, Douglas Bader is well known as is Oskar Schindler.

But there is no doubt they, along with their lesser known colleagues, were pivotal to the success of the Allies, using their skills, scientific knowledge and inate bravery to achieve extraordinary things.

From the establishment of the Special Operations Executive (SOE) network in France to the successful mission to stop Germany developing their own nuclear weapon, each of their achievements demonstrates the extraordinary commitment of the individuals involved and the incredible acts of bravery, skill and intelligence that helped to turn the tide of the war.

Sadly, many paid the ultimate price for their dedication and bravery. The acts of heroism and the singular achievements of these heroes deserve to be honoured and remembered.

VERDICT: This book does not offer a deep dive into the careers and achievements of these brilliant and brave individuals but it does whet the appetite to explore more deeply some of the extraordinary stories that emerged from the war that is now, almost, beyond living memory.