Following the North Korean attack, the United Nations took swift action. The UN resolved to send a force of troops from sixteen nations, including Australia. Australia had come to see the United States as its main political and military ally during WW2. The inability of Britain to support Australia as it faced the might of the Japanese army during 1942 made Australia acutely aware of its dependence on America. Therefore when America needed assistance in Korea, the Australians were predisposed to help. In fact, Australian forces were among the first to see action. The Liberal Prime Minister at the time, Robert Menzies, announced on 29th of June 1950 (only four days after the North Korean attack) that two Royal Australian Navy (RAN) ships were offered to the UN. In total, 9 ships of the RAN served during the Korean War. The Royal Australian Air force played an important support role, including its squadron of No. 77 Mustangs, which flew a total of 18 872 sorties. In total, out of 17 000 Australians who served, they suffered 1068 wounded in action and 278 killed.
|
|