This article, “PACIFIC THEATRE 12b” by Lestrade, critiques historical accounts of World War II in the Pacific, particularly focusing on the Burma campaign and the figure of Orde Wingate. The author argues that much of the official narrative, particularly regarding battles and casualty figures, is fabricated or exaggerated, citing “funny numbers” and dubious photographic evidence.
The author introduces Orde Wingate as a controversial figure, presenting him as a mentally unstable, incompetent, and possibly fraudulent military leader with a complex family background and connections to the British aristocracy. His exploits with the Chindits in Burma are described as disastrous, with high casualties attributed to his poor leadership and eccentric behavior. The author also scrutinizes the role of General Stilwell, who is portrayed as a cruel commander who pushed his troops, the Merrills Marauders, to exhaustion and further casualties.
The article then delves into the Battle of Mount Song in Yunnan Province, China, questioning the reported casualty figures and the method of victory, suggesting it was also fabricated. It highlights the seemingly idyllic conditions of the Japanese garrison at Ramou before the battle, contrasting it with the official narrative of a fierce struggle.
The author then examines the U-Go Plan and the Battles of Imphal and Kohima, arguing that the Japanese defeat was not due to superior Allied strategy but rather their own logistical failures, particularly a lack of supplies. The article casts doubt on photographic evidence presented in historical accounts, suggesting manipulation and fabrication.
The author concludes by questioning the veracity of the entire Burma campaign and other Pacific engagements, suggesting they were elaborate fictions to justify wartime logistics, potentially for black market trade, and to facilitate the eventual independence of Burma and India. The article also criticizes American goals in Burma for aiding the Nationalist Chinese regime of Chiang Kai-shek.