On Sunday 21st April 1918, the General Officer Commanding Royal Artillery for the Australian Corps on the Western Front, Brigadier General Walter Coxen wrote in his diary “RITTMEISTER FREIHERR VON RICHTHOFEN was brought down by 53rd Battery’s Lewis gunners.”
When author Michael Tucker sent a copy of his new self-published book “Robert Buie and the Red Baron”, I was interested to see where the story was going.
This book shines a much-needed light on an unsung Australian hero, Robert Buie, presenting compelling evidence that he, as a ground-based Lewis gunner, was the one who brought down the infamous Red Baron. Tucker’s research is meticulous, drawing on eyewitness accounts, ballistics analysis, and historical records that challenge the long-held narrative crediting Canadian pilot Roy Brown.
It’s a refreshing take that honours an everyday soldier, and the local Australian perspective adds a personal touch.
The writing is clear, with maps and photos.
Michael Tucker’s “Robert Buie and the Red Baron” is a dry read but if you appreciate well-researched historical arguments and investigation, you may reach the reasonable conclusion that Robert Buie, an Australian infantryman, fired the fatal shot that ended Manfred von Richthofen’s command of the air war over Europe in WW1
Copies of the book are available from Michael Tucker via 0419 221 691 or mtucker1939@gmail.com
Reviewed for MHHV by Jason McGregor
Contact Jason McGregor about this article.
