This book is about a small Australian rural community during World War One, their trials, pride, sorrows and courage. Traralgon soldiers give their personal accounts of the war, covering all major stunts in which the Australians took part. Despite censorship, their descriptions are pragmatic and graphic, humorous and insightful, and at times deeply touching. They used their networks, letters and cards to keep in touch with mates in different parts of the war, and share news of each other with families and friends. Combined with newspaper reports of what was happening at home the letter provide an insight into the attitudes of rural men, the strength of their friendships and their strong identification with Gippsland and Traralgon.