"Fly Boy" chronicles the life of Parker 'Joe' Hodge, a Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) pilot who tragically lost his life in the Netherlands East Indies during World War II. Born in Beechworth, Joe's journey is marked by unwavering determination, exemplified by his persistence through five applications before realizing his dream of joining Australia's elite air force.
The narrative offers a vivid portrayal of aviation in Australia and the formative years of the RAAF during a pivotal historical period. Confident, ambitious, and adventurous, Joe seizes every opportunity to travel while advancing through his flying training at Point Cook.
Enriched with personal anecdotes and captivating photographs—many captured by Joe himself—the story illuminates Australia's often overlooked campaign in the Netherlands East Indies. This episode, rich in individual acts of bravery, underscores the early vulnerabilities of the British Empire in the Pacific War.
Author Peter Hodge's quest to uncover Joe's story becomes a profound exploration of lost family connections and self-discovery. A compelling and insightful biography.