The Allied Intervention in Siberia, 1918-1919, is one of the untold stories of the First World War. Few know that 4,200 Canadians of the Canadian Siberian Expeditionary Force (CSEF) were involved in a muddled operation against the Bolsheviks. The Canadians were part of an Allied force that included American, British, Czech and Japanese troops. All were prepared to fight in the war against the Reds, the first Canadians reached Vladivostok in November 1918, with the main force arriving in January 1919.

As the men waited for action the International community waffled, confused as to what action to take. The men waited, garrisoning the towns around the great port, and pushing patrols out into the countryside. But after four months there was still no clear direction forthcoming. Finally the Allies decided to quit Siberia, and the Canadians were ordered home.

The Russian Civil War would have to be decided without an Allied intervention. Historian Jack Skuce has done a magnificent job in putting together the history of the CSEF. His incredible research gives a clear understanding of the Siberian intervention and the men who served in the CSEF. The book lists all the Canadians in Siberia, their Honours and Awards, deaths and desertions.

by J.E. Skuce