The story of what happened in Java at the end of the war is complex and tragic. For the Indonesians, it is the proud foundation of their independence story, learned by every schoolchild. For the Dutch, it remains a painful memory of a crushing loss. In Britain, it is completely forgotten. Yet there are reasons to recall our intervention, especially as our overstretched armed forces are once again facing stringent cuts.

The commitment to Indonesia was dumped on the British by the US, and was most unwelcome at the end of six years of desperate war. SEAC was short of men and transport, and everyone was keen to get home. The army conducted itself with courage and determination, despite a greater-than-usual reluctance to risk life and limb. It started learning the lessons of guerrilla warfare and peacekeeping that stood it in good stead during the retreat from empire, right through to Northern Ireland.

A shortened line was held in Java, barely, by an inadequate number of men. Politicians who commit British forces to action need to ensure they are properly resourced. And, when it becomes evident that the task is beyond them, they must find the courage to withdraw them with due speed.