Showing 449 items
matching army base
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Lilydale RSL Sub Branch
Plaque - Heraldry, Plaque - 31 Regional Cadet Unit Ringwood (31 RCU)
Timber plaque featuring badge of 31 Army Cadet Unit - Norwood, Ringwood. Based at A Combat Engineering Regt - Dublin Road, Rigwood.PRESENTED TO / LILYDALE R.S.L./ IN APPRECIATION OF THE / SUPPORT PROVIDED TO / 31 RCU RINGWOOD / 25 JULY 1991 -
Lilydale RSL Sub Branch
Badge
Pair of metal Australian Army shoulder title badges worn at base of shoulder strapAustralia -
City of Greater Bendigo - Civic Collection
Ceremonial object - Invitation, City of Bendigo, The Freedom of Entry, 1970
On the 27th March, 1942 'Fortuna House' was occupied by LHQ Cartographic Company, Australian Survey Corps. Fortuna was the site of the base map plant and during this time approximately sixteen million maps of Australian Territories in the South West Pacific area were produced for use by the Allied Services. Fortuna was purchased in 1951 by the Commonwealth Government and until 1970 the Survey Corps and Regiment became part of community life in the district. This event to grant the Regiment Freedom of Entry took place at the Queen Elizabeth Oval on Sunday 14th June, 1970.Booklet outlining the celebrations commemorating the Army Survey Regiment's time in Bendigo. Includes a short history of the Regiment's association with the City which spanned from 1942 - 1970 as well as the day proceedings attended by the Mayor and Councillors.fortuna house, george lansell, royal aust survey corps, queen elizabeth oval, mayor jeffrey -
Beechworth RSL Sub-Branch
Coveralls working green, Australian Government Clothing Factory, 1985
Unknown donor, this item was typically worn by Army personnel for day to day duties at Base and workshops etcA day to day typical item of clothing worn by some Army personnel for their duties.Green cotton overalls. 410 mm shoulder width, 1143.5 mm length, 53 mm arm length-top of shoulder to arm end.,48mm waist width, 73.5mm leg length,62mm zip front from collar to waist., 39.5 mm collar with 75mm width.5mm sleeve cuff width., 45mm width for leg cuff. 16 mm zip length for all 4 pockets. Two pockets vertical from waist line-22.5 mm from middle of waist. Top two pockets with zip sloping from shoulder down towards centre of chest.Top of zip 11.5mm from shoulder with bottom of zip 23.5mm from shoulder. The pocket finishes at waist line-15mm from waist to lower zip position. Cloth hanger 7 by 25mm sewn on inside neck. Four pleats at lower back of coveralls.Green tag on neck: “A.G.C.F. VICTORIA 1985 ARROW SIGN SIZE 85-90SH 8405.66.060.4199 SERVICE NO . NAME............................ “ One other tag below first tag. The second tag is a tear off tag (7mm long ,8.5mm wide)made of light canvass off white colour with the following inscription within a 6.5mm width by 5.5mm deep 2mm black border “ THIS TAG IS FOR IDENTIFICATION ONLY PLEASE REMOVE BEFORE WEARING Docket No 44784/1 Order No 295024 34 Size. 85-90 SH Garment No 20273 Remarks. R 34 “ “ 29” At bottom right hand corner of white tag. army, geen -
The 5th/6th Battalion Royal Victoria Regiment Historical Collection
Award - Trophy, Army Challenge Eights 1911
... a wooden base before" Army Challenge Eights 1911 Award Trophy ...Rowing TrophyArmy rowing trophy presented to victorian units from 1911-1931Large rowing trophy 1911, Inscribed with Army challenge Eights commonwealth military forces Victoria presented by Alfred Bowley & Co, Davies Doery & Co, Denniston & Co Prop Ltd. Has large ornate handles centre has inscriptions from 1911 - 1931 Slight damage 1930 winners. Has 4 holes on base "might have had a wooden base before"Army challenge Eights commonwealth military forces Victoria presented by Alfred Bowley & Co, Davies Doery & Co, Denniston & Co Prop Ltd 58.35army rowing, pre war, regimental property, 5/6 rvr, bhq, trophy -
The 5th/6th Battalion Royal Victoria Regiment Historical Collection
Equipment - Water bottle, Japanese, c.1940
Item is representitve of equipment used by the Imperial Japanese Army and Navy, who faught against Australian soldiers in WW2Khaki, aluminium water bottler marked with some light shrapnel damage on the face and paint wear on the rear from contact with the wearer. The bottle is without lid and carrying yoke.Some Japanese characters on the base -
The 5th/6th Battalion Royal Victoria Regiment Historical Collection
Photograph - Framed Photograph, 3 Platoon Operational Search Company- Melbourne 13-26 SEP 2000, 2000
Presented to the Wark VC club by the now company CSM. Several members of the company are in the photo.Square, wooden frame containing a photo of 40 members of the Army, 3 civilians, 2 police officers and 2 police dogs. At the base of the frame is an engraved brass plaque.Presented to Wark VC Club from Lt Ebert & Sgt Condon -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Functional object - Caterer's Can Opener, Mitchell & Cooper of England, 1950s
This Can opener was used at the Bandiana Golf Club near Wodonga. Bonzer was a trademark of Mitchell & Cooper of England. Alfred Mitchell & Arthur Cooper started as silversmiths and engravers in 1879 in East London. The family owned business is still operated by Guy Cooper, great grandson of Arthur Cooper. Bandiana Army Golf Club 18 hole course opened in 1949. The Club reached its highest membership with 400 members in the late 1980s. Members played their last competition at this course on 30th October 2103.This utensil was used at the Bandiana Army Golf Course near Wodonga.Cast iron commercial can opener with rotating handle including a red knob.Underneath base plate "THE BONZER /TRADEMARK/ CATERER'S/ CAN OPENER/ MADE IN ENGLAND"caterers' utensils, kitchen utensils -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Certificate - WW1 Private A. G. Stevenson, 1924
Arthur Edward Stevenson enlisted on 17 September 1914 and served with the 14th Battalion of the AIF. He was killed in action at Gallipoli on 20 August 1915 at age 28. His personal effects of a belt, hairbrush, knife, postcards and photos were returned to his brother John in June 1916. Later that year, John Stevenson wrote to the Officer in Charge of base records, asking for confirmation of his brother’s death, as he had received a letter from Arthur dated 27 August 1915, seven days later than the date on which he was reportedly killed. The Army confirmed that Arthur had in fact died, and concluded that he had likely misdated his letter. In 1920, Arthur’s sister Rachel wrote to the Department of Defence, asking whether her brother’s grave had been located and again querying the date of his death. Later, she completed a form that was sent to next of kin seeking information on deceased soldiers for the Australian War Memorial’s Roll of Honour. Arthur Stevenson’s death is recorded at the Lone Pine Memorial on the Gallipoli Peninsula. Honour Certificates WW1 - From 1915 onwards, recruits in many shires and towns in eastern Australia were honoured by local government authorities. A common form of recognition was the award of honour certificates. The first honour certificates were presented in 1915 and 1916 to men who had yet to leave Australia. The designers and publishing companies solicited business directly from councils. Publishers began to print two different types of certificates: honour certificates to thank soldiers who had survived and memorial certificates to commemorate the dead. D.W. Paterson, a Melbourne publishing firm, claimed they had supplied certificates to over 150 cities and shires in Victoria and New South Wales, including the Shire of Wodonga. Paterson also had the widest range of designs The certificate signified that the officials of the community recognised and shared the family's pride and grief. The certificate was signed by S. T Parker, Shire President and R. H. Murphy, Council Secretary on 4th August 1919.This certificate is significant as it recognises service given to Australia by Arthur Edward Stevenson. Coloured certificate presented to the family of Arthur Ernest Stevenson by Wodonga Shire Council. The certificate is mounted behind glass in a wooden frame.gallipoli, world war 1, arthur edward stevenson -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Functional object - RAEME Shield, c1978
RAEME Corps was first established in 1942 when the Ordnance Corps and the Service Corps were combined. The royal ascent was granted in 1948. The Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (RAEME) is a technical corps tasked with the maintenance of the Army's modern hardware and equipment. RAEME personnel are represented in most Army units. The Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers corps motto is ‘Arte et Marte’, which is Latin for ‘With Skill and Fighting’. This item, was presented to the Council of the Rural City of Wodonga in 1978. RAEME has a strong connection with the city of Wodonga through its service and training facilities at the Bandiana base on the edge of Wodonga. A shield shaped plaque carved with the emblem of RAEME corps (The Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers corps). The edge of the shield is decorated with carved leaves. An engraved metal plate has been attached to acknowledge the presentation of the plaque to the Council of the Rural City of Wodonga. The rearing horse and chain are symbolic of power under control and the lightning flash, of electrical engineering. The rearing horse also forms part of the crest of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers and, together with the lightning flash, is intended to mark the close relationship which exists between the electrical and mechanical engineers in both civil and military life. The globe is indicative of the impact of engineering on the world generally.Attached to rear of shield "Presented to/The Council of the Rural CIty of Wodonga/ by/ The Commanding Officer and Members of/RAEME Training Centre/ 21 October 1978"raeme, australian army -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Memorabilia - Commemorative Award from RAEME unit to the Rural City of Wodonga, 1978
... at the army base at Bandiana. RAEME Rural City of Wodonga Freedom ...RAEME Corps was first established in 1942 when the Ordnance Corps and the Service Corps were combined. The royal ascent was granted in 1948. The Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (RAEME) is a technical corps tasked with the maintenance of the Army's modern hardware and equipment. RAEME personnel are represented in most Army units. The Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers corps motto is ‘Arte et Marte’, which is Latin for ‘With Skill and Fighting’. This item, was presented to the Council of the Rural City of Wodonga in 1978. RAEME has a long association with Wodonga due to its service at the Bandiana base just outside of Wodonga. The inscription on the side of the base reads: "Presented to the Citizens of the Rural City of Wodonga by the Commanding Officer and members of RAEME Trg Centre on the occasion of the granting of the Freedom of the Rural City of Wodonga to RAEME Trg Centre 21 October 1978RAEME Corps has a long association with the city of Wodonga through its involvement in training and logistics at the army base at Bandiana.An award featuring a small model of the cannon "Zamzama" (Captor of Forts) mounted on a polished wooden base. The award includes a plaque outlining the significance of "Zamzama" on the top and another plaque explaining the significance on this award on the front of the base.Explanation of "Zamzama" beside cannon: "ZAMZAMA (CAPTOR OF FORTS)/ The original 14' 4 1/2" long, with 9 1/2" bore, was cast in brass in one/ piece by Muslim engineers in the year 1757 on the orders of the/ emperor AHMAD-SHAH-ABDALI. It was used in several battles and/ proved its value as a great weapon of destruction. It soon became to be/ regarded as a "Tallsman of Power" and continued as such until it was/ ruined in 1818 at Multan. Today it is housed in Lahore, where it was/ placed by H.R.H. the Duke of Edinburgh in 1870."raeme, rural city of wodonga, freedom of the city wodonga, australian military, bandiana -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Book - The Army at Bonegilla 1940-1971, Bruce J Pennay, 2007
... history bonegilla A detailed history of Australian Army base ...A detailed history of Australian Army base at Bonegilla, Victoria including its strategic role during WW2, its role as a pivotal migrant reception centre from 1947 until 1971, after which it reverted to the Army. It was then further developed as the Latchford barracks as part of the Army Logistic Training Centre.non-fictionA detailed history of Australian Army base at Bonegilla, Victoria including its strategic role during WW2, its role as a pivotal migrant reception centre from 1947 until 1971, after which it reverted to the Army. It was then further developed as the Latchford barracks as part of the Army Logistic Training Centre.army history, bonegilla -
Woodend RSL
Uniform - Battle Dress jacket, trousers, lanyard and neck tie, 2nd Half 20th Century
This battle dress uniform dates to the latter half of the 20th century. It was issued to the “Prince of Wales’s Light Horse’ Regiment however the date of issue for all items is unknown. A Prince of Wales Light Horse unit was based in Kyneton, a neighboring town to Woodend. This uniform likely originated from the Kyneton area. The jacket and trouser style was still in use during the Vietnam war in which the Regiment participated. Considering the condition of the item, it is highly likely that the uniform has not seen active service.This battle dress uniform is representative of a type of standard issue Army uniform, dating to the later half of the 20th century. It is also in very good condition.Khaki, wool jacket with yellow lanyard over the right shoulder. Prince of Wale's light horse embroidered on a yellow flash, stitched on both shoulders. Cropped style with two pockets on front, four khaki buttons and waist belt. Two epaulets and a manufacturer's label on inside left hand side. Khaki, wool trousers with buttoned bracers and iron pleats on both trouser legs. Manufacturers label also on inside of pants (right hand side). Khaki neck tie.battle dress, jacket, trouser, neck tie, lanyard, khaki, wool, fabric, uniform, prince of wales light horse, army -
Woodend RSL
Battle Dress jacket, 1969
This battle dress jacket is dated 1969 (manufacturing date). It was issued to the “Prince of Wales’s Light Horse’ Regiment however the date of issue is unknown. A Prince of Wales Light Horse unit was based in Kyneton, a neighboring town to Woodend. This jacket likely originated from the Kyneton area. The jacket type was still in use during the Vietnam war in which the Regiment participated. Considering the condition of the item, it is highly likely the jacket has not seen active serviceThis battle dress jacket is represenative of a stamdard issue Army uniform. it is also in very good condition.Khaki, wool jacket. Prince of Wale's light horse embroidered on a yellow flash, stitched on both shoulders. Cropped style with two pockets on front, four khaki buttons and waist belt. Two epaulets and a manufacturer's label on inside left hand side. battle dress, jacket, trouser, neck tie, lanyard, khaki, wool, fabric, uniform -
Woodend RSL
Braces
These braces date to the latter half of the 20th century. They were issued to the “Prince of Wales’s Light Horse’ Regiment, however the date of issue is unknown. A Prince of Wales Light Horse unit was based in Kyneton, a neighboring town to Woodend. This jacket likely originated from the Kyneton area. The uniform type was still in use during the Vietnam war in which the Regiment participated. Considering the condition of the item, it is highly likely that it has not seen active serviceThese braces are representative of a piece of standard issue Army uniform. They are also in very good condition.Dark green leather and elastic braces. The section that fastens to the back has two leather attachments with holes and slits for fastening to trousers. This section extends upwards and divides into two elastic straps to afix over shoulders. There is one metallic clip that holds that elastic in place near the front of the brace, where it is folded over and can be adjusted. The two strips then end with two leather attachments each, with holes and slits for fastening to the front of a pair of trousers. The leather components are textured on the exterior and smoother on the interior. The interior sections of the leather pieces are also cream coloured. battle dress, braces, uniform, armoured, cavalry, prince of wales light horse -
Woodend RSL
Lanyard, Latter half of 20th Century
This lanyard dates to the latter half of the 20th Century. The colour yellow relates to the armoured forces. The lanyard was issued to the “Prince of Wales’s Light Horse’ Regiment, however the date of issue is unknown. A Prince of Wales Light Horse unit was based in Kyneton, a neighboring town to Woodend. This lanyard likely originated from the Kyneton area. It is possible that the lanyard was used during the Vietnam war in which the Regiment participated. However considering the condition of the item, it is highly likely that the lanyard has not seen active serviceThis item is represenative of a standard armoured military lanyard. It is also in very good condition.Long strip of cylindrical yellow knotted fabric. There is one large loop, knotted two thirds along the length of the fabric for attachment to the shoulders. There is another small loop at the very end for insertion into a pocket.battle dress, lanyard, prince of wales light horse, uniform, army, cavalry, armoured -
Woodend RSL
Trunk, MID 20TH CENTURY
PERSONAL TRUNK OF CAPTAIN PETER SPENCER HAYMAN MCThis trunk was owned by Peter Spencer Hayman, who was regarded as a ‘Tobruk hero’. Hayman was the son of a Bank manager, Spencer Lewis Hayman and Agnes Lindsay Hayman. He was born in Exeter S.A. on 23/11/1916. He enlisted in the Australia Army at the age of 23 on 13/05/1940. His service number was VX14987. Hayman was a leader of a fighting patrol and served in multiple sites in Syria and Lybia. During his service in Lybia he lead his campaign through great difficulty and bravery in Tobruk. Although wounded by a grenade, he continued to lead his men into an enemy stronghold until resistance from a joining post compelled him to break off the engagement. He successfully brought his party back with very few casualties. Hayman was awarded the military cross in 1941. He was a Lieutenant when awarded, and was made captain of the 2/24 Australian Infantry Battalion shortly afterwards. He was killed in action on the 11/07/1942 and is buried in the El Alamein war cemetery. His father was flown to London to receive the medal. The inscription on his headstone reads; “Beloved son of Spencer and Agnes Hayman of Bendigo” (AII.A.21. – cemetery/memorial reference number). As an item owned by a ‘Tobruk hero ’ who was awarded the eminent military cross for bravery, ‘forceful leadership’ and ‘splendid courage’, this trunk is of national historic and social significance. It also has great interpretive capacity as an item that speaks of an impressive military story. Standard Army issue trunk. 88cm L x 51cm W x 33cm D. Dull grey in colour. There is provision for a tray to be fitted just under the lid. This tray was the same physical size as the trunk. The base has 2 cleats (88cm x 5.5cm), made of timber, to keep the trunk off the ground. An additional hasp and keeper have been fitted (near the centre of the lid) to hold it shut. The original type lock needed a key and were not very serviceable.P S H VX14987 408 -
Woodend RSL
Uniform - Hat, 1968-69
Possibly Vietnam era hat, based on date of manufacture. This hat is an example of Vietnam era military headwear. Hat, or military peak cap of olive drab fabric. Base of cap has four metal rimmed air holes at rear above band. Cap has brown leather chin strap with double band of leather across the front of visor secured by a single leather loop on each side. The chinstrap is attached to the cap at both ends, with gold buttons featuring Australian army insignia. Inside of cap has a brown leather band, attached with brown thread in a zig zag stitch; the other end of brown headband is unstitched. The cap is lined with olive green fabric which is synthetic in appearance, and covered with a clear sweat shield. A manufacturer’s label in white fabric is sewn to the centre of the inner liner. A white, rectanguar identification label is attached to the inner band.‘MADE EXPRESSLY FOR DEPARTMENT OF SUPPLY 1968-69 “EMERCO” MELBOURNE’ on inner leather band in gold. ‘M. REINER &CO.PTY LTD SIZE (BLUE ARROW LOGO DENOTING DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE) 6 5/8 VICTORIA AUSTRALIA’ on label in blue print at centre of inner cap. ‘REGIMENTAL NO.______________ NAME____________’ in black print, side of cap.emerco, military, hat, cap, headwear, peak, war, fashion, outfit, department of supply, vietnam. -
Woodend RSL
Army Water Canteen, Late 20th Century
Representative of military issued accoutrements, possibly Australian Army, late 20th Century. Army water canteen, possibly Australian Army issued, with olive green fabric insulating cover featuring flaps with stud fasteners, black twist top lid attached to aluminium body fixed by aluminium chain that is attached both to base and top of lid. Back of fabric cover has a metal prong threaded through a strong fabric loop which has been sewn on for attaching to a belt. Tag on back sewed on which reads 'Made in Japan'. flask, canteen, military, military accoutrements -
Woodend RSL
Army Water Canteen, Late 20th Century
Representative of military issued accoutrements, possibly Australian Army, late 20th Century. Army water canteen, possibly Australian Army issued, with olive green fabric insulating cover featuring flaps with stud fasteners, black twist top lid attached to aluminium body fixed by aluminium chain that is attached both to base and top of lid. Back of fabric cover has a metal prong threaded through a strong fabric loop which has been sewn on for attaching to a belt. Tag on back sewed on which reads 'Made in Japan'. flask, canteen, military, military accoutrements -
Woodend RSL
Webbing Anklet (Gaiter), 1953
This anklet dates to 1953 and may be associated with the Korean War (1950-1953). This anklet web is an example of Australian military uniform dating back to the mid twentieth century. Olive drab woven webbing anklet. The anklet is made of a rectangular strip of fabric which is straight along one edge and curved to fit an ankle along the other side. Outside of anklet: two buckles are stitched on with straps of woven cloth, one placed near the top of the anklet, one near the base. The opposite end of the anklet has two black leather straps which may be attached to buckles when worn. Leather straps are stitched on with black thread. Inside of anklet: lower third has a cotton, olive drab lining. Two leather attachments are stitched in along the edge of anklet to reinforce the curved seam.J.1953 VOG. 4024 S.2 Australian military marking of D (arrow) D. L (arrow) 18 anklet, web, military, army, way, fashion, outfit, uniform, gaiter. -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Photograph, Gibbons, Denis, Maj Bob Mew
A black and white photograph of Maj Bob Mew, US Army Air Ops liasion officer 1st ATF Nui Dat enjoys a close encounter with Dinah Lee and Lorrae Desmond during a lunch break by the March 1967 ABC Dance Band Concert Party photograph, 1st atf base, nui dat, lorrae desmond, dinah lee, abc dance band concert party, maj bob mew, entertainment, gibbons collection catalogue, us army air ops liasion officer -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Banner - Banner, framed, 11 Co (Nung)
Captain John E D White, Australian Army Training Team in Vietnam (AATTV) took over command of 11 Mobile Strike Force (Mike Force) Company in Da Nang, Vietnam, in February 1968. He was 26 years old. The 2 NVA Division was moving from Laos into South Vietnam and his mission was to establish contact with the division and trace its movements south. In mid-March the company was air lifted to the Special Forces camp of Kham Duc, near the Laotian border. They used an old French Foreign Legion fort as a temporary base from which patrols could be sent out. White called it Ngok Tavak after a nearby mountain. Initially, patrols failed to find the enemy, but in late April a patrol clashed with the enemy. At the same time, White received intelligence that the NVA division was closing in. At night they could hear explosions in the distance heading toward them. White decided their best chance was to leave the fort and take to the jungle to adopt guerrilla tactics. However, in the meantime a platoon of United States Marine Corps artillery arrived bringing with them two howitzers and a stockpile of ammunition. To abandon the fort was to abandon the guns. White contacted Da Nang, explaining the predicament, and was ordered to remain where he was. A Civilian Irregular Defense Group (CIDG) platoon was sent to reinforce his numbers. This was a para military force comprised mainly of indigenous highlanders, trained by United States Special Forces. They also brought with them two mortars and their crews. At 3.15am on 10 May 1968 some members of the CIDG chose to assist the NVA to attack the fort instead of supporting Mike Force, and close hand to hand fighting followed, along with grenade attacks and heavy machine gun fire. Air support offered a brief respite from the NVA attack, and some NVA forces were pushed back outside the perimeter by counter attacks, but at 9am White contacted Da Nang to advise that his position was untenable. A second attack was imminent and they could not withstand it, so they would have to withdraw. The wounded were evacuated by helicopter (under orders from Major Mai, the NVA had not attacked the previous medical helicopters that collected the wounded under the cover of air strikes) and at 1pm the rest of the force evacuated east, into the jungle. The NVA did not notice their withdrawal, and continued mortar attacks on the fort for another ninety minutes. Seven kilometres from the fort White called for a helicopter withdrawal of his forces. The force was successfully lifted to Kham Duc and then Da Nang. (Credit AWM)Black framed glass covered flag. Red material with gold fringe, gold writing with Blackbird in the centre with parachute holding 2 white swords standing on a gold star. 11Co. in gold underneath. Gold plaque mounted under the flag.GUIDON OF 11 COY (NUNG) MOBILE STRIKE FORCE (MIKE FORCE) /5th SF GROUP, 1 CORPS, SVN/ A Significant number of AATTV personnel served with this Nung Company based in Da Nang./ At the end of the Vietnam War, this flag was taken by a former US SF officer and held until/ when it was given to former Captain John "Jed" White (AATTV), CO 11 Coy (Nung), who led/ the MIKE Forces at the Battle of Ngok Tavak on 10 May 1968.battle of ngok tavak, mobile strike force, nung, john white -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Photograph, Captain John White, AATTV, arrives in Vietnam, January 1968, 1/01/1968 12:00:00 AM
Captain John E D White, Australian Army Training Team in Vietnam (AATTV) took over command of 11 Mobile Strike Force (Mike Force) Company in Da Nang, Vietnam, in February 1968. He was 26 years old. The 2 NVA Division was moving from Laos into South Vietnam and his mission was to establish contact with the division and trace its movements south. In mid-March the company was air lifted to the Special Forces camp of Kham Duc, near the Laotian border. They used an old French Foreign Legion fort as a temporary base from which patrols could be sent out. White called it Ngok Tavak after a nearby mountain. Initially, patrols failed to find the enemy, but in late April a patrol clashed with the enemy. At the same time, White received intelligence that the NVA division was closing in. At night they could hear explosions in the distance heading toward them. White decided their best chance was to leave the fort and take to the jungle to adopt guerrilla tactics. However, in the meantime a platoon of United States Marine Corps artillery arrived bringing with them two howitzers and a stockpile of ammunition. To abandon the fort was to abandon the guns. White contacted Da Nang, explaining the predicament, and was ordered to remain where he was. A Civilian Irregular Defense Group (CIDG) platoon was sent to reinforce his numbers. This was a para military force comprised mainly of indigenous highlanders, trained by United States Special Forces. They also brought with them two mortars and their crews. At 3.15am on 10 May 1968 some members of the CIDG chose to assist the NVA to attack the fort instead of supporting Mike Force, and close hand to hand fighting followed, along with grenade attacks and heavy machine gun fire. Air support offered a brief respite from the NVA attack, and some NVA forces were pushed back outside the perimeter by counter attacks, but at 9am White contacted Da Nang to advise that his position was untenable. A second attack was imminent and they could not withstand it, so they would have to withdraw. The wounded were evacuated by helicopter (under orders from Major Mai, the NVA had not attacked the previous medical helicopters that collected the wounded under the cover of air strikes) and at 1pm the rest of the force evacuated east, into the jungle. The NVA did not notice their withdrawal, and continued mortar attacks on the fort for another ninety minutes. Seven kilometres from the fort White called for a helicopter withdrawal of his forces. The force was successfully lifted to Kham Duc and then Da Nang. (Credit AWM)Coloured image of John (Jed) White, aged 26 arriving at Tan Son Nhut Airport in full uniform, bag straps over left shoulder. Close- up of chest and head with plane visible in the background.AWM - p 11058,001capt john (jed) white, aattv, battle of ngok tavak -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Plaque, Mobile Strike Force Shield
Captain John E D White, Australian Army Training Team in Vietnam (AATTV) took over command of 11 Mobile Strike Force (Mike Force) Company in Da Nang, Vietnam, in February 1968. He was 26 years old. The 2 NVA Division was moving from Laos into South Vietnam and his mission was to establish contact with the division and trace its movements south. In mid-March the company was air lifted to the Special Forces camp of Kham Duc, near the Laotian border. They used an old French Foreign Legion fort as a temporary base from which patrols could be sent out. White called it Ngok Tavak after a nearby mountain. Initially, patrols failed to find the enemy, but in late April a patrol clashed with the enemy. At the same time, White received intelligence that the NVA division was closing in. At night they could hear explosions in the distance heading toward them. White decided their best chance was to leave the fort and take to the jungle to adopt guerrilla tactics. However, in the meantime a platoon of United States Marine Corps artillery arrived bringing with them two howitzers and a stockpile of ammunition. To abandon the fort was to abandon the guns. White contacted Da Nang, explaining the predicament, and was ordered to remain where he was. A Civilian Irregular Defense Group (CIDG) platoon was sent to reinforce his numbers. This was a para military force comprised mainly of indigenous highlanders, trained by United States Special Forces. They also brought with them two mortars and their crews. At 3.15am on 10 May 1968 some members of the CIDG chose to assist the NVA to attack the fort instead of supporting Mike Force, and close hand to hand fighting followed, along with grenade attacks and heavy machine gun fire. Air support offered a brief respite from the NVA attack, and some NVA forces were pushed back outside the perimeter by counter attacks, but at 9am White contacted Da Nang to advise that his position was untenable. A second attack was imminent and they could not withstand it, so they would have to withdraw. The wounded were evacuated by helicopter (under orders from Major Mai, the NVA had not attacked the previous medical helicopters that collected the wounded under the cover of air strikes) and at 1pm the rest of the force evacuated east, into the jungle. The NVA did not notice their withdrawal, and continued mortar attacks on the fort for another ninety minutes. Seven kilometres from the fort White called for a helicopter withdrawal of his forces. The force was successfully lifted to Kham Duc and then Da Nang. (Credit AWM)A wooden shield painted grey/black celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the Battle of Ngok Tavak. There are three messages from mates written in black on the back. The shield was presented to Capt John (Jed) White.Presented to Captain John White, AATTV from the men of the Mobile Strike Force, Danang, Vietnam, 1968.mobile strike force, capt john (jed) white, shield, battle of ngok tavak -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Photograph, Sketch of Battle Map, Ngok Tavak, Mary 1968
Captain John E D White, Australian Army Training Team in Vietnam (AATTV) took over command of 11 Mobile Strike Force (Mike Force) Company in Da Nang, Vietnam, in February 1968. He was 26 years old. The 2 NVA Division was moving from Laos into South Vietnam and his mission was to establish contact with the division and trace its movements south. In mid-March the company was air lifted to the Special Forces camp of Kham Duc, near the Laotian border. They used an old French Foreign Legion fort as a temporary base from which patrols could be sent out. White called it Ngok Tavak after a nearby mountain. Initially, patrols failed to find the enemy, but in late April a patrol clashed with the enemy. At the same time, White received intelligence that the NVA division was closing in. At night they could hear explosions in the distance heading toward them. White decided their best chance was to leave the fort and take to the jungle to adopt guerrilla tactics. However, in the meantime a platoon of United States Marine Corps artillery arrived bringing with them two howitzers and a stockpile of ammunition. To abandon the fort was to abandon the guns. White contacted Da Nang, explaining the predicament, and was ordered to remain where he was. A Civilian Irregular Defense Group (CIDG) platoon was sent to reinforce his numbers. This was a para military force comprised mainly of indigenous highlanders, trained by United States Special Forces. They also brought with them two mortars and their crews. At 3.15am on 10 May 1968 some members of the CIDG chose to assist the NVA to attack the fort instead of supporting Mike Force, and close hand to hand fighting followed, along with grenade attacks and heavy machine gun fire. Air support offered a brief respite from the NVA attack, and some NVA forces were pushed back outside the perimeter by counter attacks, but at 9am White contacted Da Nang to advise that his position was untenable. A second attack was imminent and they could not withstand it, so they would have to withdraw. The wounded were evacuated by helicopter (under orders from Major Mai, the NVA had not attacked the previous medical helicopters that collected the wounded under the cover of air strikes) and at 1pm the rest of the force evacuated east, into the jungle. The NVA did not notice their withdrawal, and continued mortar attacks on the fort for another ninety minutes. Seven kilometres from the fort White called for a helicopter withdrawal of his forces. The force was successfully lifted to Kham Duc and then Da Nang. (Credit AWM)Annotated hand-drawn map of the fort at Ngok Tavak, 10 May 1968.battle of ngok tavak, john white, battle map -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Photograph, Leadership group the day before the Battle of Ngok Tavak, 9/05/1968 12:00:00 AM
Captain John E D White, Australian Army Training Team in Vietnam (AATTV) took over command of 11 Mobile Strike Force (Mike Force) Company in Da Nang, Vietnam, in February 1968. He was 26 years old. The 2 NVA Division was moving from Laos into South Vietnam and his mission was to establish contact with the division and trace its movements south. In mid-March the company was air lifted to the Special Forces camp of Kham Duc, near the Laotian border. They used an old French Foreign Legion fort as a temporary base from which patrols could be sent out. White called it Ngok Tavak after a nearby mountain. Initially, patrols failed to find the enemy, but in late April a patrol clashed with the enemy. At the same time, White received intelligence that the NVA division was closing in. At night they could hear explosions in the distance heading toward them. White decided their best chance was to leave the fort and take to the jungle to adopt guerrilla tactics. However, in the meantime a platoon of United States Marine Corps artillery arrived bringing with them two howitzers and a stockpile of ammunition. To abandon the fort was to abandon the guns. White contacted Da Nang, explaining the predicament, and was ordered to remain where he was. A Civilian Irregular Defense Group (CIDG) platoon was sent to reinforce his numbers. This was a para military force comprised mainly of indigenous highlanders, trained by United States Special Forces. They also brought with them two mortars and their crews. At 3.15am on 10 May 1968 some members of the CIDG chose to assist the NVA to attack the fort instead of supporting Mike Force, and close hand to hand fighting followed, along with grenade attacks and heavy machine gun fire. Air support offered a brief respite from the NVA attack, and some NVA forces were pushed back outside the perimeter by counter attacks, but at 9am White contacted Da Nang to advise that his position was untenable. A second attack was imminent and they could not withstand it, so they would have to withdraw. The wounded were evacuated by helicopter (under orders from Major Mai, the NVA had not attacked the previous medical helicopters that collected the wounded under the cover of air strikes) and at 1pm the rest of the force evacuated east, into the jungle. The NVA did not notice their withdrawal, and continued mortar attacks on the fort for another ninety minutes. Seven kilometres from the fort White called for a helicopter withdrawal of his forces. The force was successfully lifted to Kham Duc and then Da Nang. (Credit AWM)Coloured image of 7 soldiers (5 shirtless) posed on the edge of a foxhole with jungle in background. L-R Willie Swicegood (USA), John White (AATTV-Aus), Ken Benway (USA), Frank Lucas (Aust), Clay Aitkins (USA), Glenn Miller (USA), Don Cameron (Aust)john white, aattv, battle of ngok tavak -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Photograph, Gateway to Ngok Tavak, 1/05/1968 12:00:00 AM
In May 1968, in the western jungle of Vietnam near Laos, led by Australian Captain J White, 11th Mobile Strike Force Company (MSF) occupied an old French fort on a hill named Ngok Tavak tasked with improving allied intelligence-gathering capabilities in the area. However, with enemy activity increasing, on May 4th, 44 US Marines, 35 CIDG (Civilian Irregular Defence Group) and two 105mm Howitzer field guns arrived as reinforcement from the Special Forces base at Kham Duc. By May 9th, Captain White’s company numbered about 200 men. Although in a good defensive position, coming towards them was the Iron Brigade of the 2nd Division of the North Vietnamese Army (NVA). At 03:00 on May 10th, the attack on Ngok Tavak began. The NVA, led by Major Dang Ngoc Mai, poured through the entrance at the eastern wall quickly occupying most of the fort. By midday the next day, Captain White had lost 40 Nung soldiers and 11 Marines with over 70 others badly wounded. Realising he could not withstand another attack, Captain White decided to abandon Ngok Tavak. Once the wounded were evacuated, Captain White ordered strike aircraft to blast a ‘corridor’ through the surrounding enemy cordon using napalm. By early afternoon, what remained of the defenders escaped through the ‘corridor’ and helicopters eventually flew them to Kham Duc. Colour image of edge of Ngok Tavak fort with soldiers sitting on & walking around sand-bagged foxholes. Jungle & mountains in background.battle of ngok tavak, john white -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Photograph, Marines arrive at Ngok Tavak 04/05/1968
In May 1968, in the western jungle of Vietnam near Laos, led by Australian Captain J White, 11th Mobile Strike Force Company (MSF) occupied an old French fort on a hill named Ngok Tavak tasked with improving allied intelligence-gathering capabilities in the area. However, with enemy activity increasing, on May 4th, 44 US Marines, 35 CIDG (Civilian Irregular Defence Group) and two 105mm Howitzer field guns arrived as reinforcement from the Special Forces base at Kham Duc. By May 9th, Captain White’s company numbered about 200 men. Although in a good defensive position, coming towards them was the Iron Brigade of the 2nd Division of the North Vietnamese Army (NVA). At 03:00 on May 10th, the attack on Ngok Tavak began. The NVA, led by Major Dang Ngoc Mai, poured through the entrance at the eastern wall quickly occupying most of the fort. By midday the next day, Captain White had lost 40 Nung soldiers and 11 Marines with over 70 others badly wounded. Realising he could not withstand another attack, Captain White decided to abandon Ngok Tavak. Once the wounded were evacuated, Captain White ordered strike aircraft to blast a ‘corridor’ through the surrounding enemy cordon using napalm. By early afternoon, what remained of the defenders escaped through the ‘corridor’ and helicopters eventually flew them to Kham Duc. Colour image of U.S. soldiers disembarking from a helicopter in a clearing in the jungle. Foreground is rear of two soldiers watching. Background is mountains.united states - marine corps, battle of ngok tavak, john white, ngok tavak