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Diamond Valley Vietnam Veterans Sub-Branch
Weapon - M16 Rifle, c2010
... and other elements of Australian Armed Forces in Vietnam. vietnam ...A faithful depiction of an M16 automatic rifle that gradually partnered the SLR rifle as the typical weapon for riflemen and other soldiers.The model represents the M16 automatic rifle that, with the SLR rifle, became the 'best friend' to many infantry soldiers and other elements of Australian Armed Forces in Vietnam.The M16 rifle is a family of military rifles adapted from the ArmaLite AR-15 rifle for the United States military. The original M16 rifle was a 5.56×45mm automatic rifle with a 20-round magazine. Wikipedia Length: 38.81 in (986 mm) (M16A1); 39.63 in (1,007 mm) (M16A2); 39.37 in (1,000 mm) (M16A4) Caliber: 5.56 mm (.223 in) Designed: 1959 In service: 1964–present Muzzle velocity: 3,150 ft/s (960 m/s) (M855A1 round) Produced: : 1963–present; Sights: Iron sights: Rear: aperture; L-type flip; Front: wing-protected post; Various aiming opticsM16 automatic rifle; made of metal, plastic.vietnam, vietnam war, diamond valley vietnam veterans sub branch -
Diamond Valley Vietnam Veterans Sub-Branch
Weapon - L1A1 SLR Rifle, c2010
The L1A1 SLR rifle was the first 'best friend' for infantry and other elements of the Australian Armed Forces; the rifle was the closest focus for troops during training and drill.The L1A1 SLR rifle was often the survival factor for troops in a combat situation hence it was treated reverently by the soldier and kept in best working order even in extreme circumstances.LiA1 SLR Rifle. Known as the L1A1 SLR (Self Loading Rifle) and is known for is straightforward fieldstripping and robust nature. The L1A1 is the British version of the Belgian FN FAL rifle. The L1A1 is a reliable, hard-hitting, gas-operated, magazine-fed semi-automatic rifle. The weapon was extensively used by the Australian Infantryman. The L1A1 SLR rifle was the initial general issue to infantrymen and other elements of the Armed Forces. L1A1 SLR (Self Loading Rifle) Type: Battle rifle Wars: Cold War, Vietnam War, Falklands War Designed: 1951 Manufacturer: Fabrique Nationale (FN) Number built: Over 1 million Weight: 4.0–4.96 kg (8.8–10.2 lb) Length: 1,090 mm (43 in) Barrel length: 533 mm (21 in) Cartridge: 7.62 mm NATO Rimless Calibre: 7.62 mm (.308 in) Action: Gas and return spring operated, tilting block Rate of fire: 20 rounds/min semi auto Muzzle velocity: 823 m/s (2,700 ft/s) Effective range: 600 m (656 yd) Feed system: 20-round detachable box magazine Sights: Aperture rear sight, hooded post front sight Accesaries bayonet, sling, grenade launcher, telescopic sights Serial No. AD8100176vietnam, vietnam war, diamond valley vietnam veterans sub branch -
Diamond Valley Vietnam Veterans Sub-Branch
Flag - Viet Cong Flag, c2010
Souvenired flag as used by Viet Cong; unknown how it came into hands of the donor.A significant reminder of what enemy the Australian Defence Forces were up against.Viet Cong flag, made of cloth, looks 'hand made'. Dimensions are xxmm long and xxmm wide. Colours are equally red on top half with blue on bottom half; yellow text at top of the flag is Quyet Thang; a yellow star straddles the halfway line of the flag and has yellow 1969 below the star.Colours are equally red on top half with blue on bottom half; yellow text at top of the flag is Quyet Thang; a yellow star straddles the halfway line of the flag and has yellow 1969 below the star.vietnam, vietnam war, diamond valley vietnam veterans sub branch, viet cong -
Diamond Valley Vietnam Veterans Sub-Branch
Photograph - Brig. Pearson, c2010
... of Australian Forces during the Vietnam War, Commandant of the Royal ...Photograph is of high historical significance given Brig. Pearson's achievements in the Vietnam War.Brig. Pearson was a significant Australian figure in the Vietnam War: Major General Cedric Maudsley Ingram "Sandy" Pearson, AO, DSO, OBE, MC (24 August 1918 – 7 November 2012) was an Australian Army officer. He was a Commander of Australian Forces during the Vietnam War, Commandant of the Royal Military College, Duntroon and Director of the Royal Agricultural Society of New South Wales.In portrait orientation; framed black and white photo of head and shoulders of soldier in uniformNilvietnam, vietnam war, diamond valley vietnam veterans sub branch -
Diamond Valley Vietnam Veterans Sub-Branch
Booklet - n/a, General Information Guide, Vietnam, December 1963, 22/3/2009
Booklet detailed general information for US Forces in Vietnam and, often this information was imparted onto Australian Forces.Some elements of the General Information form the conditions under which Australian Forces lived and served whilst in Vietnam.Green light cardboard cover with black text and logos on front cover; a map showing Saigon and surrounds on back cover.Three logos: Military Assistance Command, Vietnam; MAAG-Vietnam; U.S. Navy, Headquarters Support Activity, Saigonvietnam, vietnam war, diamond valley vietnam veterans sub branch, us forces -
Diamond Valley Vietnam Veterans Sub-Branch
Plaque - Medical Services, 3/8/2018
The plaque is a clear indication of the respect and gratitude of members of Australian Armed Forces of the RAAMC who served with devotion during the Vietnam war.The RAAMC teams saved many lives and mended many soldiers often working under difficult circumstances and with limited available timeframe to perform their duties.Polished timber plaque with smaller shoulder flashes and badges of Royal Australian Army Medical Corp across the top of the plaque and then with larger shoulder epaulettes and uniform sew-on badge across the middle of the plaque.In Regognition Of All The Doctors And Nurses That Served In Vietnam. They Fought To Save And cared For The Wounded.vietnam, vietnam war, diamond valley vietnam veterans sub branch, medical, mackay vietnam veterans qld -
Diamond Valley Vietnam Veterans Sub-Branch
Award - Miniture Ribbon Bar, c2020
The miniture ribbon bar is generally worn at formal dress functions after 6.00 pm.The ribbon bar is one of several awards to members of the Australian Defence Forces who served in the Vietnam war during the period 19620 to 1973.Colours of the ribbon: (1) representing the flag of the Republic of Vietnam - three central pin stripes of red on a yellow background, and, (2) representing the Australian Army, Navy and Airforce - red, dark blue and light blue. vietnam, vietnam war, awards, diamond valley vietnam veterans sub branch -
Diamond Valley Vietnam Veterans Sub-Branch
Booklet - n/a, National Service, 23/7/2021
Historical record of opportunity for National Servicemen to enter Officer Training. Significant in respect of training opportunities for National Servicemen to escalate their rank whilst performing their National Service..Paper booklet, one sheet, double sided of yellow paper with black text throughout.AUSTRALIAN MILITARY FORCES sits below the Rising Sun logo; headline text is NATIONAL SERVICEMENT, OPPORTUNITY FOR SERVICE AS OFFICERSdiamond valley vietnam veterans sub branch, vietnam war, national service, officer training -
Beechworth RSL Sub-Branch
Certificate of appreciation, 24 NOV 1971
Bi fold sleeve with a photo of general Abrams and a certificate of appreciation. Certificate reads: Awarded to second LT Terry Walsh for outstanding performance while serving as an amenities officer, Australian force Vietnam, for concert parties that toured the command entertaining personnel of the Australian and US military assistance forces serving in the republic of Vietnam. -
Melbourne Legacy
Medal, Korea / South East Asia / Vietnam Medals
One of a series of four boards of mounted replica medals of the Australian Defence Forces. This board shows medals pertaining to conflicts including Korea and Vietnam. The boards were on display in the Melbourne Legacy Foyer cabinets until June 2017.A record that Legacy holds some war memorabilia as Legatees were once solely returned servicemen.Replica medals from several conflicts mounted on silk inserts into green boards plus additional ribbons and bars.Title inscribed in brass plaques say: Korea, Australian Active Service Medal 1945-1975, United Nations Service Medal for Korea, Korea Medal South East Asia, Australian Active Service Medal 1945-1975, Naval General Service Medal 1915-1962, General Service Medal 1918-1962, General Service Medal 1962. Vietnam, Australian Active Service Medal 1945-1975, Vietnam Medal, Vietnam Logistic and Support Medal. Australian Service Medal 1945-1975 Australian Service Medal 1945-1975. Australian Defence Medal, Pingat Jasa Malaysia. Anniversary of National Service 1951-1975 Medal, South Vietnam Campaign Medal.medals, vietnam war, korean war, national service -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Uniform - Australian Military Uniform - RAEME Corps, c1965
RAEME Corps was first established in 1942 when the Ordnance Corps and the Service Corps were combined. This uniform was donated by a RAEME member who served during the Vietnam War. The Corps began sending advisers to Vietnam in 1964 and this foreshadowed a massive build- up of RAEME personnel and equipment which peaked in 1971. The first direct RAEME support was provided in early 1965 as part of 1 Aust Logistic Support Coy (1 ALSC). Prior to 1971 the RAEME elements of 1 Australian Logistic Support Group built up to a stage where there were two field workshops. The withdrawal of all Australian forces was completed in 1972 and RAEME reverted to its peacetime role.This uniform was worn by a member of the Wodonga community who served with RAEME during the Vietnam War. RAEME Corps members are also represented at the Army Logistic Training Centre at Bandiana.Australian Military uniform - this uniform was issued during Australia's involvement in the Vietnam war. It was worn by a member of RAEME (The Royal Australian Engineers), Damien Hunt who is a resident of Wodonga.On shoulder badge: "ROYAL AUSTRALIAN ELECTRICAL / & MECHANICAL ENGINEERS"raeme, military uniforms, australian army -
Wodonga & District Historical Society Inc
Book - The Australian Army - A Brief History, Austin, Brigadier M and Lever, Major Geoff, 2001
A revised short history of the Australian Army beginning with Aboriginal resistance to settlement; through an examination of the service of colonial forces in the Sudan and Boer Wars; both World Wars, Korea, Vietnam and Afghanistan. It contains a detailed section explaining the history and traditions of the Australian Army including patches, badges, the slouch hat and the Rising Sun badge.A bound volume of 96 pages featuring an image of an Australian soldier carrying an injured child on the cover. This publication includes 11 maps in colour as well as black and white and colour illustrations.A revised short history of the Australian Army beginning with Aboriginal resistance to settlement; through an examination of the service of colonial forces in the Sudan and Boer Wars; both World Wars, Korea, Vietnam and Afghanistan. It contains a detailed section explaining the history and traditions of the Australian Army including patches, badges, the slouch hat and the Rising Sun badge.australian military, military history -
Woodend RSL
Army Driving Licence, Army Driving Licence - AAF G11
This Army Driving Licence was issued to Ernest James Richard McDonough. He served with Detachment A Squadron 3 Cavalry Regiment and 1/15 Royal New South Wales Lancers. Born 1925 and Died 31 November 2001. He served with 3 Calvary Regiment in Vietnam.A follow up Army Driving Licence held by 36970 Ernest James Richard McDonough who served with 3 Calvary Regiment during he Vietnam War.A white sheet of paper mounted on a dark tan cardboard and cloth cover. Australian Military Forces Army Driving Licence No. 56115. Issued to 36970 WO2 Ernest James Richard McDonough. The previous ranks of Sergeant and Staff Sargeant have been crossed out.Transcribed from AAF G11 No 42700. Details of vehicles qualified to drive, date, testing officer, Unit and Signature of Issuing Officer. mcdonough, 36970, aafg11 -
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 -
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)
Book, Savage, David, Through the wire: action with the SAS in Borneo and the Special Forces in Vietnam. (Copy 2)
The United States Special Forces, the Green Berets were often regarded as the elite of the American forces and their mobile strike force, the "Mike Force' , was considered the elite of these.The United States Special Forces, the Green Berets were often regarded as the elite of the American forces and their mobile strike force, the "Mike Force' , was considered the elite of these.australia. army. australian army training team, vietnam, special air service regiment (australian army), united states. army. special forces, green berets, mike force, the montagnards -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Book, Sabben, Dave, Through Enemy Eyes (Copy 4)
... Vietnam War Australia -- Armed Forces -- Fiction Tssk Force ...On 19 august 1966, the war in Viet Nam became a reality to the Australian people. It was announced in the press, and later in the parliament, that a battle had occurred near Task Force Base at Nui Dat.On 19 august 1966, the war in Viet Nam became a reality to the Australian people. It was announced in the press, and later in the parliament, that a battle had occurred near Task Force Base at Nui Dat. vietnam war, australia -- armed forces -- fiction, tssk force base, nui dat -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Book, Van Oudtshoorn, Nic, Front Line Dispatches: Australians At War 1845-1972 (Copy 2)
... Australia - History Military Australia - Armed Forces ...From early colonial wars to Vietnam, Front Line Dispatches provides a well-documented and superbly illustrated account of Australian at the front line.From early colonial wars to Vietnam, Front Line Dispatches provides a well-documented and superbly illustrated account of Australian at the front line.australia - history, military, australia - armed forces - history, vietnam, malaya, indonesia -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Book, Van Oudtshoorn, Nic, Front Line Dispatches: Australians At War 1845-1972 (Copy 1)
... Australia - History Military Australia - Armed Forces ...From early colonial wars to Vietnam, Front Line Dispatches provides a well-documented and superbly illustrated account of Australian at the front line.From early colonial wars to Vietnam, Front Line Dispatches provides a well-documented and superbly illustrated account of Australian at the front line.australia - history, military, australia - armed forces - history, vietnam, malaya, indonesia -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Book, Lockhart, Greg, The Minefield: An Australian Tragedy in Vietnam (Copy 2)
In 1967, Brigadier Stuart Graham issued the calamitous order: First Australian Task Force would construct an 11 kilometre 'barrier fence and minefield' containing over 20,000 powerful M16 landmines in Phuoc Tuy Province, Southern Vietnam. The purpose of the 'barrier' was to separate and to shield the majority of the population in the south-west province from his enemy's regular forces in the north and east.In 1967, Brigadier Stuart Graham issued the calamitous order: First Australian Task Force would construct an 11 kilometre 'barrier fence and minefield' containing over 20,000 powerful M16 landmines in Phuoc Tuy Province, Southern Vietnam. The purpose of the 'barrier' was to separate and to shield the majority of the population in the south-west province from his enemy's regular forces in the north and east.australia. army. australian task force (vietnam), land mines -- phuoc tuy (vietnam : province), m16 landmines, brigadier stuart graham, phuoc tuy province, operation leeton, operation pinaroo, first australian task force -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Book, Lockhart, Greg, The Minefield: An Australian Tragedy in Vietnam (Copy 1)
In 1967, Brigadier Stuart Graham issued the calamitous order: First Australian Task Force would construct an 11 kilometre 'barrier fence and minefield' containing over 20,000 powerful M16 landmines in Phuoc Tuy Province, Southern Vietnam. The purpose of the 'barrier' was to separate and to shield the majority of the population in the south-west province from his enemy's regular forces in the north and east.In 1967, Brigadier Stuart Graham issued the calamitous order: First Australian Task Force would construct an 11 kilometre 'barrier fence and minefield' containing over 20,000 powerful M16 landmines in Phuoc Tuy Province, Southern Vietnam. The purpose of the 'barrier' was to separate and to shield the majority of the population in the south-west province from his enemy's regular forces in the north and east.australia. army. australian task force (vietnam), land mines -- phuoc tuy (vietnam : province), first australian task force, m16 landmines, phuoc tuy province, brigadier stuart graham, operation leeton, operation pinaroo -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Book, Lockhart, Greg, The Minefield: An Australian Tragedy in Vietnam (Copy 3)
In 1967, Brigadier Stuart Graham issued the calamitous order: First Australian Task Force would construct an 11 kilometre 'barrier fence and minefield' containing over 20,000 powerful M16 landmines in Phuoc Tuy Province, Southern Vietnam. The purpose of the 'barrier' was to separate and to shield the majority of the population in the south-west province from his enemy's regular forces in the north and east.In 1967, Brigadier Stuart Graham issued the calamitous order: First Australian Task Force would construct an 11 kilometre 'barrier fence and minefield' containing over 20,000 powerful M16 landmines in Phuoc Tuy Province, Southern Vietnam. The purpose of the 'barrier' was to separate and to shield the majority of the population in the south-west province from his enemy's regular forces in the north and east.australia. army. australian task force (vietnam), land mines -- phuoc tuy (vietnam : province), 8rar, 8 rar, operation hammersley, m16 landmines, brigadier stuart graham, operation pinaroo, operation leeton -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Book, A Pogo's Perspective: Aa non-combatent soldier's Viet Nam experience: its affects and aftermath, 2007
... Australia - Armed Forces - Biography Soldiers - Australia ...The term Pogo was a label given to every soldier in Vietnam whose role it was to support the troops involved in combat duties, supposedly a safe vocation. Examples would be the Orderly Room, Q-Store, Cooks, Ordnance, Medical and Dental Staff, etc.The term Pogo was a label given to every soldier in Vietnam whose role it was to support the troops involved in combat duties, supposedly a safe vocation. Examples would be the Orderly Room, Q-Store, Cooks, Ordnance, Medical and Dental Staff, etc.australia - armed forces - biography, soldiers - australia - biography, vietnam war, 1961-1975 - personal narratives, australian, orderly room, q-store, ordnance, medical staff, dental staff. -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Book, Savage, David, Through the Wire: Action with the SAS in Borneo and the Special Forces in Vietnam. (Copy 1)
The United States Special Forces, the Green Berets were often regarded as the elite of the American forces and their mobile strike force, the "Mike Force' , was considered the elite of these.The United States Special Forces, the Green Berets were often regarded as the elite of the American forces and their mobile strike force, the "Mike Force' , was considered the elite of these.australia. army. australian army training team, vietnam, special air service regiment (australian army), united states. army. special forces, green berets, sas, mike force, the montagnards, david savage -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Photograph, Gibbons, Denis, Lac Thien
Denis Gibbons (1937 – 2011) Trained with the Australian Army, before travelling to Vietnam in January 1966, Denis stayed with the 1st Australian Task Force in Nui Dat working as a photographer. For almost five years Gibbons toured with nine Australian infantry battalions, posting compelling war images from within many combat zones before being flown out in late November 1970 after sustaining injuries. The images held within the National Vietnam Veterans Museum make up the Gibbons Collection. A colour photograph of Capt Len Opie and WO1 Bill Birkett, of the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV), at the special forces camp at Lake Lac Thien where they are working with Rhade, M'nong, Muong and Sedang Montagnards.photograph, aattv, capt len opie, wo1 bill birkett, lake lac thien, sedang montagnards, gibbons collection catalogue, denis gibbons, photographer, vietnam war, australian army training team vietnam (aattv), rhade montagnards, m'nong montagnards, muong montagnards