Showing 917 items
matching south vietnam
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Bendigo Military Museum
Uniform - MESS DRESS, FORMAL, 1968
... and good conduct Medal 6. South Vietnam Campaign Medal. ... and good conduct Medal 6. South Vietnam Campaign Medal. WW2 Vietnam ...Uniform re Bertram Charles (Bluey) Addington. Initially enlisted No S5269 on 20.4.1942, discharged as a Pte on 13.5.1943 in 4th Bn Volunteer Defence Corps. Re enlisted No 140422 on 25.5.1943 in the RAAF, discharged 5.5.1948 with the rank of Cpl in Laverton Transit Departure and Reception. At some point enlisted in the Army No 41843 and served Vietnam in Aust Force Provost Corp from 19.4.1967 - 19.4.1968, Aust Army Training Team Vietnam 4.8.1970 - 14.10.1971. Awarded U.S Army commendation for Service, Vietnam Armed Forces Honor medal 2nd class. Service ribbons on jacket. 1. British Empire medal. 2. British War medal 1939 - 45 3. Aust Service medal 4. Vietnam Campaign Medal 5. Long Service and good conduct Medal 6. South Vietnam Campaign Medal. .1) Jacket, woollen. Four breast pockets. The top two pockets are held shut with a button. Has woven WO1 metal badges. There are four brass buttons holding the front shut. It has a detachable collar system (white). The collar badges are a laurel wreath, topped with a crown and 2 crossed swords in the centre. The motif on the buttons is similar, but, without the wreath it has a ribbon bar with six medals. .2) Trousers, woollen. Black with white stripe down each leg. .3) Swagger stick. Dowel with woven leather cover.ww2, vietnam war, passchendaele barracks trust -
Clayton RSL Sub Branch
soft cover non-fiction book, In Good Company, 1987
... preparation for war in the jungles of South Vietnam. In Good Company... preparation for war in the jungles of South Vietnam. In Good Company ...Vietnam War veteran An enthralling account of an Australian infantryman and his companions in the Vietnam War. On Friday 8th March 1968, 20-year-old Gary McKay lost the lottery. He was conscripted. From a comfortable and carefree life of surfing and rugby football, he was drafted into the deadly serious preparation for war in the jungles of South Vietnam. In Good Company is his story told in his own words. It begins with induction and selection for the officer academy for national servicemen at Scheyville, a six-month 'pressure cooker' course which produced second lieutenants ready to lead troops into action against the Viet Cong. It ends three and a half years later with a burst of NVA machine-gun fire during a battle among enemy-held bunkers in the hills of Nui Le. Here is a grass-roots account of the blood, sweat and tears shared by a rifle platoon in jungle warfare, a straightforward story of the fears and the camaraderie which soldiers experience in combat. Gary McKay fashioned this account from his experience in action, leading his platoon. The detail is provided from the 80 letters he wrote to his wife while he served. He wrote his story for the reader who wants to know what the soldier on the ground went through - in the fetid jungle, in battle. Anyone who wants to understand what service in South Vietnam meant to those who were there should read this book. 'Reading In Good Company leaves a vivid and disconcerting impression of how the Vietnam War smelt, felt and sounded. One of the most honest and affecting war memoirs which Australians have so far published.' - Mark Thomas, Canberra Times 'An enthralling, accurate account of infantry soldiering in the Vietnam era. Very readable; a must for those who have never experienced combat and a vivid reminder for all veterans.' - Major General M. P. Blake, AM, MC, former CO 5th Battalion RARGary John McKay MC (born 1947) is a writer and former Australian Army officer. He was awarded the Military Cross while serving with the 4th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment during the Vietnam War.[1] He later served as Commanding Officer of 8th/9th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment between 1988 and 1990Soft cover non fiction book -
Lara RSL Sub Branch
Artwork, other - Vietnam Photo Photo Collage, Australia
... by its communist allies, and the government of South Vietnam... of South Vietnam, supported by the United States and other member ...Photo collage of Australians in the Vietnam warFramed Picture Collage of Photos of VietnamVietnam the Vietnam War was a Military conflict that occurred in Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia from 1959 to 30 April 1975. The war was fought between the communist North Vietnam supported by its communist allies, and the government of South Vietnam, supported by the United States and other member nations of the South East Asia Treaty Organisation (SEATO) Australian Involvement For a decade from 1962 ton 1972, Australian Forces were actively involved in the bitter war that tore Vietnam apart. They served with distinction, and in battles such the decisive battle of Long Tan. They proved that they were more than a match for the Viet Cong. -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Photograph, Briefing Denis Gibbons
... to be shipped to their units in South Vietnam) at the township of "Vinh... preparing war supplies to be shipped to their units in South Vietnam ...A black and white photograph of Tonkin Gulf, North Vietnam 25th May 1967 Lt Stanley L Masterton briefs Australian War Correspondent, Denis Gibbons, during his visit to the Australian Guided Missile Destroyer HMAS Hobart. the briefing is taking place on the flag deck, where a large set of signal flags are visible in a ready use locker behind them. the ship, was at that time engaging, with ship to shore gunfire, a major "choke point" (an area where the North Vietnamese were preparing war supplies to be shipped to their units in South Vietnam) at the township of "Vinh". Hobart was expecting, at any moment, counted battery fire from North Vietnamese coastal batteries after radar stations on Hainan Island, Near Haiphong Harbour and at Vinh had locked onto Horart's position with very accurate triangular positioning. Lt Masterton was informing Gibbons of the incoming enemy fire and was worried he (Gibbons) was not wearing a helment, gibbons, most respectfully advised Lt Masterton that he could not operate his cameras with a helmet on. Hobart immediately turned and saled, very rapidly, out to sea as the counter battery fire commencedAustralian War memorial negative: Navy 13503photograph, hmas hobart, lt stanley l masterton, denis gibbons, vinh, hainan island, haiphong harbour, gibbons collection catalogue -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Map - Maps, topographical
... within South Vietnam. 1. Bien Hoa, Sheet 6330, Edition 4 2. Bien... produced maps of various regions within South Vietnam. 1. Bien Hoa ...Standard issue items as used by Australian servicemen during the war in Vietnam.Set of 18 declassified US produced maps of various regions within South Vietnam. 1. Bien Hoa, Sheet 6330, Edition 4 2. Bien Hoa, Sheet 6330, Edition 4 3. Nhon Trach, Sheet 6330, Edition 3 4. Nhon Trach, Sheet 6330, Edition 3 5. Can Guioc, Sheet 6330, Edition 3 6. Can Guioc, Sheet 6330, Edition 3 7.Ho Chi Minh city, Sheet 6330, Edition 5 8.Ho Chi Minh city, Sheet 6330, Edition 5 9. Tan Uyen, Sheet 6331, Edition 3 10. Ben Cat, Sheet 6331, Edition 2 11. Phuoc Vinh, Sheet 6331, Edition 3 12. Xom Ruong, Sheet 6331, Edition 3 13. Cho Phuoc Hai, Sheet 6429, Edition 4 14. Xa Vung Tau, Sheet 6429, Edition 3 15. Xa Cam My, Sheet 6430, Edition 2 16.Xuyen Moc, Sheet 6430, Edition 3 17. Xa Binh Ba, Sheet 6430, Edition 2 18. Xa Xuan Loc, Sheet 6430, Edition 2 map, vietnam map, topographical, bien hoa, nhon trach, can guioc, tan uyen, ho chi minh city, phuoc vinh, ben cat, xom ruong, cho phuoc hai, xa cam my, xa binh ba, xa xuan loc, xuyen moc, xa vung tau, binh ba, vung tau -
Waverley RSL Sub Branch
Vietcong Flag Type 5
... in South Vietnam that fought the South Vietnamese government... based in South Vietnam that fought the South Vietnamese ...The National Liberation Front Flags 1955-1976 The Viet Cong, or National Liberation Front, was the patriot/rebel army based in South Vietnam that fought the South Vietnamese government and the supporting United States troops during the Vietnam War (1959-75). They fought mainly as guerrilla units and rarely as regular army units. They also provided a network of cadre who organized the peasants against the government in the territory they controlled. The Viet Cong were closely allied with the government of North Vietnam. The group was formed in the 1950s by former members of the Viet Minh acting on orders from Hanoi. They proved highly effective against both ARVN (Army of the Republic of Vietnam) and later against the better equipped American troops. There were at least four types of flags, probably more, seen being carried by the Viet Cong. Type #1 had a small yellow star centered over a red and blue striped background, Type #2 had a larger white star centered on the red and light-blue striped background, Type #3 had either a large or small yellow star centered on a red and white striped background, and Type #4 had three vertical stripes of red/white/red with a small gold star centered on the white stripe. Like the early flags of the American Revolution, most flags were hand-made and each flag was a little different. Some examples of these variant flags also had Vietnamese text added to them. http://www.loeser.us/flags/cold.html#vietnamCotton flag with a red upper half and bluish lower half An Orange star is in the centre. The flag is very water damaged with extensive fading of the colour. It was initially difficult to differentiate between a Type 1, Type 3 and Type 5 flag vietcong, flag, -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Plaque - Almond plaque
... as the Australian commitment to South Vietnam gradually grew... as the Australian commitment to South Vietnam gradually grew ...Warrant Officer Class One Ron Almond served on the 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles cadre staff before being posted as a member of the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV) in 1969. There he was posted as adviser to 17th Armored Cavalry Squadron. He later returned to 8/13 VMR as Regimental Sergeant Major. The AATTV was a specialist unit of military advisors of the Australian Army that operated during the Vietnam War. Raised in 1962, the unit was formed solely for service as part of Australia's contribution to the war, providing training and assistance to South Vietnamese forces. Initially numbering only approximately 30 men, the size of the unit grew several times over the following years as the Australian commitment to South Vietnam gradually grew, with the unit's strength peaking at 227 in November 1970. Members of the team worked individually or in small groups, operating throughout the country from the far south to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in the north. Later they were concentrated in Phước Tuy Province as Australian forces prepared to withdraw from Vietnam. It is believed to be the most decorated Australian unit to serve in Vietnam; its members received over 100 decorations, including four Victoria Crosses, during its existence. The unit was withdrawn from Vietnam on 18 December 1972 and was disbanded in Australia on 16 February 1973. A total of 1,009 men served with the unit over a period of ten years, consisting of 998 Australians and 11 New Zealanders. Representative of a connection between Australian Army Reserve and South Vietnam.Wooden shield with coloured plastic emblem mounted at centre and engraved metal plate below.Presented to / 8/13 VMR OR's Mess / By Ex RSM 8/13 VMR / WO1 Ronald M Almond / 17th Armoured Cavalry Sqn / Advisory team 116 / Republic of Vietnam / May 1969-May 1970military, cadre, aattv, vietnam, cavalry, armour, almond -
8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Photograph - Centurion at Buna Barracks
... and paddy field environment of South Vietnam. How would this very... and paddy field environment of South Vietnam. How would this very ...The first British designed and made Centurion tanks arrived in Australia in June 1952. The first tanks went to the 1st Armoured Regiment, but as more tanks became available armoured regiments of the Citizen Military Forces received replacements for their aging General Grant tanks. The Centurion was a great improvement on the Grant with a bigger gun and the ability to fire accurately while moving. Serving soldiers of regiments such as 8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles were converted to the new tank and National Servicemen received full-time training while at Puckapunyal. In February 1968, C Squadron, 1st Armoured Regiment, equipped with Centurion tanks was sent to Vietnam. This tank No 169073 was one of the twenty tanks which served in Vietnam. There were many doubters about the likely usefulness of the Centurion in the jungle and paddy field environment of South Vietnam. How would this very large tank perform? No one needed to have worried. The tanks performed magnificently and were treasured by the infantry with whom they operated. ‘Tanks save lives’ was the catchcry. Several Reserve officers were attached to the Squadron in Vietnam including Colonel John Neale and Major Gordon Cole. Following the Australian withdrawal, the tanks were refurbished and issued to Army Reserve regiments for training. Our tank was allocated to 8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles. Together with the tanks came a crop of Regular Army Cadre staff and training reached a new peak. When the Centurion was superseded by the Leopard surplus vehicles were allocated to museums and regimental collections as trophy vehicles. Black and white photograph of Centurion Tank No. 169073 at Buna Barracks, Albury, home of 8/13 Victorian Mounted Rifles 1988.centurion, tank, buna barracks, albury, vmr -
Bendigo Military Museum
Print - PRINT, FRAMED
... , South Vietnam, 26 August 1967". Members of 5 Platoon, B Company..., South Vietnam, 26 August 1967". Members of 5 Platoon, B Company ...Caption under print. Soldiers of 5 Platoon, B Company, 7 RAR, preparing to board VS Iroquois helicopters during operation Ulmarrah, the cordon and search of Lang Phuoc Hai Village, South Vietnam, 26 August 1967". Members of 5 Platoon, B Company, 7th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (7RAR), just north of the village of Lang Phuoc Hai, beside Route 44 leading to Dat Do. United States Army Iroquois helicopters are landing to take them back to Nui Dat after completion of Operation Ulmarra, the cordon-and-search by 7RAR of the coastal village of Lang Phuoc Hai. Operation Ulmarra was conducted by 2nd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (2RAR) and 7RAR with support elements. Left to right: Private (Pte) Peter Capp (kneeling); Pte Bob Fennell (leaning over, facing camera, with an ammunition belt for an M60 machine gun slung over his shoulder); Corporal Bob D'Arcy (partly obscured behind Fennell); Pte Neal Hasted (centre, front); Pte Ian Jury (partly obscured, centre, rear, holding rifle); Pte Colin Barnett (front, right, M60 ammunition belt on back, back of head to camera); Lance Corporal Stan Whitford (partly obscured behind Barnett); the helicopter marshal at right is Pte John Raymond Gould, 7RAR. The United States Army Iroquois UH-1D helicopter was operated by 2 Platoon, 162nd Assault Helicopter Company, 11th Combat Aviation Battalion. (Having achieved almost the status of an icon, this image was chosen for, and is etched on, the Australian Vietnam Forces National Memorial on Anzac Parade, Canberra, ACT, dedicated in October 1992). Source AWM Print donated and dedicated to 3789179 FRANK FRIGERIO, 5 Platoon, B Company, 7RAR. See also Cat No. 3543-3549.3Print - coloured print of a photograph depicting three helicopters coming in to land above a dirt road with several groups of soldiers in uniform with jungle vegetation in the background. Frame - black painted metal.See in context, historical - caption under print.prints, framed, accessories, vietnam war -
Streatham and District Historical Society
Picture, Russell Adams 1965-1967
... . This war was between the South and North of Vietnam... for the country. This war was between the South and North of Vietnam ...This picture shows the tipical uniform of the time of conflict in Vietnam worn by Australian soldiers. Russell Henry Adams was one of thousands that went to service for the country. This war was between the South and North of Vietnam and the American troops also were involved. The conflict seen many men killed or wounded and was not a very popular conflict with many back home and overseas.Demonstrats Australias involvement in the Vietnam conflict during the 1960s.Black & white rectangular photo of Russell Henry Adams in uniform of the rifleman of the 6RAR Vietnam V3787341Writting in blue pen across back os the words "Russell Henry Adams". Also in pencil the words "Vietnam V3787341 Rifleman 6RAR + 2RAR Service 29/9/1965-28/9/1967soldiers, east, henry, conflict, streatham, westmere, mininera, nerrin, wars, russell, adams -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Sign - Information board, Fix Bayonets!
... tour) arrived at Vung Tau South Vietnam on board the converted... of 5RAR C Company (1st tour) arrived at Vung Tau South Vietnam ...A poster information board, white text on black, for cartoon in 5RAR display.On the 4th May 1966, the majority of 5RAR C Company (1st tour) arrived at Vung Tau South Vietnam on board the converted aircraft carrier HMAS Sydney, The following day they were ferried ashore on American landing crafts. As they approached the beach, they heard an order that has remained with them until this day. "Fix Bayonets!" Had Vung Tau been over-run by Viet Cong? Should we put a round up the spout? Then again, did we even have a round to put up the spout? Q-Sgt Bob Trenear heard the order with dismay and stated "Fix Bayonets, bloody hell I packed mine in the bottom of my pack!" This was supposed to be a secured area. The Americans (who were working on the beach) thought it a great joke with comments such as "Put those pig stickers away before you hurt yourselves". Unfortunately, this isn't the original cartoon. However Richard Martin created a new one in 2012 and donated it to the Company's Mushroom Club. The original cartoon was published in an Australian newspaper in 1966. As this is a part of the Company's history it would be great appreciated if anyone having information or an image of the original cartoon to contact the 5RAR Association through their Website www.5rar.asn.au 5 rar association, cartoon, poster, information board, vung tau, hmas sydney, sgt bob trenear, bayonet, richard martin -
Bendigo Military Museum
Photograph - A Section, 1st Topographic Survey Troop, Nui Dat, Vietnam, 1969
... Royal Australian Survey Corps troops arrived in South Vietnam... Royal Australian Survey Corps troops arrived in South Vietnam ...This is a photograph of A Section, 1st Topographic Survey Troop taken at Nui Dat, Vietnam in 1969. A nominal roll of personnel and their trade as of the 30th of September 1969, accompanies this photo. Their trades in this photo were as follows - Surveyors Topographic: WO1 Darby Munro, SGT Paddy Strunks, SGT Graeme Birrell, CPL Brian Knight, CPL Colin Laybutt, SPR Roderick Gilbert and SPR Rodney Offer. Draughtsmen Topographic: SGT Terrance Linz, CPL Robert Kay, SPR Peter Aukstinaitis, SPR Lloyd Patterson and SPR Ian Wark. Photographer Cartographic: CPL George Graham. Clerk Admin: CPL Oreste Biziak. Helioworker: CPL Geoffrey White, SPR Lance Percey. Cook AACC: PTE R. Johnston. The first Royal Australian Survey Corps troops arrived in South Vietnam on the 10th of June 1966. This was a detachment from 1st Topographic Survey Troop, which was to give cartographic support to the Australian Task Force. Their main tasks were to establish a Theatre Grid, map compilation and map revision. Engineer Survey Support in the camp and to the civil community and give assistance to the Cordon Search Missions by producing large scale plots from aerial photos with every house and fence etc plotted and then reproduce these by silk screening usually, within a 24-hour period. This support concluded with the withdrawal of Australian troops from Vietnam in 1972. For more information on the career of A Section’s OC MAJ Peter Constantine AM, refer to item 6159P or 6092P. He was the CO of the Army Survey Regiment from 1975 to 1976 and CO of the School of Military Survey (SMS) from 1976 to his retirement in January 1982. His memoirs of active duty in Vietnam ‘Surveyor - Printer Behind the Lines’ was published in 2022. 2IC CAPT Frank Thorogood SB St J’s career culminated at the rank of LTCOL as the CO Army Survey Regiment from 1980 to 1981. More information on the A Section, 1st Topographic Survey Troop and the Army Survey Regiment’s supporting role is provided in pages 89 to 94 of Valerie Lovejoy’s book 'Mapmakers of Fortuna – A history of the Army Survey Regiment’ ISBN: 0-646-42120-4.This is a photograph of A Section, 1st Topographic Survey Troop taken at Nui Dat, Vietnam in 1969. The black and white photograph was printed on photographic paper and is part of the Army Survey Regiment’s Collection. The photograph was scanned at 300 dpi. .1) - Photo, black & white, 1969. Back row L to R: SPR Lance Percey, SPR Bruce Grisdale, SPR Rodney Offer, SPR Roderick Gilbert, CPL Geoffrey White, PTE R. Johnston, CPL Colin Laybutt, SPR Lloyd Patterson. Centre row L to R: SPR Peter Aukstinaitis, SPR Ian Hanna, SPR Ian Wark, CPL Robert Kay, CPL George Graham, CPL Oreste Biziak, CPL Brian Knight. Front row L to R: SGT Terrance Linz, SSGT Gordon Haswell, 2IC CAPT Frank Thorogood SB St J, OC MAJ Peter Constantine AM, WO1 Darby Munro, SGT Paddy Strunks, SGT Graeme Birrell.An A4 nominal roll of personnel and their trade accompanies the photo, as of the 30th of September 1969. A torn paper identifies the personnel in the photo. Annotated on back of photo – ‘Unit Photo – 1 Topo Svy Tp 30 Sept 69’royal australian survey corps, rasvy, army survey regiment, army svy regt, fortuna, asr -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Photograph, Leadership group the day before the Battle of Ngok Tavak, 9/05/1968 12:00:00 AM
... in Vietnam (AATTV) took over command of 11 Mobile Strike Force (Mike... in Vietnam (AATTV) took over command of 11 Mobile Strike Force (Mike ...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)
Banner - Banner, framed, 11 Co (Nung)
... in Vietnam (AATTV) took over command of 11 Mobile Strike Force (Mike... in Vietnam (AATTV) took over command of 11 Mobile Strike Force (Mike ...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
... in Vietnam (AATTV) took over command of 11 Mobile Strike Force (Mike... in Vietnam (AATTV) took over command of 11 Mobile Strike Force (Mike ...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
... in Vietnam (AATTV) took over command of 11 Mobile Strike Force (Mike... in Vietnam (AATTV) took over command of 11 Mobile Strike Force (Mike ...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
... in Vietnam (AATTV) took over command of 11 Mobile Strike Force (Mike... in Vietnam (AATTV) took over command of 11 Mobile Strike Force (Mike ...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, C.2015
... in South and North Vietnam. My navigator was from North Carolina so... in South and North Vietnam. My navigator was from North Carolina so ...AVM Alan Reed AO, Tan Son Nhut, Saigon, June - November 1968. I was an Australian exchange officer flying RF4C Phantoms and training United States Air Force (USAF) pilots and navigators to go to Vietnam. I felt I needed some Vietnam experience if I were to do my job as an instructor. I managed to persuade both the US and Australian Governments to let me go the the war. I claim to be one of the few people 'invited' to the war because, for protocol reasons. the USAF could not order me to go. I was on exchange with the USAF from 1967 to 1970. My job was to fly reconnaissance missions in South and North Vietnam. My navigator was from North Carolina so we named our aircraft the 'Carolina Kangaroo'. All up, I flew 100 missions in Vietnam. Service number 052363 RAAF, 12th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron USAFBlack and white photo of Alan Reed Sqdr Ldr Pilot at the N.V.V.M. 2015 with supporting info.pilot, alan reed -
Bendigo Military Museum
Uniform - JACKET, BATTLE DRESS, ARMY, Australian Defence Industries, 1954
"Herbert Rex WILLIS" Reg No. 342872 Service Details. Refer Cat No. 5231.31. Jacket - Khaki colour, wool serge fabric, Battle dress style, belted at the waist with metal buckle and brown plastic buttons. Collar, shoulder epaulettes, two front pockets with concealed button down flap and sleeve cuffs. Shoulder insignia - with yellow lettering - "ROYAL AUSTRALIAN ELECTRICAL & MECHANICAL ENGINEERS". Rank insignia on sleeves - brown, white and red, - Warrant Officer Second Class. Service Ribbons above left pocket L-R, Vietnam Campaign Medal. Long Service Medal, South Vietnamese Medal with clasp "60-". Light khaki colour cotton twill fabric lining. Manufacturers white cotton twill fabric label - inside on left pocket lining. 2. Lanyard - dark blue colour cotton cord with knots. 1. Manufacturers information on label - black ink print "REGIMENTAL NO./ NAME", Red ink print "M.TX/IZE 5". On pocket lining - purple ink "D^D/ MADE IN AUSTRALIA/ 1954. On collar lining - handwritten, black ink pen "WILLIS" .uniform, army, battle dress, rex willis -
Bendigo Military Museum
Award - MEDAL SET VIETNAM, Post 2000
This replica set is related to Paul Reidy No 3793403, KIA Vietnam. Refer Cat No 2526.2Set of 5 medals court mounted, all medals are replicas, not engraved. 1. Australian Active Service medal 1945 - 75 with clasp Vietnam. 2. Vietnam Campaign medal. 3. Defence medal. 4. Anniversary of National Service medal. 5. South Vietnamese campaign medal.award, medal set, vietnam -
Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc.
Book, Remember Them, 2009
This book gives details of the Melbourne Shrine of Remembrance, war memorials and monuments in suburbs and towns and cities around Victoria and descriptions of the lives of some Victoria war heroes of the Boer War, World Wars One and Two, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.This book is of some local interest as it contains information on war memorials and war heroes in Warrnambool and other district localities. It will be useful for research This is a hard cover book with a multi-coloured paper dust jacket with an image of a soldier on the front and yellow and white lettering. The book is red-coloured with white lettering on the spine. Cover – A Guide to Victoria’s Wartime Heritage – Remember Themmelbourne shrine of rememberance, war history, warrnambool -
Waverley RSL Sub Branch
Plaque Vietnam Vererans Parade Sydney 1987, Vietnam Vererans Parade Sydney 1987
Anecdotal evidence holds that most men returned from Vietnam in the dead of night, hidden from the public. In fact, large numbers actually returned on HMAS Sydney, to a welcome by dignitaries and a parade. The manner of their homecoming affected the way in which veterans recovered from the war, those who did arrive late at night to no fanfare and the seeming indifference of the military had more trouble adjusting to life at home than did those whose return was more public and who had had the benefit of a couple of weeks unwinding on board Sydney before reaching Australia. But the return home was only the beginning of a long period of readjustment. For a long time after the war large numbers of Vietnam veterans felt that many in Australia blamed them, rather than politicians, for the war and the way it had been conducted. Images of the war, many still familiar, of children burned by napalm, of the dead of My Lai, of a South Vietnamese general summarily executing a member of the Viet Cong in the streets of Saigon, had an effect on public opinion and public understanding. The fact that these images related more to the American/Vietnamese experience in Vietnam was less remarked upon. People associated the role of Australians in the war with that of the Americans in a way that failed to recognise the two countries’ different approaches to fighting in Vietnam. see https://www.google.com.au/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=3&cad=rja&ved=0CDwQtwIwAg&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DYL06ddRmiJE&ei=O9OJUYnxC5GaiQeey4HQCA&usg=AFQjCNEjq876qAoYu0WnWslDSNRUJlmuBw&bvm=bv.46226182,d.aGc Wooden Plaque 15cm x 13cmVietnam Vererans Parade Sydney 1987 -
Waverley RSL Sub Branch
Silver Tankard ARMY
... Greece Syria South Africa Korea Malaya Vietnam Presented... Bouganville Brneo Greece Syria South Africa Korea Malaya Vietnam ...Pewter drinking cup with ornate handle, Rising sun Badge with Queens Crown. Glass bottom. Tapered sides. Listing Camaigns and locations. From World War 1, World War 11,, Korea, Malaya and VietnamInscipion: The Australian Tankard WWI German New Guinea Gallipoli France Palestine Mesopotamia Flanders WWII Nth. Africa Crete Malaya SW Pacific Timor New Guinea Java Bouganville Brneo Greece Syria South Africa Korea Malaya Vietnam Presented to the Waverley RSL by Army Members April 1984tankard, mug -
Bendigo Military Museum
Award - MEDAL SET, Post 1975
The miniatures belonged to Peter James Dodd, refer Cat No 2436.2P for his service details.Miniature medal set Court Mounted. 1. Australian Active Service Medal 1945 - 75 with clasps “Vietnam & Malaya” 2. General Service Medal with clasp “Malaya”. 3.Vietnam Campaign Medal. 4. Australian Defence Medal. 5. South Vietnamese medal with clasp “1960-“. 6. Pingat Jasa Malaysia Medal.“217842 P.J.DODD”awards, medals, vietnam, malaya -
Shepparton RSL Sub Branch
Uniform, Jacket, E.W. PTY/LTD, 1968
This jacket is part of a Royal Australian Army Ordnance Corps uniform. The Royal Australian Army Ordnance Corps (RAAOC) is responsible for various logistics and organisational operations, such as maintenance of parachutes, fuel distribution, personnel administration, exlosive disposal and laundy operations. The jacket was manufactured in 1968 and was worn by an unknown RAAOC serviceman. The patches on his sleeves denote that he had earned qualifications as a parachuter and a marksman and that he was a Warrant Officer 1. Due to the period of manufacture it can be presumed that the serviceman whom this uniform belonged to served Vietnam War.As an historic military uniform dating to 1968, it is presumed that this item would have been used in service during the Vietnam War. The wearer of the uniform is unknown, however the patches and flashes attached signify that the serviceman worked for the Royal Australian Army Ordnance Corps, earned qualifications as a parachuter and marksman and ranked highly as a Warrant Officer 1. The item is representative of a type of uniform worn by high ranking RAAOC servicemen during the 1960’s. It is also in very good condition for its age.A khaki coloured waist length jacket which is composed of a heavy fabric. The jacket fastens with five buttons down the front and a buckle. The buttons are composed of brown plastic and the buckle is a dark grey metal. The buckle is attached to a waistband on the right-hand side which loops around to a strip of fabric on the left-hand side which passes through the buckle. There are two breast pockets, one on each side of the chest. The right breast pocket is fastened with a brown plastic button and the left breast pocket is missing its button. Each pocket has a flap of fabric which covers the button area. The jacket has a collar and an epaulette on each shoulder which are each fastened with one brown plastic button. There is a ribbon of fabric on the interior of the collar with no inscriptions. There are identical crescent shaped red patches on each shoulder, each showing the words in navy blue stitching "Royal Australian Army Ordinance Corps". The upper right sleeve has a khaki coloured parachuting qualification patch, which depicts an air balloon in white stitching, with wings on either side in light blue stitching. The lower section of each sleeve has a Warrant Officer First Class khaki coloured patch. This depicts a shield in red, black, white, blue and gold stitching in the centre which sits beneath a gold and blue striped line and a gold star. There is a gold kangaroo to the left of these motifs and a gold emu to the right. Beneath these motifs there is a ribbon in white, blue and gold stitching with the word "Australia". In addition there are curvilinear green decorative elements with yellow flowers on their ends. The left-hand sleeve also has a brown marksmen qualification patch. This depicts two crossed rifles in white and brown stitching. There is a white label with printed inscriptions on the interior of the left breast pocket. There is also a band of fabric on the interior back waist band which has three button holes.Printed in black inscriptions on the white label: E.W. PTY/LTD. SOUTH AUSTRALIA 1968 (a broad arrow) Class 8405-66-025-641 Batch A.W... Mill (the ‘A.W...’ is in stamped purple ink and there are some other purple inscriptions that are difficult to decipher) SIZE OF CHEST 39/49PR MATCHING TROUSERS 37 PR DRY CLEAN ONLY CREASE UPPER HALF OF LAPELS ONLY NAME..... ARMY No..... (the number 40 is also wrtten in faded black ink in the top right corner of the label)military, jacket, army, raaoc, royal australian army ordnance corps, parachuting, marksman, warrant officer, uniform -
Bendigo Military Museum
Photograph - PHOTOGRAPHS, MILITARY, 1959 - 1961
(.1) The men are from C Coy 1 RAR firing SLR rifles at the Battalions jungle training area KOTA TINGI in south Malaya. (.2) Pte John GILES at LASAH north Malaya, operational camp for A Coy 1 RAR. (.3) Pte Victor ALLEN A Coy 1 RAR in north Malaya base camp with “FEARLESS” a 3 month old mascot who wandered into the camp and stayed. While ever music was on FEARLESS would listen. (.4) The soldier in forefront is Max (Dad) KELLY. Served 2nd AIF, BCOF, Korea, Malaya and Vietnam. The photos relate to the collection of William Francis (Dinky DEAN BEM, VX93960 2nd AIF, 3742 1 RAR 1943 - 1975. Refer Cat No 124.2 for his service details. All photos are B & W. (.1) Five men on a range shot, four men shooting, a typed sheet attached with details. (2) A soldier kneeling aiming an SLR, a typed sheet attached with details. (.3) Soldier and small dog listening to a radio, atypical sheet attached with details. (.4) Two soldiers patrolling with rifles. (.5) Soldier splashing water over himself. (.6) Soldiers on parade right dressing. (.7) Two soldiers patrolling walking on a log. (.8) Two soldiers reading a book on Malaya. (.9) Two soldiers adjusting slings on their SLR’s. (.10) Two Officers seated having a cup of tea. (.11) Soldier kneeling aiming a shotgun. (.12) Soldier drinking from a water bottle. (.13) Soldier kneeling with a small black dog. (.14) Soldier holding an SLR rifle. (.15) Two soldiers leaning out of an aircraft. (.16) Soldier playing a guitar. (.17) Two soldiers kneeling holding a tin of food. All photos are stamped on the rear in purple. “Public Relations Australian Army Force, GHQ FARELF” (then either) “ELL & a number” or GUN & a Number MC”photography, military, malaya -
Bendigo Military Museum
Award - UNIT CITATIONS, estimated 1962-1972
Unit Citations awarded to the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam. On the left, U.S Meritorious Unit Commendation. On the right, South Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm. Citations were awarded to Murray Stanley Metherall. Refer 590.2.Citations X 2 joiined, with pin and clips for uniform. Gold edging on both. One has plain red ribbons, second has red with yellow/red vertical stripes with palm leaf.awards, citations, vietnam, u.s -
Bendigo Military Museum
Currency - COINS VIETNAMESE, 1) 1968; .2) 1966
Items souvenired by Wayne William Forbes No 3176337 RAE. Refer Cat No 754 for service history also 2586. Part of extensive collection including his fathers..1) South Vietnamese coin, silver colour, 20 Dong coin has 12 small flats around the edge. 1 side depicts a farmer in a rice field, the other the coin denomination. .2) South Vietnamese coin, silver colour, 5 Dong coin is oval with undulations around the edge. 1 side depicts a farmer in a rice plant, the other the coin denomination..1) Vietnam Cong HOA 20 Dong / NGAN-HANG-QUOC GIA Viet-Nam 1968 .2) Vietnam Cong HOA 5 Dong / NGAN-HANG-QUOC GIA Viet-Nam 1966numismatics - coins, military history, vietnamese -
Bendigo Military Museum
Photograph - PHOTOGRAPH VIETNAM, FRAMED, 1969-70
Relates to Geoff Murray No 3411521. Photo taken in one of the Michelon Rubber Plantations at an ARVN Outpost during his 2nd tour of Vietnam with Survey Corp 15.10.69 to 15.10.70. His first tour was with 3 Cav Regt 27.11.67 to 22.10.68. The date on the photo should be 69-70. Refer 638P.Colour photo showing G Murray handing out treats to South Vietnamese children at an ARVN Outpost. A print at the bottom details time and place. Frame is green wood.military history, vietnam -
Bendigo Military Museum
Pamphlet - PAMPHLET PROPAGANDA VIETNAM, C.1960’s
These pamphlets were part of the "Chieu Hoi" (open arms) campaign designed to encourage North Vietnamese and Viet Cong soldiers to defect. They granted a soldier free passage through US/South Vietnamese held territory. They were dropped over the countryside as well individually. This item souvenired by Geoff Murray No 3411521, Vietnam 3 Cav Regt 27.11.67 to 22.10.68, Survey Corp 15.10.69 to 15.10.70. Refer 638P.Propaganda pamphlet printed by US government. White cardboard with yellow rectangle with images of flags and text in three languages. Titled "Chieu Hoi The Winning Ticket"documents-pamphlets, military history, vietnam