Showing 295 items
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8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regimental Collection
Booklet - VC/NVA Mine Indicators, 1967 circa
... Cong and North Vietnamese Army to indicate locations of mines... in the field of methods of mine marking by Viet Cong and North ...Notes of this type prepared in Vietnam by US Intelligence Center and commonly used for counter-revolutionary warfare training in Australia.Representative example of training material used in training of officers and NCOs of CMF units such as 8/13 VMR.White paper booklet 56 pages folded saddle-stitched and stapled. Prepared by Combined Intelligence Center Vietnam from reports from units in the field of methods of mine marking by Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army to indicate locations of mines to enable local villagers to avoid them. Ink stamps on front and back covers "Tactics Wing" and "To be returned to Tac Wing"south vietnam, mines -
Waverley RSL Sub Branch
Vietcong Flag Type 5
... The National Liberation Front Flags 1955-1976 The Viet Cong... in the territory they controlled. The Viet Cong were closely allied ...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, -
Bendigo Military Museum
Pamphlet - PAMPHLET PROPAGANDA VIETNAM, C.1960’s
... ) campaign designed to encourage North Vietnamese and Viet Cong...) campaign designed to encourage North Vietnamese and Viet Cong ...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 -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Card - Death card
... a superstitious meaning for the Viet Cong, stemming from French colonial... a superstitious meaning for the Viet Cong, stemming from French colonial ..."Death Card" designed to be left on the body of dead enemy soldiers. US soldiers believed that the ace of spades held a superstitious meaning for the Viet Cong, stemming from French colonial rule and fortune-telling practices where the spade suit was associated with death and misfortune. This item was donated by Peter S Sims, who served as a Corporal in the Royal Australian Army Medical Corps in Vietnam 1969-70.Card with black background and white writing. A skull with a Spade symbol on it's forehead.Trong Mien Cua Meo Cua Tham Phandeath card, peter sims, nvvm, enemy, death, ace of spades -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Photograph, Gibbons, Denis, Patient's Aids
... and patient's aids from a store at the NVA Viet Cong K76A Hospital... and patient's aids from a store at the NVA Viet Cong K76A Hospital ...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 black and white photograph of Diggers collect clothing and patient's aids from a store at the NVA Viet Cong K76A Hospital captured by 6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC) on the Nui May Tao Mountain during Operation Marsden. The diggers had a well deserved rest in the hospital area during its search.photograph, 6 rar/nz, k76a hospital, nui may tao mountain, operation marsden, gibbons collection catalogue, nva/vc, diggers, 6 rar/nz (anzac), denis gibbons -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Award, Unit Citation
... to destroy the secret zone of Viet Cong main force units causing... to destroy the secret zone of Viet Cong main force units causing ...Unit citation awarded to 8th Batt RAR for search and destroy operations in Phuoc Tuy province. The Battalion were able to destroy the secret zone of Viet Cong main force units causing heavy casualties so population could live safely also help to rebuild roads, bridges, markets, and schoolsvietnamese cross of gallantry -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Clothing - Montagnard traditional costume
... in how to deal with the guerrilla tactics used by Viet Cong... in how to deal with the guerrilla tactics used by Viet Cong ...Montagnard people were the indigenous non-Vietnamese ethnic minorities living in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. Australian Army Captain Barry Petersen was sent to Vietnam in 1963 as part of the elite Australian Army Training Team to train Montagnard rebels in how to deal with the guerrilla tactics used by Viet Cong insurgents. The laplap is an integral part of the traditional ceremonial costume of various Montagnard groups, particularly the Rhade tribe, with whom Petersen lived and worked, learning their language and wearing their traditional clothing.Top and shawl black. Embroidery and weaving in white, red and ocremontagnard, ceremonial costume, laplap, loincloth, petersen, barry petersen, rhade, rade -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Weapon, M60 Machine Gun Flash Eliminator
... Australian Regiment, M60 machine gun was hit by a Viet Cong bullet... gun was hit by a Viet Cong bullet on 6 November 1965 during ...This flash eliminator from a 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, M60 machine gun was hit by a Viet Cong bullet on 6 November 1965 during Operation Hump north of Bien Hoa. The bent metal on the eliminator can be clearly seen. The round fragmented on impact, wounding both the gunner, Private Anthony John McIvor from Richmond, NSW and the gun No.2 , Private Glen Brett Woodward from Brisbane, Queensland. Woodward subsequently returned to operations but McIvor was evacuated to Australia to be treated for his wounds.A muzzle device attached to the muzzle of a rifle, e.g a M60 machine gun that has a bent head.m60 machine gun, operation hump, bien hoa, pte anthony john mcivor, pte glen brett woodward, flash eliminator -
Bendigo Military Museum
Document - VIETNAM PAPERS - HERDMAN
... , The People, Government Services, Armed Services, Viet Cong..., The People, Government Services, Armed Services, Viet Cong ...5. Pocketbook issued to Australian Troops during the Vietnam War. Contents include: The War in South Vietnam, The People, Government Services, Armed Services, Viet Cong, Vietnamese Language, Useful information. 14. Details of Australia V US. Hill climb with program of Events, 22nd February 1970. 15. Details of dog races with fields listed on a six race program - 20th February 1970. 18. Document details departure itinerary (ex SVN) for K.J. HERDMAN. 27. Notebook contains names and addresses of US service personnel. Papers related to "Kevin John Herdman's" visit to South Vietnam from 18th February to 4th March 1970. Part of the Kevin John Herdman, No. 397661 Collection. See Cat. No. 5942P for details of his service. 27. Collection of documents related to K.J. Herdman. 1. Two page TAA flight ticket. Text in blue coloured type. Two baggage tickets stapled to front. 2. Single diary page with torn edge. Handwritten flight itinerary in section dated 16th February. 3. Two page QANTAS flight ticket. Text in red and black type. Flight details printed in purple type. 4. Printed flier outlining Australian Customs and Quarantine regulations. Recipient's name handwritten in black ink. 5. Green coloured soft cover pocketbook. 74 pages with cut edges. Black and white diagrams. Text in black type. 6. Small pamphlet with black type. Written in Vietnamese. 7. Foolscap sized 5 page document stapled on top LHC. Text in black type. Title "VISITS BY CMF OFFICERS TO VIETNAM". 8. A4 sized one page document with text in black type on one side only. Two sided pamphlet on blue paper stapled to top LHC. Black type on pamphlet. Title "NINE RULES FOR AUSTRALIAN ARMY FORCES IN VIETNAM." 9. Two page A4 sized document with text in black type. Text on one side of each page. Title "AUSTRALIAN FORCE VIETNAM, RTA BRIEFING NOTES - QANTAS CHARTER, SAIGON/SYDNEY". 10. Foolscap signed proforma oriented in landscape. Title: AUSTRALIAN MILITARY FORCES, VISITS BY CMF OFFICERS TO SYN". Details of personnel in black type. 11. Quarto sized two page document with printing on one side. Text in black type. Staple in top LHC. Title: "CMF VISITOR - LT. K.J. HERDMAN, (ITINERARY FOR LT. K.J. HERDMAN)". 12. Quarto sized two page document with printing on one side. Text in black type. Staple in top LHC. Title: " CMF VISITOR - LT K.J. HERDMAN (ITINERARY FOR LT. K.J.HERDMAN)" 13. A4 sized document with text in black type. Text on one side only. Title: CMF VISITOR - LT. K.J. HERDMAN". 14. Foolscap sized document with text in black type. Printing on one side. Title: "LONG HI HILL CLIMB". 15. Quarto sized document with text in black type. Printing on one side. Title: "DAT DO DOGS". 16. Foolscap sized 9 page document with text on one side. Printing in black type. Pages stapled together in top LHC. Title: "1 ATF G INSTRUCTIONS 14/69, SUPPLIES, POL AND AMMUNITION HOLDINGS". 17. A4 sized document with text on one side. Printing in black type. TITLE; "AMENDMENT 1 TO Q INSTRUCTION 14/69, DATED 23 OCT 69". 18. A4 SIZED DOCUMENT WITH TEXT ON BOTH SIDES. PRINTING IN BLACK TYPE. 19. Foolscap sized 3 page document with staple in top LHC. Text on page 1 in black type. Text on pages 2 & 3 in purple type. Pages are entitled "TEMA FLYING PROGRAMME - CH 47". 20. Foolscap sized 7 page document with text in black type. Printing on one side. Title: " OPERATIONS BREF - DET 52 SUP PL RAASC, REPUBLIC SOUTH VIETNAM (1967-69)", Dated 20 Sept, 69. 21. Foolscap sized 2 page document with text in black type. Printing on one side. Pages stapled on top LHC. Title: " Q INSTRUCTION 15/69, RETURN OF PRODUCE, " Dated 16 Oct 69. 22. Foolscap sized single page document with text in black type. Printing on one side. Title: " Q INSTRUCTION 19/69, RETURN AND DISPOSAL OF UNSERVICEABLE AMMUNITION" Dated 5 Nov 69. 23. Foolscap sized single page proforma with text and lines in black. No handwritten details. Title: "26 TRANSPORT COY RAASC VEHICLE SERVICEABILITY/AVAILABILITY STATE". 24. Foolscap sized single page proforma with text and lines in black. No handwritten details. Title: "DAILY EMPLOYMENT STATE, 85 TPT PL RAASC". 25. Foolscap sized single page document. Text and lines in purple. Reproduced on a spirit duplicator. Title: "INDENTING PROGRAMME FRESH". 26. Foolscap sized single sheet proforma with text and lines in black. No handwritten details. Title: DAILY MAINT MOVEMENT PLANNING TABLE". Printing on both sides. 27. Red and white covered note book. Title on front and details on back in black type. Lined pages. Handwritten information on most pages. 28. Illustrated Christmas Card. Illustration features an angel and the three Magi. Printing on inside in black. Handwritten message in black ink. 1. Passenger details handwritten in blue, carbon copy. 2. Itinerary notes handwritten in blue ink. 3. Handwritten in black ink: "CAPT K.J. HERDMAN". Flight details printed in purple coloured text. 4. Handwritten in black ink : "KEVIN JOHN HERDMAN". 7. Handwritten in black ink on page 1: LT. K. HERDMAN, 6 Coy RAASC, 17 Feb 70." Handwritten in black ink on last page: "1. Ensure teeth are all O.K., 2. Have you still got your tags Identity? (Signature). 11. Handwritten on top RHC of page 1: "CAPT A". 12. Handwritten on top RHC of page 1: "LT HERDMAN". 27. Handwritten notes in black ink on various pages. 28. Handwritten in black ink on inside of card: "Hello Kevin, Perhaps you remember the 62nd Trans. Company at Long Bing? I completely enjoyed your brief stay. If you are ever in the U.S. do stop by. Have a Merry Christmas to you and yours. Margo and Jack Olsen." vietnam war, army, training notes, kevin john herdman -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Weapon, Montagnard Dagger
... supply line for Viet Cong forces in the south. communists passing... the Ho Chi Minh trail, the North Vietnamese supply line for Viet ...Montagnard Dagger, C 1964, souvenired by Major Ian McKeown, Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV). The Central Highlands emerged as a strategically important area during the Vietnam War, because it included the Ho Chi Minh trail, the North Vietnamese supply line for Viet Cong forces in the south. communists passing through the highlands had, however, to contend with the Montagnards who they called Thurong (highlanders). The Montagnards were a formidable opponent in their home terrain and were not adverse to using their traditional weapons when dispatching their enemies, particularly when maintaining silence was critical. On loan courtesy the collection of Ian McKeownWooden handle. Metal reinforcement both ends of handle. Metal curved blade with concaved tip.maj mckeown, aattv, australian army training team vietnam (aattv), montagnard dagger, montagnards -
Kyneton RSL Sub Branch
Corps plaque, Fifth Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
... Australian Task Force Vietnam North Vietnamese Army Viet Cong Place... Army Viet Cong Place Horseshoe Hill Events Tet Offensive ...5th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment Units 1 Australian Task Force Vietnam North Vietnamese Army Viet Cong Place Horseshoe Hill Events Tet Offensive Operation Bondi Battle Honour Binh Ba Commanding Officers Warr, John Arnold Kahn, Colin Nicholas Decorations First tour: 1 DSO; 3 MC; 2 MM; 1 MID and bar; 18 MID; Second tour: 1 DSO; 3 MC; 2 DCM; 1 Medal of Gallantry; 3 MM; 11 MID Conflict Vietnam, 1962-1975 References Vietnam Vietnam Vietnam Vietnam Vietnam Vietnam Category Unit Conflict Vietnam, 1962-1975 Unit hierarchy Australian Army Royal Australian Infantry 5th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment Wooden plaque with 3 separate designs attached.5th Battalion -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Document, Chien Hoi Campaign, Open Arms Chieu Hoi, 1962-1978
... point list in Vietnamese and a circular "Viet-Nam Cong-Hoa... a 11 point list in Vietnamese and a circular "Viet-Nam Cong-Hoa ...Two sided propaganda leaflet. One side is a colour picture of women and children in a grocery/food store with Vietnamese writing in black on white and white on black. Reverse has a 11 point list in Vietnamese and a circular "Viet-Nam Cong-Hoa" stamp.Chien Hoi Reverse - "Chinh Phu Cam Ket Moi Hoi Chanh Vien Se Duoc"leaflet, propaganda, sgt a moylan, 4 platoon, b coy, 7 rar, 7th battalion, 16063, royal australian infantry corps, arnold george moylan -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Poster - Poster, Information Board 5RAR
... movements of the local regional force. Thirteen Viet Cong survived... movements of the local regional force. Thirteen Viet Cong survived ...An Poster, Information Board on 5 RAR 1st Tour 1966 to 1967. Below a black and white photograph reads: 5 RAR Operation Canberra 6th to 10th October 1966. Lance Corporal Shoebridge and Lance Corporal Brian supporting Private Riik and Private Birties securing weapons. Resulting from a booby trap explosion, 7 members of C Company 8 platoon were wounded when ascending the Nui Thi Vai mountain on the 8th Oct 1966. Overcoming difficult terrain, C Company prepared a landing zone (LZ) on the slopes for evacuation of the wounded - (Medevac). Under a coloured photograph of sodliers reads; 5 RAR - Bush Bashing 1966. Members of C Company 9 platoon after days of bush bashing - a soldier's term used to describe days of navigating dense terrain and vegetation while being always at the ready for enemy contact. Under a coloured photograph of APC reads: 5 RAR - Operation Hayman 8th to 12 November. Armoured Personnel carriers supporting 5 RAR during staging/forming mode prior to being air-lifted on to the summit of Nui Nua on Long Son Island. The Battalion's objective was to capture or eliminate the Chau Duc District VC Company that had been restricting movements of the local regional force. Thirteen Viet Cong survived and surrended days later to mainland police. Under a coloured photograph of soldiers walking on a log over water reads: 5 RAR - Hat Bands. The Viet Cong occasionally wore the same or similiar headgear as the Australian forces in an attempt to create confusion when contact was made. In the short term this was remedied by threading a coloured ribbon around the Australian bush hat. The ribbon served as an identification marker so as to quickly identify an Australian soldier from the enemy. Colours were regularly changed.5 rar, c coy, operation canberra, operation hayman, pte riik, l/cpl shoebridge, l/cpl brian -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Ceremorial Object - MIA Bracelet - L/Cpl John Francis Gillespie, The Laeufers LIMA MIA-POW
... Vietnamese Regional Force soldiers had been injured by a mine... Vietnamese Regional Force soldiers had been injured by a mine ...The last Australian soldier to be listed as missing in action was Lance Corporal John Francis Gillespie of 8 Field Ambulance. On 17 April 1971 Gillespie was serving as a helicopter medic during a 'dustoff' (helicopter medical evacuation) operation in the Long Hai hills in Phuoc Tuy province. Four South Vietnamese Regional Force soldiers had been injured by a mine explosion and the difficult terrain demanded a helicopter evacuation. But the Long Hai hills were an insecure landing zone. The caves and dense timber of the Long Hais had long harboured a major Viet Cong base area and the dustoff operation required the protection of helicopter gunships. As the first wounded soldier was being winched up, the hovering helicopter was hit by enemy machine-gun fire. It crashed to the ground and burst into flames. Although the crew escaped, Lance Corporal Gillespie and three other soldiers were engulfed in the fireball. A helicopter crewman, Corporal Robert Stephens, repeatedly entered the burning aircraft and tried in vain to rescue Gillespie, until being forced back by the flames. Stephens was later awarded the British Empire Medal for his courage. Gillespie's body could not be recovered from the burning wreckage which was reduced to slag by the fire. Private Gillespie was listed as missing in action, apparently on a technicality because his remains could not be found. The classification was subsequently altered to killed in action.Stainless steel open ended bracelet with missing serviceman's full name and date missing. In a buff square satin lined box.MIA John Francis Gillespie 17/04/71mia, john francis gillespie, l/cpl john francis gillespie, 3170244, royal australian army medical corps, 8th field ambulance, cpl robert stephens, killed in action -
Lara RSL Sub Branch
Artwork, other - Vietnam Photo Photo Collage, Australia
... . They proved that they were more than a match for the Viet Cong.... a match for the Viet Cong. Framed Picture Collage of Photos ...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. -
Waverley RSL Sub Branch
Plaque Vietnam Vererans Parade Sydney 1987, Vietnam Vererans Parade Sydney 1987
... Vietnamese general summarily executing a member of the Viet Cong... Vietnamese general summarily executing a member of the Viet Cong ...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 -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Ephemera - Order of Service, framed
... Hai hills were a stronghold for the Viet Cong, who used... a stronghold for the Viet Cong, who used the caves there as a bunker ...Operation Hammersley , 10 February until 9 March 1970, was undertaken by a combined force of: C Company, 8th Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment (8RAR); armoured personnel carriers from 3 Cavalry Regiment; tanks from 1 Armoured Regiment; sappers from the Royal Australian Engineers; a mortar section from 8RAR’s Support Company; air support, and even a Navy destroyer off-shore to provide gunfire support. The operation aimed to protect 17 Construction Squadron, Royal Australian Engineers, at a quarry in the western foothills of the Long Hai hills. The Long Hai hills were a stronghold for the Viet Cong, who used the caves there as a bunker complex and had planted many landmines and booby traps in the area. Over two fierce weeks, 8 RAR carried out patrols and conducted ambushes, engaging VC troops and eventually capturing the bunker system. However, it was a costly campaign. In total, over 70 Australians were killed or wounded during the operation. The worst day for mine casualties in Australia's war in Vietnam occurred on 28 February 1970. It became known as 'Black Saturday". Nine members of 8RAR were killed and 29 wounded. This item is the Order of Service from the memorial service held at Nui Dat on 3 April 1970 to honour those killed at Long Hai. It was issued to the donor, National Serviceman G G Ravenscroft, who was serving in 1 Platoon, A Company 8RAR during Operation Hammersley, and received a minor shrapnel wound on Black Saturday.Two typed A-4 pages that have been folded into booklet, now flattened and framed. Listed are the prayers, Bible readings and sermon given, along with the names of the 8 fallen soldiers, and the chaplains who officiated.8rar, long hai, long hai hills, black saturday, 1970, operation hammersley, ravenscroft, geoff ravenscroft, memorial service -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Ceremorial Object - MIA Bracelet - Trooper David John Fisher, The Laeufers LIMA MIA-POW
... groups of Viet Cong. Outnumbered and pursued through the jungle... groups of Viet Cong. Outnumbered and pursued through the jungle ...In 1969 Private David Fisher, a national serviceman serving with 3 Squadron SAS, became the next soldier declared missing in action. In September 1969 Fisher was second-in-command of a five-man, long range SAS patrol searching for signs of enemy activity near the Nui May Tao massif in south-eastern Long Khanh province. After patrolling for seven days in persistent rain, on 27 September the Australians had a series of sharp contacts with strong groups of Viet Cong. Outnumbered and pursued through the jungle, they called for a helicopter extraction. The helicopters arrived within half an hour, just as the enemy were closing in on the SAS soldiers. During the hectic moments of the "hot" extraction, while under fire and surrounded by the enemy, the members of the patrol clipped on their karabiners and attached themselves to ropes dangling from a helicopter and were lifted clear of the jungle. As the helicopter gathered speed and helicopter gunships moved in to fire on the enemy on the ground, the patrol members suddenly noticed that Private Fisher was missing. He had fallen from his rope from a height of about 30 metres above the tree canopy. It was later suggested that, under pressure, Fisher may have attached his karabiner to the wrong loop on the rope. An air search began within ten minutes of the incident and a ground search began within five hours. A ten-man SAS patrol searched the jungle around the site, joined the following day by rifle companies who searched for the next six days. Fisher's body was never found, and he was declared missing in action, presumed dead. He had only two months remaining of his tour of duty.Stainless steel open-ended bracelet engraved with missing serviceman's full name and date missing. In a buff square velvet satin-lined box.David John Elkington Fisher 27/09/69mia, david john elkington fisher, trooper david john fisher, 2787344, australian national serviceman, royal australian infantry corps, 2nd special air service squadon, 3rd special air service squadron, sas -
Clayton RSL Sub Branch
soft cover non-fiction book, In Good Company, 1987
... the Viet Cong. It ends three and a half years later with a burst... the Viet Cong. It ends three and a half years later with a burst ...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 -
4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse Regiment Unit History Room
Flag, 173rd Airborne Brigade (US)
... to the Central Highlands (Pleiku / Kontum) to fight Viet Cong. The 173d... Highlands (Pleiku / Kontum) to fight Viet Cong. The 173d also ...173 AIRBORNE BRIGADE (SEPARATE) US ARMY 1 RAR BATTLE GROUP BIEN HOA 1965-1966 On May 5, 1965, the Brigade deployed to South Viet Nam as the first US Army ground combat unit in that war. Upon arrival, the 1st Battalion of the Royal Australian Regiment (1 RAR) and a battery from New Zealand (161Royal NZ Artillery) were attached to the Brigade -- making the 173d Airborne the only multi-national combat unit in the war. Initially headquartered in Bien Hoa, the Brigade operated in the four provinces around Saigon. (Xuan Loc, Long Khanh, Phuoc Long & Phuoc Tuy), but (in its roll as a "Fire Brigade") also went to the Central Highlands (Pleiku / Kontum) to fight Viet Cong. The 173d also conducted constant operations against the southern stronghold of the VC Main Force in the legendary Iron Triangle in War Zone D. The brigade was organized as a balanced airborne combat force consisting of two infantry battalions, an artillery battalion, a support battalion, an engineer company, a cavalry troop, an armour company, and a headquarters company. Upon activation, it became the first and only separate airborne brigade in the United States Army. This was the beginning of a long series of "Firsts" for the Brigade. On 5 May 1965, it became the first US Army ground combat unit committed to the war in South Vietnam, where further organizational changes were to take place. Australians attached to the Brigade were: 1st Battalion, of the Royal Australian Regiment (I RAR) and support troops of the 4/19th Prince of Wales Light Horse Regiment (1Troop), 105 Field Battery Royal Australian Artillery, 161 Field Battery Royal New Zealand Artillery, 3 Field Troop Royal Australian Engineers, 161 Reconnaissance Flight, Royal Australian Army Air Corps, 1st Australian Logistical Support Company. The Brigade's two infantry battalions, the First Battalion of the 503' Infantry (1/503`d) and the Second Battalion, of the 503`d Infantry (2/503`) and the attached Australians of 1 RAR constituted the infantrymen available to the Brigade. Their mission was to protect the Bien Hoa Air Base and to close with and destroy or capture the enemy. This was in fact the first operational ground force formed under the ANZUS Defence Treaty. ANZUS was a mutual defence treaty signed in 1951 between Australia, New Zealand and the United States of America. In 1965 the spirit of this treaty appeared as 173d Airborne Brigade (Sep) a tri-national brigade. The only such tri-national fighting force formed during the Vietnam War. On deployment to South Vietnam in 1965, 1 Troop A Squadron, 4th/19th Prince of Wales's Light Horse Regiment was part of the US 173rd Airborne Brigade combat group. Flag, two colours divided vertically, hoist half mid blue, fly half red. Badge of 173rd Airborne Brigade (730 x 490 mm) in centreflag, 173rd airborne, south vietnam -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Sign - Information board, Fix Bayonets!
... Bayonets!" Had Vung Tau been over-run by Viet Cong? Should we put... by Viet Cong? Should we put a round up the spout? Then again, did ...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 -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Photograph, Photo Collage of Australian Involvement
... that they were more than a match for the Viet Cong.... a match for the Viet Cong. Framed photo collage of Australian ...Framed photo collage of Australian involvement in Vietnam.In the centre of the collage there is a bronze plaque wich reads: VIETNAM The Vietnam War was a military conflict that occurred in Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia from 1959 to 30 April 1975. The was 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 Southeast Asia Treaty Organization (SEATO) The United States entered the war to prevent a communist takeover of South Vietnam as part of their wider strategy of containment. Military advisors arrived beginning n 1950. U.S. involvemeny escalated in the early 1960s and combat units were deployed beginning in 1965. Invollvement peaked in 1968 at the time of the Tet Offensive. Despite a peace treaty signed by all parties in january 1973, fighting continued. In response to the anti-war movement, the U.S. Congress passed the Case-Church Amendment in June 1973 prohibiting furtherdirect U.S. military intervention without Congressional authorization yet the U.S.was still heavily invested in the war until 1975, when North Vietnam captured Saigon. North and South Vietnam were reunified the following year. The war exacted a huge human cost in terms of facilities, including 3 to 4 million Vietnamese from both sides, 1.5 to 2 million Laotians and Cambodians, and 58,159 U.S. soldiers. AUSTRALIAN INVOLVEMENT: For a decade from 1962 to 1972, Australian forces were actively involved in the bitter war that tore Vietnam apart. they served with distinction, and in battles such as the decisive Battle of Long Tan they proved that they were more than a match for the Viet Cong.photo collage, australian involvement, southeast asia treaty organization (seato), tet offensive, u.s. congress, battle of long tan, saigon -
Bendigo Military Museum
Currency - COINS, VIETNAMESE, South Vietnamese Government, 1) 1966. .2) 1964
Official South Vietnamese currency. Wes BERTUCH collection, refer Cat No 1644.2.1) Coin 5 Dong metal round with undulating edges, front has “5 Dong” rear has a flower arrangement. .2) Coin 10 Dong metal round shape, front has “10 Dong”, rear same as .1) Both coins are dated.1).2) On front,” VIET.NAM CONG HOA”coins, currency vietnamese, dong -
Bendigo Military Museum
Currency - COINS VIETNAMESE, 1) 1968; .2) 1966
... military history Vietnamese .1) Vietnam Cong HOA 20 Dong / NGAN ...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 -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Document, Letter from Cong Minh Nguyen, VVAV President to Gary Parker discussing a donation of 5 Photograph
Cong Minh Nguyen's letter is regarding the donation some historic photos of their famous leaders in the Vietnam War.vietnamese veterans association of victoria inc., vietnamese conflict, 1961-1975 -- veterans -
Monbulk RSL Sub Branch
Book, Osprey, Tet offensive; 1968 : the turning point in Vietnam, 1990
... by Viet Cong forces. An event seen as a turning point ion American ...This book describes the Tet offensive by Viet Cong forces. An event seen as a turning point ion American involvement in VietnamIll, maps, p.96.non-fictionThis book describes the Tet offensive by Viet Cong forces. An event seen as a turning point ion American involvement in Vietnamvietnam war 1961-1975 – history, vietnam war 1961-1975 – tet offensive -
Monbulk RSL Sub Branch
Book, Allen & Unwin, Through enemy eye, 2005
... . The Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army draw up a plan to eliminate ...1966: An Australian military base is established around a hill in South Viet Nam - two battalions strong. The Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army draw up a plan to eliminate the base and allocate eight battalions for the task. Then the plan is thwarted when the Vietnamese forces run into an Australian company in the Long Tan rubber plantation.Ill, notes, maps, p.370.fiction1966: An Australian military base is established around a hill in South Viet Nam - two battalions strong. The Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army draw up a plan to eliminate the base and allocate eight battalions for the task. Then the plan is thwarted when the Vietnamese forces run into an Australian company in the Long Tan rubber plantation.vietnam war 1961-1975 – australian involvement, vietnam war 1961-1975 – fiction -
Monbulk RSL Sub Branch
Book, Big Sky Publishing et al, Long Tan : the start of a lifelong battle, 2016
... Force base at Nui Dat, a group of Viet Cong soldiers walked ...On the afternoon of 18 August 1966, just five kilometres from the main Australian Task Force base at Nui Dat, a group of Viet Cong soldiers walked into the right flank of Delta Company, 6 RAR. Under a blanket of mist and heavy monsoon rain, amid the mud and shattered rubber trees, a dispersed Company of 108 men held its ground with courage and grim determination against a three-sided attack from a force of 2,500 Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army troops. When the battle subsided, 18 Australian soldiers lay dead and 24 had been wounded. Battlefield clearance revealed 245 enemy bodies with captured documents later confirming the count at over 500 enemy killed and 800 wounded. These men were led by a gruff and gusty perfectionist, Major Harry Smith. Now, some 47 years after the battle, Harry tells his story for the first time. But Long Tan is more than just an account of a historic battle. Harry Smith takes his readers on an extraordinary journey - one that ultimately reveals a remarkable cover-up at the highest military and political echelons. Long Tan is also Harry's life story and portrays his many personal battles, from failed marriages to commando-style killing; from a horrific parachute accident through to his modern-day struggles with bureaucracy for recognition for his soldiers. Harry's battles are tempered by his love of sailing, where he has at last found some peace. Long Tan portrays the wrenching, visceral experience of a man who has fought lifelong battles, in a story that he is only now able to tell. Harry can still hear the gunfire and smell the blood spilt at Long Tan. For him, the fight continues. Collapse summaryIll, maps, p.336.non-fictionOn the afternoon of 18 August 1966, just five kilometres from the main Australian Task Force base at Nui Dat, a group of Viet Cong soldiers walked into the right flank of Delta Company, 6 RAR. Under a blanket of mist and heavy monsoon rain, amid the mud and shattered rubber trees, a dispersed Company of 108 men held its ground with courage and grim determination against a three-sided attack from a force of 2,500 Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army troops. When the battle subsided, 18 Australian soldiers lay dead and 24 had been wounded. Battlefield clearance revealed 245 enemy bodies with captured documents later confirming the count at over 500 enemy killed and 800 wounded. These men were led by a gruff and gusty perfectionist, Major Harry Smith. Now, some 47 years after the battle, Harry tells his story for the first time. But Long Tan is more than just an account of a historic battle. Harry Smith takes his readers on an extraordinary journey - one that ultimately reveals a remarkable cover-up at the highest military and political echelons. Long Tan is also Harry's life story and portrays his many personal battles, from failed marriages to commando-style killing; from a horrific parachute accident through to his modern-day struggles with bureaucracy for recognition for his soldiers. Harry's battles are tempered by his love of sailing, where he has at last found some peace. Long Tan portrays the wrenching, visceral experience of a man who has fought lifelong battles, in a story that he is only now able to tell. Harry can still hear the gunfire and smell the blood spilt at Long Tan. For him, the fight continues. Collapse summary vietnam conflict - australian involvement, vietnam war 1961-1975 – battles – long tan -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Book, Currey, Cecil Barr, Long Binh Jail: An Oral History of Vietnam's Notorious U.S. Military Prison, 1999
... Newhaven phillip-island-and-the-bass-coast Vietnamese Conflict 1961 ...The infamous horror stories of the U.S. military prison at Long Binh made it so feared that American soldiers preferred to face the Viet Cong rather than be sent there.The infamous horror stories of the U.S. military prison at Long Binh made it so feared that American soldiers preferred to face the Viet Cong rather than be sent there.vietnamese conflict , 1961-1975 - prisoners and prisons, prisons - vietnam - long binh (dong nai), 1961-1975 - personal narratives, american -
National Vietnam Veterans Museum (NVVM)
Book, Rottman, Gordon L, North Vietnamese Army Soldier 1958-75, 2009
... Military Commonly mistaken for the locally raised Viet Cong ...Commonly mistaken for the locally raised Viet Cong, the NVA was an entirely different force, conducting large-scale operations in a conventional war.Commonly mistaken for the locally raised Viet Cong, the NVA was an entirely different force, conducting large-scale operations in a conventional war.vietnam (democratic republic) -- armed forces., vietnam (democratic republic) -- history, military