This item contributes to an understanding of those involved in the war in Vietnam (1962-1972) A pewter tankard with handle and engraved dedication.Presented to/Sgt T J Nicholson/By/RAAC Sgts Mess/1 Nov 72th nicholson, raac sgts mess, vietnam, tankard

Presentation to the Sergeants' Mess of 8/13 VMR by Cadre Staff member Sergeant RC Tetley when leaving the regiment at the completion of his posting. The presentation of a gift of this type was a common practice in regimental circles.A bespoke object with relevance to the character of an RAAC regiment using as it does a shell case from a fighting vehicle used by 8/13 VMR and indicative of business procedure in Mess meetings.Chairman's gong made of a chrome plated 76mm shell case suspended from a chrome plated metal frame mounted on a stained wooden base. Silver 8th/13th Victorian Mounted Rifles Regiment hat badge is mounted on front side of base. Stained wood and chrome plated metal gavel sits on two rests on rear side of base. Small engraved plaque attached to base at rear.On presentation plaque: "Presented to 8/13 VMR Sgts Mess by 2782108 Sgt RC Tetley Dec 1984"; and markings on base of shell case: "76mm ARMD C PW 175 ME 1970"sergeants' mess, 8/13 vmr, tetley