From: The Team in Pictures |
A Soldier Died Today
G'day all,
Just returned from overseas today and the following message on the passing of Les Milliss AATTV was on my inmail from Bruce Davies, AATTV Vic Branch. Fortunately, the message had been passed around to Team members via Bruce, Bernie McGurgan and Peter Conway.
Les served with Mike Force, 5th SFGA, Danang on his tour of duty with AATTV. He will be sadly missed by fellow Team members and our deepest sympathies and sincerest condolences go to his family.
May he Rest-In-Peace,
Persevere,
Rick
It is with deep regret that we advise of the passing on Monday 08 OCTOBER 2007 of 213059 WARRANT OFFICER CLASS ONE Leslie (Les)George MILLISS whose funeral details were noticed in last Friday's Daily Telegraph.
Late of Minto NSW, Les was born on 2 JULY 1938 and served with the Australian Training Team Vietnam from 18 SEP 66 - 13 SEP 1967.
He was later posted to and served as Regimental Sergeant Major 1/19 RNSWR from NOV 1975 to OCT 1977. Following discharge from the Australian Regular Army he took up a position with the security firm ARMAGUARD. The relatives and friends of LESLIE are invited to attend his Funeral Service to be held on Tuesday, 16th of October, 2007, in the North Chapel of Forest Lawn Crematorium, Camden Valley Way, Leppington, at 11am.
A Soldier Died Today
The funeral service for Graham will be on Monday the 8th October
2007 commencing at 10am.
It will be held at Kedron Wavell RSL community centre, Kittyhawk
Drive, Chermside.
The family have invited those attending the service to stay for
a wake, to be held in the hall. There will be a short break between the
end of the service and refreshments.
Family contact information.
Massie Polkinghorne
Phone AU +61 732613563 Call
22 Billiard Street
Bracken Ridge Qld 4017
G'day all,
Message follows on the passing of Team Member WO2 Graham M. Polkinghorne today, 3rd October 2007. Graham was only out of hospital in early September after a long period of illness.
Our deepest sympathies and sincerest condolences go out to the family of Graham.
At this stage condolence messages can be sent via Peter Conway on email: plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au
Funeral details will be advised once known.
May he Rest-In-Peace.
Persevere,
Rick
Good Morning Chaps
Sad News today
I am advised that Graham Polkinghorne passed away in the early hours of this AM. Further details as they come to hand
May he rest in Peace
Regards and Take Care
Pierre
Lest we forget
Updated: 23rd September 2007
Entry Date: 20th September 2007
A Soldier Died Today
G'day all,
Funeral details as received from Simon Hearder are as follows:
Date: Tuesday, 25th September 2007
Time and Location: 1.30pm St Christopher's Catholic Church corner Franklin St / Manuka Circle , MANUKA.
Messages of sympathy can be sent via John Jackson 02/ 6288 5290 or to his wife Janet Henry 15 Winstanley St CHAPMAN ACT 2611 . Persevere Simon
Sad news on the passing of Mick Henry from Ernie Snelling via Bruce Davies. Mick was also partially responsible for the organising of the Team 4sympathy5th Anniversary Reunion held in Canberra this year.
Condolence message can be passed through Simon Hearder AATTV ACT Branch on email: simchar7@internode.net.au
Funeral details will be advised once known.
May he Rest In Peace
Persevere,
Rick
From Bruce Davies AATTV
I have just been told by Ernie Snelling that Mick Henry passed away
last night. Mick had been ill for some time. Mick was attached to the Team
in late 66 through to Feb 67, but there as no formal documentation raised
for his attachment and his posting was never formally recognised.
Persevere
Bruce
Lest we forget
Entry Date: 15th September 2007
A Soldier Died Today
G'day all,
Sad news from Phillip Brodziak on the passing of his father WO2 Mark A. Brodziak AATTV on 28th June 2007. Some Team members were aware of Mark's passing while others were not and hence the late notification.
Our deepest sympathies and sincerest condolences go out to the family of Mark. Messages can be sent per Phillip Brodziak on email: brodziak1@iprimus.com.au
May he Rest In Peace,
Persevere,
Rick
Dear Sir.
I wish to advise you that another brave Australian has passed away. My father WO2 Mark A. Brodziak left us on 28th June this year (2007).
It has not been until now that I'v realized I should get in touch with you so that you can update your website so that others who proudly served with him could be informed.
Regards
Phillip Mark Brodziak
(extremely proud youngest son)
Lest we forget
Entry Date: 12th September 2007
A Soldier Died Today
G'day all,
Sad news from Bruce Davies on the passing of fellow Team Member, Murray Metherall on 12th September 2007..
Our deepest sympathies and sincerest condolences go out to the family of Murray at this time.
May he Rest In Peace,
Persevere,
Rick
Message as received from Bruce Davies, AATTV Vic Branch,
Murray Metherall passed away today at approximately 1700 hours. Murray served as the Adjutant of the Team from January to June 1968. Funeral details will be advised when known. Condolences may be sent to Leigh Metherall, Murray's nephew, at leighmetherall32@msn.com
Persevere
Bruce Davies
Lest we forget
A Soldier Died Today
G'day all,
Funeral details for Tony Toghill are as follows:
Location: Traditional Funerals Chapel,
17 Anzac Avenue, REDCLIFFE Qld
(Telephone 3284 7333)
Date: Wednesday, 12th September 2007
Time: 1000hrs
Medals to be worn.
Persevere,
Rick
G'day all,
Sad news on the passing of Tony Toghill AATTV just received from fellow Team Member, Grahame Wease. I am in Switzerland at the moment and have passed Grahame's message onto Peter Conway AATTV Qld Branch whom no doubt will inform Team members of funeral details etc.
I am sure fellow Team members throughout Australia and overseas would want to pass on their deepest sympathies and sincerest condolences to the family of Tony.
Condolence messages can be passed through Grahame Wease on email: g.e.wease@bigpond.com
May he Rest In Peace,
Persevere,
Rick
G,day Rick, i am Grahame Wease an old team member, i wish to report
the death of another team member Tony Toghill, he passed away today at
0230hrs in the Redcliffe Hospital, after a long and protracted illness.
As it turned out he was also my brother inlaw,as i introduced him to my
sister Gloria on our return from service in Korea and they got married
later on. They leave five children. I know that he will be remembered by
many members of the team. At this time i have no information of any other
details. WEF 10 Sep i will be home at Tewantin,and can be contacted on
g.e.wease@bigpond.com.....Regards
Grahame.
Lest we forget
Updated: 17th August 2007
Entry Date: 16th August 2007
Funeral Details for Alf Hinson are as follows
Day Date:
Friday 24th August
Time:
11.00 AM
Place:
Albany Creek Crematorium
Lakeview Chapel
Albany Creek Road
Bridgeman Downs Qld
Funeral Director Anton Brown
Family Notice will appear in The Brisbane Courier Mail Tuesday 21st August.
Messages of condolence and sympathy can be directed to me
Regards Take Care and Persevere
Pierre
G’day all,
Sadly Alf has lost his final battle. He will be missed by Team members and our deepest and sincerest condolences go to his family of this sad occasion.
3972 WO2 Alfred (Alf) George HINSON RAE served with AATTV in South Vietnam from 16 Jul 65 to 16 Jun 66. He served with 2/51 Ranger Battalion, I Corps Jul-Sep 65, 3/4 ARVN, 2ND Division, Quang Ngai Oct-Nov 65, RF/PF, Phu Loc, Thua Thien Dec 65-Mar 66, Vung Tau R&C Centre Apr 66 and attached 17 Construction Sqn May-Jun 66. Alf also served in RVN with Det 55 Engr Wksp 22 Apr 69 to 30 Apr 70 and with198 Wks Sect from 8 Sep 71 to 19 Feb 72.
Funeral details will be advised once known.
Please pass email condolence messages to Peter Conway on email: plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au
May he Rest In Peace.
Persevere,
Rick
From: Peter Conway [mailto:plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au]
Sent: Thursday, 16 August 2007 6:35 PM
To: Rick Ryan; Bernie McGurgan
Bernie and Rick
Not the best of times for me at present. And I am sure many will share my sentiments.Alf Hinson passed away at approximately 7.00 pm this evening.
He hung in there to the the end and what a courageous battle, but when I saw him last he had a smile on his face and although he knew his time was short he smiled and said
"See ya digger"
Persevere
Pierre
Funeral Arrangements Mrs Merle Moffitt are as follows.
Date Tuesday 14th August 2007
Time 1130 AM
Place Traditional Funerals
Chapel
Morayfileld Rd
Burpengary Qld
Funeral Director : Traditional Funerals
Phone
:(07) 3888 6633
Family Funeral Notice will appear in Friday's Brisbane Courier Mail
Regards
Peter
G’day all,
From here in AATTV WA Branch go our deepest and sincerest condolences go to Frank and family on the passing of Merle.
May she Rest In Peace.
Persevere,
Rick
-----Original Message-----
From: Peter Conway [mailto:plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au]
Sent: Wednesday, 8 August 2007 10:04 AM
To: Rick Ryan; Bernie McGurgan
Subject: Passing Mrs Merle Moffitt
Good Morning Rick and Bernie.
Some sad news today.
I have just received a call from George Mansford advising of the passing of Mrs Merle Moffitt wife of Frank.
Frank's address is:
3 Parlalote Place
Bellmere Qld 4510
I will advise funeral details as they come to hand.
May she Rest in Peace
Could you both please distribute
Regards
Pierre
G’day all,
Sad news from Bruce Davies AATTV Vic Branch on the passing of Col Smithers. I always remember Col as a affable sort of fellow and I am sure he will be sadly missed by his fellow Team members.
May he Rest In Peace,
Persevere,
Rick
It is with sadness that I advise Colin John Smithers died on 5 August 2007. Colin served with AATTV from 6 March to 18 December 1972 at AATTV HQ in Saigon.
Funeral details are:
Friday 10 August
Renowden Chapel, Springvale
1100 hours.
No flowers by request.
Persevere
Bruce Davies
Lest we forget
Widow of Team Member Passes On
G’day all,
Sad news, Clare Hansen widow and partner of WO1 Brian ‘Snow’ Lawrance AATTV (Deceased 28 April 2001) passed away in Fremantle Hospital, Western Australia on Saturday, 28th July 2007 after illness.
Clare will be sadly missed by both Widows and Members of the AATTV Association WA Branch and our sincerest and deepest condolences go out to the family and especially daughter Robyn.
A funeral service for Clare will be held at Simplicity Funerals Chapel, 442 Scarborough Beach Road, Osborne Park, Perth WA on Friday, 3rd August 2007commencing 1600hrs.
Condolence messages for the family can be sent through John Nolan, AATTV WA Branch on email: jno49884@bigpond.net.au
Take care and Persevere,
Rick
G’day all,
Happy 45th Anniversary to all Team Members for tomorrow.
Persevere,
Rick
Subject: Media Release VA108 AUSTRALIAN ARMY TRAINING TEAM VIETNAM REMEMBERS 45 YEARS SINCE DEPLOYMENT
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Mailing List.
VA108 Saturday 28 July 2007
AUSTRALIAN ARMY TRAINING TEAM VIETNAM REMEMBERS 45 YEARS SINCE DEPLOYMENT
The Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV) will tomorrow mark the 45th anniversary of its deployment to Vietnam, with the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Bruce Billson, unveiling a commemorative plaque in honour of the AATTV at Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance.
Mr Billson said the AATTV was among the most decorated units in Australian military history.
“Members of the AATTV received the only four Victoria Crosses awarded in Vietnam, and the unit and its members received numerous other imperial and foreign awards,” Mr Billson said. “They were a tremendously courageous and significant force among the Allied troops in Vietnam.”
The AATTV was deployed to Vietnam in 1962 to train South Vietnamese troops. Originally a 30-man group, it eventually grew to 200 men in Vietnam at any one time.
“The team was initially designed as a training taskforce and its duties were expanded in 1964 to include active combat roles in South Vietnamese provinces, and later in the Mekong Delta, south of Saigon,” Mr Billson said.
“The AATTV soldiers experienced diversity in their roles and their surrounds, with continually changing conditions and expectations.
“Some members of the AATTV served with the US Special Forces and CIA-sponsored programs. Others were stationed at outposts with the Regional and Popular Force troops. Regardless of their postings, they showed continued dedication to the task at hand.”
The AATTV was withdrawn on 18 December 1972. During the unit’s 10 years of deployment, just under 1000 Australians together with some 10 New Zealanders served in the team.
“May we remember today, and in the future, the valour and courage of the AATTV and the ongoing camaraderie of those who were once a part of this unique unit,” Mr Billson said.
Media inquiries: Cameron Hill 0408 239 521
Bernie/Rick
Details of Ron's funeral service are as follows
Date :
Thursday 26th July
Time
2.00PM
Place
Cooloola Coast Crematorium Chapel
Address 236 Brisbane Raod
Gympie.
Family Funeral Notice appeared in this morning's Courier Mail
Thanks Boys
Regards
Pierre
G’day all,
Sad news from Peter Conway AATTV Qld Branch on the passing of fellow Team Member, Ronald (Ron) Keith Gurney RAINF. Ron served in SVN with AATTV in 1969/70 and 1971/72. He served with 3/2 ARVN, 1ST Division, Quang Tri area Feb-Jun 69, attached 1ATF, 18th Division Training Centre Heavyweight near Nui Dat Jul-Oct 69 and then RF Training Cadre, Baria Nov 69-Feb 70. On his second tour of duty, he served with JWTC, Nui Dat/Van Kiep, Sep – Nov 71, AATTV Training Group, Vung Tau Dec 71 and Phuoc Tuy Training Battalion, Jan – Jul 72.
Condolence email messages can be sent to Des Ford, AATTV on email: demof@bytesite.com.au
May he Rest In Peace,
Rick
Sad News today Bern and Rick
I have just been advised that Ron Gurney passed away early this morning. Our welfare officer (Des Ford) is endeavouring to get in touch with Ron's wife and we will advise funeral details when they come to hand .
May He Rest In Peace . Lest We Forget
Regards
Peter
G’day all,
Funeral details for P. ‘Paddy’ J. Heslin AATTV are as follows:
Date and Time: Friday, 6th July 2007 at 1300 hours.
Location:
West Chapel, Fremantle Cemetery
Carrington Street, PALMYRA near the corner of Leach Highway
Medals to be worn.
Condolences messages for Edith Heslin and the family can be sent via email to Tony Thorp at tonythorp@westnet.com.au or by post to E. Heslin, 12 Neale Place, COOLOONGUP WA 6168, Telephone: 089-5274718
Take care and Persevere,
Rick
G’day all,
More sad news for the West. I have just been advised by Tony Thorp – President, AATTV Association WA Branch of the passing this morning, 2nd July 2007 of fellow Team member, 53212 WO2 P. (Paddy) J. Heslin RAE.
Paddy served with AATTV from 25th March 1969 to 15th October 1970. From Mar – Jul 69 with 3/51 ARVN, Mieu Bong, Quang Nam Province, Aug 69 – Jan 70, HQ AATTV, Danang and Mar – Oct 70 with Hoa Vang sub-sector, Quang Nam Province.
Paddy had been ill for some time now and he will be sadly missed by of his Team mates. Paddy was also a recipient of a number of foreign awards for his service in South Vietnam, these included the US Bronze Star for Service, Republic of Vietnam Fouragere of Military Merit Medal and Cross of Gallantry (with Bronze Star).
To his family go our deepest and sincerest condolences.
Funeral details will be forwarded once known.
Take care and Persevere,
Rick
G’day all,
Just received some late news on the passing of WO2 Thomas ‘Tom’ McNee RASIGS on 23rd June 2007. Tom served with AATTV 19 Sep 1966 – 5 Sep 1967 and 29 Oct 1969 – 12 Mar 1970 in South Vietnam. Tom served from Sep 66 to Mar 67, Phuoc Tuy Province, RF/PF Team 22. Mar to Aug 67, Nam Hoa sub-sector, Thua Thien Province. On his second tour of duty he served with Nam Hoa sub-sector, Thua Thien Province from Nov 69 to Feb 70 and was medical evacuated with illness in Mar 70.
To the family of Tom go our sincerest condolences on the passing of Tom. Condolence messages can be sent to the family through his son Bob McNee on email: bob401@bigpond.net.au
May he Rest In Peace,
Persevere,
Rick
5745 WO2 THOMAS MCNEE
TWO TOURS OF VIETNAM WITH THE AATTV
1966 – 1967 AND 1969 – 1970
DAD WAS IN THE CORPS OF THE ROYAL AUSTRALIAN SIGNALS
DATE OF ENLISTMENT 14 FEB 1946 TILL APROX 3 SEPT 1972 WHEN MEDICALY DISCHARGED
DAD PASSED AWAY ON THE MORNING OF 23 JUN 2007
FUNERAL DETAILS ARE
CHAPEL SERVICE ON MONDAY 2 JULY 2007 AT 1030 AM AT
BOWRA & O’DEA
131 GREAT EASTERN HWY
MIDLAND
A PRIVATE CREMATION AT KARRAKATTA CEMETERY LATER
THANK YOU FOR YOUR ASSISTANCE ON BEHALF OF MY MOTHER AND FAMILY
ROBERT MCNEE ELDERS ON OF TOM ALSO A VIETNAM VET
ANY EMAILS CAN BE SENT TO ME ON bob401@bigpond.net.au or mail
BOB AND JAN MCNEE
3 SADLIER CRT
STOVEVILLE WA 6081
THANKING YOU AGAIN BOB
Lest we forget
Memorial Service and Team Birthday - LWC Canungra, Sunday 29th July
G’day all,
Message from Peter Conway – AATTV Branch Qld follows. For interstate members wishing to attend, please notify Peter on email: plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au so that details of activities can be forwarded to you.
Persevere,
Rick
-----Original Message-----
From: Peter Conway [mailto:plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au]
Sent: Thursday, 28 June 2007 10:38 AM
To: Bernie McGurgan; Rick Ryan
Subject: Queensland Memorial Service and Team Birthday Luncheon
Bernie and Rick
I wonder if you would be kind enough to distribute the following through your respective nets.
"The Queensland Branch of the AATTV Association will celebrate their Memorilal Service and Team Birthday at LWC Canungra on Sunday 29th July.
In addition to our Memorial Service and Luncheon, an Unveiling of The Plaque Ceremony re - naming the OR's Mess "The Kevin Wheatley VC OR's Mess and Dasher's Bar " will be held. Mrs Edna Wheatley and her grand daughter will be the Official Guests of LWC for this ceremony and Edna has been invited to unveil the Plaque. This will occur in the OR's Mess at 1230 hrs. prior to our Team Birthday Luncheon.
We have invited Edna and her Grand daughter and their host for the day, Warrant Officer Class 2 Kim Blackwell to join us for morning tea, the Memorial Service and lunch.
A circular regarding the event will be forwarded to all Queenland Members detailing the day's activities. In addition all intersate members are welcome to come along, and in particular any who were mates of Dasher. Those desirous of attending should notify the Treasurer Peter Conway ASAP and we will arrange for a circular to be sent to you."
Thanks Boys and Regards
Pierre
G’day all,
For Team members that may have served a Gia Vuc, you may wish to contact Jean-Luc Delauve at info.gia-vuc@tiscali.co.uk
A link to the site will be placed on the Team Web page.
Persevere,
Rick
-----Original Message-----
From: Jean-Luc Delauve, gia-vuc.com [mailto:info.gia-vuc@tiscali.co.uk]
Sent: Thursday, 28 June 2007 4:15 AM
To: advisor@echidna.id.au
Subject: QUANG NGAI PROVINCE AND A-CAMPS
Hi
I am the webmaster of the Gia Vuc tribute website www.gia-vuc.com,. Gia Vuc was a A-camp situated in the south end of the I CORPS in South Vietnam. The website is run with the help of its veterans and its mission is to pay tribute to its team members as well as to record its history.
Like many USSF A-camps in the I CORPS, a few
Australians advisors soldiers served there with the USSF. I have already
dedicated a small page to them but would like to record their story further.
http://www.gia-vuc.com/AATTV.htm.
I would be very glad if you could assist us. I also would like to place a link to your site.
Looking forward to hear from you
Jean-Luc Delauve Gia -Vuc
tribute website webmaster
www.gia-vuc.com
luc.d4@virgin.net
Gia -Vuc Website 1997-2007
G’day all,
Message from Ian Hodgson on funeral arrangements for Lefty Lewis follow. Condolence messages for family of Lefty can be directed through Ian on email: GIEM11@bigpond.com
Persevere,
Rick
-----Original Message-----
From: EDNA HODGSON [mailto:GIEM11@bigpond.com]
Sent: Friday, 15 June 2007 1:39 PM
To: advisor@echidna.id.au
Subject: Ian Hodgson
Dear Rick,
Warrant Officer E.G.Lewis ( Lefty )
Funeral arrangements have been made by his
family.
Monday 18th June 2007 at 2pm the funeral is
to be a grave side service in the Golden Grove Cemetery.
Any messages of sympathy for Mary and family
can be sent through me.
Warm Regards,
Ian.
G’day all,
Sad news in from Ian Hodgson, President AATTV SA Branch on the passing of fellow Team member WO2 Eric ‘Lefty’ Graham Lewis RAINF. WO2 E.G. Lewis served in RVN with AATTV from 28 Apr 1971unalloted Baria May-Jun 71, MATT Phuoc Tuy. Jul-Sep 71, JWTC, Nui Dat. Oct – Jan 72, JWTC, Van Kiep.
He will be sadly missed by The Team and condolences go to his family.
May he Rest-In-Peace.
Persevere,
Rick
-----Original Message-----
From: EDNA HODGSON [mailto:GIEM11@bigpond.com]
Sent: Thursday, 14 June 2007 7:07 AM
To: advisor@echidna.id.au
Subject: Ian Hodgson
Dear Rick,
Vale. A Team Member, Warrant Officer Eric Graham Lewis (Lefty ) RAINF after a long illness deterioated quickly and passed away at about 2245 hrs. on Wednesay 13th June 2007. Our deepest sympathy goes to Mary, his wife and family.
Funeral details to follow.
Regards Ian Hodgson.
Lest we forget
On Wed Jun 6 10:27 , 'Bruce' sent:
Dear Rick,
Hopefully, I have replied to all of the messages of condolence sent from members of AATTV. It has been a heart-warming experience to receive so many from around Australia. Would you be so kind as to post this message on your site so that if I have missed someone they do know we appreciated their words of comfort.
Bruce, Rhys and Peta Davies
G’day all,
Memory Service details for Anne Davies just in from Barry Rust, President, AATTV Vic Branch follow.
Persevere,
Rick
Subject: Anne's Davies (1946-2007) Memory Service details:
A short civil service will be held on Monday 4 June at Kings Australia (previously Tattersall Funeral Care) 130 Bellarine Highway Newcomb, (Geelong). The direction to the funeral parlour is on the way out of Geelong heading towards Queenscliff.The service will start at 2.30 pm and will be conducted by John Sanderson, an Army Chaplain and our AATTVA Branch Padre and good friend to Anne. He is currently serving with 3 RAR in Sydney so is coming down to officiate the service.
Please, no flowers, but donations may be made to the Queenscliff Community Health Centre, Nelson Road, Point Lonsdale. There will not be a wake, Anne didn't want people standing around eating cucumber sandwiches near a funeral parlour trying to feel comfortable. The family will go to The Dunes, the restaurant / cafe at the Surf Club, Ocean Grove, to relax, and perhaps cry a little. You may join us there if you wish.
You may contact Bruce, Peta and Rhys on this email address bruce.davies@optusnet.com.au , or call 03 5258 3031 / 0413 189 885.
Peta & Barry Rust
11 Grose Crt,
Croydon Hills. 3136
Phone: 03 9876 5641
MB: Peta 0409 525427
G’day all,
Message below from Barry Rust, President AATTV Vic Branch on the passing of Anne Davies, wife of Bruce Davies AATTV.
Many of us have been aware of the poor health of Anne and unfortunately she could not overcome her illness.
To Bruce and family, please accept our sincerest condolences from all Team members here in WA.
Condolence messages can be passed to Bruce on email: bruce.davies@optusnet.com.au or postal address:
33 Lawrence Road, POINT LONSDALE VIC 3225, Telephone: 03 52583031
May Anne now Rest in Peace.
Persevere,
Rick and Mandi
Hi Rick, it is with sadness that we received this morning from Bruce Davies our Secretary /Treasurer the passing of his wife Anne.
It would be very much appreciated if this could be forwarded through your network.
Regards, Barry Rust
"It is with great sadness that we tell you, Anne died this morning at home and asleep. She was beginning to suffer increasing levels of pain and her general well-being dropped away markedly in the last week. She is now at peace.
Persevere has never been more relevant.
Bruce, Rhys and Peta"
Peta & Barry Rust
11 Grose Crt,
Croydon Hills. 3136
Phone: 03 9876 5641
MB: Peta 0409 525427
Message from John Nolan, Welfare Officer, AATTV WA Branch on the funeral details for Margaret Shelton.
Persevere,
Rick
The Funeral service for Mrs. Margaret Shelton
will be conducted at the Pinaroo Memorial
Park Crematorium Chapel, Whitfords Avenue Padbury, at 11AM Tuesday May
8th 2007
Funeral Directors Simplicity Funerals
John N
G’day all,
Tony Thorp, President of AATTV WA Branch has informed me of the passing of Margaret Shelton this morning.
Margaret, wife of Arthur Shelton AATTV has always been involved with the activities of our Branch here in the West and has contributed greatly over many years in organising our raffles for the WA Branch. Margaret will be missed by all here in WA and our condolences go out to Arthur.
As per Tony’s message below, funeral arrangements will be advised once known.
Email condolence messages can be passed to our Secretary, John Riley on email: jhriley@tpg.com.au
Mail address for Arthur Shelton is: 42 St Andrews Drive, YANCHEP WA 6035
Telephone: 08 9561 5275
May Margaret Rest in Peace.
Persevere,
Rick and Mandi
-----Original Message-----
From: tonythorp [mailto:tonythorp@westnet.com.au]
Rick, Margaret Shelton passed away 0100 hrs this morning, funeral arrangements are yet to be announced. please circulate, will keep you informed , regards Tony
Updated: 24th April 2007
Entry Date: 23rd April 2007
G'day all,
John Riley, Secretary AATTV WA Branch has notified me of the following funeral details for the late WO1 Ron M. Almond AATTV.
"A service for the late Ron Almond is to be held at the Pinnaroo Valley Memorial Park, Whitfords Avenue Padbury on Monday, 30th April 2007 commencing at 1400 hrs (2pm) at the Crematorium Chapel. AATTV members attending are requested to wear medals."
Persevere,
Rick
G’day all,
It is my sad duty to pass on the news just received from son, Terry Almond of the passing of WO1 Ron M. Almond RAAC AATTV.
Ron served with AATTV in RVN in 1969/70. He served with 4th ARVN Cavalry, Danang Base from Jun – Jul 69 and with 3/17 ARVN Cavalry, Hoi An, Quang Tin Province from Aug 69 – Apr 70.
Ron was one of the stalwart Team members of AATTV Association WA Branch and suffered a stroke just prior to the 45th AATTV Anniversary Reunion of which he was to attend. Sadly he did not get the chance to catch up with his mates in Canberra.
Funeral details will be advised once known.
Condolence email messages can be sent to June and the family via email address: salmond1@iinet.net.au or Postal Address, 10 Garrong Close, EDGEWATER WA 6027. Telephone: 08 9405 3790
May he Rest In Peace.
Persevere,
Rick
Subject: Ron Almond
Hello All,
My name is Terry Almond and I'm writing to all in Dads address book.
At 9am this morning Dad passed away. Mum. Lyn, Shane and myself were
with
him and can tell you he passed away peacefully.
All the best
Terry
Subject: Fw: FUNERAL SERVICE - 1973 JOHN 'JOCK' GORDON
Rick/Bernie
Details re Jock' funeral service as follows.
Pierre
Hello All
Time/Date: 1000 hrs, Fri, 27 Apr 07
Location: All Saints Chapel, Gallipoli Bks, Enoggera
Funeral Service: Conducted by Chaplain Gary Stone after which there will be a private cremation. Jock's ashes will be scattered at the RAR Nat Mem Walk at a time/date TBAL
Floral Tributes: By request of The Family, no flowers/wreaths. In lieu, donations to the Queensland Cancer Fund or The RAR National Memorial Walk would be greatly appreciated
Post Funeral: Gaythorne RSL Club
Other: All entry to the Bks via Lloyd Street, inform Gate Security/Sentry
"Attending funeral of Jock Gordon". All vehicles to proceed to the designated parking area/s to the right of the swimming pool.
Alternatively, park outside the barracks and walk into the Chapel via the Lloyd St entrance
Contact: Rod Slater by email or mobile 0419656956
Regards
Rod
G’day all,
Message just in from Peter Conway on the passing of fellow Team Member WO2 John ‘Jock’ Gordon RA Inf who served with AATTV in RVN 1965 – 66, Jock served at Dong DA National Training Centre, Tactics Committee, Mar-Jun65, sub-sector Gio Linh. 5th SFGA Team A-102 A Shau, Quang Tri Province Jul 65, A-107 Tra Bong, Quang Ngai Province, Aug 65 and Coy Comd, Nung Force Danang from Oct 65- Jan 66. Jock also served with AAAGV Oct-Dec 72.
Messages of condolence can be passed at this stage to Peter Conway on email: plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au
Funeral details etc will be advised once known.
May he Rest in Peace,
Persevere,
Rick
-----Original Message-----
From: Peter Conway [mailto:plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au]
Sent: Sunday, 22 April 2007 4:55 PM
To: Rick Ryan; Bernie McGurgan
Subject: A Soldier Died Today
More sad news today about one of our great members John (Jock Gordon)
Darcy Dugan advises that Jock passed away today.
A good digger and a good man. Rest in Peace Jock.
More details as they come to hand
Pierre
G’day all,
I have been corresponding with the son of the late John ‘Jack’ Steen AATTV. John Steen (refer message below) is keen to hear from any Team members that knew his father WO2 John ‘Jack’ Henry Steen RA Inf. John also says his father spent a number of years in 2/2 Independent Commando Company. John also wants his name added to the Team Emailing List, so please update your Address Books, his email addy is: sjsteen@aapt.net.au
John has been advised as to where he can try and secure a copy of ‘The Team’.
Persevere,
Rick
Rick,
I hope this helps, Please advise if you need any other information. Please if you have any information on my fathers time in the AATTV, or where I can get a copy of “ The Team” I am led to believe there are some extracts in there. Anything would be appreciated as I am putting together a military history of his life in the Army
Kind Regards
John Steen
G’day all,
Sadly I have be notified by John Steen, son of 52362 WO2 John ‘Jack’ Henry STEEN RA Inf that he passed away at Thornlands, Brisbane QLD on the 29th September 2005 from heart and lung failure.
Jack served with AATTV in RVN from 1 Aug 1964 to 8 March 1965. He served at Dong Da Training Centre from Aug – Oct 64, Dong Ha, Quang Tri Province from Nov 64 – Jan 65 and from Feb 65 at Hai Lang sub-sector.
Jack Steen is survived by his long time wife Beryl, two sons and a daughter.
Unfortunately, his son John has advised me that the family were not aware of the existence of AATTV Association and hence we received no advice on his passing.
Late condolence messages can be sent to his son, John Steen on email: sjsteen@aapt.net.au
May he Rest in Peace.
Persevere,
Rick
Lest we forget
Condolence message for Jock Thorburn family can be sent direct to his son, Jamie Thorburn on email: jlthorbu@bigpond.net.auor by Mobile 0438936427.
Persevere,
Rick
-----Original Message-----
From: tonythorp [mailto:tonythorp@westnet.com.au]
Sent: Monday, 2 April 2007 8:33 AM
To: billr
Cc: Rick Mandi Ryan
Subject: Jamie Thorburn contact details
Bill, Jock is survived by his only son,
Jamie, Daughter in law Louise, Grandchildren Cameron, Cassey and Cameron.
Jamie can be contacted by email: jlthorbu@bigpond.net.au
or by Mobile
0438936427.
Medals to be worn, regards Tony
G’day all,
Message just in from Tony Thorp on the passing of fellow Team member, WO2 James (Jock) Lawrence THORBURN RA Inf who served with AATTV in RVN in 1972 and with 3 SAS Sqn 1966 – 67. Jock served at MATT1, Van Kiep, Phuoc Tuy Province when with AATTV.
Funeral details are detailed in the message.
May he Rest in Peace,
Persevere,
Rick
-----Original Message-----
From: tonythorp [mailto:tonythorp@westnet.com.au]
Sent: Saturday, 31 March 2007 6:14 PM
To: Rick Mandi Ryan
Subject: JOCK THORBURN
Ric, received a phone call today from Jamie Thorburn, son of Jock , Jock has died possibly from a heart attack, his funeral will be Wed the 4th April at 1530HRS Karrakatta, Jock was a member of SAS and the AATTV, please circulate, Tony Thorp
Lest we forget
G,day all,
Sad news. Just arrived home after the AATTV Re-union in Canberra this afternoon to the following message from Gary Byard AATTV on the passing of Team Member Cpl Vernon John BOOTH RAAC who served with AATTV in RVN during 1970/71 and A Sqn 3 Cav Regt in 1968/69.
Once again a bit late for condolence message but I am sure all Team members would want their sympathies passed onto family members.
May he Rest in Peace,
Persevere,
Rick
-----Original Message-----
From: Gary Byard [mailto:gbyard@bigpond.net.au]
Sent: Thursday, 22 March 2007 5:09 PM
To: Rick Ryan
Cc: Kevin and Christine Best
Subject: Vale - Vernon John Booth AATTV
Hello Rick
It is with regret that I advise that 216533 Vernon John Booth passed away yesterday 21 Mar 07 in Launceston TAS.
John suffered quite badly for a number of years, withdrawing from most aspects of social interaction.
His funeral service is tomorrow Friday 23rd March at 1000 hours (Local) at the Carr Villa Memorial Park Chapel.
Very Best regards
Gary Byard RFD
Lest we forget
A soldier died today
G'day all,
Funera details for Ian Caskey RNZIR (AATTV) as sent to Bernie McGurgan are detailed below.
Persevere,
Rick
Hi Bernie
I was up in Whangarei (2 hour drive north
of Auckland) yesterday morning with the Caskey family.
Ian's Service is being conducted at 1500 NZDT
in Whangarei on Thursday 22 March. This will be followed by private cremation.
Family have requested "no flowers - donation
to Hospice"
Communications can be directed to Denise and
family at;
PO Box 1273
Whangarei
New Zealand.
Regards
Red Beatson
G’day all,
It is with deep regret that I have to pass on the sad news that Ian Caskey RNZIR (AATTV) has succumbed to his illness (refer to message from Peter Conway below). Ian served with AATTV in RVN at NOAT, Cho Gao -Nov-Dec 70, NAT1 Can Tho, Jan- Feb 71, NAT 1 Bac Lieu, Mar - Jun 71 and HQ AATTV Vung Tau Jul - Oct 71. Ian and Denise intended to attend the 45th AATTV Re-union in Canberra this month but illness saw Ian hospitalised and unable to front.
I am sure all Team members would wish their sincerest regrets be passed onto Denise and family. Condolence messages can be sent to Denise on email: denisec@peterhill.co.nz
May Ian, Rest in Peace,
Persevere,
Rick
-----Original Message-----
From: Peter Conway [mailto:plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au]
Sent: Monday, 19 March 2007 6:01 AM
To: Rick Ryan; Bernie McGurgan
Subject: A Soldier Died Today
Hi Bern and Rick
A very very sad day indeed.
I have just spoken to Denise Caskey and it is with much sadness that I must advise that Ian Caskey RNZIR (AATTV) passed away at 0755 hrs (NZ Time ( this morning).
Those who attended the AATTV course and who served with him in Vietnam will remember him as a fine soldier and a BLOODY GOOD BLOKE.
FAREWELL OLD MATE and REST IN PEACE
Further details will be advised as they come to hand.
Regards
Pierre
Message below in relation to John Sheehan AATTV 1966 who is in hospital in WA. John served with 11 Ranger Battalion, Danang and was wounded-in-action on 12 Feb 66. John also served with 1 SAS Sqn and HQ AAFV in 1965.
I am sure all Team members would wish John a speedy recovery.
Persevere,
Rick
-----Original
Message-----
From: Qld Sec ASASA [mailto:qldsec.asasa@gmail.com]
Sent: Wednesday, 14 March 2007 6:22 AM
To: Bruce Sutherland
Cc: Rick Ryan - (Trg team)
Subject: Re: John Sheehan; AATTV 1966. RSM
SASR 1977-1981
Hi Bruce,
received this reply from Reg Davies.
Cheers,
Mungo
I RECEIVED A PHONE CALL TODAY FROM KIM SHEEHAN REGARDING HIS FATHER JOHN SHEEHAN. JOHN HAS HAD A STROKE AND IS IN SIR CHARLES GAIRDNER HOSPITAL.
JOHN HAS REQUESTED THAT HE WOULDN'T MIND SEEING SOME VISITORS AND FOR THIS INFORMATION TO BE SENT OUT ON EMAIL. KIM CAN BE CONTACTED ON
0434-8924-74 MOBILE
FOR ANY UPDATES REGARDING HIS FATHER.
G'day all,
Message below delivered to Bernie McGurgan on the current status of Ian Caskey. Not very good news.
May Ian be in all our prayers.
Persevere,
Rick
Hi Bernie
Your email had done the rounds before getting to me. The green machine network!
I trained with Ian, and the other four kiwis that made up the first NZ group to join 1AATV. Unfortunately I did not get to serve with the Team as the NZ Govt decided to send our own teams and I was kept behind in NZ to train the guys that went in to Chi Lang.
Ian and I go back a long way, me a LCpl and Ian a newly promoted Sgt ex Malaya. I was subsequently commissioned, and over the years we served in the same camps/units and for a a period in Singapore (after he'd been commissioned a while) he was my second in command.
Our families are of a similar age and we keep in regular contact; visiting, attending weddings, etc.
We had a call from his wife Denise on Thursday night telling us of Ian's situation.
Linne, my wife, and I travelled up to Whangarei on Monday and spent the day with Ian & Denise, and family.
Ian got up from bed and spent about an hour sitting up with us, then went back to bed. Then reverted to bedside visiting.
Ian had been in hospital a week, while determining what his problem was, and then was sent home last Thursday. Briefly, he was at work in the hospital and had problem with his breathing. After sitting down & resting didn't feel any better so went to A&E for a check over. They found liquid in the pleural cavity which had compressed his lungs -restricting breathing. Over a period of about a week tests and xrays showed that he had cancer of the left kidney, bones, and possibly the liver. He was told that he was incurable, and he should make the most of what time he's got left. Ian indicated that there was no indication of how long he had left, but when asking was it "day by day" he was told yes.
He's reasonably comfortable, well sedated, and sleeps a fair bit. Still moblie, and independant as buggery!
Both he and Denise were terribly disappointed that they had to cancel out on the Team's Reunion. Ian just wouldn't have made it physically.
He has not lost his sense of humour or his interest in what is going on around him, or in the world.
I note that Pierre had given a postal address - the email address is denisec@peterhill.co.nz
Kind regards
Ray (Red) Beatson
G'day all,
Message below from Peter Conway relating to Ian Caskey AATTV RNZIR who is currently in hospital. Ian served with AATTV in RVN 1970/71.
I am sure all Team members would wish Ian a speedy recovery. Email messages for Ian can be passed via Peter Conway on email: plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au
Persevere,
Rick
Good morning Rick and Bernie
I had a call from Denise Caskey last night to say they would not be coming to the reunion. Ian has been in hospital for two weeks and has been diagnosed with cancer of the kidney and also he has a lot of fluid around his lungs. He is scheduled for further testing to see if the cancer has spread.
Those who would like to send a message are requested to do so through me and I will forward on.
I will be in contact withe Denise and will relay any further updates.
Get well cards may be sent to:
PO Box 1273
Whangarei
New Zealand.
Could you please circulate
Regards to all
Pierre
A soldier died today
Funeral details for Larry McGarry as provided by Bruce Sutherland are below.
Condolence messages for the McGarry family can be passed through Bruce on email: bruceatcanungra@bigpond.com
Persevere,
Rick
-----Original Message-----
From: Bruce Sutherland [mailto:bruceatcanungra@bigpond.com]
Subject: Funeral Service Lawrence McGarry
G'day all,
Funeral service for Larry McGarry is to be held in the Mary Immaculate Church, 31 Edmund Rice Drive, ASHMORE Qld 4214 at 0930 on Monday 5 March followed by a private cremation.
Regards
Bruce
G’day all,
Sad news in from Peter Conway – AATTV Qld Branch on the passing of WO2 L. (Larry) G. McGarry RA Inf. Larry served with AATTV from Aug-Dec 64 with 5th SFGA, B Team, Danang and from Jan-Jul 65, CSD Ban Me Thuot.
Larry has passed away after being in ill health for some time. He will be sadly missed by all Team members.
Condolences messages for the family of Larry can be passed through Bruce Sutherland AATTV on email: bruceatcanungra@bigpond.com
May he now, Rest In Peace.
Persevere,
Rick
Good Morning Bernie and Rick.
Sad News
I have just been advised by Bruce Sutherland that Larry Mc Garry passed away at 4.00 AM this morning.
I am about to leave for Brisbane and once I have info regarding funeral arrangements will let you know.
Vale and Rest in Peace Larry
Regards
Pierre
Lest we forget
A soldier died today
From Peter Conway.
I have just been advised of the details of Wally's funeral Service:
Date: Saturday 24th
February
Time: 0830 hrs (NT
Time)
Place : Darwin Trailer Boat Club
and thence to Darwin Cemetery
Regards
Pierre
G’day all,
I have just been informed on the passing of WO2 W.’Wally’ R. Everett, MBE RA Inf who served with AATTV 1965/66. Wally served at Duc My Ranger Training Centre from Jun 65 - Sep 65, Sep 65 – Jan 66, 2/2 ARVN 1st Division and attached to HQ AATTV Saigon Feb – Mar 66. Extract of MBE awarded to Wally after his service with AATTV follows.
Army Number: 32358
Substantive Rank: Warrant Officer Class Two
Christian Name: Walter Robert
Surname: EVERETT
Honour or Award: MBE
Since his initial enlistment in the Second Australian Imperial Force at the age of eighteen years, Warrant Officer Everett has consistently sought service in active service areas with unselfish devotion and with disregard for personal consequences. During the past twenty-five years his service has taken him into more active service areas than most other serving Warrant Officers and include the Middle East, New Guinea, Morotai, Borneo, Korea and two terms of service in Malaya. Recently he returned from active service duty with the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam. As a mature Non-Commissioned Officer and as a Warrant Officer his devotion to duty has been and continues to be an inspiration and sterling example to all with whom he serves, his superiors and subordinates alike.
May he Rest in Peace,
Persevere,
Rick
-----Original Message-----
From: dmanski@bigpond.net.au [mailto:dmanski@bigpond.net.au]
Sent: Wednesday, 21 February 2007 5:10 PM
To: advisor@echidna.id.au
Subject: wally everett mbe
Rick
I was informed last night that Wally Everett passed away in Darwin early yesterday morning. I am away in Melbourne at the moment and cant ring anyone from the Qld branch who knew Wally very well. As I haven't seen anything on any emails I dont think anyone is aware of his passing. Could you please get the word out.
Regards,
Dennis Manski
Lest we forget
I have been informed that the family will hold a private cremation for Kev. The family intend to hold a gathering of his former Army mates at a later date. Date of Kev's passing was 11th February 2007.
Persevere,
Rick
G’day all,
Message below from Bruce Davies of the passing of fellow Team Member WO2 K. (Kev) J. Hebblewhite AATTV, RA Inf. Kev served with AATTV 1962 – 63 at Dong Da, National Training Centre RVN and was one of ‘The Originals’. He also served with 8RAR in RVN during 1969 – 70.
I believe Kev was living in Boonah, Qld..
May he Rest In Peace.
Persevere,
Rick
-----Original Message-----
From: Bruce [mailto:bruce.davies@optusnet.com.au]
Sent: Monday, 12 February 2007 12:24 PM
To: Rick Ryan; Peter Conway; Bernie McGurgan
Subject: Fw: Vale K. Hebblewhite AATTV 62-63.
Subject: Vale K. Hebblewhite AATTV 62-63.
I have been advised that Kev died 12th? of Feb from complications
following an operation. He served with AATTV in 1962-1963.
Persevere,
Bruce
Lest we forget
A soldier died today
G’day all,
Funeral details for Robbie Robinson from Ian Hodgson are detailed below. Please pass condolence messages to Ian on email: GIEM11@bigpond.com
Persevere,
Rick
Dear Rick, Robbie Robinson's funeral will be held at 11am on Monday 5th Feb at the Port Broughton RSL . Several Members from the S.A.Branch will be attending. S.A.Branch will pass on your condolences.
Regards Ian.
It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of one of our fellow Team member, namely, 42580 WO2 Raymond Ernest (Robbie) Robinson, MID on 30th January 2007. Message on notification of Robbie’s passing from Ian Hodgson, AATTV SA Branch is below.
Robbie served with AATTV as a Sgt from 3 Aug 62 to 15 Aug 63 and from 20 Aug 68 to 13 Aug 69. From Aug 1962 to Aug 63 he served at Dong Da National Training Centre, Heavy Weapons Committee and From Aug 1968 to Aug 69 with 4/2ARVN, 1st Division, Gio Linh area, Quang Tri. Robbie was one ot the ‘Original’ Team members and was also suffered shrapnel wounds from friendly air on 1 May 69. He also served a tour of duty with 7 RAR from 8 Apr 1967 to 26 Apr 68.
Funeral details will be advised once known. Condolence messages can be passed to Ian Hodgson on email: GIEM11@bigpond.com
The extract of his MID is as follows:
Army Number:
42580
Substantive Rank:
Warrant Officer Class Two
Christian Name:
Raymond Ensely
Surname:
ROBINSON
Award:
MID
Warrant Officer Robinson enlisted in the Australian Regular Army in 1953 and served with The Royal Australian Regiment in Korea and Malaya. He first served with the Australian Army Training Team in 1962 as one of its original members and rejoined the Team for his second tour in Vietnam in August 1968.
On 22 April 1969, Warrant Officer Robinson was serving as an adviser to the 4th Battalion, 2nd Regiment of the Army of the Republic of Vietnam which was conducting a combat assault by helicopter in Quang-Tri Province. Warrant Officer Robinson was in the first helicopter into the landing zone, which as it landed was hit by an enemy mine causing the helicopter to explode and burn. Warrant Officer Robinson was thrown violently from the aircraft and all others travelling in it were wounded. Despite this and with complete disregard for his own safety, he immediately began to extract the survivors and to administer first aid. In addition to assisting these Vietnamese soldiers, he also successfully extracted the United States Army crew from the burning helicopter.
Warrant Officer Robinson quickly established a limited defensive perimeter around the wreckage with the lesser wounded and directed supporting helicopter gunships against the enemy who were closing in. Exposing himself to enemy fire, he then brought in helicopters to evacuate the dead and wounded. Despite the enemy fire and their close proximity, only when all others had been cleared of the landing zone did he agree to be extracted himself.
During the entire time of Warrant Officer Robinson’s heroic efforts, he was under constant small arms fire from the North Vietnamese force close to the landing zone and in danger from exploding ammunition coming from within the burning helicopter. His exceptional courage and calm professional ability in the critical conditions of this action undoubtedly saved the lives of the Vietnamese soldiers and the United States crew involved. Later in the same operation, Warrant Officer Robinson was wounded in another heavy contact with the enemy and was medically evacuated.
Warrant Officer Robinson’s outstanding personal bravery and exemplary conduct in this operation and on a number of other occasions during his two successful tours with the Training Team were an inspiration to all who served with him and reflect great credit on himself, the Australian Army Training Team and the Australian Army.
Persevere,
Rick
-----Original Message-----
From: EDNA HODGSON [mailto:GIEM11@bigpond.com]
Sent: Thursday, 1 February 2007 1:13 PM
To: advisor@echidna.id.au
Subject: Ian Hodgson
Dear Rick
Vale.
R.E.Robbie Robinson. Team Member S.A.Branch.
Served 16th Jul 62-16 Aug. 63.Sgt. RAINF.
Served 19th Aug. 68-13th Aug.69. WO2 RAINF.
Robbie passed away late afternoon, 30th Jan.07,after a long illness.
With much regret,
Ian.
Lest we forget
G'day all,
Message from John Nolan on funeral details for Doug Frost AATTV is below.
Persevere,
Rick
Good day Rick
A service for the late WD (Doug) Frost is to be held at the Pinnaroo Valley Memorial Park, Whitfords Avenue Padbury WA on Wednesday 31st January 2007 commencing at 4pm at the Crematorium chapel. AATTV members attending are requested to wear medals.
PERSEVERE
John E Nolan
G'day all,
Sad news on this Australia Day. I have just received a message from Terry Frost, son of WO2 Walter Douglas FROST RA Inf on his passing yesterday, the 25th January 2007. Doug served with AATTV in the RVN in 1968/69 after having served with 1RAR on their first tour of duty in 1965/66. Doug was wounded in action on 9th January 1966 while with 1RAR.
Doug served with AATTV at 1/5ARVN, Tam Ky, Quang Tin Aug-Nov 68 and with RF/PF Training, Heavyweight, Hoa Long, Phouc Tuy Province from Dec 68-Aug 69.
Doug passed away in his sleep. He will be sadly missed by all members of The Team and our condolences go out to his family.
Funeral details here in WA will be advised when known. Condolence messages can be passed to our Welfare Officer, John Nolan on 089405 2532 or email: jno49884@bigpond.net.au
Persevere,
Rick
G'day all,
Message from Des Pryde who now has a web space with Team Photos. Click on the link below for direct access.
Persevere,
Rick
Hi Rick,
As you know I am the keeper of the Team photo album (QLD). I am starting to receive quite a few photos that do not include date, names or place.
I will be putting a few at a time on my web space at: http://despryde.gallery.netspace.net.au/album01and anyone who can help with info can email me at despryde@netspace.net.au.
I will replace them evey couple of weeks so
it would be beaut if our members got in the habit of having a look.
Please pass this on through the network.
Persevere,
Des Pryde
News in from Peter Conway - AATTV Qld Branch on the passing of WO2 William John BRYSON RA Inf on the 16th January 2007. Bill Bryson served with AATTV in RVN from 23rd September 1966 to 12th September 1967.
May he Rest-In-Peace.
Persevere,
Rick
Hi Fellas
Sad News today.
I have just been advised by Bill Abigail that Bill Bryson passed away this evening at 1815 hrs Qld Time.
Would you please pass on through your respective nets.
Will keep you informed of what is happening although I believe there will be no funeral service.
Regards
Pierre
G'day all,
Sadly I received late notification of the passing of a Team member, WO2 Ernest Pascoe GRUBE RAAMC who served with AATTV in RVN from 17th December 1968 to 24th March 1969. It was kindly passed through to me from 3 RAR Association.
May he Rest-In-Peace
Persevere,
Rick
Sir, I'm writing to you regarding the passing of an old war horse,Ernie Grube who passed away at the Norfolk Island hospital on the 31st Dec 2006, he was a close mate,even though we were years apart (he was 77 and i'm 38 yrs) but our common ground was 3RAR and spent many a Kapyong and Maryang San day over a bottle or two of port, sadly he suffered a stroke some 2yrs ago and was hospitalized. but that didn't stop our r.v and quite often would get the nurse's to ring if i was late!!! they would turn a blind eye to our going's on as they knew what it meant to us. Iinfact sir he did give his last order to me last year,and that was to join the association which i had done. ERNEST PASCOE GRUBE is NorfolkIsland's most decorated defence person since the 2ndworld war,and one of many very decorated military person's in Norfolk Island's history. Ernie joined the ARA on the1st July 1952, after a short stint in the RA Inf was allocated to the RAAMC Ernie then served in Korea on 18th June 1953 with 3RAR and then did duty with B.C.O.F hospital Japan.,in Oct 1954 Ernie reinlisted on 24th Oct 1954 and emplaned back to Australia in Nov 1954 as a Temp-Cpl and qualified as aNursing Orderly grade2 in March 1956. Ernie then was posted (on his request!!!) back to 3RAR on the 4th August 1957 and went to Malaya as part of the F.E.S.R .Ernie then moved around a bit doing service with Northern Command , 24th Construction Sqn ,P.N.G Construction Troop in 1960-61, & 1RAR as well as with the 2nd P.I.R .He then was sent to 1st Camp Hospital &then to 2nd General Hospital.Ernie was then promoted to Sergeant in 1964,and then Staff Sergeant in 1965.Ernie was posted back to the 2nd P.I.R in P.N.G 1965-66.promoted W.O class 2 in 1968.ernie then was posted to the A.A.T.T.V from 16th Dec 1968- April 1969 due to infectious hep 8. he finally discharged on the 23rd Oct 1971 from the ARA . AShe told me 2 weeks before he passed away, i'm ready to' pull the pin"for the last time. secondly sir,while reading last years (2006,march) edition of our association booklet icame across a story about the autographed 'one -yen' note with 17 signatures on it,and that one signature cAught the (ED)EYE and that was L.QUINTAL, just to let you know that the signature was indeedl Leslie"lootie" Quintal 2/401657 2RAR, Korea, from Norfolk island. Hope Sir i havent rambled on to much and i didnt know who to send this to!! all the best for the new year yours faithfully Warren Finch ex 3RAR, (Ernie was going to try and make the Battlion 50th reunion Malaya 57-59 but alas)
G’day all,
It is with deep regret that I have just received late notification of the passing of Cpl A.T. (Hush) Roberts RACMP who had served with 2 Sqn SAS 1968/69, HQ AFV PRO Unit 1971 and AATTV 1971.
Hush had just made contact in the last couple of months and was undergoing treatment. At least it was great that he had made contact with a number of Team members in these last months and for that we are grateful. Hush did respond to me that he was glad that he was in contact with some of our guys.
May he Rest in Peace.
Persevere,
Rick
Sent: Thursday, 30 November 2006 7:38 AM
To: Main Veterans List
Subject: Vale Anthony (Tony, Hush) Roberts
From: dbear@exemail.com.au
Sent: Thursday, November 30, 2006 8:16 AM
Subject: Vale Anthony (Tony, Hush) Roberts
Regret to inform the passing of Anthony Treveathan Roberts
Service No 217048
2nd SAS Squadron
AATTV
Australian Force Vietnam Provost Unit.
Passed away 20/11/2006 Funeral was on Thursday 23/11/2006
Diagnosed with an inoperable tumor in January 2006.
Fair winds Hush RIP
G'day all,
Message below from Peter Conway on the passing of Sgt Neal Clarrie CAMM RA Inf who served with AATTV 1964/65. Neal served with the Dong Da National Training Centre, Weapons Committee. Oct-Dec64, Thu7a Thien Sector RF/PF. Jan-May 65, 1st ARVN Division Recon Coy, Hue.
I am sure that all Team members pass their condolences to the family of Neal CAMM.
Persevere,
Rick
Good Morning Gentlemen.
More sad news.
I am advised of the passing of Neal Clarrie CAMM. Neal passed away on the 26th November 2006.
His funeral service will be held on Thursday 30th November at 1000 hrs at the George Hartnett Funeral Chapel 19-21 Anzac Avenue Redcliffe.Qld. Funeral Notice in today's ( Tuesday) Courier Mail
VALE NEAL. REST IN PEACE
For Bernie and Rick. Would you please pass on through your respective nets.
For Bruce. Could you possibly find out Neal's rank on discharge. Would appreciate notification today if possible as I would like to include it in the Advisor which is going to print tomorrow (Wednesday)
Regards and Persevere
Pierre
Good Morning Rick
The funeral arrangements for Jim Harrower are for 1300 (1PM) Tuesday 21st November 2006 at the Pinnaroo Valley Memorial Gardens, Whitfords Avenue Padbury and then after at 1430 (2-30 PM) at the Merriwa Club in the grounds of the RAAFA Estate, 19 Hughie Edwards Drive Merriwa
All arrangements are being handled by Jim’s Son Ian
John Nolan
G'day all,
It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing of 32219 WO1 James (Jim) Nicol Harrower RAAC who served with AATTV in the Republic of South Viet Nam 1968/69. Jim had a major stroke on Saturday, 11th November 2006 and did not regain conscience ness. Jim had not been very well over the past three years.
Jim was some 84 years old and had also served in WWII. He will be sadly missed by members of The Team. Jim also served in various appointments on the Executive and Committee of AATTV WA Branch for a number of years.
Funeral details will be advised once known. Condolence messages can be passed through John Nolan on email: jno49884@bigpond.net.au
May Jim Rest in Peace,
Take care and Persevere,
Rick
Vale a soldier died today
The funeral arrangements for Bill are as follows. The service is to be held Monday 30th October 2006, 10.30am at St Patrick's Catholic Church, Tobruk St, Beenleigh.
May he Rest in Peace.
Rick
G’day all,
Sad news on the passing of W.J. ‘Bill’ Brydon, MID a member of AATTV.
I am sure Team members pass on their sincerest condolences to the Brydon family.
Bill Brydon was awarded the MID while serving in RVN with AATTV. The citation is as follows:
Army Number: 26344
Substantive Rank: Major
Christian Name: Willian Joseph
Surname: BRYDON
Honour or Award: MID
Major William Joseph Brydon graduated from
the Officer Cadet School in 1952. He served in The Royal Australian Regiment
in Australia, Malaya and in Borneo. He joined the Australian Army Training
Team in Vietnam in February 1969 and was attached to the 2nd Mobile Strike
Force Command, 5th United States Special Forces Group.
Major Brydon served first as Commander of
the 2nd Mobile Strike Force Battalion, which consisted of some five hundred
Montagnard soldiers and a number of United States and Australian subordinate
Commanders. Under his overall command, the companies of the Battalion distinguished
themselves on a number of occasions in successful actions against the enemy
in the mountainous areas of the Central Highlands of Vietnam. Major Brydon’s
Battalion was involved in the heavy fighting against superior North Vietnamese
forces in the area of Ben-Het, in Kontum Province, during March and June
1969. The manner in which he deployed and controlled his companies in these
operations and their outstanding effort against the enemy were major factors
in limiting the success of the enemy’s offensive in this area.
In July 1969, Major Brydon was appointed to
command the 1st Mobile Strike Force Battalion. One of his companies was
commanded by United States Special Forces personnel, one by members of
the Australian Army Training Team and one by Vietnamese Special Forces.
The manner in which Major Brydon moulded these personnel, with their diversified
backgrounds into an effective combat unit, was exceptional. In November
1969, the Battalion was deployed against the enemy’s offensive in the Bu-Ptran
area of Quang-Duc Province, adjacent to the Cambodian border. During this
operation, Major Brydon controlled his companies with outstanding ability.
When a fire support base in the area was threatened by the enemy and the
decision had been made to vacate it, he planned and controlled the successful
withdrawal of the Allied garrison using his own companies as a screen.
The calm and professional manner in which Major Brydon executed this withdrawal
averted a potentially serious situation.
Major Brydon’s professional ability and his
untiring efforts to improve the effectiveness of those under his command
have set a fine example to United States, Vietnamese and Australian Commanders
involved in the Special Forces program and reflect great credit on himself,
the Australian Army Training Team and the Australian Army.
Persevere,
Rick
Dear 'Advisor",
It is sad to have to report that Lt Col Bill Brydon, ex 1RAR and AATTV, passed away as a result of a sudden, massive heart attack at Beenleigh, Qld at approximately 1200 hrs on Sunday 22 October 2006.Funeral arrangements have yet to be made and will keep you informed. Could you please pass this unfortunate message to your members?
Highest regards,
Alan Price
President
4RAR Assoc, Qld
Lest we forget
Funeral details as provided by Barry Sullivan for Ossies Ostara are posted below.
Persevere,
Rick
Rick, Have just received
details of Ossie's funeral, have contacted
Bernie and Peter Conway. The details
are - Friday, 6th October 2006 at 10.30am Eastern Suburbs Crematorium,
Matraville Sydney.
Persevere, Barry
G'day all,
Sad news on the passing today of 21406 WO1 Ernest 'Ossie' Barrington OSTARA, DCM Ra Inf who served with AATTV 1964-66 and 1967-70 in South Vietnam.
Funeral details will be advised when known.
I have taken the liberty of printing details of the Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM) awarded for actions in 1965.
Army Number:
21406
Rank:
Warrant Officer Class One
Christian Name:
Ernest Barrington
Surname:
OSTARA
Award:
DCM
Warrant Officer Ostara served with the Australian Imperial Forces during World War Two and saw active service with the 2/6th Australian Commando Squadron from 1943 to 1946. He enlisted in the Australian Regular Army in September 1947. Before being allotted for duty with the Australian Army Training Team in South Vietnam he served with the First Battalion Royal Australian Regiment in Korea in 1953 as well as in a number of instruction posts including appointments with cadets, commandos and the Infantry Centre. Warrant Officer Ostara commenced his tour of duty with the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam on 10 November 1963, his first assignment being that of Adviser to the Vietnamese National Training Centre at Dong Da.
At 1500 hours on 7 January 1965, the Reconnaissance Company, with Warrant Officer Ostara as Senior Adviser, was in refresher training at Dong Da Training Centre. An operation was in progress in the Northern end of the training area where a "Tiger Company" (a heliborne reaction force) was clearing a Viet Cong company from a nearby village. The Viet Cong broke clear and moved South across undulating scrubby country in plain view of a group consisting of Australians and Vietnamese troops. Under the guidance and with the assistance of the Australian members of the Training Team, the Vietnamese troops blocked the Viet Cong move with machine gun fire inflicting seven casualties on the Viet Cong and forcing them to take cover and move into a narrow step sided water course. At this stage the group of 10 Vietnamese troops who were being instructed by Warrant Officer Ostara, under his direction quickly took up an intercepting position further up the water course. The advancing Viet Cong on meeting this group threw grenades which caused panic among the Vietnamese troops under training. Quickly assessing the seriousness of the situation and to protect the troops under his care Warrant Officer Ostara single handed attacked the Viet Cong force. With his personal carbine he shot down the leading elements of two who proved to be a senior Viet Cong Commander and his orderly. Rounding a bend to follow up, he found no remaining enemy. His actions made a tremendous impact on the force to which he was attached, which on succeeding days undertook further successful operations. Warrant Officer Ostara's action was a splendid individual effort and is in the highest tradition of the Australian Regular Army and reflects great credit upon himself.
Ossie was also the recipient of a number of foreign decorations for his service in South Vietnam and these included the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry (with Silver Star) and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry (Bronze Star with Cluster).
Ossie will be sadly missed by all Team members as well as many members of the veteran community.
May he Rest In Peace.
Persevere,
Rick
|
From: The Team in Pictures |
Message sent to Bernie McGurgan on the passing of Ossie.
Dear Bernie,
Sadly I have to inform you that Ossie Ostara died this morning at 7am, Tim Holt rang me with the news at 7.30am. No funeral arrangements known as yet, Tim Holt will keep me informed, and will pass on when known.
Would you put this on your extensive contact list please, thanks Bernie
Persevere mate,
Barry Sullivan Sec NSW AATTV Branch
Funeral details for Jim Broderick are as follows:
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral which is to be held at Parkview Chapel, Allambe Crematorium, Nerang - Broadbeach Road, Nerang on Friday, 29th September, 2006 commencing at 11 a.m.
May Jim Rest in Peace,
Rick
G’day all,
Sad news from Peter Conway on the passing on 23rd September 2006 of WO2 Jim Broderick RA Inf, who served with AATTV - 1966/67.
I know all Team members would want their deepest sympathies and condolences passed to the Broderick family.
Funeral details will be posted once known.
Persevere,
Rick
Good Morning All
Sad News
I have just been advised of the passing of Jim (Blah) Broderick last night (23/09/06) by our Welfare Officer Des Ford. Jim was living on the Gold Coast (Arundel) Further details will be forwarded as they coming to hand
May he rest in peace.
Regards
Peter
G'day all,
Message below from Barry Sullivan on funeral details for Peter Harris. Messages of condolences can be emailed direct to Barry on email: marbar@speednet.com.au
Medals to be worn, no floral tributes.
Persevere,
Rick
-----Original Message-----
From: Barry Sullivan [mailto:marbar@speednet.com.au]
Sent: Friday, 1 September 2006 3:50 PM
To: advisor@echidna.id.au
Subject: RE: Funeral Details Peter Harris
AATTV
Thanks Rick, details for Peter Harris, funeral
to be held at the Northern
Suburbs Crematorium at 10.15am Tuesday 5th
September, 2006. NSW members
organizing service and will be attending.
Sad to lose such a wonderful
man, and officer, he will be sadly missed.
Barry Sullivan
HARRIS, Peter John Stuart.
6th Battalion
Royal Australian Regiment
August 31, 2006 Suddenly at Gordon.
Beloved husband of Jenny. Loving father of
John. Much
loved son-in-law of Helen and Wallace Docker.
Brother-in-law
of Louise, Bill and Arnold. Uncle to Amanda
and Katherine.
Brother of Mary-Helen.
Sadly Missed By All
Relatives and Friends of the Late PETER HARRIS
are kindly
invited to attend his funeral service, to
be held within the
North Chapel of Northern Suburbs Crematorium,
Delhi
Road, North Ryde, on Tuesday (September 5,
2006),
commencing at 10.15 a.m.
DIGNIFIED FUNERALS
Five Dock 9713 1911
From the SMH, 2 Sep 2006
G’day all,
Another of our brothers has passed away. 242851 Capt Peter John HARRIS RA Inf, AATTV 1969-70 and 6RAR 1966-67. Peter Harris served with both 5th SFGA and MIKE Force and was twice wounded in action during his tour of duty with AATTV.
Team Members and their families pass on their sincerest condolences to his family.
Funeral details will be advised when known.
May he Rest In Peace.
Persevere,
Rick
-----Original Message-----
From: P & L Conway [mailto:plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au]
Sent: Thursday, 31 August 2006 5:29 PM
To: Rick Ryan; Bruce Davies; Bernie McGurgan
Subject: Passing of Team Member
Good Evening Rick, Bruce, and Bernie,
Again I am the bearer of Sad News and sometimes I wonder at the frequency of having to relay this type of news.
I have just received a telephone call from Barry Sullivan notifying me that Peter Harris passed away this AM following a massive heart attack.
Barry will notify me of funeral details once they become known and I shall pass them on.
May he rest in Peace
Regards
Peter
A soldier died today
Funeral details for Don Dalton are as follows:
The Funeral Service for Mr Donald Clarence
(Don) Dalton, will be held at St Peters Anglican Church, cnr Queen
Street and Octavia Street, Mornington on WEDNESDAY
(Sept. 6, 2006) commencing at 2 p.m.
A Private Cremation will follow. No flowers
by request, in lieu donations may be made to Oncology Unit, Peninsula
Private Hospital. Envelopes will be available
at the church.
DALTON. _ Donald C.
The President, Committee and Members of the
AATTV Association Victoria regret the passing of our esteemed
colleague and friend and offer our deepest
sympathy to his family.
``WE WILL REMEMBER THEM
G’day all,
More sad news. Message from Bruce Davies on the passing of Don Dalton last night after illness. WO2 D. C. Dalton RA Inf AATTV 1963-64 and also served with 1 RAR in RVN 1968-69. May he rest in peace.
Persevere,
Rick
Helen Dalton called, Don passed away last night, 30 August. Funeral details to be advised.
Don served with AATTV 1963-64 at the Duc My Ranger Training Centre.
Persevere
Bruce
G’day all,
Funeral notice from Brisbane Courier Mail for Morrie Stanley is below:
Rick
ANSTEE,
Maurice "Morrie" George,
formerly of Moorooka.
QX24366, Aged 75 years.
Dearly loved Husband of Colleen
(decd), loved Father of Brian,
Michael, Diane and Maree. Father-
in-law to Paulene, Christine,
Stephen and Wayne. Beloved Pop
and "MoMo" to Leigh, Sean,
Matthew, Fiona, Katherine, Kelly,
Tristan, Christopher, Madeline
and
Andrew. Loved Brother and Uncle.
Family and Friends are invited
to
attend a Service to celebrate
his life
on Thursday, 31st August, 2006
at
the George Hartnett Chapel,
42
Gaza Road, Holland Park
commencing at 10.30 a.m.
"Lest We Forget"
GEORGE HARTNETT FUNERALS
Holland Park _ 3849 8411
An Australian Company
Message below from Peter Conway on the passing of 24366 WO2 Maurice George ANSTEE RA Sigs, AATTV 1965-66 and 104 Sig Sqn 1967-68. Maurie served from Oct 65 to Jan 66 with 5th SFGA team A-107 Tra Bong, Quang Ngai Province.
Funeral details will be advised once known.
Persevere,
Rick
-----Original Message-----
From: P & L Conway [mailto:plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au]
Sent: Tuesday, 29 August 2006 8:49 AM
To: Rick Ryan; Bernie McGurgan; Bruce Davies
Subject: Passing of Team Member
Good Morning Gentleman
Sad News again
I am advised by Des Ford of the passing of Maurice Anstee.
I am unsure of the date of death at this time, however will pass it on once known.Maurie's funeral notice appears in today's Courier Mail.Vale Maurie
Regards and Keep Safe
Peter
G'day all,
Message below from Bernie McGurgan via Peter Conway on the passing of WO2 J. 'John" Alexander McRAE, MID RA Inf and member of AATTV 1964/65 and 68/69.. I have included the citation for the award of MID earned by him in RVN.
May he Rest in Peace.
Rick
Army Number:
28465
Substantive Rank:
Warrant Officer Class Two
Christian Name:
John Alexander
Surname:
McRAE
Honour or Award:
MID
Warrant Officer McRae enlisted in the Australian
Regular Army in 1949. He served with the Royal Australian Regiment in Malaysia
and Borneo and with the Australian Army Training Team in Vietnam in 1964
and 1965. He rejoined the Training Team in August 1968 for his second tour
in Vietnam.
On 11 January 1969, Warrant Officer McRae
was serving as an adviser with the 1st Battalion, 1st Infantry Division
of the Army of the Republic of Vietnam on a search and clear operation
in Quang-Nam Province, when the Battalion command group unknowingly walked
into a mined and bobby trapped area. A number of mines were detonated resulting
in the Vietnamese Battalion Commander and two of his executive officers
being killed instantly and three radio operators being seriously wounded.
Immediately following the mine explosions and with complete disregard for
his own safety, Warrant Officer McRae ran into the area and gave aid to
the wounded. He then exposed himself to enemy fire as he supervised
the securing of a perimeter and the clearing of an area of mines for a
landing zone. Standing in the open and still under sporadic fire he directed
the evacuation helicopter on to the ground and helped load the wounded.
Warrant Officer Mc Rae's personal bravery
and exemplary conduct in this action and on a number of other occasions
during his operational service on two tours in Vietnam with the Training
Team, have been a fine example to all who served with him. His dedication
to duty and professionalism reflect great credit on himself, the Australian
Army Training Team and the Australian Army.
Gidday
Peter Conway has just informed me of the death
of WO 2 John Alexander McRae who served two Tours with AATTV during 29
JUL 64 - 11 JUN 65 and 19 AUG 68 - 30 JUL 69! He was in his 79th year!
Funeral arrangements are as indicated below.
Vale WO J A McRAE!
Persevere
Bernie
Dennis Manski informed me that he had heard of the passing of Kevin Wallace AATTV. On checking, I was informed by Bernie McGurgan per Peter Conway that Kevin had indeed passed away on 10th July 2006 and was cremated at Noosa, Qld on 14th July 2006. As both Bernie and I were away from our home bases, the word may not have spread. Belated but sincere condolences to his family.
I have included the award of MID as earned by WO2 K.J. Wallace while serving with AATTV in South Vietnam.
Army Number:
6948
Substantive Rank:
Warrant Officer Class Two
Christian Name:
Kevin John
Surname:
WALLACE
Honour or Award:
MID
Warrant Officer Class Two Kevin J Wallace,
Royal Australian Army Service Corps enlisted in the Australian Regular
Army on 26 June 1953. Following a number of Corps postings, he volunteered
for service in South Vietnam and joined the Australian Army Training Team,
Vietnam on 30th April 1966. He was posted as an Assistant Adviser to the
2nd Battalion, 5th Regiment of the 2nd Division, Army of the Republic of
Vietnam.
On 7 September 1966, Warrant Officer Wallace
accompanied the 2nd Battalion which was engaged on a search and destroy
mission against a main force Viet Cong unit in the Mo Duc District, Quang
Ngai Province, South Vietnam.
At about 1840 hours, whilst his unit wa establishing
a defensive position for the night, the Viet Cong attacked strongly from
two directions with an estimated force of two rifle companies, supported
by automatic small arms fire and mortar concentrations. They took advantage
of heavy rain and darkness.
The friendly troops were under heavy pressure.
To counter the situation which deteriorated quickly, Warrant Officer Wallace
was outstanding in his determined efforts to maintain the friendly troop's
will to resist the enemy. He continually moved among the friendly troops,
exposing himself to heavy hostile fire whilst encouraging Commanders and
soldiers alike and directing their fire. His fine example of calm, steadiness
and forceful leadership caused effective control to be re-established and
a successful stand to be made. Enemy casualties were estimated at 36 killed
and wounded whilst friendly casualties were 9 killed and wounded. When
the enemy broke contact, Warrant Officer Wallace contributed significantly
to the rapid reorganisation of the defensive position, administration of
wounded and their smooth and rapid evacuation.
Warrant Officer Wallace displayed outstanding
initiative, professional ability and resolve, whist under hostile fire.
His calm conduct was directly responsible for countering a dangerous tactical
situation and for eventually repulsing the enemy. His action brought great
credit on himself and the Australian Regular Army.
Lest we forget
Information Sought from AATTV Members
G'day all,
Andy Wiest has had a change of email address, it is now: andrew.wiest@usm.edu
Rick
G’day all,
Below are two messages from Prof Andrew ‘Andy’ Wiest seeking input for a book he is writing. Bruce Davies has already been in contact with him. Any assistance would be appreciated as Andy intent is to include information about Australian advisers in RVN.
Andy Wiest can be contacted on email: Andrew Wiest [andrew.wiest@usm.edu]
Take care and Persevere,
Rick
-----Original Message-----
From: Wiest Andrew A Civ AWC/DFS [mailto:Andrew.Wiest@MAXWELL.AF.MIL]
Sent: Friday, 24 February 2006 11:22 PM
To: 'advisor@echidna.id.au'
Subject: RE: Vietnam Information
Rick,
Thanks for your kind and quick reply. I will email Mr. Deane today - thanks very much for the contact information. If you can please do put out my message and plea for help on the AATTV mailing list. The more advisers I get to interview not only gives me both a fuller picture of what the ARVN units in question did, but also allows me to put in more information on the lives and efforts of the Australian advisers themselves - something that is virtually unknown here in the states (and I bet that it is underappreciated there as well).
If you don't mind, let me know what you can about your organization. It sounds very interesting and I would certainly like to give you the proper credit in my book.
Thanks a lot.
Andy Wiest
Gentlemen,
I received your contact information from Craig Tibbitts at the Australian War Memorial. My name is Andrew Wiest and I am a professor at the US Air Force Air War College. I am presently writing a book on the Army of the Republic of Vietnam - specifically a book that looks at the careers of two officers within the ARVN and those of their advisers.
In my work I have already tracked down and interviewed one Australian adviser, Max Kelly, and I am presently looking to find another. During the Vietnam War he was a captain and advised the 3rd Battalion of the 54th Regiment of the ARVN 1st Division. His name is W R Deane. He was involved in a battle at firebase Tun Tavern in 1970 about which I would very much like to learn more. If you have any information on Capt. Deane, or know some way to find information, I would be very appreciative.
The units that I am mainly interested in are the Hac Bao (Black Panther) Company (the rapid reaction force of 1st Division) from 1965-1969. The 2nd Battalion of the 3rd Regiment from 1967-1969. The 2nd Battalion of the 2nd Regiment from 1969-1971. The 54th Regiment from 1970-1971, (all units of the ARVN 1st Division) and the 56th Regiment of the 3rd Division from 1971-1972. I am unsure of the resources at your command, but if there is a way to discern Australian advisers to these units and better yet how to contact those advisers I would be most grateful. I propose to interview those advisers to get a better understanding both of what the units in questions did and did not do during that time and learn more about the Australian advisory effort.
Many thanks for your help and consideration.
Andrew Wiest
US Air Force Air War College
Late and sad news of the passing on the 19th May 2006 of fellow Team Member WO1 W. 'Bill'. A. Eade MID, RACMP who served with AATTV 1966/67 and 1969/71. Bill was awarded a MID in RVN.
Army Number:
52772
Rank:
Warrant Officer Class Two
Christian Name: William
Anthony
Surname:
EADE
Honour or Award: MID
Warrant Officer Class Two William Anthony Eade
enlisted in the Australian Regular Army on 26 January 1954. He has had
previous service in the British Army, serving in Burma in World War Two
and later in Korea. After a short period of service in The Royal Australian
Regiment, he transferred to The Royal Australian Army Provost Corps in
1956. He joined the Australian Army Training Team in Vietnam on 19 September
1966 and was posted as a Weapons Adviser to 3rd Battalion, 2 Infantry Regiment
Army of the Repuplic of Vietnam.
During the nigh of 20 March 1967, the 3rd
Battalion was occupying the Gio Linh outpost, the outpost nearest the Demilitarised
Zone, when it came under intense artillery fire from the north. Warrant
Officer Eade at the time was conducting liaison with a United States Marine
Corps unit adjacent to the outpost and had to move under shellfire some
200 metres to reach the advisers bunker in the outpost. Once there, he
immediately computed the possible enemy gun positions and called for air
and artillery support. He then left the shelter of the bunker and moved
around the perimeter defences checking on the manning of crew served weapons
and individual fighting positions to counter a possible ground attack.
Having completed this task, he moved across 400 metres of open ground to
the helicopter pad and assisted and supervised the medical evacuation of
the wounded. During the action this night, it was estimated by observers
in adjacent units, that the outpost received 750 rounds of shellfire, the
majority being medium artillery.
Warrant Officer Eade's personal courage and
leadership was a fine example to the troops of the Battalion and reflects
great credit on himself and the Australian Regular Army.
Persevere,
Rick
Message from Graham Neitz to Bernie McGurgan is below.
HI Bernie,
I have just recieved this information of the passing of Bill Eade. He Passed
away at Yeppon on the 19 May 06, Age 79. He will be cremated to day at
Rockhampton at 11am, Dick powell will rep for the team.
Regards Graham
This was sent from mate of Bill's - Ian
'Wombat' Laurie "After his WW2 service in
the Brit Army, (Burma, mostly) he came to Australia via Canada, where
he served a short stint. He enlisted here before Korea as 1/400056
(3 year man, obviously,) and was at Kapyong with 3RAR. Did his 3
years plus before discharging for a good look around his adopted country
before re-enlisting in the West. His second tour of Japan/Korea was
with 1 RAR as Intelligence Section Sgt. It was after this he finally
came to Provosts, where I knew him as an instructor at the School.
Purely by incident, and nothing at all to do with the Team, to my certain
knowledge six Kapyong blokes later served with Provosts"
Lest we forget
Message from Bernie on the passing of fellow Team member Jock Allan is below. Our sincere condolences to the Allan family. Messages can be passed through Peter Conway on email: plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au
Persevere,
Rick
Gidday
Peter Conway has just informed me ( 5.20 p.m.
today) that WO 1 "Jock" J S ALLAN (AATTV MAR 68 / MAR 69) RA Inf
passed away in Brisbane early this morning (around 2 a.m.). Peter understands
that the funeral is to be at 11 a.m. on this coming TUE 23 MAY 06. The
venue and more info should be available via the family notice in the Courier
Mail this coming MON morning 22 MAY 06!
Persevere Men of the Team!
Bernie
A soldier died today
G’day all,
Further to my last on the passing of Bob Pratt. I have the message just in from Bruce Davies on Funeral details for Bob. Please also note that Bob passed away on 27th April not the 26th as previously stated.
Persevere,
Rick
Please amend your records to show that Bob
died on 27 April 2007. His funeral will be held on 3 May at Tattersall
Funeral Care, 130 Bellarine Highway, Newcomb [Geelong]. Bellarine Highway
is the main road heading towards Queenscliff. The service will begin
at 11.00 am. Those attending, please wear AATTV berets, jackets and
your medals. Contact Bruce Davies on 03 - 5258 3031 for any other
details.
Persevere,
Bruce
G'day all,
Sad news. Bruce Davies - Secretary AATTV Vic Branch has just informed of the passing of WO2 R. 'Bob' D. Pratt RAAC AATTV 1964 - 65 on the 27th April 2006.
Condolences can be passed through Bruce Davies on email: bruce.davies@optusnet.com.au
Further details will be provided by Bruce when known.
I am sure all Team members would wish to pass on their deepest sympathies to the Pratt family.
Persevere,
Rick
Passing of Phyllis Scowcroft
Message below is from the eldest daughter of Lock Scowcroft AATTV 1969/70 on the passing of his wife 'Phyllis' on the 12th April 2006.
I am sure all Team members would wish to pass
on their condolences to Lock and his family. Email address for his daughter
Lee Carlos is: Lee.Carlos@health.gov.au
Persevere,
Rick
If there is anyone out there that remembers Lock & Phyllis Scowcroft, Phyllis past away on the 12 April. Lock is retired and is living in Tomakin.
I am his eldest daughter.
Thanks
Lee Carlos
Revenue Manager
Financial Services Group
Therapeutic Goods Administration
02 6232 8264 (ph)
02 6232 8222 (fax)
The Men Who Persevered Addendum
Bruce Davies has provided the latest update to the book, 'The Men Who Persevered'. Bruce Davies can be contacted on email: bruce.davies@optusnet.com.au For those of you that have a copy, it may be worthwhile to update your edition or at least print out the following changes.
Rick
This page has been established to provide an updating facility for
the book.
Addendum as at 20 Jan 2006
Page 44, fourth paragraph. The second sentence should start: Joe
da Costa…
Page 68, diagram, amend the headings to read:
The top chart heading to read: Quang Tri Province.
The bottom chart heading to read: 1st ARVN Division-1st Regiment.
Page 120, fourth paragraph. In the first sentence, change ‘Anatoly’
to Anatoly and add parenthesis to ‘Tony’.
Page 151, second paragraph. Change the fourth line to read, Central
Training Command was told it wasn’t working, but…
Page 190, first paragraph. In the second sentence amend the date:
‘was wounded on 21 February’ to read 24 February.
Page 229, Nominal Roll, 365272 Boyle, William David—amend date died
to 1981
Page 231, Nominal Roll, 21371 Buckley, Harold—delete Deceased 25.02.02
Page 233, Nominal Roll, 28217 Butler, William, Edward—add Deceased
16.7.05.
Page 239, Nominal Roll, 16181 Clark, Brian Donald, MM- change area
served to read,
Sep 66, 3/6 ARVN, Tam Ky, Quang Tin, approximately six months then
RF/PF Phuoc Tuy Province.
Page 239, Nominal Roll, 3975 Chinn, George Ernest, DCM - change
7th SFG detachment to read A-728.
Page 241, Nominal Roll, 17868 Cochrane, Desmond, S - change first
rank to SGT.
Page 267, Nominal Roll, 29670, Gruetzner, Norbert add to remarks,
'Assistant adviser in Khe Sanh village from (approx) 9 Apr to 30 Apr 67'.
Page 274, Nominal Roll, 11308 Herschell, Gordon, Lionel—amend WIA
date to read
19.5. 70.
Page 301, Nominal Roll, 213777 McLean, Trevor, Anthony – add Platoon
commander
12 & 14 companies Dec 67 & Jan 68.
Page 304, Nominal Roll, 364459 Miller, Allan, J, - amend service
to read Jan-Apr 70, 2nd Bn, and Apr-Jun 70, 1st Bn, 2 MSF, Pleiku.
Page 305, Nominal Roll, 1337 Mills, Colin, Christmas – add deceased
6.12.05.
Page 316, Nominal Roll, 11359 Pashen, James, Edward – add after
RSM Danang,
from 5 October 1966.
Page 320, Nominal Roll, 335087 Pollard, Reginald, Lance - change
7th SFGA detachment to read A-728.
Page 322, Nominal Roll, 61808 Properjohn, Terence, John—add Deceased
16.7.05.
Page 325, Nominal Roll, 235274 Reid, Peter, McAllister—amend area
served with AATTV to read: Oct 67-Feb 68, company commander, 14th Coy,
Company C, MSF, 5th SFGA, Danang. Delete reference to Commander MSF etc.
Page 332, Nominal Roll, 42728 Sanderson, Peter, Nicholas—delete
Medevac in Comments column. Casevac from Dak Seang on 3 April.
Page 338, Nominal roll, 37893 Sheppard, Walter—amend WIA date to
read 19.5.70.
Page 340, Nominal Roll, 311557 Smith, J. J. - amend WIA date to
24 Feb.
Page 352, Nominal Roll, 56004 Thornton, Robert Leslie - delete deceased
no date.
Page 358, Nominal Roll, 210581 Watts, Victor A. - delete Deceased.
Page 363, Nominal Roll, 218391 Winter, Mark—amend dates of other
service in Vietnam to read 18.11.68-19.11.69…
Page 371, Bronze Star for Valour—add M. P. Hanley.
Page 375, Vietnamese awards, Cross of Gallantry—Gold Star, add F.
A. Roberts (with cluster).
Page 378, ARVN Armour Badge—add F. A. Roberts.
Definitions used: CASEVAC - to be evacuated from the battlefield to an aid post eg, hospital. MEDEVAC - to be evacuated from Vietnam to Australia or other country for treatment and recovery.
AATTV Memorial Plaque - Canberra, ACT
G'day all,
The photographs below were forwarded to me by Geoffrey Annett on the dedication of the AATTV Memorial Plaque at the Australian War Memorial - Canberra ACT on the 19th November 2005.
Rick
|
 From Left - (Standing) John Vincent (1969-70), President; John Sanderson, Chaplain; Don Targett (1972), Ian Teague (1964-65); Ken Redman (1970-71); Joe da Costa (1963-64). From Left (Sitting) Murray Metherall (1968); George Logan (1969-70), Ian McKeown (1964-65), Nev Wilson (1967-68). |
Updated: 8th December 2005
Entry Date: 6th December 2005
Message from Peter Conway on the funeral details for Chris Mills below. Sadly another of our own has passed on.
Persevere,
Rick
Bernie/Rick
I have confirmed with the funeral directors , Morley's Funerals in Townsville that the funeral service for our late member Chris Mills will be conducted at their funeral parlour which is located on the corner of Hugh Street and Martinez Avenue Townsville at 1030 AM tomorrow (Friday) the 9th December
May he Rest in Peace
Pierre
MILLS, Colin Christmas (Chris). Aged 77 years
(QX1337)
Late of Mill Drive, Heatley. Colin passed
away on
Tuesday 6th December, 2005. Beloved Father,
Father-in-law, Grandfather, and Great Grandfather
of
Tina and Keith McLeay; Glenn, Naomi and Adrienne
McLeay, Greg McLeay (deceased) and Ben McLeay
and Rebecca Read; John and Norma Mills; Wendy
and
Troy Dellaway and Jed Dellaway; Llewellyn
Mills
(deceased); Jeffrey and Kate Mills; Anita
and Mark
Strachan, Scott and Kane Strachan; Husband
of Marge
Mills, Stepfather of Alan and Owen Taylor
and
Families.
Forever in our hearts ~ Rest in peace Dad
All Relatives and Friends of the late
COLIN CHRISTMAS (CHRIS) MILLS are respectfully
invited to attend his FUNERAL SERVICE which
will
commence at 10.30 a.m. TOMORROW FRIDAY
MORNING 9th DECEMBER, 2005, at the Lakes
Chapel, Morleys Funeral Home, Cnr Hugh Street
and
Martinez Avenue, Townsville.
PRIVATE CORTEGE
Floral tributes accepted, or donations to
R.S.L CARE
1 HAVANA STREET, ROWES BAY 4810
Royal Australian Regiment Association Qld.
Div.
Australian Army Training Team Vietnam Assoc.
Serving, former members and friends of the
Royal
Australian Regiment Australian Army Training
Team
Vietnam and the Australian Army Aviation Corps,
are
invited to attend the Funeral Service of our
late
Comrade-in-Arms COLIN CHRISTMAS MILLS. Those
entitled are requested to wear their medals.
Funeral
details as per the Family notice.
J.N. Hemerik
QLD. VP RAR Assoc.
G'day all,
News has just come in from Jan Hemerik informing the passing of Colin Christmas MILLS - AATTV 1963 who passed away on the morning of 6th December 2005 after a short illness. Chris served with the Royal Australian Regiment and the Aviation Corps. Funeral is expected for this coming Friday, 9th December.
Persevere,
Rick
Lest we forget
Entry Date: 6th November 2005
Persevere,
Rick
"Sadly I must report the passing of Eddie Fahy. His death notice appeared in this morning's Courier Mail. He died on Monday the 31st October and has been privately cremated. I knew him quite well for many years and he was a very keen punter and quite a good one too. What a shame he missed out on the run of Makybe Diva although he probably was at Flemington in spirit"
Peter Conway
G'day all,
Today I attended the service for Terry Properjohn,or
"Props" as some of his friends called him. There were many humourous
stories told, relating to both his school days and his long military
service. It seemed , and I'm sure it was a fact, that Terry Properjohn
, during his lifetime, enjoyed the respect of his family, his peers and
the men who served under him.
The chapel was full to capacity with his family
and friends , a bugler and a piper. It was a good sendoff for a soldier,
VALE TERRY, PERSEVERE. WE SALUTE YOU...
Tom Donnelly.
G'Day All,
Following messages have been received on the passing of WO2 W. (Bill) E. Butler RA Inf whom served with AATTV in 1970/71. Funeral details have also been included. May he rest in peace.
Rick
Gidday, more sad news. I worked with Bill Butler in the Delta late 70 and then Bill went to Pleiku with Barry Calligari.
Photo of WO2 Bill Butler taken at Dong Tam in October 1970. Other diggers from the left to right, Capt Bernie McGurgan (AATTV), WO2 Bill Butler (AATTV), Command Sgt Major H.P. Powers (US Army - the CSM Advisory Team 75, ARVN 7th Inf Div at Dong Tam, Dinh Tuong Province) and WO2 Gary Sutherland (AATTV) |
Vale Bill Butler!
Persevere
Bernie
Butler, William Edward, (Bill) WO 2, RA Inf,
AATTV 27 Jan 70 / 29 Jan 1971.Passed on 16/7/05, funeral service Thu 21st
Jul 05 at the Ingham Cemetery RSL section at 1.30 pm for a graveside service.
Vale Bill
Dutchy Hemerik
G'day Rick, Noticed a death notice in the Townsville Bulletin for a William Edward Butler aged 78 of Ingham here in Far Nth Qld. It invites members of AATTV to his funeral to be held tomorrow Thursday at 1330 at the RSL Section of the New Ingham Cemetery. Hate to be the bearer of bad news, but I thought you'd like to know.
G’day all,
The following messages just came in from Bruce Davies AATTV and John Vincent AATTV Vic Branch. Funeral details are as follows:
PROPERJOHN. _
A service for Mr Terrence
(Terry) Properjohn will be
held at the Wellington
Crematorium Chapel,
Cornelian Bay on Friday
at 2.00 pm.
Family and friends are
invited to attend.
Rick
Terry Properjohn died this morning, 16 July.
Terry served with AATTV in the following posts.
Oct-Dec 70, 1/4 ARVN, 2nd Division, Quang Ngai.
Jan-Oct 71, JWTC Nui Dat.
Persevere,
Bruce
I am advised by David Tresize of the death of Terry Properjohn at Huonville Tas.
Terry served with the Team at Van Kiep towards the end. Some may remember Terry from his first tour with 3RAR.
I have no funeral or contact details at this time. Joe Ferguson may be able to help.
Persevere, John Vincent.
Message below was received in relation to the passing of fellow Team Member, 54700 Warrant Officer Class 2 T. (Terry) J. Goddard RAA - AATTV 1969/70. I have confirmed that the dat of Terry's passing was on 29th March 2005 due to cardiac arrest.
Rick
It is with regret that I advise that AATTV Warrant Officer Terry Goddard passed away around two weeks ago, his funeral being held on Monday April 4th. In civilian life he was for many years Controller of the Sorrento unit of the Victoria State Emergency Service, and it was in my capacity as an officer with the Malvern unit that I met Terry on a couple of occasions.
Sincere regards
Graeme Phipps
Operations Accountant
IOOF Holdings Ltd
Level 26, 303 Collins St
Melbourne Vic 3000
Ph 8614 4899
Fax 8614 4964
Mobile 0417 144 108
g.phipps@ioof.com.au
Message below was received in relation to the passing of fellow Team Member, 51149 Sergeant John Cochrane RA Inf - AATTV 1962/63. I have been advised by Peter Green ex-9RAR that John passed away on 17th October 2005. Unfortunate that we have to learn of a Team member passing away so long after the event.
Rick
All 9 RAR Personel,
It saddens me to let you all know the original CSM of B Company 9 RAR Woodside, Mr John Cockran has passed away in Bunbury WA. John did not tour with 9 RAR but had his second tour of Vietnam in 69-70, John or (Bubbles) as he was affectionly known joined the Army in 1948 served in Korea and Vietnam his first tour in Vietnam was with AATTVN. John was well respected by the diggers and I know from several lenghty talks with him he always maintained his affection and close association with the troops, this did not fit well with some senior ranks. John retired from the Army in 1973 with the Rank of WO1 and spent his retirement in the South West of West Australia. He was buried in his home town of Denmark, which was attended by a large contigent of local and visiting Vets and friends. John died from cancer of the stomach and of which know one new until days before his death. John was a non smoker.
John could always remember with humour even after 30 + years several of the original B company diggers and he had some lovely memories of times spent in the build up of B company prior to Vietnam. Some of the stories always had the same players in the likes of John Leahy, Geoff Strawbridge, Freddy Harris, and of course the Rat Pack.
Regards
Peter.
Lest we forget
Entry Date: 12th June 2005
A soldier died today
Message from Bruce Davies on the passing of fellow Team Member 1423 WO1 J. (Jack) N. Selmes RA Inf - AATTV 1965/66 and 1967/68. Jack also served with HQ 1ALSG 1969/70.
Jack Selmes passed away at 12 noon, 14 May 2005 in Port Lincoln.
Funeral service will be conducted in Port Lincoln on 23 May 2005. Ian Hodgson
is in contact with Helen Selmes and all messages should be via him. Please
pass on to all.
Persevere
Bruce
Message from Peter Conway on the passing of fellow Team Member WO2 J. (Jim) Stephens RAASC - AATTV 1966/67, 1969/70 on the 31st May 2005.
Army Number: 1410219
Temporary Rank: Warrant Officer Class Two
Christain Name: James
Surname:
STEPHENS
Honour or Award: MM
1410219 Warrant Officer Class Two James Stephens,
Royal Australian Army Service Corps, re-enlisted in the Australian Regurar
Army Special Reserve in 1956. Following a series of Corps postings,
he volunteered for service in South Vietnam and in April 1966 joined the
Australian Army Training Team, being posted as assistant adviser to the
1st Battalion, 5th Regiment, 2nd Division, Army of the Republic of Vietnam.
On 6 November 1966, 1st Battalion was engaged
in a clearing operation in Quang Tri Province and Warrant Officer Stephens
accompanied the Battalion. The Battalion was the main assault force for
an attack by 5th Regiment. At approximately 1615 hours as the assault progressed,
the Battalion was counter attacked from both left and right flanks by an
estimated Viet Cong Company employing small arms, automatic weapons, mortar
and recoilless rifle fire. It was halted by fire from the objective area,
and began to break and fall back. The command group, with which Warrant
Officer Stephens was located, became exposed on one flank.
Exposing himself to heavy hostile fire Warrant
Officer Stephens by using drive, determination and outstanding individual
example of disregard for personal danger formed a defence with the troops
around him, and then formed a covering force and directed effective fire
onto the enemy. By so doing, he was directly responsible for minimising
friendly casualties, and his achievement allowed some semblance of orderly
movement to the rear by the remaining troops to take place. Forced to withdraw,
he was again outstanding in his endeavours to reform and reorganise the
Battalion into a defensive posture, even though it was still under heavy
fire. He maintained a calm and professional demeanour throughout this phase
and was largely responsible for the Unit remaining a viable force, available
for further employment later in the operation. Warrant Officer Stephens
showed outstanding courage, professionalism and devotion to duty with complete
disregard for his personal safety, throughout the entire engagement. His
personal bravery was an inspiration to the Vietnamese and was beyond the
normal call of duty. His conduct on 6 November 1966 was in keeping with
the highest traditions of Military Service and brought great credit to
himself and the Australian Regular Army.
Bernie/Rick
It is with sincere regret that I must advise all members that Jim Stephens passed away at lunch time today. Des Ford is in contact with Shirley as I send this message. Further details will be forwarded as they come to hand
Vale Jim. A good mate to all who knew him.
Peter
A soldier died today
Message just in from Dutchy Hemerik AATTV that Clarrie Upton AATTV - 1967 passed away this morning. Clarrie may have finally lost his last battle but he has moved onto a better place where no doubt he will be with many other fellow warriors.
Funeral details will be advised when known. Please pass messages
of condolence to Jesse James AATTV on email:
jesseaattv@yahoo.com.au
Take care and Persevere,
Rick
Lest we forget
It is with regret that I have to convey to
our members the sad news of the passing of another of our Team Members,
Sam Booth. Sam, sadly passed away at 1.30 AM this morning Sunday the 27th
February.
Sam has been quite ill for some time. I have
spoken to his good lady Brenda and she is handling it quite well. Brenda
will advise me of the funeral arrangements once she has spoken to the funeral
directors tomorrow. For those of you who would like to contact Brenda
her home contact number is (07) 5478 8608. Her home address is
5 Neroli Street, PALMWOODS, Qld 4555
I am sure that many of our members would have known Sam quite well. He was a character in his own right.
Vale Sam. Rest in Peace
Further details regarding the funeral service will be passed on once known.
Bernie/ Rick. Please pass on.
Persevere Fellas.
Peter
Lest we forget
Entry Date: 9th February 2005
Updated: 12th February 2005
Good Morning All,
The funeral service for our late member John Collins will be held as follows
Date Monday 14th February 2005
Time 1030 hrs
Place Church of the Good Shepherd
144 Cotlew Street
Ashmore (Gold Coast ) Qld
Funeral Directors Newhaven Funerals Phone (07) 5592 1268
The above details also appear in today's (Saturday) Courier Mail
John NOK is
Barry Collins Telephone no (07) 5594 3062
Bernie/ Rick
Would you please forward through your respective nets
Thanks Regards Take Care and
PERSEVERE
Peter
G'day all,
Peter Conway in the message below has notified us of yet another passing of a fellow Team Member - 216757 WO2 John Edward COLLINS RA Inf served with AATTV in 1967 - 1968. May he rest in peace.
Take care and Persevere,
Rick
From Peter Conway.
Another sad day for us.
Larry McGarry has just rang me to advise of the passing of John Collins at the Gold Coast this morning. John has not been well for some time , however the news of his death certainly hascome as a shock.. Vale John Collins Rest in Peace
Details of his funeral are unknown at this stage, however I do beleive the family are endaevouring to arrange a service to be held at Canungra on Monday next. Will keep everybody advised through Bernie Mc Gurgan, as I will be going to Brisbane to attend a funeral of a good mate on Friday
I regret to advise our members of the passing of another well known Army identity one C.J. (Smokey) Dawson RAASC (Not a Team Member) but well known to many of our ranks throughout the country. Smokey passed away on Monday 7th February and his funeral service will be held at 1400 hrs this Friday at Pinarroo Cemetery in Brisbane. Vale Smokey, A Good Mate ,and likewise Rest in Peace
Rick, Bernie please pass on to all.
Not a good day however we shall
PERSEVERE
Peter
I just received a message from Simon Hearder, National Secretary of AATTV Association in relation to the passing of fellow Team Member - WO2 L.B.G. 'Abe' Green RAAC who served with AATTV in 1969/70.
Take care and Persevere,
Rick
Dear All
I've been advised by Jim Ponting that our colleague Abe Green passed away late Monday night . He had been in ill health as most of you know from stomach cancer but had been fighting it very well , but just before Christmas the doctors put him on palliative care.
His funeral is Monday, 10 January at 1300 hours at the RMC Duntroon Chapel . The wake will be at the RMC Sgts Mess . His wife Vivian is holding up well . She can be contacted at 02/6288 4339 or 3 Yanda St Warramanga ACT 2611.
Persevere,
Simon Hearder
email: simchar@ozemail.com.au
It is with sadness that another of our members has now passed on. WO2 Kevin ‘ Junior’ Ramsdale served with AATTV 1964 -1965 and was a gentleman’s gentleman. For those of us that knew him personally, he will be sadly missed.
It has been confirmed that Junior passed away on 27 January 2004.
Take care and Persevere,
Rick
From: P & L Conway
To: Bernie ; Bruce Davies ; Rick Ryan
Sent: Sunday, December 19, 2004 6:37 AM
Subject: Late Notofication of Death of Team Member
Good Morning Gentlemen
I am advised of the passing of Kevin (Junior ) Ramsdale. I believe Junior passed away some weeks ago. At this stage I do not have the date of Junior's death, but will forward it when known.
Notice of his passing appeared in a recent issue of the New South Wales RDFWA magazine Camaraderie. Should any of our members be a subscriber to that magazine I would appreciate it if you could check and advise me accordingly of his date of death.
Rest in Peace Kevin (Junior) Ramsdale
Regards and Take Care and
PERSEVERE
I just received the following message from a contact tonight. WO2 Leonard A. Williams was on of the ‘Originals’ who went to serve with AATTV in 1962.
Take care and Persevere,
Rick
It is with sadness that I advise of the death of another warrior .... Leonard A. Williams, WO1, Retd. Len served with the AATTV July 62 - June 63, he later served as RSM 2 RAR from October 1968 until June 1971 covering the period of the reorganisation of 2 RAR after its first tour in Vietnam until its return from the second tour. Len has been in poor health for the last few years. His farewell service will be held at the Norwood Park Crematorium Sandford Street Mitchell, ACT at 10:00 am on Wednesday 15 December.
Lest we forget
G’day all,
I have been advised by Bruce Davies, AATTV Vic Branch that WO2 Kevin Graham LATHAM, MID who served with AATTV in 1968 – 69 has passed away and was buried in Taree, NSW on 19th November 2004. We have no further details available at this time. I have taken the liberty of printing this extract of Kevin Latham’s MID which was awarded for his actions while serving with AATTV.
Take care and Persevere,
Rick
Army Number: 61264
Substantive Rank: Sergeant
Temporary Rank: Warrant Officer Class Two
Christian Name: Kevin Graham
Surname: LATHAM
Honour or Award:
MID
Warrant Officer Latham enlisted in the Australian Regular Army in 1959. After service with The Royal Australian Regiment, the Special Air Service Regiment and Commandos he joined the Australian Army Training Team in Vietnam in December 1968.
During 24 and 25 April 1969, Warrant Officer Latham was commanding a Platoon of 212th Mobile Strike Force Company of 5th Special Forces Group on a search and clear operation in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. Late in the afternoon of 24 April, the company was in a temporary defensive position when it was attacked by a North Vietnamese Battalion. Over a period of some seventeen hours the enemy launched over five determined attacks against the company. Ignoring his personal safety and exposing himself to heavy rocket and small arms fire, Warrant Officer Latham continually moved around the forward elements of his platoon throughout the night encouraging his indigenous soldiers, reorganising them and directing their fire. The repeated enemy attacks were repulsed. During the morning of 25 April, the enemy launched a final all out attack which penetrated the company position and it was in grave danger of being over-run. Warrant Officer Latham, together with a small number of other advisers and again showing a disregard for his own safety, counter-attacked the enemy and successfully restored the position.
On 25 May 1969, in Kontum Province, Warrant Officer Latham was again commanding his platoon on an operation with the 1st Mobile Strike Force Battalion when it was attacked by a North Vietnamese force of superior strength. The enemy isolated the two leading companies, which included Warrant Officers Latham’s Platoon, and with heavy mortar and rocket support assaulted their position from three directions simultaneously. Disregarding his own safety, Warrant Officer Latham moved about the forward perimeter under heavy enemy fire, directing his indigenous soldiers. Still exposing himself to the intense enemy small arms, mortar and rocket fire directed at his position, he then on his own set up a mortar and began firing at the advancing enemy. He continued firing until all ammunition was expended. Warrant Officer Latham then returned to the forward edge of his perimeter and personally led his soldiers in a final attempt to repel the enemy.
While doing so he was wounded. Disregarding his wounds and the enemy fired directed at him he made a valiant attempt to rally his soldiers who were beginning to fall back. However, against overwhelming odds and despite his efforts, the position was finally over-run. Showing great courage, Warrant Officer Latham stayed between the on-rushing enemy and his troops personally covering their withdrawal by engaging the enemy from close range until all were clear.
Warrant Officer Latham’s personal bravery and aggressive leadership in these actions were an outstanding example to those under his command and reflect great credit on himself, the Australian Army Training Team and the Australian Army.
Lest we forget
Team Beret/Hat Badge
Cost of the Badge is $20.00 plus postage of $1.80 for individual badges. Postage costs for more than one badge will be advised prior to consignment.
Rick,US Special Forces Association: Australian Chapter
US Special Forces Association: Australian Chapter.
I am trying to establish a chapter in Australia. We need 15 names
to get it started. If you are interested send your details to me
at
bruce.davies@optusnet.com.au
or 33 Lawrence Road, Point Lonsdale, Vic, 3225, telephone 03-52 58 3031.
I'll do the hack work.
Thanks and regards,
Bruce
Ron Monkhouse has sent the photograph below, can members assist with identifying some of the faces. Replies to Ron on email: ronmonk@optusnet.com.au
G'day Rick,
The attached photo was taken in Port Moresby
on Anzac Day early seventies ,I can identify Ray [Gunner] Stevenson, Mike
Casey, and I think Des Cherry the others are a bit more difficult.Can anyone
help with the missing names?
Cheers
Ron
Hi all. I hope I have typed
all the addresses correctly. Either way my thanks to Rick Ryan for all
his trouble in supplying names, appointments, addresses etc. for the National
and States AATTV Associations. Also to
George Mansford and Mick Henry for their info
and follow-up. I have addressed this to Presidents or Secretaries, or if
they aren't on the net, to someone associated with them in their branch.
It would be sincerely appreciated if this could be passed on to the appropriate
branch executives.
Many of you will be aware from knowing me personally or from reading the
book 'The Team In Pictures' that I was given the task by Col. John
Milner of designing the AATTV badge in 1966. ( See Page xv of the above
book ). It will be seen from a re- reading
of the article that there is a depth of symbolism built into the
badge's design.
As the designer you will understand that I have a high degree of personal
pride in having had the design accepted and so proudly worn by Team members,
and being further associated with our Unit in this way.
You will agree that the accurate preservation of the AATTV's history is
most important to the education and understanding of the Unit for future
generations which may search for or happen across our existence. For
this reason it is necessary to respectfully
bring to the attention of all addressees some variations to our insignia
currently 'out there', and the implications of these variations.
The metal hat badge which was produced and worn by AATTV members in Vietnam
towards the end of the war excludes the background shield. It will be seen
from the above book article that this background shield is the sole symbolism
of the alliance between the US MACV and the AATTV, and therefore the Australian
nexus with America in this conflict. Its removal totally expunges this
important historical connection for both Units
and both nations.
Similarly with a flag which has been produced, a colour copy of which was
sent to me by Mick Henry. Regrettably, this flag fails to faithfully reproduce
our Unit insignia in several respects, e.g., no shield background, therefore
no symbol of the historical and unique US MACV / AATTV alliance. Also,
an untensioned drawstring and unloaded crossbow arms ( which addressees
will see has significant symbolism as detailed in the above
book ). And several lesser matters such as
the lack of extension of the crossbow body forward of the crossbow arms
and the lack of extension of the bolt (arrow ) forward of the body extension..This
latter may seem a trifle
insignificant at first reading, however, even
a slight knowledge of the weapon's proper construction would cause the
reproduction to be ridiculed as unworkable as would be any weapon without
its necessary components. The drawing of the crossbow was made faithfully
from an actual crossbow which had been left for safe keeping in the AATTV
HQ in Saigon by a Team member who had ben serving with the Montagnards.
There are other variations some small, e,g., the round artistic 'dots'
appearing each side of the AATTV letters on the boomerang on the above
flag, and some not so small, but all of which I am sure were
unintended variations on the original, approved
design, without the full knowledge of the reproducer of the many symbolic
factors designed into the original badge. One such variation is the full
name of the 'Australian Army
Training Team Vietnam' appearing on the boomerang
on one of the hat badges being sold on the internet instead of just the
letters AATTV.
This is a respectful request for our National body and all State and Territory
Branches to consider the foregoing and hopefully come to the conclusion
that our history, and the accuracy of it, in all its detail, is critical
to the future glory of our Unit.
Who would dream of unofficially modifying the design of the 'Rising
Sun' badge with its splendid history. Or that of our parent Regiment, The
RAR? Is not our unit insignia of equal reverence?
Thanks to all for taking the time to read the above.
Good health and good luck to all. PERSEVERE.
Laurie Nicholson.
laurienic@optusnet.com.au
5th Special Forces Group PUC
for period 1 November 1966 to 31 January 1968
Additions to Approved List
Everyone will be aware that, thanks to the efforts of a number of
AATTV men, approval to wear the PUC was granted to over 50 men who had
served with the 5SFG during the relevant period.
However it has since come to light that there were a number of men
who were eligible but who were not on the approved list. This has been
discussed with people who have a proper understanding of the American system
and an effort will be made to ensure that everyone who was eligible is
properly recognized. It is also probable that there will only be
the one opportunity to add names to the approved list; and it is therefore
important that we have everyone on a submission to be made for the extra
names. This submission will probably be made later this year.
It is requested that anyone who considers himself eligible or who
has a mate who is eligible contact the address below without delay. Any
delay might mean that the opportunity is lost forever.
We have identified the following as potential additions to the list.
We can identify the period in VN but not specifically the period with 5
SFG. Please confirm or otherwise time with 5SFG IF
YOU ARE ONE OF THOSE LISTED OR IF YOU CAN CONFIRM SOMEONE ELSE'S NAME WHETHER
THEY ARE ON THE LIST BELOW OR NOT:
R Bee - VN 13-4-66 to 2-4-67
B D Clark - VN 19-9-66 to 12-9-67
B Featherstone - VN 23-9-66 to 12-9-67
T W Gill - VN 2-2-66 to 17-1-67
N Gruetzner - VN 22-4-66 to 10-10-67
J Irvine - VN 18-9-66 to 31-8-67
G Y Jamieson - VN 7-10-65 to 27-9-66
J W Lake - VN 22-9-66 to 28-8-67
E Nicholas - VN 18-9-66 to 31-8-67
R S Simpson ( Ray was in VN for a long time but confirmation is needed
that he was with 5SFG during the PUC period)
Your speedy cooperation would be appreciated. Please address any
and all information to:
D Savage
PO Box 465
TOOWONG 4066
Members: John Liner, Mike Force Det A-245 Dak Seang is writing a book and needs some Team members input. If you can help contact John on email: jliner@harris.com
Dear
Sir, I am a former member of Detachment A-245, Dak Seang. I was at Dak
Seang for the April 1970 siege. I am currently writing a book on the battle,
and trying to re-create it as best as I can (given my somewhat fuzzy,
thirty year old memory). The Mike Force played a very large role
in support of the camp during the siege. As I recall, there were Aussies
that participated. I believe they were members of the 1st Bn MSF.
In fact, I spoke with one briefly, one day, as the battalion passed
by the camp and headed across the airfield and to the north. He was dropping
off some Yard WIA and we spoke for a few minutes. I heard later that
one of the Australian Warrants was KIA sometime during the battle.
Anyway, I am trying to collect stories, anecdotes and info on the
Mike Force participation in the siege. I am especially interested in the
stories of the AATTV. I
realize some of this may
be a little traumatic to recall (it is for me); however, I would greatly
appreciate hearing from anyone that participated in the battle of Dak Seang.
I know it is thirty years late, but please accept my grateful thanks
for what you guys did for us. I would not be here now, typing this,
were it not for you. Thank you. John W. Liner, CW3, US Army, (retired).
jliner@harris.com or jwliner@aol.com or johnliner@yahoo.com
Photo of LTC Mike Thomas.
Taken a few years ago.
Below is an email from Mike Thomas of the US of A sent to me about Maj Peter Badcoe Mike has consented to it's reproduction and I am sure that many Team members would be glad to see that the Team is still held in high regard by many of our allies.
Sir, I was one of the soldiers
who was saved from a very desperate situation on 7 March 1967, when MAJ
Peter John Badcoe broke through our encirclement at Quang Dien subsector
headquarters. MAJ Badcoe was leading the Vietnamese APC troop who
broke through to our rescue. I was the radioman on the American team
of five advisors who operated with the Vietnamese RF/PF forces out of Quang
Dien. It is interesting to note that MAJ Badcoe had done almost
exactly the same thing by breaking through a very similar encirclement
of the Quang Dien HQ less than a month before on 14 February 1967.
The only difference was that the enemy came back with a much stronger
force at the 7 March battle. I had been wounded, not severely, on
7 March before MAJ Badcoe's arrival and, needless to say, the other members
of our team, our South Vietnamese counterparts, and especially I were very
glad to see his familiar red beret he always wore leading the troops coming
to our rescue. I was not directly involved in the battle in which
he was killed, but was close by. The battle raged for
quite some time and was one of the most intense I saw/heard while in VN.
The American radioman, SGT Alvarado, who was with MAJ Badcoe was
a good friend of mine. He was shot through the leg and won
the Silver Star in the battle when he tried to carry MAJ Badcoe's body
from the battle scene, not realizing for sure that MAJ Badcoe was already
deceased. SGT Alvarado told me the story of the action within a few
days of its occurrence. I was one of the soldiers who was asked to
write up what I knew about MAJ Badcoe's actions when he was being written
up to receive the Victoria Cross. I was only a junior enlisted
man (SP4/E4) at that time so I didn't know a lot about how to write up
something like that, but even though I don't remember exactly what I wrote,
I can assure you it came from my heart! For years I carried the article
in my billfold that appeared in the Stars and Stripes about his receiving
the VC. I often operated with other Aussie advisors and was always
impressed with their professionalism and congeniality. They were
first class! Although I was a draftee at that time, after
going through college I applied for and received a commission in the army
reserves and, in fact, am still serving after more than 30 years.
I'm now a Lieutenant Colonel and also served in the Gulf War where I commanded
a small preventive medicine team. I can assure you that there was
a large difference in serving as an enlisted infantryman on a small team
of Vietnamese irregulars in Vietnam, and serving as an officer medic in
the Gulf War. I'll let you guess which was the most stressful!
I found the link to your net site on the MACV Hooch site. Thanks
to you and all who put in the effort to keep these sites going and
keep these heros' memories alive.
Michael (Mike) K. Thomas
Advisory Team 3, MACV
Dec., 1966 - Dec., 1967
Memories
I received this from ChaplainJames L. Burnham USA
Shortly after arriving in Viet Nam (July '67) I was assigned as battalion Chaplaintothe 2/327 Battalion of the 1st Bde, 101 Abn Div. There were servral colorfu lcharacters in the battalion - the Battalion Commander was a man of Arab descent, Ltc Edmund Abood; we had a Polish Cpt Stephanovich; and a Cuban Cpt. with the call sign Cacique, an Indian word meaning chief. But to me, the most colorful was Karl W. Baudiste, an Aussie Captain assigned to our unit. I loved his bush hat, his accent, and the little 9mm automatic rifle he carried.
On Sept.13, l967, our unit made a combat assualt
onto a hill top inland from Chu Lai (If my memory is correct). We
went in under intense fire, then as we were digging in, a major accident
occurred - a smoke grenade set the grass on fire. Our ammunition
dump exploded, we lost our artillery and mortars, and we had to abandon
the high ground due to the fire and explosions. Karl told me that
he had a bad feeling about the place, for he said that he had been there
before and was run off by superior forces.
Many of us lost our personal belongings.
Karl showed me something he had salvaged, a badly burned New Testament.
That night we were attacked by a large enemy
force. We suffered about a dozen men injured, some seriously, and
one killed. Thanks to Black Panther's (Ltc Abood's) cool directing,
and Puff the Magic Dragon overhead, we survived the night.
The man killed, the man who had a bad feeling
about that hill, was Karl Baudistel, call sign Kangaroo. I was told
that though badly wounded, he refused to leave his strategic spot on a
saddle between the hills that was one of the places where the enemy had
concentrated their attack. He died from loss of blood.
Within two months of my arrival in Nam I had
lost two of the first three men I had considered as special friends.
Signed:
Chaplain James L. Burnham
Thank you Chaplain Burnham for sharing your
memories with Team members.
Members: Addition to the message of 21st November 2000 from John Liner USSF. You can reply to John Liner direct on email:jliner@harris.com
There was a month-long siege at the SF camp at Dak Seang, Central Highlands, Kontum Province. The battle began on 1 April 1970. The 1st and 4th Mike Force Battalions were inserted to relieve pressure on the camp. Warrant Officer Pettit was KIA there, and WO Sanderson was WIA.
I am writing an account of the battle that I hope will be published one day. My objective is to include more than just the experiences and anecdotes of the team members. I want to include the folks that supported us as well, and in that regard I'd like to include as much as I can find. I am going to include names, rather than merely mention "that some other units supported us"(as I've seen in some recently published books). I'd like to include personal accounts, if I can find them and get the appropriate permissions.
My objective is to bring as much credit and recognition as I possibly can to the individuals that enabled us to keep from going under. I especially want to include anything you can tell me about Pettit and Sanderson.
Very few Americans know that Australians participated in the Viet Nam war.
I spoke with either Pettit or Sanderson briefly, during the battle. I only wish I knew which one. The Mike Force was moving past the camp and he was dropping off some of his wounded Montagnards.
I also know very little about the Australian participation in Viet Nam, nor about life on the Mike forces. I was assigned to the border camps near the border in II Corps.
As I may have mentioned to Rick Ryan, I would not be sitting here right now were it not for the efforts and sacrifices of a lot of other people, Army aviators, Mike Force members and Air Force gunship and Caribou crews.
Like I said, I want to include as many asI can find in the story.
Anything you can provide to me will be gratefully appreciated and certainly acknowledged.
Thank you for replying. And, 30 years late, thanks for what you did for us.
John Liner.
