This Part lists websites not included in other Parts of this Bibliography. Researchers need to remain aware that the currency of such sources can change, and even disappear.
GENERAL
1st Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR)
Virtual War Memorial Australia
A useful additional source of information on 1 RAR. Accessible at https://vwma.org.au/explore/units/405
1 RAR
Official Army website at
2nd Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment (2RAR)
Virtual War Memorial Australia
A useful additional source of information on 2 RAR. Accessible at https://vwma.org.au/explore/units/406
2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Military Wikia
Online general history of 2 RAR. Accessible at https://military.wikia.org/wiki/2nd_Battalion,_Royal_Australian_Regiment
2/4 RAR Gallery
2/4 RAR Association
A site for imagery. Accessible at https://24rarassociation.com/?page_id=146
2/4 RAR Yearbooks
2/4 RAR Association
Yearbooks are available on line and accessible at https://24rarassociation.com/?page_id=796
3rd Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment (3RAR)
Virtual War Memorial Australia
A useful additional source of information on 3 RAR. Accessible at https://vwma.org.au/explore/units/365
4th Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment (4RAR)
Virtual War Memorial Australia
A useful additional source of information on 4 RAR. Accessible at https://vwma.org.au/explore/units/407
5th Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment (5RAR)
Virtual War Memorial Australia
A useful additional source of information on 6 RAR. Accessible at https://vwma.org.au/explore/units/496
5th/7th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Military Wikia
Online general history of 5/7 RAR. Accessible at https://military.wikia.org/wiki/5th/7th_Battalion,_Royal_Australian_Regiment
7th Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment (7RAR)
Virtual War Memorial Australia
A useful additional source of information on 7 RAR. Accessible at https://vwma.org.au/explore/units/491
8th Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment (8RAR)
Virtual War Memorial Australia
A useful additional source of information on 8 RAR. Accessible at https://vwma.org.au/explore/units/506
8/9 RAR
Official Army website at https://www.army.gov.au/our-people/units/forces-command/7th-brigade/8th9th-battalion-royal-australian-regiment
8/9 RAR Association
Home page at http://www.89rar.asn.au/
Association Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/89RARAssn/
8th/9th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Wikipedia
General history of 8/9 RAR. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/8th/9th_Battalion,_Royal_Australian_Regiment
9 RAR Association
Home page at http://www.9rar.org.au/
Association Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/9-RAR-1471928459716062/
9th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Wikipedia
General history of 9 RAR. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/9th_Battalion,_Royal_Australian_Regiment
9th Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment (9RAR)
Virtual War Memorial Australia
A useful additional source of information on 9 RAR. Accessible at https://vwma.org.au/explore/units/411
1 RAR Association
Home page at http://www.1rar.org.au/
Association Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/1rarassociation/
1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Online at https://www.facebook.com/1stBattalion/
1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Wikipedia
General history of 1 RAR. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1st_Battalion,_Royal_Australian_Regiment
2 RAR
Official Army website at https://www.army.gov.au/our-people/units/forces-command/3rd-brigade/2nd-battalion-royal-australian-regiment
2 RAR
Department of Defence
Defence News coverage of 2 RAR accessible at https://news.defence.gov.au/tags/2rar
2 RAR (Amphib)
Account for the 2 RAR (Amphib). Online access at https://twitter.com/2rarausarmy?lang=en
2 RAR Association
Home page at http://2rar-association.net.au/
Association Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/2RAR-Association-Inc-1183231068415223/
2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
Limited general history covering 1962-1975, with links to awards, casualties, images. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/U53497
2 Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment (2 RAR/NZ) ANZAC
Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia
Cover the two tours of duty in Vietnam. Accessible at http://vvaavic.org.au/2-battalion-the-royal-australian-regiment-2rar/
2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Wikipedia
General history of 2 RAR. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2nd_Battalion,_Royal_Australian_Regiment
2 RAR Historical Collection (The)
This unit site is an ongoing work in the hands of Museum Curator Jason Harrison (WO2 Retd) and is available at https://www.thecollectingbug.com/2rarmuseum/explore?5
2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
General coverage for 2 RAR is at https://www.facebook.com/2RARAusArmy/
2nd/4th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Wikipedia
General history of 2/4 RAR. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2nd/4th_Battalion,_Royal_Australian_Regiment
3 RAR
Official Army website at https://www.army.gov.au/our-people/units/forces-command/3rd-brigade/3rd-battalion-royal-australian-regiment
3 RAR Association
Home page at http://www.3rar.com.au/
Association Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/3RARAssoc/
3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Wikipedia
General history of 3 RAR. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/3rd_Battalion,_Royal_Australian_Regiment
3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
General coverage for 3 RAR is at https://www.facebook.com/3RAR.AustralianArmy/
4 RAR Association
Home page at http://www.4rarassociationsaustralia.com/
4th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Wikipedia
General history of 4 RAR. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/4th_Battalion,_Royal_Australian_Regiment
4th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
General coverage for 4 RAR is at https://www.facebook.com/pages/4th-Battalion-Royal-Australian-Regiment/103986229637951 . Note that this unit was renamed 2 Commando Regiment in 2009.
5 Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment (5RAR)
Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia
A general history of 5 RAR from its formation to linking to become 5/7 RAR in Dec 73. Accessible at http://vvaavic.org.au/5-battalion-the-royal-australian-regiment-5rar/
5 RAR
Official Army website at https://www.army.gov.au/our-people/units/forces-command/1st-brigade/5th-battalion-royal-australian-regiment
5 RAR Association
Home page at http://www.5rar.asn.au/
Association Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/5RAR-Association-105565202864522/
Soldiers Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/1647988765430784/
5th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (5RAR)
Virtual War Museum Australia
A general online history of 5 RAR. Accessible at https://vwma.org.au/explore/units/496
5th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Online at https://www.facebook.com/5thBattalionRAR/
5th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Wikipedia
General history of 5 RAR. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/5th_Battalion,_Royal_Australian_Regiment
5/7 RAR Association
Home page at https://57rar.com/
Association Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/9838309174/
5th/7th Battalion (Mechanised), The Royal Australian Regiment
5/7 RAR Association
Online history covering the period that 5 RAR and 7 RAR were linked (1973-2006). Accessible at https://57rar.com/history/
5th/7th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Wikipedia
Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/5th/7th_Battalion,_Royal_Australian_Regiment
6 RAR
Official Army website at https://www.army.gov.au/our-people/units/forces-command/7th-brigade/6th-battalion-royal-australian-regiment
6 RAR Association
Home page at http://www.6rarassociation.com/
Association Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/1664818027163193/
6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
General coverage for 6 RAR is at https://www.facebook.com/6thBattalion/
6 RAR history
6 RAR Association editor
The 6 RAR Association provides on on-line history of the battalion at http://6rarassociation.com/bnhistory.htm
6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Wikipedia
General history of 6 RAR. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/6th_Battalion,_Royal_Australian_Regiment
7 RAR
Official Army website at https://www.army.gov.au/our-people/units/forces-command/1st-brigade/7th-battalion-royal-australian-regiment
Official Army Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/111391535550421/
7 RAR Association
Home page at http://7rar.asn.au/wp/
Association Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/111391535550421/
7th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Online at https://www.facebook.com/7thBattalionRAR/
7th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Wikipedia
General history of 7 RAR. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/7th_Battalion,_Royal_Australian_Regiment
8 RAR Association
Home page at http://www.8rarassociation.org/8rarassoc/
8th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Wikipedia
General history of 8 RAR. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/8th_Battalion,_Royal_Australian_Regiment
30 years since Sydney’s Hilton Hotel bombing—“a tragic entrée to an age of terror”?
Anonymous
9-page paper
Addresses the 13 February 1978 Hilton bombing in Sydney, a consequence of which was the deployment of ADF units including 5/7 RAR to engage in Defence Force Aid to the Civil Power in patrolling the railway from Sydney to Bowral and other tasks. Accessible at https://knowledge.aidr.org.au/media/4064/mhead_hilton_bombing_30yearson.pdf
A Brief history – 2RAR
2nd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment Incorporated
A succinct history of 2 RAR’s operational deployments. Accessible at https://2rar-association.net.au/history-2/
Army Newspaper
Published by the Department of Defence, Army is a fortnightly publication that almost invariably includes RAR units and/or individuals. Now also available through downloadable Applications for use on mobile phones and tablets and equivalent devices. See https://www.army.gov.au/our-work/publications/army-news-the-soldiers-newspaper . Back copies can be procured.
Australia and the United Nations (General)
Wikipedia
A useful start point to see, according to the collective wisdom of this source, the very big range of UN missions in which Australians have taken part. These include war fighting deployments, such as Korea, and peacekeeping and peacemaking where definitions of the nature of involvement vary. Many have involved either RAR units, sub-units of individuals. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australia_and_the_United_Nations
Australian Army – The Cove
The Cove is a professional development resource for the Australian Profession of Arms, introduced in 2017. It is designed to help military professionals sharpen their skills, connect with peers and allies, and develop new concepts and ideas for consideration. It is also available to the entire community (see conditions on line) including retired/ex-soldiers. Contains a wealth of ever-expanding reading and other data sources including doctrine, and invites contributions. See https://www.cove.org.au/
Australian Government – Defence Honours and Awards Appeals
Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal, Canberra, ongoing
This website contains Reports of appeals and applications for honours and awards by both individuals and groups. Many are/were RAR personnel. Go to https://defence-honours-tribunal.gov.au/review/ and examine each year listed. Unfortunately, these records only go back to 2014. Earlier papers are available by application to the DHAAT on this same website under ‘Contact us’.
Australian military involvement in peacekeeping
Wikipedia
A general site summarising Australian peacekeeping deployment, many involving RAR units and individuals. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_military_involvement_in_peacekeeping
Australians at war film archive
UNSW, Canberra
This is a University of New South Wales (Australian Defence Force Academy) site which allows access to 288 (as at 28 Nov 20) war veterans who are filmed in interview talking about their experiences on operational service. At time of access, this included 110 RAR individuals we speak about a range of post- WW II deployments. Accessible at http://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/aawfa/search-result?items_per_page&f%5B0%5D=-1&keywords=RAR&op=Search&form_build_id=form-EA6duim3wA8MiAhjRauiUAclN_q-iShY4X-dgTCL2GI&form_id=aaw_search_search_form , the researcher can them use a range of search options including by name, by war/unit/deployment to tap into rich oral and visual history. Over time, this source of oral history will grow.
Australian War Memorial – Military Honours and Awards to Australians
See all such awards made to Australians for military service at https://www.awm.gov.au/research/guide/honours
Includes RAR members.
AHEARN, Ian – The real story: First battle of Coral
Published in 2020 on University of New South Wales’ Australia’s Vietnam War site.
Operation Toan Thang (Complete Victory) was launched on 8 April 1968, including 2 RAR and 3 RAR. It was during this operation that the battle of FSB Coral was fought. The author, who took part, provides an insider veteran’s perspective of the battle. Accessible at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/the-real-story-first-battle-of-coral/
Army National
Offical Army website at https://www.army.gov.au/our-people/corps/royal-australian-infantry-corps
Official School of Infantry Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/schoolofinfantry/
Australian Army – Centre for Army Lessons (CAL)
The Army Lessons Board provides for a way to improve training by enabling serving ADF personnel to access and offer advice and contributions towards continually improving performance through the Centre for Army Lessons (CAL). See [email protected] . Directly applicable to and focussed on RAR members, from whom much of the material actually comes, especially on recent operational experience and lessons learned. This is currently limited to people with access to the Defence Restricted Network, however, researchers are advised to monitor the Army website for future possible expansion to enable Unclassified access to some content.
Australia’s peacekeeping missions since 1947
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
A general site outlining DVA’s version of peacekeeping deployments. Accessible at https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/wars-and-missions/peacekeeping
AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL – South East Asian Conflicts Diaries – AWM95, Class 7
Commanders’ diaries were prepared by officers commanding headquarters, units, and detachments serving in Malaya and Singapore, Sarawak-Brunei-Sabah, and South Vietnam, as a record of operational activity during service abroad. The aim of the diary was to provide data on which to base future improvements in army training, equipment, organisation, and administration, and to provide future historians with a record of activities of units and formations in operational periods.
- AWM95, Sub-class 7/1 – 1 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
- AWM95, Sub-class 7/2 – 2 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
Includes 2 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment/New Zealand
- AWM95, Sub-class 7/3 – 3 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
- AWM95, Sub-class 7/4 – 4 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
Includes 4 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment/New Zealand
- AWM95, Sub-class 7/5 – 5 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
- AWM95, Sub-class 7/6 – 6 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
Includes 6 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment/New Zealand
- AWM95, Sub-class 7/7 – 7 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
- AWM95, Sub-class 7/8 – 8 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
- AWM95, Sub-class 7/9 – 9 Battalion Royal Australian Regimen
< http://www.awm.gov.au/diaries/seasia/index.asp >
Boer War to Vietnam
National Archives of Australia
This the portal to vast array of information about Korea, the Malayan Emergency, Indonesian Confrontation and Vietnam. Start here for links to many sources of info on RAR matters including individuals. Accessible at https://www.naa.gov.au/explore-collection/defence-and-war-service-records/boer-war-vietnam#korean-war
Battalion history (6 RAR)
6 RAR Association, online
A summary history of 6 RAR embedded in at battalion’s website. Accessible at http://6rarassociation.com/bnhistory.htm
Brigadier John Essex-Clark
Veteranweb
A short biographical on a well-known member of the RAR, recruited direct at field grade rank from the Rhodesian Army into the Australian Army. Accessible at https://veteranweb.asn.au/uncategorized/bio-brigadier-john-essex-clark/
Commonwealth War Graves Commission – CWGC – for evermore – stories of the fallen
Commonwealth War Graves Commission
Online database of all British Commonwealth war dead. Includes all RAR members to die in war/ missing presumed dead. Accessible at https://www.cwgc.org/
Contact Virtual War Memorial
An initiative of the RSL – South Australia, this website is a virtual war memorial. Examination of the home page at https://rslvirtualwarmemorial.org.au/ enables the researcher to locate and explore any war involving Australians, including every conflict including the RAR. Interactive, allowing Australians to get involved and capture important stories and images that might not otherwise get recorded in material museums where storage space can be limited and staff finite in their capacity.
COSGROVE, Peter – General Cosgrove: A very ordinary conversation
Harper Collins Publishers, Pymble NSW, 2010
ABN:36009013517
Boyer lectures; 109 pages.
A collection of six lectures that provide an insight into the mind of the (then) future Governor-General of Australia, himself a former member of the RAR. Located at https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/boyerlectures/series/boyer-lectures-2009-a-very-australian-conversation/3090460
Defence Honours and Awards: List of awards (A – Z)
Lists all medals awards made by the Australian Government to naval and military personnel (and in some cases) to their relatives. RAR personnel with awards of medals will find this a good start point to further detail on such awards. See https://www.defence.gov.au/medals/List.asp
DUCKER, Claude – Operation Tong: 7-8 June 1969
Published in 2019 on University of New South Wales’ Australia’s Vietnam War site.
Covers the Battle of Binh Ba which involved most of 5 RAR. 6 RAR and 9 RAR are also mentioned. Author took part in the battle. Accessible at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/operation-tong-7-8-june-1969/
HALL, Robert – An Australian at Hamburger Hill
Published in 2019 on University of New South Wales’ Australia’s Vietnam War site.
WO2 Max Kelly, an RAR veteran of Korea and Malaya, served as member of the AATTV and in that role took part in this operation with an ARVN unit. This ARVN/US battle with the North Vietnamese in the Shau valley floor which was dominated by Hill 937. The hill was later christened ‘Hamburger Hill’ for the high casualties sustained there. This story is accessible at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/an-australian-at-hamburger-hill/
HALL, Robert – Gallop Polls #1 – National Service
Published in 2020 on University of New South Wales’ Australia’s Vietnam War site.
Refers to 1 RAR and mentions the Battle of Long Tan in an analysis of polling about National Service during Vietnam War. Accessible at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/category/articles/army/
HALL, Robert – Gallup Polls #2 – Australian support for Vietnam deployment
Published in 2020 on University of New South Wales’ Australia’s Vietnam War site.
An analysis of polling about conscription and related matters pertaining to deployment of Australian troops overseas during the Vietnam War. Mentions 1 RAR. Accessible at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/gallup-polls-2-support-for-vietnam-deployment/
HALL, Robert – Strategic context: the Battle of Binh Ba
Published in 2019 on University of New South Wales’ Australia’s Vietnam War site.
A strategic comment on why this battle occurred between elements of the 33 RAVN Regiment and the Australian force which included 5 RAR, with C Coy led by MAJ Murray Blaik who was awarded the Military Cross for his role in it. Accessible at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/strategic-context-the-battle-of-binh-ba/
HARTIGAN, Brian (Ed) – CONTACT Air Land & Sea magazine
Contact Publishing Pty Ltd, Minnamurra, NSW, 2004 and ongoing
ISSN: 1449-2385
Excellent illustrations, index in both print and e-publication formats, average 84 pages.
CONTACT magazine, launched in March 2004, is a features-based military magazine with an in-depth reporting remit, focused on military operations, exercises, equipment, military activities and ‘all things of interest to soldiers, sailors and aviators’. CONTACT magazine is dedicated to presenting photos and stories that capture the essence of serving-members’ lives and interests, as far as possible from insider perspectives.
CONTACT newsletters are sent to subscribers every Sunday, alternating between news one fortnight and ‘people’ the next.
CONTACT web site is an active news, features and interests-based web site, updated daily.
Managing Editor Brian Hartigan served for 12 years as a full-time soldier in the Australian Army (enlisting in November 1990), followed by 15 years in the Active Reserve reaching the rank of sergeant. He proudly deployed on Operation Warden in 1999 as an ARMY Newspaper reporter – and, in 2003, as a force-assigned civilian on the first Australian Federal Police rotation to the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI) as a photographer.
Visit www.militarycontact.com for details, or subscribe via www.aussiecombat.com . Access and subscription is free.
HARTIGAN, Brian (Ed – COMBAT Camera magazine
Contact Publishing Pty Ltd, Minnamurra, NSW, 2004 and ongoing
Excellent illustrations, index e-publication format
This product parallels CONTACT Air Land & Sea magazine and is similarly free to subscribe to.
Visit www.militarycontact.com for details, or subscribe via www.aussiecombat.com
HARTIGAN, Brian (Editor Contact) – Life on the line; our veterans, their stories
CONTACT website
Podcasts of a range of veterans’ stories, ranging from WW II to current times. Constantly being added to. Accessible at
https://www.contactairlandandsea.com/our-veterans-their-stories/ and select from the names and image which ones are of interest to the researcher.
Henderson, William George (Bill) (1919-1995)
Australian Dictionary of Biography
Henderson had a long career including with 3 RAR as a company commander and then with 2 RAR as CO, serving with the RAR in Korea and Malaya and then in Vietnam at COMD 1st ATF. Accessible at https://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/henderson-william-george-bill-27640
History of 4 RAR (including 4 RAR (ANZAC)
Digger history
An unofficial history of 4 RAR from its inception to conversion to 4 RAR (Commando). Accessible at http://www.diggerhistory.info/pages-army-today/rar-sasr/4_rar.htm
History of the National Memorial Walk
Royal Australian Regiment Association
The official history of the RAR. Accessible at https://www.rarnationalmemorialwalk.org.au/about-us/history-of-the-nmw/
History of the Royal Australian Regiment
Royal Australian Regiment Association
The official history of the RAR. Accessible at https://www.rarnationalmemorialwalk.org.au/about-us/history-of-the-royal-australian-regiment/
Journal of the Australian War Memorial
Australian War Memorial, Canberra
ISSN: 1327-0141
Online summary of this publication series. Issues 1 to 27 were published in hard copy, with 28 to 40 online. The latter publications are at the website listed at https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/journal. Many contain articles on the RAR. Publication have been temporarily discontinued for the reasons stated on the website. Their re-introduction date is not yet known (as at 4 Jun 21).
MACKAY, Gary – Nui Le: the last battle, 21 Sep 71
Published in 2019 on University of New South Wales’ Australia’s Vietnam War site.
Author’s recounting of the battle in which he, a platoon commander in D Coy 4 RAR/NZ (ANZAC), was seriously wounded during a company level attack on an enemy bunkered defensive position. Several of his men were killed or wounded. Mackay was awarded the Military Cross. Accessible at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/nui-le-the-last-battle-21-sep-1971/
Murray Blake’s story
Department of Veterans Affairs, Canberra
Anzac Portal
A summary of the military career of Murray (Bludger) Blake AM, MC who served in Malaya and Vietnam. Accessible at https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/stories/oral-histories/murray-blakes-story
National RAR Association
Official website is located at https://rarnational.org.au/
Official Facebook is located at https://www.facebook.com/RARCorporation/
Official YouTube is located at https://www.youtube.com/user/RARAssn
Offical Twitter is located at https://twitter.com/RARAssn
Duty First Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/426271894141125/
Queensland Association
Home page at https://rarqld.org.au/
Association Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/544664569044558/
Dads Army Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Dads-Army-RAR-National-Memorial-Walk-560782590713867/
New South Wales Association
Home page at https://rarnational.org.au/
Association Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/1308555809161945
Australian Capital Territory Association
Home page at http://act.rarnational.org.au/
Victorian Association
Home page at https://vic.rarnational.org.au/
Association Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/623213684701702/
Tasmanian Association
Home page at https://vic.rarnational.org.au/
South Australian Association
Home page at http://rarasa.org.au/
Northern Territory Association
Home page at https://rarqld.org.au/
West Australian Association
Home page at https://wa.rarnational.org.au/
No 75 Squadron RAAF
Wikipedia
75 Sqn was protected in Butterworth air base by a series of RAR companies known as Rifle Company Butterworth while it was based there, and later in 2003 onwards, flew in support of allied troops including 4 RAR in Iraq. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/No._75_Squadron_RAAF
Operation Coburg
Wikipedia
Coverage of a major 1st Australian Task Force operation in Vietnam involving 3 RAR and 7 RAR during the Tet Offensive. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Coburg
Operations
APPVA
Australian Peacekeepers and Peacemakers Veterans Association
Provides an executive summary of every United Nations mission since 1948 to involve Australians. The great majority have included either RAR units, or individuals serving as observers. See https://peacekeepers.asn.au/operations/
PIGGOTT, Michael – A general guide to the library collections and archives in the Australian War Memorial
Australian War Memorial, Canberra, 1983
ISBN: 0642994390
46 pages.
Provides guidance to further collections including activities and deployments of RARs.
Royal Australian Regiment
Anonymous
Wikipedia entry
For a general overview of the RAR, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Australian_Regiment
Royal Australian Regiment
Wikipedia
Academic Dictionaries and Encyclopedias listing of the RAR which contains an overview of the RAR, including links to all battalions.
Accessible at https://en-academic.com/dic.nsf/enwiki/490128
The Official History of Australia’s involvement in Southeast Asian conflicts 1948 – 1945
Wikipedia
ISBN: per volume
This series covers Australia’s involvement in the Malayan Emergency, Indonesia–Malaysia confrontation and Vietnam War. The series is an official history, funded by the Australian Government and published by Allen & Unwin in association with the Australian War Memorial. Peter Edwards was appointed the official historian for the series in 1982. The series comprises nine volumes, which were published between 1992 and 2012. A single-volume summary of the series, Australia and the Vietnam War, was published in 2014. A list of all nine in the series, with RARs mentioned in all of them, are accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Official_History_of_Australia%27s_Involvement_in_Southeast_Asian_Conflicts_1948%E2%80%931975?utm_source=MHHV+Event+contacts&utm_campaign=352f5e6f19-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2024_01_24_03_43&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-352f5e6f19-%5BLIST_EMAIL_ID%5D
This Story – the personal stories of our veterans
This Story Australia, online, current
An online communications tool designed to educate, engage and connect communities through the production of powerful personal digital stories of Australia’s military veterans. Features RAR veterans and uses interviews recorded between professional researchers and the veterans. Accessible at https://thisstory.com.au/
Up close: Conversations with modern veterans
Australian War Memorial
Podcasts of varying lengths.
A site at which an ever-expanding number of veterans are able to be heard recounting their stories of life in the ADF. Many are RAR members. Accessible at https://link.chtbl.com/UpClosePodcast
JAPAN AND KOREA 1946-53
1 RAR – The First Battalion Association – Japan
1 RAR summary of the battalion’s service (as 65th Bn AIF) in Japan. See https://www.1rar.org.au/japan/
1 RAR – The First Battalion Association – Korea 1952-1953
1 RAR summary of the battalion’s first tour of duty in Korea during those years, including descriptions of major operations. See https://www.1rar.org.au/korea-1952-1953/
1 RAR – The First Battalion Association – Korea 1954-1956
1 RAR summary of the battalion’s second tour of duty in Korea during those years, including descriptions of major operations. See https://www.1rar.org.au/korea-1954-1956/
3rd Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
General AWM history of 3 RAR in Korea only. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/U52113
4 RAR Associations of Australia
4 RAR Association
A grouped webpage providing multiple further links to a wealth of information. Located at http://www.4rarassociationsaustralia.com/index-2017.html
Alliance of Defence Service Organisation: Korean War: Julie Bishop n renewed push to find 43 Australian Servicemen still missing in action
Provides basic information on 23 RAR members still MIA from Korea
http://adso.org.au/latestnews/69-what-they-say/government/656-korean-war-julie-bishop-in-renewed-push-to-find-43-australian-servicemen-still-missing-in-action
Australian Army – 1946-1953 – Post-war and Korea
Australian Army History Unit site’s official (and very basic) overview of this period during which 1, 2 and 3 RAR were formed and served in Japan and Korea. See https://www.army.gov.au/our-heritage/history/primary-materials/1946-1953-post-war-and-korea
Australian Army in the Korean War
Department of Veterans Affairs
Website resource – Anzac Portal
Online summary of the Korean War form an Army perspective. Includes the 27th British Commonwealth Brigade that later became 28th Commonwealth Brigade, comprising 1, 2 and 3 RAR, 3 RAR being there for the full time and 1 and 2 RAR conducting whole of unit tours of duty. Accessible at https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/wars-and-missions/korean-war-1950-1953/korean-war/armed-forces-korean-war/australian-army-korean-war
AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL – Korean War Diaries – AWM85
While on active service, Army headquarters, formations and units are required to keep a unit war diary recording their daily activities. Archival series AWM85 comprises the diaries of 28 British Commonwealth Infantry Brigade, the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Battalions, The Royal Australian Regiment (RAR), and some miscellaneous support units, created during their involvement in the Korean War
- AWM85, Class 1 – Headquarters, 28 British Commonwealth Infantry Brigade
- AWM85, Class 2 – 1 Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment
- AWM85, Class 3 – 2 Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment
- AWM85, Class 4 – 3 Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial – Out in the cold: Australia’s involvement in the Korean War
Australian War Memorial, Canberra, 2017
Focuses on the Battle of Kapyong, 23-24 April 1951 which involved 3 RAR. See https://www.awm.gov.au/visit/exhibitions/korea/operations/kapyong
Chronological Guide to the official records – British Commonwealth Occupation Forces (1946-1952)
Australian War Memorial
Gives access to Australian army war diaries and related material from Japan and Korea including all three RAR battalions – 1, 2 and 3 RAR. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/accessing-records-at-the-memorial/findingaids/chronological-guide/bcof
Chronological Guide to the official records – Korean War (1950-1953)
Australian War Memorial
Gives access to Australian army war diaries and related material from the Korean War including all three RAR battalions – 1, 2 and 3 RAR. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/accessing-records-at-the-memorial/findingaids/chronological-guide/korea
Formation of the Royal Australian Regiment
VeteransSA
A summary of the formation of 1, 2 and 3 RAR from 65, 66 and 67th Battalions 2nd AIF. Accessible at https://veteranssa.sa.gov.au/story/formation-of-the-royal-australian-regiment/
Guide to the British Commonwealth Occupation Force Formed Collection
Australian War Memorial
Itemises a collection of ephemera for the period 1946-51. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/accessing-records-at-the-memorial/findingaids/special/ephemera/bcof
Guide to the Korean War Collection
Australian War Memorial
Itemises a collection of ephemera for the period 1950-53. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/accessing-records-at-the-memorial/findingaids/special/ephemera/korea
KELLY, Michael – Secret agents across the Samichon
Australian War Memorial, Canberra, 2013
Detailed story of SGT Jack Harris of 3 RAR in both Japan and in Korea. Harris engaged in remarkable behind the enemy lines fighting. 2 RAR is also mentioned in this online story.
KELLY, Michael – Secret agents across the Samichon
In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 101, Summer 2023, pp 10-14.
Story of the clandestine fight behind enemy lines by Sergeant Jack Harris, 3 RAR, in the closing months of the Korean War.
Korean crisis
Sunshine Coast Council – Heritage project
A short Heritage Project paper on the Korean War in which the roles of 1, 2 and 3 RAR are addressed. Accessible at https://heritage.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/Stories/War/Veterans-Voices/Korean-Crisis
Korean Veterans’ Day 27 Jul
Department of Veterans Affairs
Website resource – Anzac Portal
Online summary of the Korean War, and remembrance matters connected with it. Has links to other sites including Army’s contribution which included 1, 2 and 3 RAR. Accessible at https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/commemoration/days/korean-veterans-day
Korean War, 1950-53
Australian War Memorial
A general history of the Korean War which features 1, 2 and 3 RAR. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/atwar/korea
Has links to related sites.
Korean War 1950 to 1953
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
DVA overview of Army operations in the Korean war which involved 1, 2 and 3 RAR. Researchers need to burrow down in this site to locate actual mention of RAR units. Accessible at https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/wars-and-missions/korean-war-1950-1953
Korean War Memorials
An online interactive resource that allows the researcher to click on a marker to find the details of the veterans honoured at each location. Includes sites in Korea and Australia at which the 1,2 and 3 RAR veterans are remembered. Accessible at https://koreanwarmemorials.com/
Maryang San
Virtual War Memorial Australia
The Battle of Maryang San was fought from 2-8 Oct 1951 in Korea as part of Operation Commando by 3 RAR. It involved a classically executed battalion attack with support. Accessible at https://vwma.org.au/explore/campaigns/58
Online Korean War 70th Anniversary Exhibition
Online dedication to the Australian commitment to the Korean War involving 1, 2 and 3 RAR. Includes quality material on individuals as well as a good overview. Accessible at https://www.australians-in-the-korean-war.com/
Operation Commando
Wikipedia
Operation Commando was an offensive undertaken by UN forces during the Korean War between 3–12 October 1951. The US I Corps (including four U.S. Divisions, the 1st Commonwealth Division and the Republic of Korea Army (ROK) 1st Infantry Division) seized the Jamestown Line, destroying elements of the Chinese People’s Volunteer Army (PVA) 42nd, 47th, 64th and 65th Armies. This prevented the PVA from interdicting the UN supply lines near Seoul. 3 RAR played a key role in what is better known as the Battle for Maryang San. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Commando
Researching Australian military service: Korean War, 1950-53
Australian War Memorial
Provides guidance on further research of AWM records online for Australia’s deployment to Korea. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/research/guide/korea-0 . Contains further links including to AWM95 which is the unit commanders’ diaries.
The Battle of Maryang San
Australian War Memorial
Major battle fought by 3 RAR in Korea, starting on 3 October 1951. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/encyclopedia/korea/maryang_san
The Battle of the Samichon River – the Hook
Australian War Memorial, Canberra, 2013
A blog article by Michael Kelly on the AWM website. Outlines the critical role played by 2 RAR and supporting arms in this battle which took place 24-26 Jul 73 in Korea. It was the last major battle before the ceasefire.
The Korean War
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
See https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/history/conflicts/korean-war
von Wald, Claire – Offensive operations on the Korean peninsula
The Cove, 2018
One of the Professional Military Education (PME) Series, this paper summarises 3 RAR’s involvement in the Battle of Maryang San 2-8 Oct 51 during the Korean War 1950-53. Accessible at https://cove.army.gov.au/article/offensive-operations-korean-peninsula
Wall of Remembrance
An interactive site that allows access to every known casualty from the Korean War including 1, 2 and 3 RAR veterans.
Accessible at https://koreanwarmemorials.com/wall-of-remembrance/
SOUTH EAST ASIA 1950-current
(includes Malaya, Borneo, Singapore & Malaysia)
1 RAR – The First Battalion Association – Malaya
1 RAR summary of the battalion’s tour of duty in Malaya 1959-61. See https://www.1rar.org.au/malaya-1959-1961/
27th Infantry Brigade (United Kingdom)
Wikipedia
General history of this British formation which included 3 RAR in Korea. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/27th_Infantry_Brigade_(United_Kingdom)
28th Commonwealth Infantry Brigade Group
Wikipedia
This organisation grew from the Far East Strategic Reserve and commenced service in Malaya in Sep 55. Over time, many RAR rotated through it, providing contributions to the Malayan Emergency, Konfrontasi, to the RCB deployments and some rotations to Vietnam. On 31 Oct 71 the Brigade ceased to exist when it relocated to Singapore and was renamed 28 ANZUK Infantry Brigade on 1 November 1971. See general history at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/28th_Commonwealth_Infantry_Brigade_Group
Anonymous – Battles of the Indonesia-Malaysia Confrontation Involving Australia – Battle of Sungei Koemba, Battle of Kindau, Battle of Babang
Book + (online), 2010
ISBN-13: 978158602997
18 pages.
Covers three of the battles fought by 3RAR in Borneo during 1965. An online resource that is subject to update. Accessible at https://www.loot.co.za/product/books-llc-battles-of-the-indonesia-malaysia-confrontati/jzjy-1387-g770
ANZUK
Wikipedia
This force included 28th ANZUK Brigade which included one RAR battalion, initially 6 RAR and then 1 RAR. ANZUK force was formed in Singapore on 1 Nov 71 and disbanded in 1974. All three battalions (AS, UK and MZ) provided company-sized deployments to RCB Butterworth additional to its primary mission. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ANZUK
Army Operations (in Malaya 1948-60)
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
DVA overview of Army operations in the Malayan Emergency 1948-60 which involved 1, 2 and 3 RAR. Accessible at https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/wars-and-missions/malayan-emergency-1948-1960/australians-operations/army-operations
Australian operations in Borneo
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
DVA overview of 3 and 4 RAR’s deployments in Borneo 1964-66. Accessible at https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/wars-and-missions/indonesian-confrontation-1963-1966/australian-operations-borneo
Australian Army – 1954 to 1961 – South East Asian conflicts
Australian Army History Unit site official (and extremely limited) overview of this period during which 1 ,2, 3 and 4 RAR served in Malaya, Borneo and Malaysia. See https://www.army.gov.au/our-heritage/history/primary-materials/1954-1961-south-east-asian-conflicts
Australian Government – Inquiry into recognition for service for Australian military personnel who served with 4th battalion, Royal Australian Regiment in Malaysia in 1966 to 1967
Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal, Canberra, 2009
The Inquiry addresses a claim by 4 RAR personnel for higher medallic recognition for service in Malaysia form May 1967 to September 1967. See https://defence-honours-tribunal.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/4-RAR-Malaysia-1966-67-Inquiry-Report.pdf
Australian involvement in South East Asian Conflicts
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
General coverage of the deployments, including the RAR. See https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/history/conflicts/australian-involvement-south-east-asian-conflicts
Australia’s secret war in Borneo
The Australian (newspaper)
An article written by Kylie Stevenson, addressing the deceptions undertaken by the Australian government to hide the real purpose and conduct of operations by 3 and 4 RAR in Borneo. Accessible at https://www.theaustralian.com.au/weekend-australian-magazine/australias-secret-war-in-borneo/news-story/f52ec8b24c03932d6aae64246391a5d3
AVERY, Brian – Indonesian confrontation of Malaysia -an address by LTCOL (Retd) Brian Avery
Silo.tips website
A 2016 address based on the story of 4 RAR’s involvement in Borneo. Accessible at https://silo.tips/download/indonesian-confrontation-of-malaysia-an-address-by-ltcol-retd-brian-avery
Battle of Kindau
Wikipedia
Online summary of this battle which occurred on 15 Jun 65 near Stass, Borneo. Part of battalion Operation Blockbuster, 2 platoon A Company 3 RAR fought the Indonesians during the larger Operation Claret, the Confrontation by Indonesia with Malaysia fought in Borneo and peninsula Malaysia. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Kindau
Battle of Sungei Koemba
Wikiwand
3 RAR fought this battle from 27 May to 12 Jun 1965 in Borneo. Accessible at https://www.wikiwand.com/en/Battle_of_Sungei_Koemba
BENTON, Gregor – Malaysia’s ‘Second Emergency’ 1968-1989
Verso Blog, 2018 entry
This paper addresses the Second Malaysian Emergency in which every RAR provided company sized troops known as Rifle Company Butterworth. Access at https://www.versobooks.com/blogs/3855-malaysia-s-second-emergency-1968-89
British Commonwealth Occupation Force 1945-52
Australian War Memorial
AWM general overview. The main Australian Army component was 34 Infantry Brigade comprising 65th, 66th and 67th Battalions which became 1, 2 and 3 RAR respectively while so deployed, with all three moving from Japan to serve in Korea, 3 RAR being so deployed for the whole time. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/atwar/bcof
Chronological Guide to the official records – Malaya and Indonesian Confrontation (1948-1966)
Australian War Memorial
Gives access to Australian army war diaries and related material from the two related deployments in Malaya during the Malaya Emergency and up to 1966, and Konfrontasi in both Malaya and North Borneo, 1, 2, 3 and 4 RAR war records are here. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/accessing-records-at-the-memorial/findingaids/chronological-guide/malaya
Claret operations in Borneo
Department of Veterans Affairs, Canberra
Anzac Portal general overview of the claret operations which involved 3 and 4 RAR in Borneo during Konfrontasi with Indonesia. Accessible at https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/wars-and-missions/indonesian-confrontation-1963-1966/australian-operations-borneo/claret-operations
Commanders’ Diaries – 1 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
AWM 95 Subclass 7 (infantry) /1. Covers the period Sep 59 to Jul 71. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C1374486
Commanders’ Diaries – 2 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
AWM 95 Subclass 7 (infantry) /2. Covers the period Nov 55 to May 71. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C1374482
Commanders’ Diaries – 3 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
AWM 95 Subclass 7 (infantry) /3. Covers the period Sep 57 to Oct 71. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C1374481
Commanders’ Diaries – 4 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
AWM 95 Subclass 7 (infantry) /4. Covers the period Oct 65 to Dec 71. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C1374480
Communist insurgency in Malaysia (1968-89)
Wikipedia
General reference to a war in which all RAR battalions contributed multiple rifle companies to Butterworth.
Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Communist_insurgency_in_Malaysia_(1968%E2%80%931989)
Communist Insurgency War
Wikipedia
20 minutes 20 seconds online Wikiaudio
Audio documentary about the CIW aka called the Second Malayan Emergency. Accessible at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L6BKOhqen9Q&feature=share&fbclid=IwAR3a9rs_pLFbNBEibkLy7aGEQ3Xvh9ZPNUKSa8xwjWQqO61L_cTSEeWSs_U
Confrontation in Indonesia 1964
Sunshine Coast Council
A short Heritage Project paper on the Confrontation with Indonesia. Mentions 3 and 4 RAR.
Accessible at https://heritage.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/Stories/War/Veterans-Voices/Confrontation-Indonesia
Department of Veterans Affairs – Battle of the Hook – first and second battalions Royal Australian Regiment
Summary of the battle, the brunt of the enemy attack 24-26 July 1953 taken by 2 RAR, is provided at https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/history/conflicts/korean-war/events/stalemate-war-19521953/battle-hook-first-and-second-battalions . Also known as the Battle of Samichon.
Far East Strategic Reserve
Wikipedia
In late 1955 the Far East Strategic Reserve was put in official effect with 2 RAR in Oct 55. Over the years, 1 and 3 RAR also rotated through it during the Malayan Emergency. See general history at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Far_East_Strategic_Reserve
Fulcher and the Department of Defence (Recognition of RCB service)
Australian Government (Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal), Canberra, 2020
Online paper by the DHAAT which considers an appeal by a Rifle Company Butterworth veteran of the Malaysian Communist Insurgency/Second Malaysian Emergency 1968-89. This report mentions several RARs in the process of considering Fulcher’s application for upgrade to warlike service on behalf of all veterans of the RCB deployments to Air Base Butterworth from 1 Nov 70 to 2 Dec 89. See https://defence-honours-tribunal.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Fulcher.pdf
History of the Australia – Malaysia defence relationship
Australian High Commission Malaysia
Online 10 page summary. Mentions 1, 2, 3 and 4 RAR and their service in the Malayan Emergency and Confrontation, and ‘Australian Army Rifle Company Butterworth’, with no mention of the latter’s actual role during the Counter Insurgency War 1968-89. Accessed at https://malaysia.highcommission.gov.au/files/klpr/History%20of%20the%20Australia-Malaysia%20Defence%20Relationship.pdf
Indonesian Confrontation
National Museum Australia
A general description of the war (primarily conducted) in Borneo between Malaya and Indonesia, with British Commonwealth forces assisting the Malayan forces. 3 and 4 RAR were directly involved. Accessible at https://www.nma.gov.au/defining-moments/resources/indonesian-confrontation#:~:text=The%20Indonesian%20Confrontation%2C%20or%20’Konfrontasi,Commonwealth%20force%20under%20British%20command.
Indonesian confrontation, 1963-66
Australian War Memorial
A general history of the 1948-60 Malayan Emergency which features 3 and 4 RAR. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/atwar/indonesian-confrontation . Has links to related sites.
Indonesian confrontation, 1963-66: Researching Australian military service
Australian War Memorial
Provides guidance on further research of AWM records online for Australia’s deployment to Borneo. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/research/guide/indonesian . Contains further links including to AWM95 which is the unit commanders’ diaries.
Indonesia – Malaysia Confrontation
Wikipedia
Also known as Konfrontasi, this conflict which involved 3 and 4 RAR in North Borneo (Sarawak) and Peninsula Malaysia is given big picture coverage.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indonesia%E2%80%93Malaysia_confrontation
KELLY, Peter – Diggers dig their own graves
The Richardson Post
Online commentary on the poor handling of soldiers serving overseas including in Afghanistan(where many were RAR sub-units) and the Rifle Company Butterworth during the Malaysian Counter Insurgency War 1968-89 (official Malaysian name), specifically mentioning 4 RAR. See https://richardsonpost.com/peter-kelly/19135/diggers-dig-their-own-graves/
KELLY, Peter – Ripping off our diggers – what a low act
The Richardson Post
Online commentary on the Rifle Company Butterworth (most supplied by RARs) and RAAF deployment at Air Base Butterworth during the Malaysian Counter Insurgency War 1968-89 (official Malaysian name). See https://richardsonpost.com/peter-kelly/14796/ripping-off-our-diggers-what-a-low-act/
Konfrontasi Diggers 1963-66: The activities of 3RAR during the Indonesian Confrontation
Military History and Heritage Victoria
Coverage of 3RAR in Borneo and Malaysia during Konfrontasi. Accessible at https://www.mhhv.org.au/konfrontasi-diggers-1963-66-the-activities-of-3rar-during-the-indonesian-confrontation/
Malayan Emergency
Australian War Memorial
A general history of the 1948-60 Malayan Emergency which features 1, 2 and 3 RAR. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/atwar/malayan-emergency Has links to related sites. Curiously the AMW provides inaccurate dates.
Malayan Emergency 1950
Sunshine Coast Council
A short Heritage project paper on the Malayan Emergency which up to that time was the longest continuous military commitment in Australia’s history. Fifty-one Australian servicemen were killed, 15 of these deaths occurring as a result of operations, and 27 were wounded most of whom were army. The roles of 1, 2 and 3 RAR are addressed. Accessible at https://heritage.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/Stories/War/Veterans-Voices/Malayan-Emergency
NATIONAL MALAYA AND NORTH BORNEO VETERANS ASSOCIATION AUSTRALIA Inc
Home page at http://www.nmbvaa.org.au/ enables the researcher to access a wide range of information including national and branch publications imporatn to the RAR and its members. This includes http://www.nmbvaa.org.au/rcb.php , a summary of the little-published Rifle Company Butterworth tours of duty which, during the Communist Insurgency/Second Malaysian Emergency of 17 Jun 68 to 2 Dec 89 were filled overwhelmingly by RAR rifle companies from 1 Nov on. RCBs are still rotating through Butterworth to this day, now solely with a training mission.
Operation Claret
Wikipedia
Overview of Commonwealth Force operations in Borneo during the period 1964-66 that included 3 and 4 RAR. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Claret
Operation Gateway
Wikipedia
This is a website dealing with RAAF Operation Gateway which involves surveillance operations over the Indian Ocean in the main tracking Soviet vessels including submarines. It mentions their pivotal role of RCB in protecting the aircraft and other assets at Butterworth Air Base that enabled that operation to be conducted. All Ras rotated companies through as RCBs during the Communist Insurgency in Malaysia 1968-1989, and as at 31 Dec 21 are still there.
Accessible at https://military-history.fandom.com/wiki/Operation_Gateway
Operation Claret – Sarawak 1964-6
Virtual War Memorial Australia
Coverage of Australia’s involvement in cross-border operations in Borneo that included 3 and 4 RAR. Accessible at https://vwma.org.au/explore/campaigns/20
Rifle Company Butterworth
Wikipedia
General overview of RCB deployment at Air Base Butterworth Malaysia which started on 1 Nov 70 and continues to this present day (name has changed over time to ‘RCB’. All RARs provided multiple coy size groups, including during the Second Malaysian Emergency/Communist Insurgent War 1968-89. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rifle_Company_Butterworth
Rifle Company Butterworth
Parliament of Australia, Canberra, 2014
Government record (Hansard) coverage of a petition made by veterans of RCB deployments during the Communist Insurgency in Malaysia 1068-1989 for recognition of service as warlike. Accessible at https://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInfo/search/display/display.w3p;query=Id:%22chamber/hansardr/128494f5-3b78-4d37-9efd-c8ccbc721e70/0005%22
Rifle Company Butterworth hits 50th Anniversary
Asia Pacific Defence Reporter
Commercial journal report of the factual formal recognition by the Australian Minister for Defence of 50 years of service by RCBs which first deployed to Butterworth Malaysia on 1 Nov 1970. Remarkable is the fact that it makes no mention of the operational duties carried out, or the Malaysian CDF’s prior formal recognition in Nov 20 where such recognition WAS made for the RCB’s role in the Community Insurgency in Malaysia (1968-1989). Accessible at https://asiapacificdefencereporter.com/rifle-company-butterworth-hits-50th-anniversary/
Rifle Company Butterworth (Recognition of Service)
Website titled Australian Rifle Company Butterworth 1970-1989
A site where details on the ongoing fight to achieve recognition of service in the Community Insurgency in Malaysia (1968-1989) are presented and able to be interacted with. Includes a video titled ‘The Deception’. Accessible at https://recognitionofrcbservice.com/
Submissions – Inquiry into medallic recognition for service with Rifle Company Butterworth
Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal, Canberra, 2022
Online publication of all submissions to the Inquiry. A substantial resource for future researchers. Accessible at https://defence-honours-tribunal.gov.au/submissions-inquiry-into-recognition-for-service-with-rifle-company-butterworth/
The Battle of Babang
Wikipedia
3 RAR fought this battle in Borneo on 12 Jul 65. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Babang#:~:text=The%20Battle%20of%20Babang%20(12,during%20the%20Indonesia%2DMalaysia%20Confrontation.
WEICHONG, Ong & RAMAKRISHNA, Kumar – The forgotten insurgency that failed
Malay Mail, 2013
Online paper that examines the Communist Insurgency War/Second Malaysian Emergency 1968-1989 during which all RAR deployed rifle companies to Air Base Butterworth to protect RAAF assets, people and dependents against the CT threat. Authors use the term ‘Second Emergency’. Accessible at https://www.malaymail.com/news/what-you-think/2013/10/15/the-forgotten-insurgency-that-failed-ong-weichong-and-kumar-ramakrishna/542997
VIETNAM 1962-75
1st Australian Task Force
Wikipedia
General coverage of the1st ATV that was the parent formation with which all RAR battalions, except for the first tour of duty in Vietnam by 1 RAR, all RARs served. All are mentioned. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1st_Australian_Task_Force
1st Australian Task Force
DBPedia
Online source
An overview of the deployment of 1 ATF in Vietnam from 1966-72 during which it comprised two or three RAR battalions, and supporting arms and services on a rolling/replacement basis for that period. Mentions most major operations and has further links to units and battles. Accessible at https://dbpedia.org/page/1st_Australian_Task_Force
1 RAR The First Battalion Association – 1968
Authors and date of creation unknown
A short history of the Battle for Fire Support Base Coral in 1968. Probable compilation by veterans of the battle, or Association historians. Includes photographs, a roll of honour, and e-links to the Australian War Memorial war diaries from 1 RAR for the period. Found at https://www.1rar.org.au/fsb-coral/
1 RAR – The First Battalion Association – Vietnam 1965-1966
1 RAR summary of the battalion’s first tour of duty in Vietnam when was placed under command of the American 173rd Airborne Brigade. See https://www.1rar.org.au/vietnam-1965-66/
1 RAR – The First Battalion Association – Vietnam 1968-1969
1 RAR summary of the battalion’s second tour of duty in Vietnam, this time as part of 1st Australian Task Force. 1967 in Australia is also covered. See https://www.1rar.org.au/vietnam-1968-1969/
1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
AWM site which provides and overview of both tours of Vietnam. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/U53496
1 Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR)
Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia
VVAA’s site for 1 RAR. Accessible at http://vvaavic.org.au/1-battalion-the-royal-australian-regiment-1rar/
173rd Airborne Brigade Association
173rd Airborne Brigade Association-
This homepage opens the door for researchers to access the 173 Airborne Brigade Memorial Dedication memorial located at Fort Benning Georgia, which includes names of 1 RAR group members killed in action in 1965-66 In Vietnam. See https://skysoldier.net/http/www.173dairbornememorial.org/the-memorial
2 RAR compilation: What have you done for Australia
2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
AWM site which provides and overview of both tours of Vietnam. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/U53497
3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
AWM site which provides and overview of both tours of Vietnam. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/U53498
3 Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment (3RAR)
Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia
VVAA’s site for 3 RAR. Accessible at http://vvaavic.org.au/3-battalion-the-royal-australian-regiment-3rar/
4 Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment (4 RAR/NZ) ANZAC
Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia
Covers both tours of duty of Vietnam and ends with the linking of 2 and 4 RAR. Accessible at http://vvaavic.org.au/4-battalion-the-royal-australian-regiment-4rar/
4th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
AWM site which provides and overview of both tours of Vietnam. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/U53499
5th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
AWM site which provides and overview of both tours of Vietnam. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/U53500
5th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
Online overview of 5 RAR accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/U61422
6 RAR in Vietnam in action February 1967 – Vietnam War
Anonymous
Visual history of 6RAR in action. See https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fyoutu.be%2FjD8Iz6yQnZs&h=7AQGHyutS
6 RAR
Digger History
Online coverage as 6 RAR. Accessible at http://www.diggerhistory.info/pages-army-today/rar-sasr/6_rar.htm
6th Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment (6RAR)
Virtual War Memorial Australia
A useful additional source of information on 6 RAR. Accessible at https://vwma.org.au/explore/units/505
6 Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment (6RAR)
Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia
VVAA’s site for 6 RAR. Accessible at http://vvaavic.org.au/6-battalion-the-royal-australian-regiment-6rar/
6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
AWM site which provides and overview of both tours of Vietnam. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/U53501
7th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
AWM site which provides and overview of both tours of Vietnam. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/U53502
7 Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment (7RAR)
Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia
VVAA’s site for 7 RAR. Accessible at http://vvaavic.org.au/7-battalion-the-royal-australian-regiment-7rar/
8th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
AWM site which provides and overview of the unit’s tour of duty in Vietnam. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/U53503
8 Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment (8RAR)
Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia
VVAA’s site for 8 RAR. Accessible at http://vvaavic.org.au/8-battalion-the-royal-australian-regiment-8rar/
9th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
AWM site which provides and overview of the unit’s tour of duty in Vietnam. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/U53504
9 Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment (9RAR)
Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia
VVAA’s site for 9 RAR. Accessible at http://vvaavic.org.au/9-battalion-the-royal-australian-regiment/
Anonymous – 1 ATF Nui Dat, Vietnam – May 1966
An online component of a series titled The battle of Long Tan 18 Aug 1966. Addresses the establishment of the base by 1 RAR and then 5 RAR , and mentions all RAR battalions except for 9 RAR have rotated twice through it during that war. See https://battleoflongtan.com/establishing-1atf-nui-dat-may-1966/
50th Anniversary of the end of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War: national commemorative service
Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Canberra, 2013
A summary of this momentous occasion marking the end of the Vietnam War 50 years ago in which all RAR battalions served, most twice. Contains many images of current and veteran personnel and widows/families. Accessible at https://www.dva.gov.au/news/latest-stories/50th-anniversary-end-australias-involvement-vietnam-war-national-commemorative-service
Anonymous – Long Tan Battle Sketches
Sources are listed online as: Martin Walsh and To Long Tan, Ian McNeill, Allen & Unwin in association with the Australian War Memorial, 1993
A series of sketches which outlines the battle as it unfolded. 18 Aug 66, D Coy 6 RAR, with A Coy involved in the latter part of the battle. Accessible at https://battleoflongtan.com/battle-sketches/ the website leads to many other resources about the battle and is well worth exploring.
Anonymous – The battle of Long Tan 18 Aug 1966
Online coverage of this battle involving 6 RAR, especially D Coy. Has multiple links and other references, including a blog. Accessible at https://battleoflongtan.com/
Australian Army – 1962 to 1972 – Vietnam
Australian Army History Unit site’s official (and very limited) overview of this period during which all nine of the RAR battalions served in the Vietnam War, most twice. See https://www.army.gov.au/our-heritage/history/primary-materials/1962-1972-vietnam
Australian Embassy Guard Platoon, Saigon
Wikipedia
The last troops to serve in Vietnam was this sub-unit which was based on RAR members. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_Embassy_Guard_Platoon,_Saigon
Australia’s Vietnam War
University of New South Wales
A digital access source which allows the examination of every contact and battle in which Australians were involved in the Vietnam war, including who was involved, After Action Reports. Accessible at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/battlemap/?basemap=mapbox-terrain&layers=co
ntact-individual&timeline=1965-04-30,1971-11-01&at=10.813545998323477,107.22
192086699381,10
All the Way: Australia and America in Vietnam
ABC, Sydney, 2012
DVD in Colour, 57 mins, presented by Peter Ham. How Australia discovered that its biggest battle in the war was with its best friend, the USA. Features most of the RAR in images, including 1 RAR on the cover.
A photo history of the Long Tan cross
Dave Sabben website
Sabben’s story of the cross placed at the Battle of Long Tan site in Vietnam; D Coy 6 RAR and supports. Accessible at http://www.sabben.com/longtantrek/VN%20Long%20Tan%20Cross.html
A USA source of Vietnam War books
http://www.vnwarbooks.com
Includes references to RAR units.
Australian tanks at the battles of Coral and Balmoral
Australian Army
A general overview of these battles which included 1RAR and 3 RAR is at https://www.army.gov.au/our-heritage/history/history-focus/australian-tanks-battles-coral-and-balmoral
Australian forces national memorial Vietnam (2nd Edition)
Department of Veterans Affairs, Canberra, 2002
ISBN: 1920720057
Monocolour images; 76 pages.
Provides an overview of the Vietnam War and introduces the memorial built in the veterans’ honour and opened on 3 Oct 92. Accessible at https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/sites/default/files/docs/australian-vietnam-memorial-2015.pdf
Australian Vietnam Forces National Memorial
Monument Australia
Summary of this memorial; accessible at
Australian Vietnam Veterans Mortality Listing
A source of data on casualties.
Australia’s Vietnam War
https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/The website was created by the Military Operations Analysis Team (MOAT) at the University of New South Wales (Canberra) aka ADFA. It provides a unique way of exploring the Vietnam War in great detail, through the use of an interactive Battle Map. Visitors to this site may register for an account and contribute personal stories, photos and videos against combat events on the Battle Map. This site is stated to contain data on almost every Australian contact with the enemy during the Vietnam War. Interactive site which can receive veteran input.
Australia’s Vietnam War
DVA, Canberra, 2017
Department of Foreign Affairs website that includes 30 new videos of Australians in the Vietnam War, the impact on their families and Australian society, forming an important part of Australia’s experience at the time, and since. See: https://www.dva.gov.au/commemorations-memorials-and-war-graves/office-australian-war-graves/current-projects/vietnam
Battle map
UNSW/ADFA (Canberra) Australia’s Vietnam War website.
An interactive website created by the Military Operations Analysis Team that includes 50 images of Australians in Vietnam, with each one’s location point-pointed on the map. Accessible at
Battle of Ba Ria
Wikipedia
An overview of 3 RAR operations at Baria (Ba Ria) during the battle which occurred over 31 Jan to 7 Feb 68 in Vietnam. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Ba_Ria
Battle of Binh Ba
DBPedia
Online source
An overview of the battle fought by 5 RAR with supporting arms as part of Operation Hammer in Jun 69 during the Vietnam War. Accessible at https://dbpedia.org/page/Battle_of_Binh_Ba
Battle of Coral-Balmoral
DBPedia
Online source
An overview of the battle fought by 1 RAR and 3 RAR with supporting arms during May-Jun 68 as part of Operation Toan Thang I of the Vietnam War. Accessible at https://dbpedia.org/page/Battle_of_Coral%E2%80%93Balmoral
Battle of Coral-Balmoral
Wikipedia
The battle of Coral-Balmoral was fought between 12 May – 6 Jun 68 involving 1 RAR and RAR inVirtnam. This summary is accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Coral%E2%80%93Balmoral#:~:text=The%20Battle%20of%20Coral%E2%80%93Balmoral,)%20north%2Deast%20of%20Saigon.
Battle of Hat Dich
DBPedia
Online source
An overview of the battle fought by 4 RAR/NZ (ANZAC) with supporting arms during Dec 68 – Feb 69 as part of Operation Toan Thang II during the Vietnam War. Accessible at https://dbpedia.org/page/Battle_of_Hat_Dich
Battle of Hat Dich (Operation Goodwood)
Wikipedia
A detailed account of a major operation that ran from Dec 68 to Feb 69, involving 1 RAR, 4 RAR/NZ (ANZAC) and 9 RAR along with supporting arms and services, in Vietnam. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Hat_Dich
Battle of Long Khanh
DBPedia
Online source
An overview of the battle fought by 3 RAR with supporting arms during Jun 71 as part of Operation Overlord during the Vietnam War. Accessible at https://dbpedia.org/page/Battle_of_Long_Kh%C3%A1nh
Battle of Long Tan
DBPedia
Online source
An overview of the battle fought by 6 RAR with supporting arms on 18 Aug 66 during the Vietnam War. Accessible at https://dbpedia.org/page/Battle_of_Long_Tan
Battle of Nui Le
DBPedia
Online source
An overview of the last major battle fought in Vietnam by Australians, being 4 RAR/NZ (ANZAC) in Sep 71. Accessible at https://dbpedia.org/page/Battle_of_Nui_Le
Battle of Soi Chau Pha
DBPedia
Online source
An overview of the battle fought by 7 RAR with supporting arms on 6 Aug 67 while on Operation Ballarat during the Vietnam War. Accessible at https://dbpedia.org/page/Battle_of_Suoi_Chau_Pha
Battle of Suoi Chau Pha
Wikipedia
Battle on 6 Aug 67 in Vietnam between A Coy 7 RAR against the VC of 3rd Bn, 274 Regiment. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Suoi_Chau_Pha
CHAMBERLIAN, Ernie – 33 PAVN Regiment morale and the ‘red rats of Phuoc Tuy’
Published in 2018 on University of New South Wales’ Australia’s Vietnam War site.
Author’s examination of documents from 33 PAVN Regiment pertaining to Australian casualties at Binh Ba and elsewhere. Several RARs are referred to.
This story is accessible at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/33-pavn-regiment-morale-and-the-red-rats-of-phuoc-tuy/
CHAMBERLIAN, Ernie – The Battle of Coral (Sở Hội) 13 May 1968 – the 141st NVA Regiment Account
Published in 2018 on University of New South Wales’ Australia’s Vietnam War site.
Author’s examination of documents from the enemy outlines their version of the Battle of Coral which included 1 and 3 RAR.
This story is accessible at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/the-battle-of-coral-so-hoi-13-may-1968-the-141st-nva-regiment-account/
CHAMBERLIAN, Ernie –The Battle of Long Tân: Việt Cộng ‘numbers’ – 275 Regiment’s ‘QM notebook’
Published in 2018 on University of New South Wales’ Australia’s Vietnam War site.
Analysis of the enemy casualties from the primary source of an enemy Quartermaster’s personal notebook, a source considered to be more reliable than official records. Mentions of course 6 RAR and all involved enemy units. A rare and interesting source of information. This story is accessible at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/the-battle-of-long-tan-viet-cong-numbers-and-275-regiment-s-qm-notebook/
CHAMBERLAIN, Earnie – Việt Cộng Intelligence Report on the “Enemy” in Phước Tuy
Published in 2021 on University of New South Wales’ Australia’s Vietnam War site.
A description of an enemy intelligence report captured on 27 Nov 67 by 12 Pl D Coy 7 RAR in Vietnam. Author explains its contents which provide an insight into what the enemy knew of Australian forces at the time. See https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/viet-cong-intelligence-report-on-the-enemy-in-phuoc-tuy/
CHAMBERLAIN, Ernie – Vietnam War: D445 Their Story
Coverage on one of the prime enemy units up against the RARs in Vietnam. See http://www.scribd.com/doc/62621973/The-Viet-Cong-D445-Battalion-Their-Story
CHAMBERLAIN, EP – Vietnam War: The Battles of Coral (Sở Hội) and Balmoral (Đồng Tràm) – May 1968: The Vietnamese Communist Accounts – including three sketch maps
This 24,000-word/63-page Research Note (March 2018) examines and critiques the Vietnamese and Australian accounts of the major battles of Coral and Balmoral fought north of Saigon in May 1968. The Note includes both Vietnamese and Australian maps of the battle areas. Of particular interest are the three Vietnamese sketch maps of the Battle of Coral depicted at pages 11, 14, and 16 (repeated in a larger format in the attachments at pages 38, 41, and 43). Chamberlain notes that the Vietnamese communist accounts are – in parts, “hyperbolic”, propagandist and inaccurate. The work is free-to-read on the Internet at : https://www.scribd.com/document/374639182
Chronological Guide to the official records – Vietnam War (1962-1975)
Australian War Memorial
Gives access to Australian army war diaries and related material from the Vietnam War. All nine RAR battalion Commander’s diaries (war records) are included. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/accessing-records-at-the-memorial/findingaids/chronological-guide/vietnam
Commanders’ Diaries – 1 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
AWM 95 Subclass 7 (infantry) /1. Covers the period Sep 59 to Jul 71. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C1374486
Commanders’ Diaries – 2 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
AWM 95 Subclass 7 (infantry) /2. Covers the period Nov 55 to May 71. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C1374482
Commanders’ Diaries – 3 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
AWM 95 Subclass 7 (infantry) /3. Covers the period Sep 57 to Oct 71. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C1374481
Commanders’ Diaries – 4 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
AWM 95 Subclass 7 (infantry) /4. Covers the period Oct 65 to Dec 71. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C1374480
Commanders’ Diaries – 5 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
AWM 95 Subclass 7 (infantry) /5. Covers the period Mar 66 to Feb 70. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C1374478
Commanders’ Diaries – 6 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
AWM 95 Subclass 7 (infantry) /6. Covers the period Mar 66 to Jun 73. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C1374479
Commanders’ Diaries – 7 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
AWM 95 Subclass 7 (infantry) /7. Covers the period Apr 67 to Feb 71. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C1374476
Commanders’ Diaries – 8 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
AWM 95 Subclass 7 (infantry) /8. Covers the period Oct 69 to Sep 70. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C1374487
Commanders’ Diaries – 9 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
Australian War Memorial
AWM 95 Subclass 7 (infantry) /9. Covers the period Jul 68 to Oct 69. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C1374477
Commemorative service for the 50th anniversary of Operation Ivanhoe
YouTube
Audio-visual presentation 30 mins
A Department of Veterans Affairs compilation of narrators, imagery and speakers including LTCOL Gary McKay, MC (Retd). Deals with the Battle of Nui Le and the wider Operation Ivanhoe that included 4 RAR (ANZAC) and 3 RAR. Accessible at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8dQNnjk2iQ
Coral and Balmoral: battle of fire support bases
Australian War Memorial
Coverage of the battles fought by 1 and 3 RAR and supporting arms and services. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/encyclopedia/coral
Contains further links including to AWM95 which is the unit commanders’ diaries.
Dasher Wheatley, VC
YouTube podcast – 1 hr, 42min 12 sec
Conducted by Michel Madden in the “Australia Remembers’ series. Interviews George Wheatley, son of Dasher, about his father, WO2 Kevin (Dasher) Wheatley VC, member of the RAR including 1 RAR and at the time of his award, in the AATV in Vietnam. Accessible at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VWJ3SP3UoSs
Department of Veterans’ Affairs – Australia and the Vietnam War
See https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/history/conflicts/australia-and-vietnam-war
DODDS, Greg – Farewell Jim Hughes, Commanding Officer, 4 RAR/NZ (ANZAC)
Published in 2017 on University of New South Wales’ Australia’s Vietnam War site.
Written around the time of the death of Hughes, this vignette addresses the unit’s battle on 21 Sep 71 against the 33NVA Regiment which was a near-run battle. The story is accessible at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/farewell-jim-hughes-commanding-officer-4rarnz-anzac-a-man-for-all-seasons/
Eyewitness accounts of Private Errol Noack’s wounding
Australian War Memorial, Canberra, 2019
One of the AWM’s Memorial Box series of individual stories of veterans, this is a paper by Michael Kelly covering witnesses of the wounding in action of Private Noack 5 RAR who died shortly after, becoming the first national serviceman to be killed in action in Vietnam. He had been in-country for only ten days at the time. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/blog/eyewitness-accounts-private-errol-noacks-wounding
Experimental Military Unit
Wikipedia
A joint US/Australian helicopter unit (RAN) concept trialled during the Vietnam War, the EMU was supplemented by machine gunners from B Coy 2 RAR in 1967/68. More details of this little known unit are accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Experimental_Military_Unit
FLEMING, Robert – A Jungle Too Far: Britain and the Vietnam War
National Army Museum (UK)
54mins 11 secs duration on UTube
Fleming, Curator at the National Army Museum, explores how a secret British involvement in the Vietnam War came about through covert operations, proxies and attachments to US, Australian, and New Zealand units. He specifically mentions some RAR battalions. Access this lecture at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=soMNBdOajMA
DODDS, Greg – Bad moon rising – how Australians avoided a massacre at Nui Le
Online account
In the battle of Nui Le the North Vietnamese 33rd Regiment came within a whisker of destroying an entire Australian infantry company. If they’d been successful it would have been the greatest loss for the Australian army since World War 2. An account of this battle, fought by 4 RAR/NZ towards the end of the Australian commitment in Vietnam in 1971. Accessible at https://www.afr.com/policy/foreign-affairs/bad-moon-rising–how-australians-avoided-a-massacre-at-nui-le-20171004-gyu4hl . The last Australian fatalities of the war occurred in this battle.
FORWARD, Rex and REECE, Bob (Eds) – Conscription and Australia
University of Queensland, St Lucia QLD, 1968
A volume on the issue of conscription that was used to raise the manpower necessary for the Vietnam war commitment. Many RAR members were national servicemen. Available at https://www.textqueensland.com.au/item/book/a05b6446a180b4aa203766f221af883c . Also published as a book.
FRESHFIELD, R – The Vietnam War – An Australian Perspective
Self-published, 2017
Compiled from records and historical articles by R Freshfield. This publication provides a comprehensive coverage of the war, starting with the international scene during WW II, and then closes in to provide a detailed coverage of Australian operations involving all nine RAR battalions and other organisations in support or commanding. RAN and RAAF involvement is included. Located at http://www.vvfagranville.org/THE%20VIETNAM%20WAR.pdf
GREY, Jeffrey and DOYLE, Jeff – Australia and the Vietnam War: A Select Bibliography
Published in Vietnam Generation: Vol. 3: No. 2 , Article 11. 1991
A substantial bibliography of references on the war in Vietnam involving all RAR battalions. See https://digitalcommons.lasalle.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1131&context=vietnamgeneration
Guide to the Vietnam Collection
Australian War Memorial
Itemises a collection of ephemera for the period 1962-74. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/accessing-records-at-the-memorial/findingaids/special/ephemera/vietnam
HAINS, Noel (Editor) – V Company and the captured car
Published in 2017 on the UNSW/ADFA Australia’s Vietnam War website.
Story of a bullet-damaged car used by the enemy, and number plated NVA 601, captured by V coy, 4 RAR/NZ (ANZAC) during Operation Capital II at Courtney’s Plantation. As well as the car, over 150 weapons were captured, 438 bunkers destroyed and four trucks destroyed.
https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/v-company-and-the-captured-car/
HALL, Bob (Editor) – Baria: Tet’ 68: Province Senior Advisor Report – February 1968
Published in 2018 on University of New South Wales’ Australia’s Vietnam War site.
Hall provides a slightly edited version of the Province (US) Senior Advisor report which outlines 1st Australian Task force’s involvement in this battle, primarily 3 RAR. This story is accessible at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/baria-tet-68-province-senior-advisor-report-february-1968/
HALL, Robert (Editor) – Australians missing in action – Vietnam
Published in 2016 on the UNSW/ADFA Australia’s Vietnam War website.
Details of the six MIAs from Vietnam and how they were eventually allocated and remains repatriated. Includes two A Coy 1 RAR soldiers KIA on 8 Nov 65 – LCPL Richard Parker and PTE Peter Gillson. Accessible at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/australian-missing-in-action-vietnam/
HALL, Robert (Editor) – ‘Contact! Wait out!’: Battle procedure after contact
Published in 2015 on the UNSW/ADFA Australia’s Vietnam War website.
Description of what happened at the various levels of HQ when contact was made. This paper mentions several RAR s but its contents are universal to all units. Located at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/contact-wait-out-battle-procedure-after-contact/
HALL, Robert (Editor) – Keeping the troops in the field: Part 1. Rations
Published in 2016 on University of New South Wales’ Australia’s Vietnam War site.
A very good examination of the rations supply affecting all Australian troops during the Vietnam War. 1 ATF and several RARs are mentioned in this paper. In both Confrontation and the Vietnam war, where operations in the jungle meant searching for the enemy without vehicle support, infantry patrol operations often lasted more than a month and required dismounted troops to carry heavy ration loads of up to 8 or 9 days.
This material is accessible at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/keeping-the-troops-in-the-field-part-1-rations/
HALL, Robert (Editor) – Keeping the troops in the field: Part 2. Water resupply
Published in 2016 on University of New South Wales’ Australia’s Vietnam War site.
An examination of the issue of water consumption and supply, especially for the Infantry who had to carry their own. Some RARs are mentioned in this paper which addresses the most important single element of resupply aside from ammunition. This material is accessible at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/keeping-the-troops-in-the-field-part-2-water-resupply/
HALL RA – More about Tet ’68 in Baria
UNSW, Canberra, 2018
Paper addresses the impact of the 1968 Tet offensive on Baria where 3 RAR operated during the Vietnam War at the time. Accessible at Australia’s Vietnam War website, https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/more-about-tet-68-in-baria/
HALL RA – Tet ’68 in Phuoc Tuy: Impact on communities
UNSW, Canberra, 2018
Located on Australia’s Vietnam War website https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/tet-68-in-phuoc-tuy-impact-on-communities/ this paper gives an overview of the impact of the 1968 Tet offensive in Vietnam on communities in which RAR units were operating at the time.
HALL, Bob and ANDREWS, Ross (Editors) – Keeping the troops in the field: Part 3. Resupply
Published in 2017 on University of New South Wales’ Australia’s Vietnam War site.
This is a very good examination of the field supply/logistics faced by all Australian troops during the Vietnam War. 1 ATF and several RARs are mentioned in this paper. This material is accessible at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/keeping-troops-in-the-field-part-3-resupply/
HALL, Robert, ANDREWS, Ross and de HEER, Derrill (Editors) – About the 1 RAR Battalion Group data
Published in 2016 on University of New South Wales’ Australia’s Vietnam War site.
This website contains data relating to the 1 RAR battalion group tour of duty in Vietnam from May 1965 to June 1966.
The story is accessible at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/about-the-1-rar-battalion-group-data/
HALL RA; ROSS AT; De HEER D; GRIFFIN A; KIMBERLEY P; SMITH B; TURNER T; DOYLE J – Australia’s Vietnam War
University of New South Wales, Canberra, 2015
An interactive website which includes a map that can be ‘traversed’ with a mouse/finger (depending on the electronic medium being used) showing data on contacts and other data at different locations. All RAR and other troops to fight in Vietnam were somewhere, some time, on this map. Accessible at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/
HMAS Sydney (R17)
Wikipedia
Details of the primary vessel used to transport many RAR troops and equipment to Vietnam. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HMAS_Sydney_(R17)
HUNTER, Claire – We were all there for each other together
Australian War Memorial, Canberra, 2023
An article about a soldier (Gunner John Burns) of 103 Field Battery who fired in support od D Coy 6 RAR in the Battle of Long Tan. Supplies a great account of what it was like on the gun line firing danger close missions. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/blog/bombardier-john-burns-and-the-vietnam-war
Impressions: Australians in Vietnam: photography, art and the war
Australian War Memorial
An image-dominant coverage of the war from the Australian perspective. Many RAR individuals can be identified in this site. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/visit/exhibitions/impressions/aust_vietnam
Jim Bourke: Life Mission Accomplished
Alliance of Defence Service Organisations
Basic information about Bourke’s successful quest to locate and eventually get the remains of all six of the Missing in Action from Vietnam located and brought home. Accessable at
http://adso.org.au/latestnews/654-jim-bourke-life-mission-accomplished
KIMBERLEY, Peter – Operation Bribie: a platoon commander’s view
Published in 2015 on the UNSW/ADFA Australia’s Vietnam War website.
OC 9 platoon, C Coy, 6RAR (Ian McQuire’s recount of the battle known as Operation Bribie fought over 17/18 Feb 67.
Accessible at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/operation-bribie/
KIMBERLEY, Peter – The Tet Offensive in Ba Ria, Viet Nam 1968
Published in 2018 on University of New South Wales’ Australia’s Vietnam War site.
The author recounts his father’s experiences with 3 RAR in the Battle for Ba Ria. This story is accessible at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/the-tet-offensive/
MADIGAN, Haydn – Australian Vietnam Veterans Honour Roll
An online resource provided by Haydn Madigan. Access http://www.vietnamveteranshonourroll.com/ and read the About Website link box at the bottom right of screen for information on how to access and use the data.
Michael Gunther Joseph Baron Von Berg, MC, OAM
Virtual War Memorial Australia
Text, imagery and four podcasts.
Online biography of LTCOL Von Berg (Retd). Includes biography, research links and four recorded interviews which address primarily his service on Vietnam and since. Accessible at https://vwma.org.au/explore/people/378591
MOSS, Kevin – Bush connections: A Vietnam conscript’s memo
Self-published, Australia, 2021
|
ISBN |
0645283207, 9780645283204 |
240 pages.
Kevin Moss spent one year with Army Aviation at the 1st Australian Task Force at Nui Dat in Phuoc Tuy Province, South Vietnam, from October 1969 to September 1970. His story includes references to RARs, including 1 RAR with whom he worked in support during his time in Vietnam.
Mythbusting about Vietnam: highlights reel
Honest history
Online resource
An online resource which in this case addresses the issue of welcome home parades for RAR battalions which served in Vietnam. Most RARs are mentioned. Accessible at http://honesthistory.net.au/wp/mythbusting-about-vietnam-highlights-reel/
Nominal Roll of Vietnam Veterans
Department of Veterans’ Affairs official record of all Australians who served in Vietnam. See http://www.vietnamroll.gov.au/
New Zealand’s Vietnam War
NZ government website which provides an entry to that nation’s perspectives. Includes references to the RAR units with whom the Kiwis served. See: http://www.vietnamwar.govt.nz/
O’NEILL, Robert (CAPT) – Operation Holsworthy
5 RAR Association, online
Coverage of the Battle of Binh Ba 7-18 Aug 66 focussing on 5 RAR’s role in it. Accessible at https://www.5rar.asn.au/ops/holsworthy.htm
Operation Ballarat Analysis Report
Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia
This is the actual report of this battle in Vietnam between A Coy 7 RAR against the VC of 3rd Bn, 274 Regiment on 6 Aug 67. Accessible at http://www.vvaa.org.au/op-rpt.htm
Operation Bribie
DBPedia
Online source
An overview of the battle (also known as the Battle of Ap My An) fought by 6 RAR with supporting arms in Feb 67 while on Operation Ballarat during the Vietnam War. Accessible at https://dbpedia.org/page/Operation_Bribie
Operation Bribie
Wikipedia
Battle between allied forces including 6 RAR and the enemy in Vietnam on 17-18 February 1967. While 6 RAR and support prevailed, it was a close fought battle. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Bribie
Operation Coburg
DBPedia
Online source
An overview of the operation which occurred during Jan-Mar 68 involving 2 RAR, 7 RAR and later, 3 RAR during the Vietnam War. Accessible at https://dbpedia.org/page/Operation_Coburg
Operation Coberg
Wikipedia
A general history of a major operation involving 2, 3 and 7 RAR in Jan-Mar 68 in Phuoc Tuy, Vietnam.
See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Coburg
Operation Crimp
Wikipedia
Operation Crimp, also known as the Battle of the Ho Bo Woods, was fought from 8-14 Jan 66 between the enemy and the US 173rd Airborne Brigade of which 1 RAR was an integral battalion. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Crimp
Operation Crimp – January 7, 1966
Anonymous (titled The Vietnam War)
One of the online Vietnam War series, this site gives an overview of Operation Crimp, also known as the Battle of the Ho Bo Woods, 8-14 Jan 66 between the enemy and the US 173rd Airborne Brigade of which 1 RAR was an integral battalion. Accessible at http://vietnamwarinformation1.weebly.com/operation-crimp-ndash-january-7-1966.html
Operation Crimp – Vietnam 8th January 1966
Online short story on VeteranWeb
On 8th January 1966, day 1 of Operation Crimp, 1RAR located and attacked the tunnels of Cu Chi in the Ho Bo woods, South Vietnam. It is estimated the tunnels stretched over 17 kilometres in an underground network on four levels and housed the southern HQ of the North Vietnamese Army (NVA) and the HQ of the Viet Cong (VC). Short story by Bill Giles, then OC 11 Pl, D Coy 1 RAR, about the battle. Accessible at https://veteranweb.asn.au/news/operation-crimp-vietnam-8th-january-1966/
Operation Hammersley
Australian War Memorial, Canberra, 2020
This operation involved 8 RAR in the Long Hai hills area in February 1970, along with other supporting arms. This online coverage describes the operation which featured high casualties, many from anti-personnel mines lifted by the enemy from the Australian- built barrier minefield. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/blog/operation-hammersley-50th
Operation Hardihood
Wikipedia
A summary of this Operation in Vietnam that involved 1 ATF, 1 RAR and 5 RAR during May-Jun 66. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Hardihood
Operation Hump
Wikipedia
Operation Hump was carried out by 173 Airborne Brigade (US) of which 1 RAR was a battalion. The operation took place 28.2 km north of Bien Hoa where 1 RAR was based during its first tour of duty in Vietnam. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Hump
Operation Overlord and the Battle of Long Khanh
Australian War Memorial, Canberra
Online story of the battle authored by Craig Tibbits, This summary of this Vietnam War battle demonstrates the involvement of 7 Platoon B Company 3 RAR, with 4 RAR/NZ in blocking positions. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/blog/battle-long-khanh
Operation Toan Thang I
Wikipedia
A general history of a major operation during the Tet Offensive in which 1, 2 ad 3 RAR took part. The operation was a success with allied forces claiming 7,645 VC/PAVN killed, however the operation did not prevent the VC/PAVN from launching their May Offensive attacks against Saigon.
See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Toan_Thang_I
Operation Toan Thang II
Wikipedia
A general history of a major operation in which 1 and 3 RAR, and 4 RAR/NZ (ANZAC) along with supporting arms and services,
took part in Phuoc Tuy province to assist allies in the defence of Saigon. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Toan_Thang_II
RAR REGIMENTAL STANDING ORDERS – RAR Battalion Histories
Regimental HQ, Singleton, 1977
ISBN: Nil
Index.
Includes a nominal roll of COs and RSMs, Regimental Marches and Songs, and affiliated units. Records in an Annexure include an outline history of each battalion from its inception to the date of publication. These Standing Orders also show how regimental matters are documented at the time of their access, being an online product currently inside the Defence Restricted Network. Subject to periodic upgrade by a specific Action Officer who is able to be contacted through the Regimental Adjutant (Adjutant, School of Infantry, Singleton, NSW).
Phuoc Tuy
Department of Veterans Affairs
Anzac Portal entry, this website provides an overview of the main, but not only province of Vietnam in which the RAR operated. 1 RAR is specifically mentioned. Accessible at https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/wars-and-missions/vietnam-war-1962-1975/events/phuoc-tuy-province
Private Errol Noack
Australian War Memorial, Canberra, undated.
One of the AWM’s Memorial Box series of individual stories of veterans, this is the story of Private Noack 5 RAR, the first national serviceman to be killed in action in Vietnam.
Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/learn/memorial-boxes/2/case-studies/errol-noack
RAN Helicopter Flight Vietnam History
Wikipedia
A joint US/Australian helicopter unit concept was trialled during the Vietnam War. Royal Australian Navy Helicopter Flight Vietnam (RANHFV) was specially formed for service in support of allied forces, integrated with the United States Army 135th Assault Helicopter Company (AHC) flying the ubiquitous Iroquois helicopters in both the utility and gun-ship configurations. The first contingent arrived in Vietnam on 16 October 1967 and integrated with the 135th AHC. As a result of this unique relationship between the RAN and the US Army, the unit was officially designated ‘EMU’, for Experimental Military Unit. This was fitting, given that the emu is a native Australian bird, and in some ways comical as the emu cannot fly. The EMU was supplemented by machine gunners from B Coy 2 RAR in 1967/68, and on 25 Mar 68, also provided troop lift for 2 RAR. More details of this little-known unit are accessible at https://www.navy.gov.au/ran-helicopter-flight-vietnam-history
ROSS, Andrew – 1 ATF and the collapse of Viet Cong power in Phuoc Tuy
Published in 2015 on the UNSW/ADFA Australia’s Vietnam War website.
This paper addresses the real perspective of how 1 ATF, comprising all RAR battalions during its existence, was able to dominate the province, winning all 16 major engagements with the enemy in that time, using a combine arms approach couple with CRW, in stark contrast to the Us approach of confrontational, full-on combat. Accessible at https://vietnam.unsw.adfa.edu.au/1atf-and-the-collapse-of-viet-cong-power-in-phuoc-tuy-province/
ROSS, Brian – The Australian Order of Battle in the Vietnam War
Lists the RAN, Army and RAAF units to deploy, and when. Includes all RAR deployments. See
http://www.diggerhistory.info/pages-conflicts-periods/vietnam/all-units-svn.htm
TATE, Don – Movie Images of Private Don Tate in the 4th Battalion, Vietnam War
Posted to UTube 2006
Don Tate served in 4 RAR in Vietnam between January and May 1969. He served in a variety of capacities- rifleman, ‘number 2’ on the M60 machine-gun, scout, and as the platoon’s interpreter. These images, recording his service with 4 RAR, were taken on his movie camera by fellow platoon members. See https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rIqhRSKZ3qs
TATE, Don – The films
YouTube footage, colour.
Posted 2012
Originally 8mm footage taken by Don Tate in Vietnam. Advertised as having had a profound effect on some veterans- allowing many men to recognise aspects of their own service and start opening up about it. Located at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-8uhDJSYSE
The Australian Vietnam Forces National Memorial
Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia
Coverage of the memorial accessible at http://www.vvaa.org.au/memorial.htm
The Battle of Binh Ba: 6-7 Jun, 1969
Australian Army
A general overview of this battle which included 5 RAR is at https://www.army.gov.au/our-heritage/history/history-focus/battle-binh-ba-6-7-june-1969
The Battle of Long Khanh
Wikipedia
This battle was fought on 6-7 Jun 71 I South Vietnam and involved 3 RAR and 4 RAR/NZ (ANZAC. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Long_Kh%C3%A1nh
The Battle of Long Tan
Australian Army
A general overview of this battle involving 6 RAR is at https://www.army.gov.au/our-heritage/history/history-focus/battle-long-tan
The Battle of Nui Le
Youtube
Audiovisual presentation; 15mins
A Department of Veterans Affairs compilation of narrators, imagery and speakers including LTCOL Gary McKay (Retd), MC, COL Roger Wainwright (Retd) and others . Deals with the Battle of Nui Le and the wider operation Ivanhoe that included 4 RAR (ANZAC) and 3 RAR. Accessible at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-SmFDRXKhw
The Casualty List
Created and managed by Bob Coker, this is a list of Australian casualties in Vietnam. As such, the data are regularly being updated.
See http://www.thecasualtylist.com/
The 10 ten Vietnam war songs: a playlist for veterans
Thirteen media
Website which, although American, lists the ten top songs of the Vietnam era as voted such by the veterans themselves. This site includes ‘click on’ video of all ten songs. Accessible at https://www.thirteen.org/blog-post/top-10-vietnam-songs-veterans-playlist/
TATE, Don: The minefield: Australia’s greatest military blunder of the Vietnam War
Tate’s story of the barrier minefield put into place on the orders of Commander 1 ATF in 1967 in Vietnam. From this minefield the enemy lifted anti-personnel mines that were used with devastating effect against all RAR battalions and others. Accessible at https://donaldwilliamtate.medium.com/the-minefield-australias-greatest-military-blunder-of-the-vietnam-war-9abb817142a1
The Battle of Nui Le
Wikipedia
The Battle of Núi Lé (21 September 1971) was the last major battle fought by Australian and New Zealand forces in South Vietnam and was fought between elements of the NVA 33rd Regiment and ‘B’ and ‘D’ Companies of the 4RAR/NZ (ANZAC) and during Operation Ivanhoe. Núi Lé was a small hill. 4RAR/NZ (ANZAC), consisting of two companies of Australian infantry (B and D Companies) and one company of New Zealand infantry (V Company), was committed to a reconnaissance in force operation, named Operation Ivanhoe against any NVA/VC forces in the north of Phuoc Tuy Province. D Company, 3RAR, 1st Troop, A Squadron, 3rd Cavalry Regiment, 4th Troop, C Squadron, 3rd Cavalry Regiment, 2 Troop, 104th Field Battery, elements of 104th Signal Squadron and 161st (Independent) Recce Squadron were also committed to the operation. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Nui_Le
The Vietnam War
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
DVA overview of the Vietnam war with multiple layers of information. Accessible at https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/wars-and-missions/vietnam-war-1962-1975/vietnam-war
Tunnel Rats Vietnam – Holdfast
Holdfast, being the Engineers’ callsign, is the name given to a series of on-line newsletters in which there are frequent references to RAR units and individuals during the Vietnam War. See http://tunnelrats.com.au/newnewsletters.php
Vietnam – 50 years later, our greatest generation
Anonymous
A tribute to the US and allied troops who served in Vietnam, narrated by Sam Elliott.
4mins 48 secs duration, date unknown.
The Americans have a way of ensuring history is kept. The scars of Vietnam remain until today for both sides including many Australian RAR members also. This American work reflects the general accurate sentiment regarding the war. Unappreciated by the American public, betrayed by the American government’s corrupt politicians, American (and Australian) soldiers never lost a battle. Much of it can be related to by Australians who fought alongside the US forces. RAR members can be seen in this video at https://www.youtube.com/embed/aVeBtnfAxP8
Vietnam War 1962-75
Australian War Memorial
A general history of Australian involvement in the Vietnam War which featured all RAR battalions. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/atwar/vietnam . Has many links to related sites.
Vietnam 1962 – 1975
Australian War Memorial, Canberra
Online
Official AWM entry for the Vietnam War. Provides links to numerous other sources relevant to the RAR researcher. Includes links to DVA records, and also an honour roll of the Missing in Action (all six have now been recovered) and another for those Killed in Action. See https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/event/vietnam
VIETNAM Casualties – Final Resting Place
Source of information on location of Vietnam dead. See http//:www.australianartilleryassociation.com-vvmcsc-documents-vietnam_memorial_roll.doc.url.
Vietnam photographs
Anonymous
Images of Australian diggers in Vietnam, mainly taken in the Nui Dat Base and at Vung Tau. There are many good aerial shots of Nui Dat base with its Luscombe Airfield… There are many images at this site & some are automatically linked to others. Start at:
Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia (Victorian Branch Incorporated)
Home page of the Victorian Branch Incorporated
RAR-centric. Accessible at http://vvaavic.org.au/
VIETNAM VETERANS ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA INC
Home page at http://www.vvaa.org.au/ enables the researcher to access a wide range of information including national and branch publications and other important material to the RAR and members.
VIETNAM VETERANS’ PARADE SYDNEY 1987
ABC 46.39 mins duration coverage of the Welcome home parade held in Sydney 1987. YouTube at
Vietnam Veterans Vigil (VVV) Australia 2023
Vietnam Veterans Vigil group
Website dedicated to Australian Vietnam veterans
2023 marks 60 years since the arrival of the Australian Army Training team (AATTV) in South Vietnam on 3 August 1962 and 50 years since the withdrawal of combat troops in 1972. The Australian Government intends to mark the occasion with a national Commemorative Service, televised by the ABC on 18 August 2023 from the Australian Vietnam Forces National Memorial (AVFNM) in Canberra. Many Vietnam Veterans and the NOK of those KIA are too old or frail to travel to Canberra to attend this ceremony. Therefore, the VVV will provide surviving Vietnam Veterans and the Australian people the opportunity to participate in a meaningful way right across the nation and overseas in recognizing the individual loss and to pay their respects to those who were Killed in Action (KIA) and to show solidarity with their loved ones for their loss. This site includes a list of 523 KIA. Most were RAR members. Accessible at https://www.vvv.org.au/
WILLIAMS, Clive MG –Vietnam – Operation Crimp – January 1966
Addresses Operation Crimp which involved 1 RAR in Vietnam from 8-14 Jan 66 while part of 173rd Airborne Brigade, US Army. Accessible at https://frontline.asn.au/news/vietnam-operation-crimp-january-1966/
PEACEKEEPING & PEACEMAKING OPERATIONS
(Other United Nations deployments such as Rwanda 1994-95, Cambodia 1994-95, Papua New Guinea 1946 to 1975, East Timor 1999-2012, Bougainville 1994, The Solomon Islands 2000 -2008, all remaining deployments not covered by UN or above (eg Rhodesia, Somalia 1992-93, Uganda)
1 RAR – The First Battalion Association – Operation Morrisdance
In May 1987, a 1 RAR Coy Group deployed to off Fiji as the result of a coup in that nation. See https://www.1rar.org.au/fiji-morrisdance/
1 RAR – The First Battalion Association – Somalia
RAR summary of the battalion’s service in 1993 as part of a US-led international force in Somalia. See https://www.1rar.org.au/somalia/
1 RAR – The First Battalion Association – Timor 2000-2001
1 RAR summary of the battalion’s first deployment to Timor as part of UNTAET. See https://www.1rar.org.au/timor-2000-2001/
1 RAR – The First Battalion Association – Timor 2003
1 RAR summary of the battalion’s second deployment to Timor as part of the UNMISET Peace Keeping Force during which it was titled AUSBATT. See https://www.1rar.org.au/timor-2003/
1 RAR – The First Battalion Association – Timor 2006-2007
1 RAR summary of the battalion’s third deployment to Timor. See https://www.1rar.org.au/timor-2006-2007/
ADF: Past operations in Timor Leste (East Timor)
Nautilus Institute
A sequential summary of Operations Faber, Spitfire, Stabilise, Warden, Tanager, Citadel, Spire and Chiron that make up the sum of the ADF commitment from 1999-2006 in East Timor. Accessible at https://nautilus.org/publications/books/australian-forces-abroad/east-timor/adf-past-operations-in-timor-leste-east-timor/
Anonymous – Somalia – Operation Iguana and Operation Solace
Unofficial history of the Australian and New Zealand Armed Services (probably NZ author)
An unofficial history with good images of the deployment, primarily based on 1 RAR Battalion Group ground forces, in late 1992 to Somalia. See http://www.diggerhistory.info/pages-conflicts-periods/other/somalia.htm
Australia and the United Nations (PPO)
Wikipedia
A useful start point to see, according to the collective wisdom of this source, the very big range of UN missions in which Australians have taken part. These include war fighting deployments, such as Korea, and peacekeeping and peacemaking where definitions of the nature of involvement vary. Many have involved either RAR units, sub-units of individuals. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australia_and_the_United_Nations
Australian in the UN missions to Cambodia 1991 to 1993
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
Anzac Portal
Australia’s commitment to a peaceful general election in Cambodia increased on 12 May 1992, with an extra 502 ADF personnel committed to the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia. 2/4 RAR troops took part in Operation Gemini in 1992-1993 in Cambodia as part of
Accessible at https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/wars-and-missions/peacekeeping/cambodia
Australians in the UN missions to Somalia 1992 to 1995
Department of Foreign Affairs (Anzac Portal)
Covers Operation Iguana 1992-1995 which features 1 RAR early in the operations. Accessible at https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/wars-and-missions/peacekeeping/operation-summaries/somalia-1992-1995
Australian military involvement in peacekeeping (PPO)
Wikipedia
A general site summarising Australian peacekeeping deployment, many involving RAR units and individuals. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_military_involvement_in_peacekeeping
Australians in the UN mission to Somalia 1992 to 1995
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
Anzac Portal
Overview of Operation Solace being part of the UN operations in Somalia United Task Force in Somalia (UNITAF) that operated parallel to the UNOSOM deployment. 1 RAR Battle group and other individual RAR members took part in this largest single deployment of RAR since the Vietnam War. Accessible at https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/wars-and-missions/peacekeeping/somalia-1992-1995
Australia’s peacekeeping missions since 1947 (PPO)
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
A general site outlining DVA’s version of peacekeeping deployments. Accessible at https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/wars-and-missions/peacekeeping
Australian Army – Manual of Land Warfare II, Infantry Training, Vol 1 Pam 2: The Rifle Platoon, 1986
This 1986 edition of this pamphlet is the fundamental source of tactics and other matters connected with the fundamental building block of the RARs. Useful as a reference for how RAR platoons in theory operated at the time. See https://www.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/2019-11/mlw_2-1-2_the_rifle_platoon_1986_full_obsolete_0.pdf
Australian Peacekeeper and Peacemaker Veterans Association
APPVA
Homepage which enables branching out to a total range of Australian involvement in United Nations deployments since 1953. Under the tab ‘Magazines’, every publication is digitally available making this a most valuable start point for research into UN operations, most of which have included RAR units, sub-units or individuals. See https://peacekeepers.asn.au/
Australians and Peacekeeping
Australian War Memorial
A very general historical overview of Australia’s total peacekeeping commitments since 1947 and ongoing. Includes reference to police involvement, and includes references to deployments in which RAR units, sub-units and individuals are mentioned/deployed. Accessible at
https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/peacekeeping
Australian Tri-Service Defence Personnel who served in Somalia 1992-1994
Australian Tri-Service Defence Personnel website
A website dedicated to all Australian veterans of Somalia (UNOSOM – ASCs 1 to 4). Includes subsets of histories, publications, personnel. Accessible at https://veteransofsomalia.au/main-page
BREEN, Bob – Building bridges: Training for Operation Bel Isi, Bougainville
In Wartime Magazine, Issue 11, 2000, pp 65-58.
Addresses training for this operation which included RAR participants. Published by the Australian War Memorial.
BREEN, Bob – Peace support operations
In Australia and the South Pacific: rising to the challenge, Issue 12, 2009; pp XX.
Published by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, this paper examines the role of Australian forces in the Pacific during 21st century deployments. RAR personnel and sub-units are referred to.
Chronological Guide to the official records – Peacekeeping (1946-)
Australian War Memorial
As at 2020, this site gives very limited access to Australian army records for deployments in peacekeeping operations to Bougainville, East Timor, Rwanda and the Solomon Islands due to the 20-year rule covering peacekeeping records under the Archives Act 1983. RAR units, sub-units and individuals all served in these and other peacekeeping missions that will be entered at this AWM site. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/accessing-records-at-the-memorial/findingaids/chronological-guide/peacekeeping
Commonwealth Military Training Team Uganda (CMTTU) 1982-1984
Australian War Memorial
RAR members were in the teams deployed to Uganda, with their service later upgraded to warlike and awarded the AASM. See https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/CN500130 for an overview.
Commonwealth Monitoring Force Rhodesia (CMFR) – 1979-80
Australian War Memorial
RAR personnel made up a substantial number of the Australian contingent of the CMFR. See https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/CN500129/. Known as Operation Damon.
Control: Stories of Australian peacekeeping and humanitarian operations
Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Canberra, 2019
ISBN: 9780648282464
Illustrated, 56 pages.
Since 1947, over 30,000 Australians, many of them RAR units, sub-units and individuals. This book provides an overview of those operations with specific interest stories. Available in book form, and also accessible at https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/sites/default/files/docs/control-2019.pdf
Department of Veterans Affairs – Australian peacekeepers in Sierra Leone with IMATT 2001 to 2003
Located in the Anzac Portal series, this overview covers Operation Husky, being the Australian commitment to the IMATT that included RAR personnel. Accessible at https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/wars-and-missions/peacekeeping/summaries/sierra-leone-2001-2003
GLENN, Russell W – Counterinsurgency in a test tube: Analysing the success of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI)
RAND Corporation, Santa Monica CA, 2007
ISBN: 1281181056
This book is an online resource, comprising 160 pages with bibliography.
Covers RAMSI, the ADF contribution known as Operation Anode, from 2003-2013. 1 and 2 RAR sent elements, and other RAR individuals served during this time. Also accessible at https://www.jstor.org/stable/10.7249/mg551jfcom.8?seq=1#metadata_info_tab_contents . Researchers are advised to read the usage caveats at that site.
Guide to the East Timor Collection
Australian War Memorial
Itemises a collection of ephemera for the period 1999-2001. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/accessing-records-at-the-memorial/findingaids/special/ephemera/east-timor
International Force East Timor
Wikipedia
Summary of the deployment of the Australian-led INTERFET force into East Timor during Operation Stabilise. Mentions 2, 3 and 5/7 RAR. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Force_East_Timor
Kibeho massacre
Wikipedia
Summary of the massacre in Rwanda involving troops for 2/4 RAR and other. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kibeho_massacre
Management of Australian Defence Force Deployments to East Timor (online)
Australian National Audit Office, Canberra, 2002 (Department of Defence)
ISBN: 0642806209
References; 127 pages.
Auditor-General Report No 38 2001-02 – Performance Audit of the deployment to Est Timor. Mentions all involved RARs with 5/7 RAR featuring the most. Accessible at https://www.anao.gov.au/sites/default/files/anao_report_2001-2002_38.pdf?acsf_files_redirect
Monitoring Force – Rhodesia
Virtual War Memorial Australia
General overview. RAR personnel made up a substantial number of the Australian contingent. Known as Operation Damon.
Accessible at https://vwma.org.au/explore/campaigns/37
Operation Agila: The Commonwealth Monitoring Force in Rhodesia 1979-1980: History in Focus
Department of Veterans Affairs
AnzacPortal site which provides a summary of this operation. All RAR battalions at the time provided officers and NCOs. Accessible at https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/resources/operation-agila-commonwealth-monitoring-force-rhodesia-1979-1980-history-focus
Operation Astute
Wikipedia
Operation Astute was an Australian-led military deployment to East Timor from May 2006 to May 2013. Most RARs were involved. The operation sought to quell unrest and return stability following the 2006 East Timor crisis. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Astute
Operation Anode
Department of Defence
Operation ANODE started in 2003 and was the name of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) contribution to the Australian-led Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI). RAMSI’s assistance is known as Operation HELPEM FREN (Pidgin for ‘Helping Friend’). Elements of both 1 and 2 RAR were involved. See https://defence.gov.au/Operations/PastOperations/SolomonIslands/
Operation Faber
Australian War Memorial
This operation, 19 June – 15 September 1999, involved Military Liaison Officers including RAR members deployed under UN Advance Mission in East Timor (UNAMET). See AWM overview at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/E84803
Operation Falconer
Wikipedia
4 RAR (Commando) played a role in Iraq during Operation Kruger which is outlined in Australian contribution to the 2003 invasion of Iraq. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_contribution_to_the_2003_invasion_of_Iraq
Operation Habitat
Wikipedia
Overview of Operation Habitat in Iraq during 1991 which involved humanitarian support to Kurdish citizens. Elements of 3rd Brigade including RAR members took part. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Habitat
Operation Iguana & Operation Solace
Diggerhistory
An unofficial lay history of the Australian and New Zealand Defence Forces’ deployments. Addresses the 1 RAR Group deployment to Somalia in 1992-3. Accessible at http://www.diggerhistory.info/pages-conflicts-periods/other/somalia.htm
Operation Morrisdance
Wikipedia
B Coy 1 RAR and a tactical HQ from that unit based in Townsville as part of the Operational Deployment Force deployed off Fiji from 14-29 May 1987for a possible Service Protected Evacuation following a coup in Fiji. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Morris_Dance#Background
Operation Kruger
Department of Defence
Includes an overview of Operation Kruger (ending in 2011) in which the ADF provided a range of deployed units including the Security Detachments (SECDETs) which were almost all based on RAR sub-units, and which had started under Operation Catalyst in 2003, and fell under Operation Kruger on 1 July 2008 . The SECDET provided close personal protection for key Australian government officials as well as physical security for the Embassy precinct and protected transport for travel within Baghdad and other areas of Iraq. See https://www.defence.gov.au/operations/Iraq/
Operation Paladin
Department of Defence
Defence overview of Operation Paladin involving RAR personnel in UN observer duties with UN Truce Supervision Organisation (UNTSO) in Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon and Syrian Arab Republic. Accessible at https://www.defence.gov.au/Operations/MiddleEast/
Operation Plumbob
Australian War Memorial
Basic coverage of the operation in the Solomon Islands 2000-2002 that involved elements of 1 RAR within the ADF contribution. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/E84812
Operation Solace
Australian War Memorial
Provides an official overview of the deployment to Somalia of the 1 RAR Battalion Group and support troops and Force HQ. Embedded is a supplement nominal roll to the original Nominal Roll (which can also be accessed through this site). See https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/E84817
Operation Solace
Wikipedia
General coverage with links on the 1 RAR Group-centric deployment to Somalia in 1992-3. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Solace
Operation Solace Nominal roll correct at 2 Mar 93
Australian War Memorial
Official nominal roll of 1 RAR Battalion Group deployed on Operation Solace as part of UNITAF. See https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C2702940
Operation Spire
Department of Defence
From 20 May 2004, the ADF provided approximately 100 personnel to the United Nations’ (UN) mission in East Timor, undertaking a range of roles to support the UN, mainly performing specialist logistics and engineering and military liaison tasks. This summary from the Australian Government Annual Report 2004-05 includes images of 1 RAR band. See https://www.defence.gov.au/AnnualReports/04-05/04_03_outcome1_03_spf.htm
Operation Spitfire (International Force East Timor)
Wikipedia
Operation Spitfire, 6 September 1999 – 19 September 1999, was a special operation in the lead up to INTERFET intervention, involving evacuation of 2,475 Australian and other nominated nationals from East Timor. Access https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Force_East_Timor for context.
Operation Tamar
Australian War Memorial
AWM general coverage of the deployment to Rwanda involving elements of 2 and 2/4 RAR 1994-95. See https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/E84819
Operation Tamar – Rwanda: History in focus
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
DVA’s general history of the deployment to Rwanda that including elements of 2 and 2/4 RAR. Accessible at https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/resources/operation-tamar-rwanda-history-focus
Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands
Wikipedia
RAMSI, also known as Operation Anode, started in 2003 and ended in 2013. Elements of both 1 and 2 RAR were involved in this multinational operation. This site provides an overview of RAMSI and refers to the 1 and 2 RAR commitments. Other RAR individuals were among the 7,270 Australian troops to serve there. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Regional_Assistance_Mission_to_Solomon_Islands
Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands
Wikipedia (Military)
RAMSI, also known as Operation Anode, was carried out 2003-2013. Elements of both 1 and 2 RAR were involved. This site provides an overview of the operation. Accessible at https://military-history.fandom.com/wiki/Regional_Assistance_Mission_to_Solomon_Islands
Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands
Wikipedia
The Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI), also known as Operation Helpem Fren, Operation Anode and Operation Rata (by New Zealand), was created in 2003 and ended in 2017. Involved sub-units and individuals form 1, 2 and 3 RAR. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Regional_Assistance_Mission_to_Solomon_Islands
Remembering Rwanda 25 years later
Australian War Memorial
An overview of the Australian involvement in UNAMIR II in 1994-5 by Australians, the protective element and a HQ for the two contingents including 2 RAR and 2/4 RAR. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/blog/RememberingRwanda
Rwanda (UNAMIR), 1993-1996
Australian War Memorial
An overview of the deployment of the Australian contingents to Rwanda, including company groups from 2 RAR and then 2/4 RAR (minus). See https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/U60680/
Rwanda deployment – FOI Documents 185_1314_ Documents
Department of Defence
Material obtained under FOI covering the intention to deploy a force including elements of 2 RAR to Rwanda. Accessible at https://www.defence.gov.au/FOI/Docs/Disclosures/185_1314_Documents.pdf
Rwanda genocide 25th year Anniversary
RSL Western Australia
A published blog by the wife of a deployed soldier LCPL Hopgood and his experiences during the deployment that involved 2/4 RAR. Accessible at https://www.rslwa.org.au/rwanda-genocide-25th-year-anniversary/
Rwanda (UNAMIR), 1993-1996
Australian War Memorial
AWM’s general coverage of the Australia deployment to Rwanda that included 2 and 2/4 RAR. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/U60680/
RYAN, Allen – Primary responsibilities and risks: Australian Defence Force participation in the International Force East Timor (on line)
Land Warfare Studies Centre, Canberra, 2000
ISBN: 0642295417
Illustrated, maps, bibliography; 146 pages.
Study Paper No 304 covers the deployment of INTERFET on 20 Sep 99 as an important step in international peace enforcement. By the time prime operations were concluded in Feb 00, INTERFET was regarded as arguably the most successful example of a peace mission ever conducted on behalf of the UN. Also accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/sp304_primary_responsibilities_and_primary_risks-alan_ryan.pdf
Security Detachment Iraq (Australia)
Wikipedia
General cover of the SECDETs up to and including SECDET XV. SECDETs were Combat teams based on armoured mobility of rifle companies from most RAR battalions, one was not RAR. SECDET competition up to rotation XV are listed. Accessible at https://military-history.fandom.com/wiki/Security_Detachment_Iraq_(Australia)
Somalia (UNOSOM/UNITAF) 1992-1995
Australian War Memorial
AWM’s official summary of the deployment of an ADF group based on 1RAR Battalion Group as part of the UNITAF in Somalia. See https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/U60684
South Pacific Peacekeeping Force
Wikipedia
Summary of the SPPKF deployment to Bougainville in 1994, known as Operation Lagoon. Force included members of 1 RAR. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Pacific_Peacekeeping_Force
Stuart Ellis interviewed 22 Jul 2004 (Somalia, 2/4 RAR)
UNSW Canberra
Australians at War Film Archive
41mins 5 secs video interview, plus transcript available at this site.
LTCOL Ellis of 2/4 RAR is interviewed about his role commanding a contingent in Somalia. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1960
SUTTON, David – Australians in Operation Iguana – Somalia
Australian War Memorial, Canberra, 2020
Online paper about Operation Iguana, the deployment of Australians to Somalia which includes the core role that the 1 RAR Battle Group played in that force deployment. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/blog/somalia
The Royal Australian Regiment (RAR) – Operation Anode
Nautilus Institute
Online potted history of the involvement of RAR sub-units in Operation Anode (Solomon Islands) starting in 2003 and involving elements of 1, 2 and 3 RAR. Also known as RAMSI and Operation Helpem Fren and Operation Rata (by NZ) Accessible at https://nautilus.org/publications/books/australian-forces-abroad/solomon-islands/the-royal-australian-regiment-rar/
United Nations Protection Force
Wikipedia
General coverage of the UN deployment known as UNPROFOR in Croatia, and in Bosnia and Herzegovin during the Yugoslav Wars 1992-1995 in which some RAR members served as Observers. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_Protection_Force
United Nations Protection Force, Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Macedonia: UNPROFOR (1992-1995)
Australian War Memorial
AWM’s official record of the UNPROFOR deployment. UNPROFOR was established in February 1992 as an interim arrangement to create the conditions of peace and security required for the negotiation of an overall settlement of the Yugoslavian crisis. The role of the UN troops was to ensure that areas designated as “UN Protected Areas” (UNPA) became and remained demilitarized . RAR personnel, including its first commander BRIG JB Wilson, served with UNPROFOR. See https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/CN500140
IRAQ 2003-09 and 2014–ongoing
1 RAR – The First Battalion Association – Iraq
1 RAR summary of the battalion’s deployment of company groups to Iraq, known as SECDETs VIII (B Coy) and SECDET XI (A Coy). See https://www.1rar.org.au/iraq/
Al Multhanna Task Group
Department of Defence
The first AMTG (AMTG-1) deployed to Iraq on 24 April 2005 including a company group from 5/7 RAR, principally responsible for the provision of security for the Japanese Iraqi Reconstruction Group and training of the Iraqi Security Forces. This summary from the Australian Government Annual Report 2004-05 includes images of them. See https://www.defence.gov.au/AnnualReports/04-05/04_03_outcome1_09_spf.htm
Australian contribution to the 2003 invasion of Iraq
Fandom
An overview of the Australian commitment initially in the 2003 invasion of Iraq. Lists a platoon (+) of 4 RAR (Commando) as among that initial deployment. Accessible at https://military-history.fandom.com/wiki/Australian_contribution_to_the_2003_invasion_of_Iraq
Australian contribution to the 2003 invasion of Iraq
Wikipedia
General coverage of the 2003 operations that included elements of 4 RAR (Commando). Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_contribution_to_the_2003_invasion_of_Iraq
Australian contribution to the Iraq War (Operation Catalyst)
Wikipedia
Operation Catalyst was primarily concerned with the follow-on form the 2003 Iraq War. Most RAR provided SECDETs in Baghdad, and also forces based on a battlegroup in Al Muthanna province, the latter having several different names. This force — approximately 500 strong and equipped with armoured vehicles including ASLAVs and Bushmasters – named the Al Muthanna Task Group, commenced operations in April 2005. Following the withdrawal of the Japanese force and the transition of Al Muthanna to Iraqi control the Australian battlegroup relocated to Tallil Air Base in neighbouring Dhi Qar province in July 2006. The name AMTG was subsequently replaced by Overwatch Battle Group (West), reflecting the unit’s new role. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_contribution_to_the_Iraq_War
Australian contribution to the Iraq War (Operation Falconer)
Wikipedia
Operation Falconer was primarily concerned with the 2003 Invasion of Iraq. Aside from RAR individuals in HQ, a platoon + from 4 RAR took part. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_contribution_to_the_Iraq_War
Chronological Guide to the official records – Gulf War (1990-1991)
Australian War Memorial
Gives limited access to Australian army records from the Gulf War due to the 30-year rule under the Archives Act 1983. No RAR units deployed, but RAR individuals featured in some of the reconstruction operations. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/accessing-records-at-the-memorial/findingaids/chronological-guide/gulf
Guide to the Gulf War Collection
Australian War Memorial
Itemises a collection of ephemera for the period 1990-91. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/accessing-records-at-the-memorial/findingaids/special/ephemera/gulf-war
Guide to the Iraq 2003 Collection
Australian War Memorial
Itemises a collection of ephemera for the period 2002-2010. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/accessing-records-at-the-memorial/findingaids/iraq-2003-collection
Gulf War and Iraq
Australian War Memorial
A general history of Australian involvement in the Iraq (1990-91) and then 2003-09 both of which featured RAR involvement, particularly the second commitment. No RAR deployed in its entirety. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/atwar/gulf
Operation Catalyst
6 RAR Association
Features 6 RAR troops in front of guard tower four at Camp Smitty. They are the Infantry Mobility Vehicle (IMV) Platoon, a part of Combat Team Bravo (CBT-B) who operated the Bushmaster IMVs located at Camp Smitty as part of Al Muthanna Task Group 3 (AMTG 3). They had two tasks, to provide a secure environment for the Japanese Iraq Reconstruction and Support Group (JIRSG) and to assist in the training of local Iraqi Army units to take over the defence of their country. Accessible at http://6rarassociation.com/images/RARinIraq/operationcatalyst.html
Operation Okra – Iraq
Australian Government
A Department of Defence site, this one provides running commentary on Operation Okra in Iraq. RAR sub-units can feature. Accessible at https://www1.defence.gov.au/operations/okra
Operation OKRA
Department of Defence
Defence overview of Operation OKRA involving RAR personnel deployed to Iraq. Accessible at https://www.defence.gov.au/operations/okra/
Operation Okra – Iraq
Australian Government
A Department of Defence site, this one provides running commentary on Operation Okra in Iraq. RAR sub-units can feature. Accessible at https://www1.defence.gov.au/operations/okra
Operation OKRA
Wikipedia
A good overview of Operation OKRA which includes RAR personnel in each rotation of Task Force Taji, tasked with the training of Iraqi Army and Police forces. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Okra
Security Detachment Iraq – Australia
Fandom
More commonly known as SECDET, these company sized deployments were primarily RAR sub-unit, mostly with ASLAVs, tasked to provide local security in Baghdad to Australian personnel during the occupation of Iraq early in the 21 Century. This site summarises the fifteen deployments up to 2009. Accessible at https://military-history.fandom.com/wiki/Security_Detachment_Iraq_(Australia)
Security Detachment – Iraq
Wikipedia
Seventeen Security Detachments (SECDET) of combat team size served in Baghdad, Iraq from 2003 to 2010. The last was a HQ only. All included representation from the RAR, including 1, 2, 3 5/7 and 6 RAR. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Security_Detachment_Iraq_(Australia)
TEWES, Alex – Operation Bastille: forces and likely tasks for Australia’s contribution to the war in Iraq
Department of the Parliamentary Library, Canberra, 2003
ISSN: 1440-2009
Maps, photographs; six pages.
A brief for parliament which refers to 4 RAR (Commando). Also accessible at https://www.aph.gov.au/About_Parliament/Parliamentary_Departments/Parliamentary_Library/Publications_Archive/CIB/cib0203/03cib11
The Second Gulf War: 2003-09
Australian War Memorial
A general history of Australia’s deployment to Iraq for a second time(2003-09) which featured all RARs, primarily through the provision of SECDETS and OWBGs. No RAR deployed in its entirety. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/atwar/secondgulfwar
AFGHANISTAN 2006-2021
1 RAR – The First Battalion Association – Afghanistan
1 RAR summary of the battalion’s service in Afghanistan including company groups (Security Task Groups) in Reconstruction Task Force 2 in 2006-7, and the battalion as the core unit of Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force 2 in 2009-10. See https://www.1rar.org.au/1-rar-campaigns/afghanistan/
ABC Four Corners – The enemy within
Reporters Quentin McDermott and Clay Hichens
Examination of the events leading to the murder of three Australian soldiers on 29 August 2012 in Afghanistan including RAR members. No longer viewable but the transcript is available at http://www.abc.net.au/4corners/the-enemy-within/5846588
Afghanistan: 2001-present
Australian War Memorial
A general history of Australia’s deployment to Afghanistan which features all RARs. No RAR deployed in its entirety. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/atwar/afghanistan
Afghanistan Avenue of Honour
Created by the Youngaburra community North Queensland, this location commemorates Australians KIA in Afghanistan, including RAR members. See Honour Roll at http://www.avenueofhonour.com.au/honour-roll/
Australian Army – The Longest War: The Australian Army in Afghanistan
Interactive site with 22 sections covering many aspects of the Australian experience in the War on Terror in Afghanistan. See
https://www.army.gov.au/sites/g/files/net1846/f/minisite/static/18411/The%20Longest%20War/index.html
Afghanistan – Operation Highroad
Australian Government
A Department of Defence site, this one provides running commentary on Operation Highroad in Afghanistan. RAR units/sub-units can feature. Accessible at https://www1.defence.gov.au/operations/highroad
BRANGWIN, Nicole – Australia’ military involvement in Afghanistan since 2001 – a chronology
Parliament of Australia
Data assembled by
Correct to 16 Jul 2010, provides an official summary of the subject, and includes three detailed appendices about Operation Slipper including those ADF personnel Killed in Action (17 at the time of this release). Mentions most RAR battalions. See https://www.aph.gov.au/About_Parliament/Parliamentary_Departments/Parliamentary_Library/pubs/BN/1011/MilitaryInvolvementAfghanistan
Brereton Report
Wikipedia
General coverage of the 2020 Inspector-General of the Australian Defence Forces Afghanistan Inquiry Report into allegations of war atrocities in Afghanistan involving elements of the SOTG of which 2nd Commando Regiment Formerly 4 RAR (Cdo) was a part for some of the time involved. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brereton_Report
Guide to the Afghanistan Collection
Australian War Memorial
Itemises a collection of ephemera for the period 2001-present. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/findingaids/Guide-to-the-Afghanistan-Collection-2001-present
Inspector-General of the Australian Defence Forces Afghanistan Inquiry Report
Commonwealth of Australia, Canberra, 2020
ISSN: 2207-6050 (print)
22076069 (online)
References; 465 pages including introductions.
Also known as the Brereton Report official titled Questions of unlawful conduct concerning the Special Operations Task Group in Afghanistan by Major-General The Hon PLG Brereton AM, RFD, this is the redacted version released to the public. It mentions 4RAR (Commando) when referring to 2nd Commando Regiment. For the online version, see https://afghanistaninquiry.defence.gov.au/sites/default/files/2020-11/IGADF-Afghanistan-Inquiry-Public-Release-Version.pdf
Mentoring Task Force 1
Wikipedia.
Mounted out of 7th Brigade and based on 6 RAR, MTF 1 deployed in 2010-11 to Afghanistan. A general history with multiple internal links.
See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mentoring_Task_Force_One
Mentoring Task Force 2 (A Short history of the second Australian Mentoring Task Force)
5 RAR Association Website
Mounted from 27 units of the ADF and based on 5 RAR, MTF 2 deployed in 2012 to Afghanistan. A general history. See https://www.5rar.asn.au/articles/mtf-2-afghanistan.htm
Military history of Australia during the war in Afghanistan
Wikipedia
A general online history of Australian deployments in Afghanistan for 2002 to 2016. Updated periodically. Mentions RAR units who were deployed for most of this time. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Military_history_of_Australia_during_the_War_in_Afghanistan
PALAZZO, Albert – The Australian Army and the war in Iraq 2002-2010
Australian Army, Canberra, 2011
ISBN: Nil
Illustrated, tables, charts, footnotes, bibliography; 572 pages.
Prepared under the auspices of the Directorate of Army Research and Analysis, this now-declassified and redacted paper (initially SECRET AUSTEO) examines the background to and the conduct of the war in Iraq from an Australian perspective. RAR contributions and SECDETS, mostly provided by RAR battalions, are mentioned. Accessible at https://apo.org.au/node/74411
The Longest War: The Australian Army in Afghanistan
Australian Army, Army Learning Production Centre
Narrated by David Wenham, The Longest War is a documentary detailing the Australian Army’s experience in Afghanistan where all RAR battalions have deployed at least company groups. The product has been developed as a standalone, historical recount but can be used to enhance and supplement components of face-to-face training and/or broader professional development activities. For those with DRN access, see http://drnet.defence.gov.au/ARMY/ALPC . For a general overview see also https://www.army.gov.au/our-heritage/history/history-focus/australian-army-afghanistan
Successful rotation for Special Operations Task Group comes to an end
Department of Defence
SFTG/SOTG included multiple rotations through Afghanistan. These a platoon of 4 RAR (Cdo) on Rotations 1,2 ,4,5,6,8/9 before 4 RAR was renamed 2 Cdo Regt. A summary by the commander of t 18 in February 2013 gives an indication of the nature of fighting and other work carried out by the SFTG/SOTG, very few unclassified sources are accessible aside from this one. See https://news.defence.gov.au/media/stories/successful-rotation-special-operations-task-group-comes-end
War in Afghanistan 2001-2021
Wikipedia
A site which addresses the war form start to end; time during which all RARs committed troops in one way or the other. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_in_Afghanistan_(2001%E2%80%932021)
HUMANITARIAN/DEFENCE AID TO THE CIVIL COMMUNITY
(Civilian Humanitarian Disaster ops (incl Darwin 1975 and other cyclones and floods, overseas eg PNG, Indian Ocean, and lately, Border Operations, and DACC (non-disaster) eg Olympics and Commonwealth Games and other government support eg APEC, G20)
1 RAR – The First Battalion Association – Townsville floods 2012
1 RAR operated in Defence Force Aid to the Civil community in 2012 during the floods of that year. See coverage at https://www.1rar.org.au/townsville/
LEWIS, Tom, OAM – Why no medal for Cyclone Tracy?
Military history and Heritage Victoria, Melbourne, 2023
An article about Cyclone Tracey, the biggest peacetime disaster in Australia’ history and to which the ADF deployed, including 5/7 RAR and then 6 RAR as part of Field Force Group Darwin. No medal was ever awarded, and this paper argues for one. Accessible at https://www.mhhv.org.au/why-no-medal-for-cyclone-tracy/
FUTURE/NEXT
1 RAR boning up on anti-armour weapons
Veteranweb
Short article on 1 RAR weapon training in 2023 with the conduct of unit anti-armour training focussing on the 84 mm Carl Gustav. Accessible at https://veteranweb.asn.au/news/1rar-boning-up-on-anti-armour-weapons/
Australian Army
Wikipedia
General outline of the Army including the brigades in which all RARs sit. This site links to many others for the RAR researcher. Accessible at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_Army
The COVE
Australian Army
The Cove is an online professional development network for the Australian Army hosted on the World Wide Web, thereby allowing access to Professional Military Education (PME) anywhere, anytime. It provides quality resources through its daily publishing of digital content and acts as a platform for the contest of ideas and promoting ground-up innovation. The Cove is designed to connect Defence members together into a professional network, based on their professional interests and/or level of experience. It includes five segments for different interest groups: Trenchline, Break In, Command Post, War Room and Unity PME. Not just an RAR resource, but a major source of what RAR individuals and units may be doing. Interactive. See https://cove.army.gov.au/about-the-cove
Operation Kudu (Ukraine)
ABC, 2013
5 RAR provided the basis of 70 initial trainers to contribute to a larger British training effort to support the Ukrainian armed forces, commencing in early 2013. Initial information accessible at https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-01-17/australian-troops-bound-for-uk-to-train-forces/101865504
