GENERAL

 

This Part provides details of publications and other materials generated by individuals, telling their own or others’ factual stories without official backing to do so. They differ from Part 2 mainly on the basis that the individual author/s are responsible for their product, not the organisation from which they came or write about.

 

ANONYMOUS – Stories of Australians at War

ABC Books Australia, Sydney, 2002

ISBN: 0733310788

236 pages.

Contains short personal exploits from the Boer War to the First Gulf War, and Peacekeeping operations.

 

A Tribute to WO2 John William (Jack) Roughley

Point and Shoot Online

A short story of the career of Roughley who served with K Force in Japan and Korea, then 6 RAR and AATTV in Vietnam. Accessible at https://pointandshoot.online/tribute-to-wo2-john-william-jack-roughley/

 

BEALE, Pat DSO, MC – Operation Orders: The experiences of an Infantry Officer: Malaya, PNG, Vietnam 1963-1970

Australian Military History Publications, Loftus NSW, 2003

ISBN: 1876439513

Index, 141 pages.

Contains descriptions of service in Malaysia, including operations in Borneo with 3RAR during the period 1963-65. Also included is service in Papua New Guinea during 1967-69 and operations in Vietnam with the AATTV during 1970-71.

 

BOVILL, Kevin

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

42 mins 03 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Bovill (1 RNZIR and 2 RAR) who served in Malaya, Borneo and Vietnam. He served in both the NZ and Australian Army including SASR in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/543

 

BEARD, Donald

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

42 mins 02 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Beard, a Regimental Medical Officer (BCOF and 3 RAR) who saw operational service in Japan, Korea and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1187

 

 

BEVAN, Scott – Battle Lines: Australian Artists at War

Random House Australia, Milson’s Point NSW, 2004

ISBN: 1740513290

Bibliography, paintings; 310 pages.

War artists from the Vietnam War through to the First Gulf War, Iraq and Timor including by an ex-RAR soldier who became a war artist.

 

BRADY, Kevin (Butch)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 58 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Brady (2 RAR and 6 RAR) who served in Malaya and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1458

 

BRAMMER, Graham G – Bat on! Chaps: the Bob Parker Story

Hesperian Press, Victoria Park WA, 2015

ISBN: 9780859056175

B & W photographs; 84 pages.

A biography which concentrates on the Parker’s service, having served in WW II first, in Korea with the RAR, and as a POW in a North Korean camp.

 

BRUMFIELD, Lou

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 56 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Brumfield (1 RAR and 3 RAR) in Japan, Korea and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1833

 

BURGESS, Pat – Warco: Australian Reporters at War

William Heinemann Australia, Melbourne, 1986

ISBN: 0855610565

Index, Bibliography, Illustrated maps; 254 pages.

Addresses the period of the Vietnam War and beyond from a war correspondence’s perspective.

 

BURNS, John

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

37 mins 52 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Burns (1 RAR,) who served in Korea, Malaya and Borneo. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/634

 

CALLENDER, Garth – After Blast: AN Australian Officer in Iraq and Afghanistan

Black Inc/Schwartz Publishing, Collingwood VIC, 2019

ISBN: 9781863957380

Colour photographs; 247 pages. Also in e-book format at ISBN 9781925203301

RAR Author’s story; WIA on his first tour of Iraq with SECDET V, returned for a second tour as 2IC of SECDET IX. These were followed by a tour of duty of Afghanistan. Parent units (RAR battalions) are mentioned.

 

CANNARD, Patricia and SHEPPARD, Monica (Editors) – The Digger’s Own Stories

The Third Battalion Royal Australian Regiment Corporation / Victory Press Printing, Bribie Island, 2009

ISBN: Vol 1 9780 9807020 0 2  

ISBN: Vol 2 9780 9807020 1 9

Vol 1 – captioned photographs; 342 pages.

Vol 2 – list of authors; 348 pages.

Over 250 personal stories, letters, tributes and poems. Articles comprising

personal stories, extracted from 21 years of 3RAR journal (Old Faithful) from every conflict in which 3RAR has served from Korea to Afghanistan. 150 authors, including ironically, Chin Peng, the leader of the enemy during the Malayan Emergency 1948-60 and then the Communist Insurgency/Second Malaysian Emergency 1968-89, the latter of which involved all RAR battalions through the provision of Rifle Company Butterworth.

 

CAULFIELD, Michael (Editor) – Voices of War: Stories from the Australians at War Film Archive

Hodder Australia, 2006

ISBN 10: 0733620507

ISBN-13: 978-0733620508

Index, credits, 451 pages.

The stories of ordinary Australians caught up by circumstances, and by duty. Personal stories of participants in all wars from WW 1 to Somalia. 1, 2 & 7 RAR are mentioned.

 

CARR, Martin

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 41 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Carr (2/4 RAR and 3 RAR) who served in UN operations and Gulf War 1991. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2030

 

CLARK, LG and NIXON Marion – Bulldust Baffles Brains

Marion Nixon Pty Ltd, Crawley WA, 1992 (1st Edition, 1997 (2^nd Edition)

ISBN: 0 606 11080 2

Cartoons by Paul Rigby; 152 pages.

A supported autobiography that includes time in Japan and then Korea (with 3 RAR), part of a lifelong story that includes service with the SASR in Vietnam.

 

CLARK, Charles & FREDERICK, Arthur – My Other Family: the life and times of a boy soldier

No publishing details

ISBN: Nil

 Colour and black & white photographs; 113 pages.

Autobiography that starts with his birth and continues through his service in Australia, Korea and Vietnam with the RAR.

 

CLAYTON, Nigel – Australian Infantry

This book has the same content as KELLY, Simon – The Long Road To Rwanda

Nigel Clayton (self published), 2005

ISBN: 0 9757409 0 3

Glossary, 172 pages.

This compilation of short stories takes the reader on a journey through 16 years of service in the RA Inf/RAR. It includes peace time training and time on operations, from 1981 to 1996.

 

COBLEY, Colonel Philip (Tom) – The Final Tally 1969-2009

The London Press, London, 2009

ISBN: 978-1-905006-96-0

ISBN: 9781905006991 (pbk) – 384 pages

Index, 278 pages.

An autobiography of his military career spanning forty years from entry to RMC Duntroon in 1969 for service in the Australian Army and thereafter in the British Army. Chapter Four covers his service in the RAR during the period 1976 -1984.

 

CONNOLLY, Bram – The commando way: A special forces commander’s lessons for life, leadership and success

Allen & Unwin, Crows Nest NSW, 2020

ISBN: 9781760528638

Illustrated, 243 pages.

Author served in 1 and 4 RAR and then 2^nd Commando Regiment. Service in all three feature in this book which includes serve in Somalia, East Timor and Afghanistan.

 

CORRIGAN, Brian – In Harm’s Way

Pan MacMillian Australia, 2008

ISBN: 9781405038676

ISBN: 9781742624853 (e-book)

ISBN-10: 1405038675

Colour plates; 261 pages.

In late 2006 Brian Corrigan led an SAS team into Lebanon to retrieve the two small children of Melissa Hawach. In Harm’s Way is Brian’s story of what happened in Lebanon – their daring rescue mission and subsequent capture. Includes details of Corrigan’s background, and service with 3RAR and his two tours of East Timor prior to leaving the Australian Army. Several different ISBN identified.

 

COSGROVE, Peter General – My Story

Harper Collins Publishers Australia Pty Ltd, 2006

ISBN: 0732283841

ISBN: 9780730445180

ISBN 10: 0730445186

Index, 468 pages.

General Cosgrove’s autobiography includes his service with 1RAR in Malaysia 1969; 9RAR and the 1^st ATF Defence & Employment Platoon in Vietnam 1969-1970; 5/7 RAR, CO 1 RAR and later, command of HQ 1^st Div/DJFHQ, and INTERFET in East Timor 1999-2000, then CGS and CDF.

 

COSGROVE, Sir Peter – You shouldn’t have joined … : a memoir

Allen & Unwin, Crows Nest NSW, 2020

ISBN: 9781760878528

Illustrations; 440 pages.

Autobiography of General Sir Peter Cosgrove who served at every level of command in the RAR, and the ADF, retiring from service at the Governor-General.

 

COSGROVE, Sir Peter – You shouldn’t have joined … : a memoir (Second Edition)

Allen & Unwin, Crows Nest NSW, 2021

ISBN: 9781761065019

Illustrations; 369 pages.

Second edition autobiography of General Sir Peter Cosgrove who served at every level of command in the RAR, and the ADF, retiring from service at the Governor-General.

 

CRUICKSHANK, James (Jim)

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

40 mins 54 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Cruickshank (1 RAR, 3RAR 6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC) who saw operational service in Korea and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/770

 

CRUICKSHANK, James Arthur ‘Jim’ – In the Sun Down Under: Recollections and Memories

Self-published, Self-funded, 1977 (1st Edition), 2002 (2^nd Edition)

ISBN: Nil

Hardbound volume held by family, copy 2^nd Edition also in RARA Office.

A personal recollection of his service and family life in the British Royal Marines and the Australian Army with particular reference to his service with the RAR in Korea and Vietnam. Copy procurable through Registrar.

 

CULLINAN, Patrick – White Sherpas: Reaching the top in the Bicentennial Everest Expedition

Barrallier Books, West Geelong VIC, 2013

ISBN: 9780987414281

Illustrated, index; 362 pages.

An account of the preparation for and the 1988 conquest of Mount Everest by a group of Australians including the author who served in the RAR. Other RAR members and their battalions are mentioned in the book.

 

DALTON, Donald

UNSW, Canberra, online

38 mins 34 sec video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Dalton who served with 1 RAR and 5 RAR and the AATTV. Service was in Korea, Malaya and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1008

 

DEAN, Francis (Frank)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 33 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Dean (BCOF, 1 RAR) who served in Japan and Korea, and then Malaya. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1347

 

DEAN, Kevin ‘ Dasher’, OAM – We who serve

Inhouse publishing,  Australia, 2020

ISBN: not identified

Illustrated, 83 pages.

An autobiography of Dean who served with 2 RAR at The Hook in Korea, and later in the Malayan Emergency also with 2 RAR. A founding member of the 2 RAR Association. Compiled and edited by Jackie FERRO.

 

DEFENCE WIDOWS SUPPORT GROUP ACT, (Compilers) – Here There and Away, Voices of the families of those who served

Big Sky Publishing Pty Ltd, Newport NSW, Australia

ISBN: 9781922132161 (pbk)

Bibliography; 297 pages.

A unique collection of heart- warming and entertaining stories from the families of ex-servicemen across the three branches of the ADF. The RAR is well represented.

 

DEPT OF VETERANS’ AFFAIRS – Simply Hell Let Loose: Stories of Australians at War

ABC Books – Australia, Sydney, 2002

ISBN: 0733310788

ISBN: 9780733310782

Book and braille editions; 236 pages.

Contains short personal exploits from the Boer War to the Gulf War, and Peacekeeping operations. One story is of a 2RAR sniper in Korea, Pte Cyril ‘Frenchy’ Ray.

 

DICKENS, Barry – Ordinary Heroes: Personal recollections of Australians at War

Hardie Grant Books, Melbourne, 1999

ISBN: 9781864981032

312 pages.

Records the author’s frank interviews with ordinary Australians who found themselves involved in the most nightmarish events of the twentieth century. An RAR South Vietnam veteran is interviewed. Several ISBNs.

 

DURANT, Stephan

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 57 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Durant (1 RAR and 2 RAR) who served in Malaya and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2348

 

EASTERBY, Tony

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

42 mins 02 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Easterby (2 RAR and 4 RAR) who served in Borneo and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2182

 

ELLIS, Hubert (Hugh or Punchy)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 25 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Ellis (AATTV and the RAR) who served in BCOF Japan, Korea and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2233

 

ESSEX-CLARK, John – Maverick Soldier: An Infantryman’s Story

Melbourne University Press, Melbourne, 1991

ISBN: 0522844537

Index; 237 pages.

The autobiography of an infantryman who rose to the rank of brigadier from private soldier during several post-WW II campaigns in the South African and Australian armies.

 

ESSEX-CLARK, John DSM – Hassett: Australian Leader

Australian Military History Publications, Loftus NSW, 2005

ISBN: 1876439653

Index, bibliography; 293 pages.

The biography of General Sir Francis Hassett includes detail of his command of 3RAR in Korea during 1951-52, especially the Battle of Maryang San in October 1951.

 

FAIRBROTHER, Barry

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

40 mins 53 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Fairbrother (1 RAR and 4 RAR) who also served in Malaya, Borneo and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2210

 

FAULKNER, Andrew – Stone Cold: the extraordinary true story of Len Opie Australia’s Deadliest Soldier

Allen & Unwin, Crows Nest, 2016

ISBN: 9781742373782

Index; 320 pages.

Through three wars, Len Opie carved a reputation as one of the country’s greatest infantrymen. This book takes the reader into New Guinea and Borneo and some of the fiercest battles of World War II. It goes to the cold heart of Korea, where Len emerged from the ranks to fight in the Battles of Kapyong and Maryang San. And it drops the reader into the centre of the American counterinsurgency war in Vietnam with Len’s involvement in the CIA’s shadowy black ops program, Phoenix.

 

FIELD, Paul – Gimme Shelter: Stories of courage, endurance and survival from the frontline and back home

Echo Publishing, Richmond VIC, 2017

ISBN: 9781760404352

Images; 291 pages.

A compilation of twenty stories of men and women including Vietnam, East Timor and Afghanistan veterans, some with struggles in both war and thereafter having returned to everyday life after military (and other) service. Includes individuals who served with the RAR.

 

GIBBONS, Margaret – 50^th Anniversary The Royal Australian Regiment 1948-1998: Remember the Green Parrot

The RAR Association Queensland Branch, Brisbane, 1998

ISBN: Nil

67 pages.

Poems of events, activities and characters of the Regiment from its first 50 years.

 

GIBBONS, Margaret – The RAR’s National Memorial Walk

The RAR Association Queensland Branch, Brisbane, 2010

ISBN:Nil

30 pages.

A brief history of the Walk’s establishment and those who made it happen. Includes photographs and an Honour Roll.

 

GIBBONS, Margaret – March to Hoop-de-do

Self Published, Brisbane, 2012

ISBN: Nil

Colour photos, A4; 28 pages.

A book of 14 poems dedicated to soldiers who have served with 2RAR and other RAR battalions. Each poem is illustrated with a coloured photo and preceded with a short story which provides a poignant background to the poem.

 

GREY, Jeffrey – A Soldier’s Soldier: A Biography of Lieutenant-General Sir Thomas Daly, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge , 2013

ISBN 10: 1107031273

ISBN 13: 9781107031272

Index, References, 264 pages.

Daly was a renowned soldier and one of the most influential figures in Australia’s military history. As Chief of the General Staff during the Vietnam War, he oversaw a significant re-organisation of the Army during that war under political and resource restrictions.

 

GREY, Jeffrey – Australian brass: the career of Lieutenant General Sir Horace Robertson

Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 1992

ISBN: 0521401577

Illustrations, index, bibliography 262 pages.

A biography of Robertson who, in the RAR’s time, commanded Australian forces in both Japan and Korea, including 1, 2 and 3 RAR.

 

HESELTINE, Harry (Editor) –The Shock of Battle: Occasional Paper No. 16

UNSW, Australian Defence Force Academy, Campbell ACT, no date

ISBN: 0731700880

Bib ID: 2616775

Bibliography; 182 pages.

Contains a series of papers on ‘battle shock;’ includes Vietnam and some RAR references.

 

HOLMES, Peter – Korea and Beyond: A Biography of Lieutenant Colonel Maurie Pears MC R Aust Inf

Peter Lloyd Holmes Publications, Reedy Creek QLD, 2018

ISBN 10: 0992363942

ISBN 13: 9780992363949

Index, Bibliography, B & W and colour photographs; 227 pages.

A biography of Australian Korean War hero and businessman based in Papua New Guinea and Australia, covering his military service in the RAR and post-Army life.

 

HUGHES, James

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 33 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Hughes (3 RAR and 4 RAR) who served in Korea, Malaya, Borneo and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1109

 

HUTCHINSON, Garrie – Eyewitness: Australians write from the front line

Black Inc, Australia, 2005

ISBN: 9782863951661

Index, photographs; 464 pages.

A series of stories written by veterans including RAR members. Interesting to compare what WW I and II veterans said compared to those from more recent deployments.

 

ISAKSSON, OH – Encounters in Asia: a soldier’s story

Centre for the Study of Australia-Asia Relations, Faculty of International Business and Politics, Griffith University, Brisbane,1997

ISBN: 0868577855

Bibliography; 65 page monograph.

Author served in Japan, Korea and Malaya in the RAR.

 

KELLY, Simon – The Long Road To Rwanda

This book has the same content as CLAYTON, Nigel – Australian Infantry

Meni Publishing & Binding, Cranbrook Vic, 2006

ISBN: 978 0 9757409 7 2

Glossary; 244 pages.

This compilation of short stories takes the reader on a journey through   16 years of service in the RA Inf/RAR. It includes peace time training and time on operations from 1981 to 1996.

 

KENNY, Ross MM – Duty First Can Be Fun

Self-published; location and date published TBA

ISBN: Unknown

Includes coloured photos, 34 pages.

This is a self-depreciating humorous look at an impressive career which spanned over 30 years as he rose through the ranks from private to major and served in over a dozen different countries while doing so.

 

Kevin Wheatley

Wikipedia

General coverage of the military career of WO 2 Kevin ‘Dasher’ Wheatley, VC who was killed in action in Vietnam. Having also served in the Malayan Emergency, Wheatley served with 1, 2 and 3 RAR before his final posting to the AATTV. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevin_Wheatley

 

KEYS, Sir William – Flowers in Winter: Defeating cancer – a Westerner’s Chinese journey

Allen & Unwin, Sydney, 1996

ISBN10: 1863738142

ISBN13: 9781863738149

Illustrated; 216 pages.

Author served in Korea with 3 RAR primarily as Adjutant, in 28^th British Commonwealth Brigade, during which he was awarded the Military Cross. He later went on through ascending appointments in the RSL being awarded the KB, AC, OBE and several other awards.

 

 LAFFIN, John – Digger: The Legend of the Australian Soldier

Cassell and Company, 1959,1960

ISBN: 0333414705

McMillan, 1986, 1990

ISBN: 0-7251 0594 1

Index, 296 pages.

The RAR and SASR are mentioned briefly, with individuals and place names in the Index. Multiple reprints exist with each edition having its unique value to the researcher.

 

LANGDON, Rob – The Seventh Circle: former Australian soldier’s extraordinary story of surviving seven years in Afghanistan’s most notorious prison

Allen & Unwin, Crows Nest NSW, 2017

ISBN: 978 1 76029 640 7

304 pages.

An autobiography of a person who served in 1 RAR in the Solomon Islands and East Timor prior to leaving the army and working in the private security sector overseas including Iraq and then Afghanistan where the bulk of this story is set. Includes photographs of the author and other identifiable individuals.

 

LAVERTY, Barry (Bazza)

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

42 mins 01 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Laverty (3 RAR and 5 RAR) who saw operational service in Malaya and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1293

 

LENNOX, Gina – Forged by War: Australians in combat and back home

Melbourne University Press, Carlton VIC, 2005

ISBN: 0 522 851711

Notes, no index; 326 pp.

Australian veterans including General Peter Cosgrove and other RAR veterans and their families discuss war and how it has changed their lives, and the personal consequences of military service on family relationships.

 

LOGAN, George (Jock)

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

41 mins 22 secs

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Logan (2 RAR, 3 RAR, & AATTV) who served in Malaya, Borneo and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1079

 

LOWRY, Robert – The Last Knight, A Biography of General Sir Phillip Bennett AC, KBE, DSO

Big Sky Publishing, Newport NSW, 2011

ISBN: 9780980814040 (hbk)

Index, bibliography, 409 pages.

Bennett’s story is not only one of battles and heroic exploits, but also a story of the contest for ‘policy dominance’ between the civil servants and the military leadership, illustrating what was involved in forging the foundations of the Australian Defence Force. He was the last Knight to command the Australian Defence Force while serving.

 

LINDSAY, Patrick –The Spirit Of The Digger: Then and Now

Pan Macmillan Australia, Sydney, 2003

ISBN: 0732911818

Index; 324 pages.

Deals with the Australian soldier from the First Fleet to Afghanistan. Many personal experiences from members of the RAR included.

 

LINDSAY, Patrick – The Spirit of the Digger

Harper Collins, Sydney, 2011

ISBN: 978 0 7322 9275 (pbk)

Index, references; 320 pages.

This second edition, with the shorter name, also lists the 27 soldiers KIA in Afghanistan as at the time of publication, most of whom were, or had served in, the RAR.

 

MACKAY, Ian (Chuck, Big Mac)

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

40 mins 43 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Mackay (2 RAR, 6 RAR and AATTV) who served in Malaya, Vietnam and Afghanistan. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1501

 

MALLETT, Ashley – The digger’s doctor: the fortunate life of Colonel Donald Beard AM, RFD, ED (Retd)

Wakefield Press, Kent Town (SA), 2014

Illustrated, index; 211 pages.

Beard served as a doctor in both Korea and Vietnam, treating members of the RAR. This book includes details of his experiences in treating wounded soldiers including those from the RARs at the time he deployed.

 

MANSFORD, George – The Spirit of Australia: A Collection of Short Stories and Verse

George Mansford, Gordonvale, 2016

ISBN: 978-0-646-91283-7

“Warrie” George provides immense insights to service in the RAR with this publication. Some specific and some general, these stories and poems address the camaraderie, mateship, sacrifice, humour and other sentiments with which everyone to have served in the RAR can immediately associate.

 

Mark Direen

Point and Shoot Online

A short story of the career of this 1 RAR and SASR soldier who served in East Timor, Iraq and Afghanistan including as a sniper in both. Accessible at https://pointandshoot.online/mark-direen/

 

McCULLOCH, Allyn

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

42 mins 01 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features McCulloch (1 RAR, 3 RAR, 4 RAR and 9 RAR) who served in Malaya, Borneo and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1661

 

McKELVEY, Ben – The Commando: The Life and death of Cameron Baird, VC, MG

Hachette Australia, Sydney, 2017

ISBN: 9780733636493

Index, 2 Commando Honour Roll, 341 pages.

A biography of Cameron Baird who served in East Timor, Iraq and Afghanistan, The first two with 4 RAR before and during its conversion through 4 RAR (Cdo) to 2 Commando Regiment.

 

MEEHAN, Robert (Compiler) – RAR Buddies: “What a Bloody Laugh”

Zeus Publications, Burleigh QLD, 2013

ISBN: 978-1-92229-11-3 (pbk)

298 pages.

A wide-ranging collection of about 130 soldier stories from across most deployments in which RAR members have served. Highly insightful material which gives a soldier’s perspective of life in the Regiment. Language warning is provided by the author – he quotes some sources verbatim.

 

MEEHAN, Robert OAM (Compiler) – RAR Buddies: “Still Bloody Laughing”

Zeus Publications, Burleigh QLD, 2015

ISBN: 978-1-92229-63-2 (pbk)

380 pages.

A follow-on publication to the 2013 book by a similar name (see above). Another wide-ranging collection of about 200 soldier stories from across most deployments in which RAR members have served. Highly insightful material which gives a soldier’s perspective of life in the Regiment. Language warning is provided by the author – he quotes some sources verbatim.

 

MCFARLANE, Brian – We Band of Brothers

Brian W McFarlane, Bowral NSW, 2000

ISBN: 0646388495

Bibliographical references, index; 449 pages.

Covers the author’s early life, his time in school cadets, national service officer training and overseas service in Malaya, Papua New Guinea and South Vietnam.

 

MOFFITT, Anthony ‘Harry” – Eleven bats: a story of combat, cricket and the SAS

 Allen & Unwin, Crows Nest NSW, 2020

ISBN: 9781760877842

Illustrations; 384 pages.

Autobiography of a Special Forces soldier who served in East Timor, Iraq and Afghanistan for a total of 11 tours of duty. Mentions RARs in his book.

 

MORRISON, Alan

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

42 mins 01secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Morrison (BCOF, 2 RAR and 9 RAR) who served in Korea, Japan and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/669

 

MORRISON, Major Robert (RAAC) (Compiler)- The Warrior Poets: An Anthology: Poetry of The Australian Army 1901-2001

Australian Military History Publications, Loftus NSW, 2001

ISBN: 1876439149

(Index, bibliography; 435 pages. CD included.

Covers poetry from the BCOF through all campaigns and peacekeeping operations that the RAR participated in up to 2001.

 

MUGGLETON, Thomas (Tom)

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

41 mins 35 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Muggleton (3 RAR and 5 RAR) who saw operational service in Japan and Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1687

 

NAUGHTON, Michael (The man)

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

39 mins 30 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Naughton an RMO serving at times with RAR units in Malaya, Borneo and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1045

 

NEAVE, Denny – Aussie Soldier: Up Close and Personal

Big Sky Publishing, Wavell Heights QLD, 2008

ISBN: 9780980325119

Index, bibliography; 316 pages.

Mainly includes anecdotes from over 200 Australian soldiers covering all conflicts involving the RAR at the time of publication.

 

NEAVE, Denny (Editor) – SOLDIERS’ TALES

Big Sky Publishing, Wavell Heights QLD, 2008

ISBN: 9780980325133

Photos, 182 pages.

A collection of stories that are entertaining, emotional and humorous. The RAR is well represented.

 

NEAVE, Denny (Editor) – SOLDIERS’ TALES # 2

Big Sky Publishing, Wavell Heights QLD, 2012

ISBN: 9781921941795 (pbk)

Photos, 176 pages.

Soldier’s Tales # 2 is a further unique collection of personal accounts told by soldiers or relatives who have lived with their soldiers’ stories. The RAR is well represented.

 

NEAVE, Denny, TRAILL, Gordon and McCULLAGH, Catherine – Unconquered: Our Wounded Heroes

Big Sky Publishing, Newport NSW, 2019

ISBN: 978-1-925675-98-6

Index, illustrated, 264 pages.

This book is a personal and human account of the trauma of armed conflict and suffering that can continue long after battle is over. It highlights the power of the individual to overcome fear, wounds both mental and physical, and lifelong disability, inspiring others to cope with their own challenges. Mentions some RAR battalions and individuals.

 

PARRY, Winston (Bill)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

40 mins 55 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Parry (2 RAR, 3 RAR, 8 RAR, AATTV) who served in Borneo and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1329

 

PARRY, Bill – A Walk thru Life

Self-published, Alderley QLD, 2001

ISBN: 09579513 0 2

193 pages.

Author’s story of his service in Malaya, Borneo, Vietnam and Malaysia. Supported by short stories and poems.

 

PARRY, Bill – We Were There in the RAR

Immaculate Heart Printhall, Baguio City Philippines, 2005

ISBN: 0957951329

289 pages.

True stories about the RAR’s commitments on active service and peace keeping missions from the Korean War to Iraq as at the time of publication.

 

PARRY, Bill – Battle Heroes and Humour in the RAR

New Baguio Offset Press, Philippines, 2007

ISBN: 0957951337

302 pages.

True stories, humour and poems from at home and abroad from Korea to Vietnam. It captures the ethos of life in the RAR.

 

PATTERSON, Rob – From Vietnam to Timor: misfit, missionary or mercenary

Australian Military History Publications, Loftus NSW, 2006

ISBN:9781876439644

Black and white illustrations, index: 171 pages.

Author served in Vietnam, retiring as a Major in 1989. Since then he has worked in Humanitarian Aid for both Care Australia and the United Nations. This work has taken him from Kurdistan, Bosnia, Croatia, Solomon Islands, PNG, and two periods in East Timor. RARs are mentioned.

 

PAYNE, Keith VC, AM – No one left behind

MacMillan, Sydney, 2021

ISBN: 9781760984700

Index; glossary; 432 pages.

Autobiography, including Payne’s military career that included operational deployments with the RAR to Korea, Malay and Vietnam (AATTV member), the latter in which he was awarded the Victoria Cross. Also addresses his life beyond the Army. Foreword provided by Mark McDonald VC (Afghanistan).

 

PERKINS, Ronald (Ron)

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

40 mins 10 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Perkins (3 RAR and AATTV) who saw operational service in Korea and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1271

 

PRASCEVIC, James – Returned Soldier: My Battles: Timor, Iraq, Afghanistan, Depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Melbourne Books, Melbourne, 2014

ISBN: 978-1-922129-41-3

16page colour section, 280 pages.

The author’s story of service with 1 RAR in three different operational environments and the personal battle he had with the consequences.

 

RAMAGE, Gary – The Shot

Harper Collins, Sydney, 2016

ISBN: 9781460751350

Illustrated, 304 pages. Contains 28 chapters and many photographs.

An autobiography. Ramage began his working life as an infantry soldier and has one of Australia’s best known war photographers covering soldiers in action in Somalia, Bougainville, Bosnia, Kosovo, East Timor, Iraq and Afghanistan. Ramage explains how he became a professional photographer and how he has maintained his links to the military by photographing service people while embedded with troops. Through rocket attacks, firefights and funerals, from photographing mass graves in Kosovo to being in East Timor when Special Air Service troops were ambushed, from sleeping under the stars on patrol with Aussie soldiers in Afghanistan to helping out with CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) on a wounded soldier on a medevac chopper, he has documented wars in which RAR and other soldiers have served.

 

ROBINSON, Godfrey – The decades of a Duntroon bastard

Neptune, Belmont VIC, 1980

ISBN: 9780909131517

Paintings, text, index; 272 pages.

Autobiography which refers to individuals who become RAR members later following graduation from Duntroon along with the author.

 

RODGERS, William (Bill)

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

40 mins 25 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Rodgers (AATTV and several RAR) who served in Malaya, Borneo and Vietnam and either an RMO in battalions or the AATTV. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1125

 

ROTHWELL, Dale (Peter)

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

40 mins 41 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Rothwell (1 RAR, 2 RAR and AATTV) who served in Korea, Malaya and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1071

 

RUTKAY, Bernie (Editor) – You Couldn’t Stop Me: The Journey of Frank Mallard

Cartesian Services, xxx, 2019

ISBN: 098767334704

Electronic book.

A biography of a notable Aboriginal who enlisted and served in Malaya and Vietnam as a member of the RAR and then RAE. Mallard received seventeen medals/embellishments, dying in August 2019.

 

SADLER, Rex & HAYLLAR, Tom – In the Line of Fire

Pan Macmillan, Sydney, 2006

ISBN: 9780330422475 

Index, bliographical references; 358 pages.

Explores the nature of combat from the perspective of the men doing the actual fighting. Includes Korea and Vietnam.

 

SAVAGE, Roy – Roy (Doc) Savage’s Diaries

Self-published, 2004

ISBN: Not applicable

Accessible at: http://docsdiaries.tripod.com/index.htm

Multiple personal and generic photographs, presented in timeslots that make convenient reading.

A web-based diary of a soldier who served from 9 Feb 61 to 24 Nov 98. Service included that with 3 RAR and 7 RAR. Malaya, Malay-Thai border, Borneo and Vietnam.

 

SCOTT, DSO (Colonel) F Peter – Crossing the Khyber Pass: a personal account of military service at the Staff College Quetta 1958 and Australian Defence Attaché in Pakistan and Afghanistan during 1973-1975 

Peter Scott, Glenside SA, 2020

ISBN: 9780646825052

 Illustrations, index, xxx pages.

Author’s experiences as the Defence Attaché in Pakistan and Afghanistan from 1973 to 1975. Colonel Scott (Retd) serves in 3 RAR in Korea and later commanded the same unit in Vietnam.

 

SEELEY, Barry

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

40 mins 24 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Seeley (2 RAR and 4 RAR) in Malaya, Borneo and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1398

 

SMITH, Harry – Long Tan – The start of a lifelong battle

Big Sky Publishing, Sydney, 2015, 2016

ISBN: 9781925275780

Photographs, Index; 352 pages.

This source, in two editions, recounts the battle for which there are other source histories, including from Smith himself. This source provides a coverage of his life including service with the RAR in Malaya and South Vietnam. This one includes the post-Vietnam struggle to achieve greater individual recognition for members of his company who were on the ground in the actual battle, a seminal outcome to occur in 2016. It provides a revealing insight into operational decision making including mistakes and blunders as well as the eventual victory albeit at a high cost in casualties on both sides, and being a “near-run” thing for D Coy 6 RAR, and in fact, the whole Australian force.

 

SMITH, Harry – The Battle for Long Tan – The Company Commanders Story

Big Sky Publishing, Sydney, 2019

ISBN: 9781922265050

Photographs, Index; 365 pages

This third edition is both retitled and a little longer, reflecting a modification to the 2015 and 2016 editions of the book by a different name. Smith recounts the Battle for Long Tan again as well as his life including service with the RAR in Malaya and South Vietnam. The book again includes the post-Vietnam struggle to achieve greater individual recognition for members of his company who were on the ground in the battle. Changes reflect a more recent revision of some of his views, as a company commander.

 

SNELLING, Ernest (Ernie)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

35 mins 07 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Snelling (2 RAR and AATTV) who served in Malaya and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/646

 

STONEBRIDGE, John, BM, OAM

RAR Foundation, online, 2013

Podcast, 2 hrs 34 mins.

One of the Soldiers 5 online podcasts. Pilot (and first episode of the podcasts. Host Richard TTT interviews Warrant Officer Class 1 John Stonebridge. Stonebridge recounts his most interesting and humorous stories as he recalls 40 years with the RAR. Accessible at https://www.buzzsprout.com/2128986/12189770-john-stonebridge

 

STRETTON, Alan – Soldier in a Storm

Collins Publishers Pty Ltd, Sydney, 1978

ISBN: 000216406X

320 pages.

Alan Stretton’s autobiography includes details of his service as CO 2 RAR in Malaya 1961-1963. Also includes 5/7 and 6 RAR’s assistance during the Cyclone Tracy recovery operations. This book is deliberately listed here (for longitudinal researchers) AND in last section of this PART (humanitarian and DACC operations).

 

TERENCE, Ace

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 33 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Terence (1 RAR, 3 RAR, 4 RAR and ARU) who served in Borneo and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2385

 

THOMSON, David

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

40 mins 30 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Thomson (BCOF, 1 RAR) who served in Japan, Korea, Malaya, Borneo and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2112

 

TIBROOK, Darcy

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 33 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Tilbrook (2 RAR and 4 RAR) who served in Malaya and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2354

 

WALLACE, Darryl

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

40 mins 44 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Wallace (3 RAR) who served in Malaya, Borneo and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1414

 

WARNER, Denis – Not Always On Horseback: An Australian Correspondent At War And Peace In Asia 1961-1993

Allen & Unwin, St Leonards NSW, 1997

ISBN: 1864484675

Index, 266 pages.

Although the Regiment is only briefly mentioned it provides a detailed background in which the Australian forces operated post-WWII, providing perspective to the various deployments in which the RAR battalions participated.

 

WARNER, Denis – Not With Guns Alone

Hutchison Australia, Sydney, 1977

ISBN: 0091303206

Biographical references; 286 pages.

Some references to the RAR.

 

WEBSTER, Sydney (Syd)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 59 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Webster (2 RAR and 9 RAR) in Malaya, Borneo and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1483

 

WHITESIDE, Harry (H)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 39 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Whiteside (3 RAR, 7 RAR and SASR) who served in Borneo and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2417

 

YACOPETTI, Charles (Charlie)

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

40 mins 09 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Yacopetti (3 RAR) who served in Korea and Vietnam. He was a POW in Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/578

 

JAPAN AND KOREA 1946-1953

 

BARTLETT, Norman (Editor) – With the Australians in Korea

Australian War Memorial, Canberra, 1954, 1959, 1960

BIB ID: 2187331

ISBN: none

Index, bibliography; 294 pages.

Story of Australia’s part in the Korean War told mostly

by the men who served as combatants or war correspondents. Several updates available.

 

BLANKLEY, Jack – A Going Around the Mulberry Trees: Korea 1952-53

Publisher TBA

ISBN: Unknown

Details

Personal memoir of a New Zealand-born Australian who served in Korea as an infantry signaller with 3RAR. Out of print and rare, but occasionally able to be located.

 

BREEN, Augustine

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 17 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Breen (1 RAR, 2 RAR,) who served in Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1907

 

BROWN, Colin

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 54 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Brown (1 RAR, 3 RAR) who served in Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1788

 

BRUNES, Keith

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

42 mins 01 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Brunes who also served in Japan with BCOF, and then 3 RAR in Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1003

 

CLUNE, Frank – Ashes of Hiroshima: A Post-War trip to Japan and China

Angus & Robertson, Sydney, 1950

BIB ID: 710425

ISBN: none

299 pages Bibliography, maps on lining paper

Personal narrative by the author of his trips to Japan and China during the Allied Occupation 1945-52 that included 1, 2 and 3 RAR in their former and current lives as battalions. Clune was a WW 1 sniper and made contact with our troops in Japan.

 

COOPER, Brian

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

41 mins 23 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Cooper (2 RAR) who served in Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1059

 

CROSBIE, Philip – Pencilling prisoner: the story of an Australian prisoner in Korea

The Hawthorn Press,  Melbourne, 1955

ASIN: B000TXRS62

Illustrated, index; 196 pages.

Story of an RAR soldier captured in Korea.

 

DATE, Lawrence (Fingers)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

40 mins 21 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Date (2 RAR) who served in Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1561

 

DICKER, MC (Snow) – My Korean adventure – 1950

Self-published, Paddington NSW, 2001

ISBN: Nil

Illustrated; 12 pages.

Memoires of Dicker with 3 RAR in Korea 1950. Available from the AWM as AWM064018.

 

DOWNEY, Hugh (Bob)

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

39 mins 35 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Downey (2 RAR) who served in Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/687

 

EVANS, Louise – Passage to Pusan: The impact of war on the family left behind and a mother’s heroic journey find the war grave of her son

PB Publishing, Gisborne, Australia, 2015

ISBN 10: 0987191187

Photographs, Index; 220 pages.

This book tells the true story of Australian matriarch Thelma Healy and her 15,000 km solo journey to war-torn South Korea in 1961 to find the grave of her son Sergeant Vince Healy, who was killed in action on 7 March 1951 while fighting with 3 RAR in the Korean War a decade earlier. A compelling and personal view of the Korean War from a mother’s perspective.

 

FORBES, Patrick

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 37 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Forbes (2 RAR) who served in Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1542

 

GALLAWAY, Jack

UNSW, Canberra, 2000

5 mins 40 secs

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Galloway (2 RAR) who served in Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2577

 

GARRETT, Richard (Dick)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

42 mins 02 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Garrett (2 RAR and 3 RAR) who served in K Force and Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1360

 

GERSTER, Robin – Travels in Atomic Sunshine, Australia and the Occupation of Japan

Scribe Publications Pty Ltd, Melbourne, 2008

ISBN: 9781921215346 (hbk)

Index, notes, pictures; 327 pages.

For over six years, up to 20,000 Australian servicemen, of the British Commonwealth Occupation Force including their wives and children, participated in an historic experiment in nation-building in Japan dominated by the United States. This is regarded by many as the forerunner of today’s peacekeeping missions for Australian troops.

 

GORDON Harry – The Embarrassing Australian: The Story of An Aboriginal Warrior

Lansdowne Press, Melbourne, 1962. Second edition 1965

BIB ID: 2280405

ISBN: Nil

172 pages.

A tribute to Lieutenant Reginald Saunders, the first aboriginal to become an officer in the Australian Army. He served in the Middle East, Greece, Crete during WW II, and then in Korea with 3RAR as OC C Coy.

 

GREEN, Edward (Kay)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 36 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Green (K Force & 1 RAR,) who served in Japan and Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1668

 

GREEN, Olwyn – The Name’s Still Charlie

University of Queensland Press, St Lucia, 1993

ISBN: 0702224715

Bibliographical references, 302 pages.

Biography of Lieutenant Colonel Charles Green, an Australian hero of WWII and Korea. Covers his time with 41^st Battalion (Militia) prior to WWII, the 2/11 Battalion during WWII, and then 3 RAR in Korea where he was KIA. Republished in 2010 by Australian Military History Publications: ISBN: 978-0-9805674-3-4, being a facsimile of the 1993 Edition.

 

HARRIS, AM (Jack) – Seize the Day

Brolga Publishing, Melbourne, 2015

ISBN: 9781922175717

Maps, B & W photographs; 283 pages.

This story follows from Harris’ autobiography Only One River to Cross and deals with his time with the RAR in Korea. He returned to Korea following a wound received in 1950 and operated behind enemy lines gathering intelligence and assisting with ‘line crossing by refugees.

 

HASTINGS, Max – The Korean War

Pan Books Ltd, Sydney, 1988 (First published by Michael Joseph Ltd 1987)

ISBN: 071812068X

Index, bibliography; 476 pages.

Brief mention is made of the Regiment in the overall context of the conflict.

 

HIPPISLEY, Terrence (Hippo)

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

40 mins 39 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Hippisley (1 RAR) who served in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/800

 

HOLDEN, Ernie R – Mates, Mortars and Minefields: with 2RAR in Korea 1953

Australian Military History Publications, Loftus NSW, 2006

ISBN 1876439629

Index; 264 pages.

Story of the author’s life including service in Korea in 1953 with 2RAR. Includes casualty figures and a name index.

 

HOLDEN, Ernie

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

40 mins 32 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Holden (2 RAR) who served in Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1504

 

HOULEY, Keith

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

42 mins video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Houley (2 RAR) who served in Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2183

 

LANG, George (Junior)

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

41 mins 44 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Lang (BCOF and 3 RAR) who saw operational service in Japan and Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/647

 

LEWIS, Stephen (Compiler) – Korea: The Undeclared War

The RAR Association SA Branch, Adelaide, 2008

ISBN: 9780646490137

Glossary, bibliography;172 pages.

A photograph homage that covers the war from the individual’s perspective.

 

MANNS, Brian – Missing in action

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 56, October 2011, pp 38-40.

Story of 44 Australians from the Korean War for whom graves or remains have not yet been located. Most were RAR members. Some photographs, and the details of all 44 are included.

 

MANSFORD, George (Snow)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 53 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Mansford (1 RAR, 2 RAR, AATTV) who served in Korea, Malaya and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1768

 

MARTIN, Lyle – Life story Sergeant Lyle Trevor Martin 3^rd Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment: his history from Korea to Coraki and beyond

Self-published, Coraki (NSW) undated

ISBN: Nil

Illustrations, A4 bound, question and answer format; 106 pages.

An account of his time in uniform during the early days of the RAR.

 

MATHEWS, Jack – Memories of the best generation or my first 85 years

Hesperian Press, Victoria Park WA, 2013

ISBN: 9780859055567

B & W photographs; 38 pages.

An autobiography of the author’s life including time spent with 2 RAR in Korea, notably during the Battle of the Hook.

 

MATTHEWS, Bruce – Wild Knights in No Man’s Land: The Korean War recalled by an Australian Infantry Officer

IPL/Transpress, New Zealand, 2003

ISBN: 0-97515320-0-X

No index, colloquial references; 247 pages.

An ex-NZ infantry officer, who volunteered for served with 3RAR as a platoon

commander in 1953, provides an interesting perspective of his experiences.

 

McCOSKER, Harold (Lofty)

UNSW, Canberra, online

42 mins video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features McCosker who served with 65^th Battalion in BCOF and the 1 RAR in Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1036

 

Nambucca Valley Legacy (producers) – Waiting at the Clothesline

Southern Cross University, Nambucca QLD, 2009

 ISBN: Nil

Black & white photographs; 122 pages.

Produced by the Legatees and staff of Nambucca Valley Legacy, this publication contains 36 stories from Australian widows of WW II and Korea, one of which was a 3 RAR soldier, Private SJ Meehan killed in action 28 May 53. Illustrates the impact on families when their soldier members are lost.

 

O’DOWD, Ben

UNSW, Canberra, 2000

11 mins 54 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features O’Dowd (3 RAR and BCOF) who saw operational service in Japan and Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2586

 

O’DOWD, Ben – In Valiant Company: Diggers in battle – Korea, 1950-51

University of Queensland Press, St Lucia, 2000

ISBN: 0702231460

Index, biographical references; 212 pages.

O’Dowd, commander of A Company, 3RAR recounts the first 8 months of the Korean War, culminating in the Battle of Kapyong.

 

PEARS, Maurice

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

40 mins 15 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Pears (BCOF, 1 RAR, 3 RAR) who served in Japan and Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2240

 

PEARS, M – Frozen Chosen

Siddhartha Publishing, Melbourne, 2021

ISBN 13:9781925707557

Illustrated, maps, index; 368 pages.

The experiences of 7 Platoon C Company 3 RAR in Korea as recorded by its platoon commander, the author. Frozen Chosen is also a record of the service of the Regiment. Their battles from the Apple Orchard to Kapyong, Maryang San, Samichon and The Hook were all fought over perilous and demanding terrain with intense inclement weather. It was also the first and the last time that the RAR fought together with all battalions (1, 2 and 3 RAR at the time). They suffered heavy casualties against a numerically superior enemy but in spite of that achieved major victories.

 

PEARS, Maurie – Land Battles Korea – The Royal Australian Regiment in Korea 1951-53

Stratagem Pty Ltd, 2015

ISBN: 978-9586589-0-4

Index.

A compilation of battle summaries by other writers, with an overview and general timelines of the war. Released in favour of 3 RAR’s 70^th birthday in 2015.

 

PEARS, Maurie & KIRKLAND, Fred (Compilers) – Korea Remembered:

The RAN, ARA and RAAF in the Korean War of 1950-53

Department of Defence Australia, Canberra, 1998

ISBN: 0958658919

Hard cover, 394 pages. Reprinted 2002 in soft cover.

Personal stories of those involved in the conflict, including RAR prisoners of war.

 

PEMBROKE, Arthur (Bushy)

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

42 mins video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Pembroke (BCOF and 3 RAR) who served in Japan and Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/880

 

POOLEY, Henry (Harry)

UNSW, Canberra, online

38 mins 45 sec video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Pooley who served with 1 RAR in Korea. Accessible at

https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1020

 

ROBERTS, Michael (Mike)

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

42 mins 01 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Roberts (2 RAR and 3 RAR) who served in Malaya, Borneo and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1140

 

SCOTT, DSO (Colonel) F Peter – The Forgotten War

Peter Scott, Glenside SA, 2020

ISBN: 9780646812861

Illustrated, maps, index; 169 pages.

Author’s own memories as a junior officer in post-war Japan with the British and Commonwealth Occupation Force (BCOF), and then a platoon commander (and then intelligence officer) with 3 RAR in Korea. Includes images and vignettes of the men who fought in some of the worst battles of the Korean War, including the famous Battle of Maryang San, which was described by Professor Robert O’Neill (in his official history of the conflict) as “probably the greatest single feat of the Australian Army during the Korean War”. In the later chapters of the book, Scott compares the challenges faced by his CO in Korea, the legendary Frank Hassett, with those the author himself faced as CO of the same battalion twenty years later in South Vietnam.

 

SHARP, Derek G – My Year in the Forgotten War: Under the UN Flag

Self-published, Morisset NSW, 2012

ISBN: 978-0-9807671-9-3

Index; 164 pages.

Author served as 2IC of 1 RAR in Korea. This book was written in 1952-4 when his memory was strong, but not published until 2012. More a conventional story than a detailed history, the book’s interest and personal touch is enhanced further by its many photographs.

 

SHELTON, Jeffrey

UNSW, Canberra, online

42 mins 28 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Shelton who also served with 66 Bn in Japan with BCOF, and then 3 RAR in Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1012

 

SKENNAR, Michael

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

40 mins 56 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Skennar (BCOF and 2 RAR) who served in BCOF Japan and Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1196

 

SMITH, Kerry (Smudge)

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

41 mins 01 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Smith (2 RAR) who served in Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1180

 

STEELE, R – Ben O’Dowd: Hero of Kapyong

Hesperian Press, Perth, 2019

ISBN: 978-0-85905-752-3

Index, maps, Endnotes, B&W illustrations; 197 pages.

Biography of O’Dowd who joined the Army in World War II to serve in both the Middle East and the Pacific campaigns. He then served with BCOF in Japan, Korea with 3 RAR, Malaya (seconded to the British Army as a jungle warfare specialist and then as 2IC of the Jungle Training Centre, Canungra. He retired as a LTCOL in 1973.

 

The Mound – June 1953

Publisher  unknown

Online story by Ron Cashman of a fighting patrol conducted night 25/26 Jun 53 in Korea by 3 RAR.

 Accessible at https://www.koreanwaronline.com/history/oz/Ron/mound.htm

 

THIELE, Ron – Korea – The Forgotten War, 1950-1953

Parker Pattinson Publishing, Douglas Park NSW, 2003

ISBN: 0646418238

No index; 130 pages.

A brief history of Australian infantry operations in the Korean

War, including the author’s personal experience with 3RAR during 1951-52.

 

THOMPSON, Peter & MACKLIN, Robert – Keep Off the Skyline

John Wiley & Sons Australia, Milton QLD, 2004

ISBN: 1740310837

Index, bibliographical references; 224 pages.

Focuses on the experiences of Ron Cashman MM who had just turned

19 when he left to fight with 3RAR in the Korean War.

 

THOMPSON, Wallace (Wally)

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

41 mins 58 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Thompson (1 RAR, 4 RAR, AATTV) who served in Malaya and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/907

 

WOOD, Ian A – On Patrol with the BCOF in Japan

Ian A Wood, Mudgeeraba QLD, no date

ISBN: 0646179721

Photos, 158 pages.

Story developed from a diary kept by the author who was a member of the 65^th Bn and then served for two years in Japan with the RAR.

 

YOUNG, William (Jim)

UNSW, Canberra, online

39 mins 40 sec video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Young who served with 1 RAR in Korea. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1017

 

 

SOUTH EAST ASIA 1950-current

(includes Malaya, Borneo, Singapore & Malaysia)

 

ARTHUR, Sean – Australian Cold War Warriors: the secret Aussie history of the Second Malaysian Confrontation

Online post

Author’s experiences as a rifleman in RCB at Air Base Butterworth with B Company 1 RAR in 1977, outlining his warlike service experiences. Accessible at https://medium.com/@arthur.sean/australian-cold-war-warriors-76d30278dabb

 

BANNISTER, Colin – An Inch of Bravery: 3 RAR in the Malayan Emergency 1957-59

Directorate of Army Public Affairs, Canberra, 1994

ISBN: 0 642 21207 4

Index, Bibliography; 170 pages.

An account of 3 RAR’s tour in Malaya fighting the Communist terrorists. Seven Appendices including a Roll of Honour, Honours and Awards, Nominal Roll.

 

BARBER, Noel – The War of the Running Dogs

Collins, London, 1971

ISBN: 0002119323

Maps, bibliography; 284 pages.

A British-focused story of the Malayan Emergency 1948-60; regarded by many as a classic.

 

CARROLL, Max – Tracking as a team

Unpublished, date unknown

ISBN: Nil

Six A4-page monograph.

This is a short autobiography, sponsored by Colin Adamson, featuring 3 RAR anti-terrorist operations on Malaya, with an emphasis on tracking. All RAR Battalions to deploy during the Malayan Emergency used a visual tracking capability, usually based on the Anti-Tank platoon, supported by some company trackers, and sometimes using indigenous Iban trackers. Copy soon available in the RARA electronic library.

 

CROSS, JP – A Face like a Chicken’s Backside: An Unconventional Soldier in South East Asia, 1948 – 1971

Greenhill Books, London, 1996

ISBN: 1853672394

Index, maps, references, B & W photographs; 238 pages.

The author served almost 40 years in SE Asia without a home posting. He served as a company commander with the Gurkhas in Malaya, the Border Scouts in Borneo and as Commandant of the Jungle Warfare School among his postings. This biography covers the Malayan Emergency 1948-60, the Borneo campaign 1963-66, and the continued communist insurgency in Malaysia until his retirement n 1971. Good British perspective of the theatres of war in which the RAR also served.

 

CROSS, JP – Experiences and Encounters

Arms and Armour Press, London, 1989

ISBN: 9781844156665

Index, bibliography, maps, diagrams, B & W photographs; 222 pages.

Cross, one of the world’s most experienced jungle warfare experts, spent most of his service life teaching the art of jungle warfare. In this book he brings this knowledge to great effect in presenting his account of this form of fighting. Includes fighting in Malaya, Borneo, Vietnam where RAR troops also served.

 

GIBBONS, Marco ‘Kiwi’– Manhunt Specialists: 3RAR Tracker Team Malaya 1957-79

Self-published, Brisbane, updated

ISBN: Nil

49 page compilation of images, maps and information on the 3 RAR Tracker Team in Malaya. Copy available from author, and in RAR Association library.

 

JOHNSON, LD & BJ – Malayan Adventure: an Australian Army Family in Malaya During the Emergency

Longleat House Publishing, Brisbane, 2008

ISBN: 9780975820926

Maps, illustrations; 278 pages.

This book details the experiences of a young RAR army officer on operations against Communist terrorists in Perak, Malaya, during the Emergency in 1957-1959, and the experiences of his young wife when making their family home in Penang at the same time. The authors write of their experiences in alternate chapters.

 

JOHNSON, Ken & JOHNSON, Beth – Malayan Adventure: An Australian Army family in Malaya during the Emergency

Longleat House Publishing, Ocean Grove VIC, 2008

ISBN: Unknown

Bibliography, index; 278 pages.

The story of a young officer and his wife making a home in Penang during the Malayan Emergency. It is understood this limited production volume is available at some main libraries in book form.

 

LACEY, Larry (Editor) – BCOF: an unofficial history

Self-published, Yamba NSW, 1995

ISBN-10: 0646257986

ISBN-13: 978-0646257983

Photographs, index; 218 pages.

An RAR veteran’s account of the time in Japan as a member of BCOF.

 

SHENEN, Margaret – Our Man in Malaya: John Davis CBE, DSO, SOE Force 136 and post-war counter-insurgency

The History Press, Brimscombe Port Stroud UK, 2007

ISBN: 9780752450537

Maps, references, B & W photographs; 304 pages.

Davis is regarded as one of the eminent experts in counter-insurgency serving in the post WW II conflict that embroiled Malaya. This book includes references to Australia’s participation, meaning the RAR battalions which formed the bulk of the nation’s ground effort as part of the British Commonwealth forces.

 

VIETNAM 1962-75

  

5 RAR Association – 5 RAR Formation and Preparation for War

An Adjutant’s description of the formation of 5 RAR and its preparation for the Vietnam War. By Captain Peter Isaacs, Adjutant 1^st Tour. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/narrative/5rar-formation-and-preparation-for-war.htm

 

5 RAR Association – To Nui Dat with the 173rd Airborne Brigade

The story of two officers of 5RAR sent to the American 173rd Airborne Brigade for a familiarisation patrol before 5RARs first operation in Phuoc Tuy Province. Captain Peter Isaacs, Adjutant 1st Tour. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/ops/isaacs-1.htm

 

5 RAR Association – The Long Hai Hills Incident

B Company, 5 RAR 1967′ while riding in APCs hit a massive mine and booby traps, killing nine and wounding 17. This account was given by the RMO, Captain Doc White. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/narrative/longhai.htm

 

5 RAR Association –The Village of Dat Do Mine Clearing Teams searching for mines in Dat Do

An account by Brian London of 5 RAR encountering anti-personnel mines and successful ambushing in a village known to be harbouring a number of VC. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/narrative/dat_do.htm

 

5 RAR Association – The Band of the 5^th Battalion

5 RAR was the last battalion to take their band on active service. This story presents the important role the band played in the field. By LTCOL John Warr, CO. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/narrative/5rar_band.htm

 

5 RAR Association – History of the 5^th Battalion Colours

A short history of the battalion’s colours by Brian London OAM, DCM. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/history/5rar_history.htm

 

5 RAR Association – Origin of 5^th Battalion Colours

An explanation of the Colours and the history of 5 RAR’s Regimental Clours. By Brian London. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/history/reg-colours.htm

 

5 RAR Association – The Day the Sun Went Out

The day 5 RAR members travelling in a US Transport Convoy hit a mine near Long Binh. By Bill Grassick 2IC A Coy 2^nd Tour. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/soldiers/truckmine.htm

 

5 RAR Association – Training in Australia

The Battle Efficiency Course, Jungle Training Centre, Canungra. By Roger Lambert, Platoon Commander 9 Pl C Coy. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/soldiers/training-Australia.htm

5 RAR Association – Forward Air Control (FAC) Mission

Roger Lambert of 5 RAR describes his impressions on ‘riding shotgun’ on a FAC spotting for an airstrike 1969. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/soldiers/FAC-mission.htm

 

5 RAR Association – Magpie 31

Roger Lambert’s follow up to “Blondes, Bombs and Bunkers”. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/soldiers/magpie-31-page-1.htm

 

5 RAR Association – Magpie 31 Part Two

Roger Lambert’s follow up to “Blondes, Bombs and Bunkers” and “Magpie 31”. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/soldiers/magpie-31-part-2.htm

 

5 RAR Association – 5RAR Advance Party 2^nd Tour

Roger Lambert’s memories of being part of the 5 RAR Advance Party to Vietnam in 1969. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/soldiers/5rar-advance-party.htm

 

5 RAR Association – Blondes Bombs and Bunkers

Roger Lambert’s recollection of a 5 RAR patrol in 1969 that included experiences with ‘Blondes, Bombs and Bunkers’. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/soldiers/blondes-bombs-bunkers.htm

 

5 RAR Association – A Vietnamese Christmas

Michael von Berg MC tells of Recce Platoon’s Christmas at Binh Ba village 1966. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/soldiers/recce-xmas-66.htm

 

5 RAR Association – The VC in a Kilt

Not many people may know that the official records show that in 1969, C Company killed a Viet Cong wearing a kilt—That’s official! By Claude Ducker OC C Coy. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/tales/vc_kilt.htm

 

5 RAR Association – Anatomy of a Bunker Contact

David Wilkins, 5 RAR’s Adjutant & OC C Company 2nd Tour. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/narrative/7plt_bunker.htm

 

5 RAR Association –The Enemy and His Tactics

David Wilkins 5 RAR Adjutant & OC C Company 2nd Tour. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/tours/tactics_a.htm

 

5 RAR Association – Last Battle of 5 RAR

An account of the last battle of 5 RAR on the 1969-70 Tour. By David Wilkins. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/ops/final_battle.htm

 

5 RAR Association – Final Days of the Second Tour

An account of the final days of 5 RAR’s 1969-70 Tour. By David Wilkins. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/soldiers/wilkins.htm

 

5 RAR Association – Enemy Bunker Systems

An outline of the methods used by the VC and NVA in sighting their bunker systems. By David Wilkins. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/articles/bunker-systems.htm

 

5 RAR Association – Closing The Mushroom Club

A story about The Duty Officer of Charlie Company 5 RAR during the Vietnam war attempting to close the company’s boozer. By Roger Lambert. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/tales/mushroom-club.htm

 

5 RAR Association – Land Clearing Operations

5 RAR was involved with American Land Clearing Teams to deny the VC jungle cover. By Mike Battle. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/soldiers/land-clearance.htm

 

5 RAR Association – The Reflections of a Battalion Medical Officer

Hugh Roberton was the Battalion’s RMO for most of 5 RAR’s 2nd tour. He gives an overview of his role. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/soldiers/reflections-rmo.htm

 

ANDERSON, Bianca – Commemorating the stories of our Old Boy Vietnam War Veterans

Gregory Terrace, Brisbane, undated

ISBN: Nil

An illustrated A2 size production; 40 pages.

This publication complements the Honour Board of post-WW II Terrace Old Boys, twenty of whom were RAR members. Contains a short biography and photographs.

 

ANDERSON, Keith (Doc)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 10 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Anderson (1 RAR, AATTV) who served in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1846

 

ASHBOLT, Allan – An Australian Experience: words from the Vietnam war

Australasian Book Society Inc, Sydney, 1974

ISBN-10: 0909916667

ISBN-13: 978-0909916664

400 pages.

An Australian RAR member’s experience of the war.

 

BARLOW, Pam – The Longest Mile: A Nurse in the Vietnam War 1968-69

Unknown publisher, Townsville, 2006

ISBN: 0 646 453483

Glossary, photographs, maps; 142 pages.

Provides a detailed description of the care and attention provided by medical staff to the sick and casualties in Vietnam. Although not identified as such, those whose treatment is described were from RAR units.

 

BARRY, Richard ‘Dick’ – The 10^th, Reflections of National Service and life in the Australian Army, 1967-69

Richard Barry (self published), 2011

ISBN: 978-0-646-5567 4-1

416 pages.

Contains many stories and memories of those National Servicemen of the 10^th Intake, of their training in Australia and their war service in Vietnam.

 

BIGWOOD, Richard “Barney” and BIGWOOD, Andrew – We Were Reos, Australian Infantry Reinforcements in Vietnam

Richard & Andrew Bigwood (self published), 2011

ISBN: 978 1 4628 7664 8 HC

Bibliography, 227 pages.

Describes the life of a ‘reo’ as one even more transient than that of the average soldier. As a ‘reo’, or reinforcement soldier, he is sent from one Battalion to another depending on which platoon has seen its soldiers discharged, wounded or killed.

 

BISHOP, Darryl – Killing Babies: An Australian Digger recalls his Vietnam War

Sid Harta Publishers, Glen Waverley VIC, 2018

ISBN: TBA

500 pages.

Author served with 4 RAR in Vietnam during 1971-72 as a national serviceman. This is his reminiscences of coming from a stockman background and serving in Vietnam.

 

BLAIR, Anne – There to the bitter end: Ted Serong in Vietnam

Allen and Unwin, Sydney, 2001

ISBN: 10: 1865084689

ISBN: 13:178818650841688

Bibliography, index, B & W illustrations, 320 pages.

A detailed account, based on the diaries of Serong, of his experiences and role in the Vietnam War. Mentions various RAR battalions in the coverage of the entire war. . This is Ted Serong’s story of that war. Serong grew to have influence at the highest levels of government in America and South Vietnam. An adviser to Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, Kissinger and presidents of South Vietnam, Ted Serong attended a multitude of secret planning meetings in Washington and Saigon. Throughout all this he kept a personal diary which he updated daily. This book is based on that diary and the accounts of many of the Australians, Americans and South Vietnamese who Serong worked and fought with.

 

BLINKO, Gary – Down a country lane to war: an Australian boy’s journey to the Vietnam War

Boolarong Press, Moorooka QLD, 1997

ISBN-10: 086439201X

ISBN-13: 978-0864392015

Illustrated; 170 pages.

An autobiography from the Vietnam War.

 

BRADY, Kevin (Butch)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 55 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Brady (2 RAR, 6 RAR) who served in Malaya and Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1458

 

BRIAND, Rena – No tears to flow: woman at war

Heineman, Melbourne, 1969

ISBN: Not identified

Illustrated; 202 pages.

Author writes of her journalistic and other women’s experiences in Vietnam, herself a French citizen living there from 1964-67 at which time she meets and returns to Australia with an Australian soldier.

 

BREWER Geoff (Compilor/editor) – Manoeuvres, mates, memories of the men from Bravo Company, 2 RAR/ANAZC before, during and after the Battalion’s first tour to South Vietnam 1968/68

Courtney Direct, Dandenong, 2021

ISBN: 9780645154603

Illustrated, maps, bibliography; 416 pages.

A veteran’s account of the company’s experiences and achievements in Vietnam, and their many re-unions since.

 

BROWN, MM  Wayne ‘Sam’,   Medic: Memoirs of an Australian Infantry Medic in Viet Nam 1968-69

Queensland Complete Printing Services, Nambour QLD, 2002

ISBN: 0-9581931-0-X

Photographs, glossary, an Annex – Vietnam Veterans Health Study Press Releases, Indexed; 326 pages.

The book records the author’s personal experience as a Medic with 4 RAR 1968-1969 in which he details the treatment of battle casualties, the invaluable work of the stretcher bearers, the life-saving efforts of the staff at the 1^st Australian Field Hospital at Vung Tau hospital and the helicopter crews who extracted men from the jungle and paddy fields during and after vicious fire-fights with an elusive and determined enemy.

 

BROWN, Wayne

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

40 mins 15 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Brown (4 RAR) who served in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2178

 

BUCHAN, Graham – A remarkable individual: a remarkable career

Privately published, 2021

ISBN: None

Illustrated, 33pages, A4 print, digitised.

A biography of LTCOL (Dr) James (Jim) Raymond Bourke, MG, OAM (Deceased), who served with 1 RAR in Vietnam during which he engaged in actions that eventually led to his receipt of the MG when at award was introduced many years later.  In his retirement he largely responsible for finding and returning to Aust our MIAs from Vietnam (all six found) and Borneo, a feat for which he was also awarded the OAM. A copy of this work is available from the RARC Bibliographer pending digital storage in Part 16.

 

BUICK, Bob

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 18 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Buick (2 RAR, 6 RAR) who served in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2181

 

BUICK, Bob with McKAY, Gary – All Guts and No Glory: The Story of a Long Tan Warrior

Allen & Unwin Australia, 2000

ISBN: 1865082740

Index,bibliography; 272 pages.

A first hand account by Bob Buick, assisted by Gary McKay of the Battle of Long Tan. Appendices provide rolls, honours and awards.

 

BURKE, Di and SMALL, Mary – Seek, An illustrated and pictorial tribute to Australian Tracker Dogs in the Vietnam War

ANZAC Day Commemoration Committee Aspley Qld Inc, Brisbane, 2009

ISBN: 9780980448009

Photographs and illustrations, 48 pages.

A tribute and dedicated to the eleven faithful war dogs that served Australia as members of combat tracking teams during the Vietnam War. They did not return home, but are not forgotten.

 

BURCHETT, Wilfred G – Vietnam: Inside Story of the Guerrilla War

International Publishers Co Inc, 1965

Library of Congress Catalogue Card Number 65-19627

ISBN- Nil

Bib ID: 2525680

Index; 252 pages.

An eyewitness report by the only Western writer known to have travelled throughout the areas of Vietnam controlled by the National Liberation Front.

 

BURSTALL, Terry – The Soldiers’ Story: The Battle at Xa Long Tan Vietnam, 18 August 1966

University of Queensland Press, St Lucia, 1986

ISBN: 070223009X

Index; 188 pages.

A detailed account of this major battle, written by one of the participants. His story reconstructs the action using ex-secret documents as well as recollections of many of the other diggers.

 

BURSTALL, Terry – A Soldier Returns: A Long Tan veteran discovers the other side of Vietnam

University of Queensland Press, St Lucia, 1990

ISBN: 0702222526

Index, bibliographic references; 215 pages.

The author compares official war records with first-hand accounts from retired Vietnamese officers, villagers and a former PW.

 

BURSTALL, Terry – Vietnam: the Australian Dilemma

University of Queensland Press, Brisbane, 1994

ISBN-10: 0702224707

ISBN-13: 978-0702224706

Photographs, maps, index; 329 pages

Burstall reflects in chronological order on the Australian involvement in Vietnam. Focuses on 6 RAR which was Burstall’s unit. Is the trilogy volume to Burstall’s other two books: The Soldier’s Story and A Soldier Returns.

 

BUTTERWORTH, Harold (Harry)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

40 mins 13 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Butterworth (7 RAR) who served in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1265

 

CAMERON, Martin – Australia’s Longest War

AC Tod Printing Pty Ltd, Melbourne,1987

ISBN: 073160962X

168 pages.

The author was a forward scout and section commander with 7 RAR on the Battalion’s second tour of duty in Vietnam.

 

CAULFIELD, Michael – The Vietnam Years: From the Jungle to the Australian Suburbs

Hachette Australia, Sydney, 2007

ISBN: 9780733624131

Index, bibliography; 503 pages.

The story of both sides of the war, from the vicious fighting of jungle patrols and the bravery shown by so many Australians at the famous Battle of Long Tan, to families back home, ripped apart by confusion and anger. It is also the story of the long hard road Australia took from innocence to bitterness and from despair to redemption, and how we have learned to accept that some wounds never heal. Well illustrated.

 

CAVANOUGH Ian – Fun, Fear, Frivolity: A Tale of the Vietnam War by an Aussie Grunt

Self-published, Yeppoon QLD, 2017

ISBN: Nil

Multiple colour photographs, numerous individuals identified; 271 pages.

This is a 2 RAR veteran’s story for his time from enlistment through to the end of his tour of duty in Vietnam. Available in e-book format, or the most recent version in pdf direct from the author at  [email protected] . A donation is invited, without obligation, to assist with a veteran’s support entity.

 

CHAD, Garry – Kangaroo Creek: The Complete Story

Zeus Publications, Burleigh QLD, 2013

ISBN: 978-1-921919-59-6

ISBN: 9781921919633

Index; 213 pages.

Author served on three tours of duty in Vietnam – 1,6 and 4 RAR. He tells the story of these deployments and also that of Wang Chi Hoe, a soldier from the other side, weaving their stories of beginnings in rural environments up to their colliding as mutual enemies in South Vietnam. More than one edition.

 

CHILDS, Kevin & FOSTER, Ken – Vietnam: Our Stories (3V)

Wilkinson Publishing, Warriewood NSW, 2019

ISBN: 9781925927054

Photographs; 240 pages.

A collection of stories of the war by Australian participants under the banner of the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia.

 

CHRISTIAN, Doug (Major) – Digger’s mate

Self-published, Surrey Hills VIC, 1995

ISBN: 0646260952

Photographs, bibliography, index; 46 pages.

Personal account of service in Vietnam and relationships with other soldiers.

 

CHURCH, JM – With the ANZAC Battalion 1970-71

Unpublished, undated

ISBN: Nil

304 pages A4-size bound manuscript with an index, maps and illustrations.

The text takes the form of a diary entry, with pages printed one side only. Possible prime source of the product CHURCH, JM – Second to none. This rare source is privately held pending digitisation.

 

COE, John J (Editor) – Desperate Praise: The Australians in Vietnam

Artlook Books, Perth WA, 1982

ISBN: 0864450222

137 Pages.

Personal observations written by the diggers who served there, and tell their story of what conditions were really like. Several of the stories are by RAR personnel.

 

COLEBATCH, Hal GP – Australia’s Secret War: How Unionists Sabotaged Our Troops in WW II

Quadrant Books, 2013

ISBN:9780980677874

Index, 340 pages.

Tells the shocking, true, but until now largely suppressed and hidden story of the war waged from 1939 to 1945 by a number of key Australian trade unions against their own society and against the men and women of their own country’s fighting forces at the time of its gravest peril. Has disturbing parallels to union behaviour regarding mail and stevedoring during the Vietnam War, and which had adverse impacts upon morale among many RAR troops, among all others.

 

COLSON, Geraldine – The Soldier who didn’t die: A Sister’s Memoire

No publisher details, 2018

ISBN: 97817286422178

252 pages.

Mike Berrigan was wounded in Vietnam serving with 7 RAR and invalided home, never fully recovering from those wounds. He died in October 2011, possibly the last veteran of that war to so pass on. This is his story.

 

COOPER, Brad – Not a hero in sight

Self-published, Australia, 2016

ISBN: 9780646952598

294 pages.

Author served 20 years including in Vietnam, possibly 5 RAR. This book is a soldier’s perspective of that war, told in very direct language.

 

CRAFT, David – The ghost lives on in 2786091: National Service 1967-1968

Self-published, location and date not known

ISBN: Nil

60 page publication including two discs containing over 100 photographs.

The personal story of a national serviceman who took part in a tour of duty in Vietnam with 2 RAR. Available through 2 RAR museum curator.

 

CROWLEY, Barrie – View from a Low Bough

Allen & Unwin, Sydney, 1997

ISBN: 1864483016

285 pages.

A story of poignancy, horror and devastatingly funny happenings

amongst a group of Australian infantry soldiers in Vietnam.

 

DODDS, Greg – Ships in the Night: a Vietnam War Story

Denis Gastin and Martin Walsh and estate of Gregory Ronald Dodds, Sydney, 2020

ISBN 10: 0646830171

ISBN 13: 9780646830179

Illustrated, but no footnotes,  glossary,  reading list or sources; 199 pages.

Author’s career began as a professional Australian soldier who served as an intelligence officer with the Australian Task Force in Vietnam in the late 1960s. His personal experiences of the Vietnam War.

 

DWYER, Dale & YOUNG, Sonia – Morrie! My love, my life, my inspiration

Sue Kennedy Publishing, Sydney, 2013

ISBN:9780645356182

Illustrated; 260 pages.

The story of Morrie (Mick) Dwyer of 4 Platoon, B Company 5 RAR who, in Vietnam on 21 Feb 67, was severely wounded along with many fellow 5 RAR soldiers were killed and wounded when their APC hit a mine.

 

EDWARDS, Glen D – Vietnam the War Within

Glen D Edwards, Salisbury SA, 1992

ISBN: 0646105914

272 pages.

This book is a significant milestone in the understanding of the psychological effects of war experienced by the men and women who served in Vietnam. Twenty Vietnam veterans from Australia, America and New Zealand tell their stories with a frankness which some readers may find disturbing or hard to believe. The RAR is represented among them.

 

ELDER, Bruce – A Copper In Jungle Greens, Service with The NSW Police and The Australian Army

Australian Military History Publications, Loftus NSW, 2011

ISBN: 978 0 980777482

Index; 80 pages.

In 1966, Bruce Elder took temporary leave from his job as a police officer, to undertake his National Service in the Australian Army. The title of this book reveals the two sides of his life – the transition from one of the ‘boys in blue’; to being conscripted into the army with 5 RAR during the Vietnam war era and wearing ‘jungle greens’.

 

EVANS, Carla – Serving those who served: looking after our Vietnam veterans who have served their country with honour, dignity and courage

Carla Evans, Clifton Springs VIC, 2003

ISBN: 0957719019

Illustrated; 136 pages.

A series of stories as told to the author by veterans, many have to be RAR members from the subject matter. Some are funny, others sad and tragic. An expose of the war through the eyes of those who fought it.

 

EVANS, Carla – The Cost of Courage

Carla Evans, Clifton Springs VIC, 2012

ISBN: 9780957719040

B & W Photographs; 311 pages.

This book relates stories of fear, draining adrenalin, mysteries of underground tunnel systems and the close bonding of the brotherhood of serving Australian personnel during the Vietnam War. It also portrays the truth in the search and discovery of Australia’s six former MIAs, and the efforts made to return them home 40 years after the war had ended, performance of both regular and national servicemen, survivors of Long Tan, the effects of PTSD, the press, Vietnamese refugees and the author’s experiences in Vietnam with Veterans of the Vietnam War. Covers many RAR personnel in this mix.

 

EVANS, Carla – Trauma Tears and Time

Carla Evans, Wangaratta, Vic 1993

ISBN: 0646134523

55 pages.

Contains short stories from several Vietnam veterans regarding their active service.

 

FAGGOTTER, Jim – The Vietnam War 1961-1975: Australia, Don’t Forget About Us

Jim Faggotter, Rockhampton QLD, 2005

ISBN: 0646442708

Plates, photographs; 93 pages.

True stories by ex-servicemen who completed at least one tour of duty in the Vietnam War, and how the war affected them once they returned home.

 

FAIRHEAD, Maurice (Fred)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 49 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Fairhead (6 RAR) who served in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1104

 

FALCONER, GJ – A little bit of bitter poems of Vietnam

AWM, Canberra, year unknown

ISBN: 0646076361

Maps, B & W photographs; 92 pages.

A former D Coy 7 RAR soldier, the author provides his view of the world through poetry where he asks ‘why me’? located at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/LIB10377

 

FARRY, Daryl R – Starlight Minor – A grandfather’s and grandson’s memoire 1^st Field Ambulance WW I and ‘C Coy’ 4RAR/NZ Bn (ANZAC) Vietnam

Zeus Publications, Burleigh QLD, 2009

ISBN: 9781921574160

Illustration, index; 314 pages.

Part of the book deals with 4RAR/NZ Bn (ANZAC).

 

FERGUSON, Barbara – Rain in My Heart: Memories of Children and War in South Vietnam

Lothian Books, South Melbourne, 2006

ISBN -10: 0734409214

Bibliography, index; 221 pages.

Author worked in Vietnam up to 1975 with World Vision and writes of the impact of the war especially children. Mentions some RARs.

 

GIBLETT, Noel (compiler/editor) – (VVCS) Homecoming

Stories from Australian Vietnam veterans and their wives

Australian Government Publishing Service, Canberra, 1990

ISBN: 064410709X

73 pages.

Frank, personal accounts which reveal the humiliation, social rejection and personal stress of the time.

 

GOOLD, JJ – I remember Vietnam: three decades on

Department of Foreign Affairs, Canberra, 1996

ISBN: None found

Illustrations, 8 pages.

Personal reminiscences of an RAR soldier from Vietnam.

 

GREEN, A (Compiler) – 2018 Coral50 – UCG Awarded

Self-published, Brisbane, 2018

ISBN: nil

Colour photographs, text, an unpaginated assortment of documents.

A collation of matters and documents pertaining to the 50^th Anniversary of the Battle of Fire Support Patrol Base Coral for which 1 RAR was awarded the Unit Citation for Gallantry.

 

GREEN, A (Compiler) – Photographic record 1 RAR, 6 platoon B Coy Vietnam 1968-69

Self-published by this platoon, Brisbane, 2016

ISBN: 9780987062727

Colour photographs, platoon nominal roll, honour roll; 160 pages.

A pictorial history of this platoon’s tour of duty.

 

GREEN, Geoff – Weekend warrior at war (3^rd edition)

Green Publications, Mount Martha VIC, 2005

ISBN: 9870975735312

Index; 127 pages.

Author, as OC 1^st Australian Psychology Operations Unit in Vietnam, writes of his Vietnam and CMF service experiences which include relationships with RAR battalions.

 

HALLIDAY, Claire – Unsung Heroes: The Stories of 20 Worthy Australians

Lothian Books, South Melbourne, 2002

ISBN: 0734404085

192 pages.

One of the 20 stories is about an RAR soldier who returns to the Task Force area after the war to help repair the war damage suffered by the local Vietnamese and by himself.

 

HARAN, Peter

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

42 mins 01 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Haran (2 RAR and 3 RAR) who served in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1441

 

HARAN, Peter – Trackers: The Untold Story of the Australian Dogs of War.

New Holland Publishers, Sydney, 2000

ISBN: 1864366052

212 pages.

Provides a snapshot of how life was for the infantry soldier in the Vietnam War and also shows how the tracker dogs and tracking teams served in Vietnam with their specialist skills.

 

HARAN, Peter & KEARNEY, Robert – Crossfire: An Australian Reconnaissance Unit in Vietnam

New Holland Publishers (Australia), French’s Forest NSW, 2001

ISBN: 1864367210 (pbk)

237 pages.

Story of 5RAR’s Reconnaissance Platoon on operations in Vietnam 1966-67. Also covers some post-Vietnam memories and the aftermath effects on some of the individuals.

 

HARAN, Peter & KEARNEY, Robert – Flashback: Echoes from a Hard War

New Holland Publishers (Australia), French’s Forest NSW, 2003

ISBN: 1741100003

237 pages.

Collection of the reminiscences of seven Australian Infantry Vietnam veterans.

 

HARAN, Peter – Climbing Nui Dat Hill

UTube footage from Haran. He served in Vietnam with 2RAR May 67 – June 68 and 3RAR Feb 71 – Oct 71.

See: https://youtu.be/NhBBSfGtKn4?list=RDNhBBSfGtKn4

 

HARAN, Peter – Land Mines and the Light Green

UTube footage from Haran. He served in Vietnam with 2RAR May 67 – June 68 and 3RAR Feb 71 – Oct 71.

See: https://youtu.be/PUCOHxun7LI?list=RDNhBBSfGtKn4

 

HARAN, Peter – Red Mud and Barbed Wire

UTube footage from Haran. He served in Vietnam with 2RAR May 67 – June 68 and 3RAR Feb 71 – Oct 71.

See: https://youtu.be/70YdRgjpIyA?list=RDNhBBSfGtKn4

 

HARAN, Peter – Shockwave: an Australian combat helicopter crew in Vietnam

New Holland Publishers (Australia), French’s Forest NSW, 2004

ISBN: 1741100453

212 pages.

Helicopter gunship operation in support of ground troops, Vietnam period 1961-1975. References to RAR battalions.

 

HARAN, Peter – Tracking Dog in a Minefield

UTube footage from Haran. He served in Vietnam with 2RAR May 67 – June 68 and 3RAR Feb 71 – Oct 71.

See: https://youtu.be/Xet4ijKvVgo?list=RDNhBBSfGtKn4

 

HEARD, Barry – Well Done Those Men: Memoirs of a Vietnam Veteran

Scribe Publications, 2005

ISBN: 9781921215360

303 pages.

The memoirs of a National Service infantryman who served in Vietnam with 7RAR 1967-68. Includes post-Vietnam service life including the aftermath of his tour of duty. Another edition published by Penguin Books.

 

HENNESSY, Brian – The Sharp End: The Trauma of a War in Vietnam

Allen & Unwin, Australia, 1997

ISBN: 186448506X

160 pages.

A soldier’s depiction of his Vietnam experience as a Regular Army infantryman in the RAR. It is a personal narrative without reference to the identification of his platoon, company and battalion.

 

HESSEY, Stan (Fr) – Walking with Grunts: An Australian Army Chaplain serving with Eighth Infantry Battalion in Vietnam

Xlibris Corporation, Brisbane, 2011

ISBN: 978-1-4535-79998-5

Photographs; 88 pages.

An autobiography delivering a chaplain’s perspective of the service with 8 RAR in Vietnam.

 

HOCKING, Michael – Rescued from Vietnam: A veteran’s recovery from PTSD

Xlibris, Australia, 2016

ISBN: 97871514442678

Illustrated; 258 pages.

A 7 RAR veteran’s story of the war and how he dealt with the aftermath.

 

HUGHES, Anthony (Hooky)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 05 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Hughes (3 RAR and 7 RAR) who served in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2093

 

JAMIESON, Willian

UNSW, Canberra, online

42 mins 5 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Jamieson who also served with 1 RAR in Vietnam. Accessible at

https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2226

 

JONES, John Geoffrey (Geoff) Major – An Experience of War

in Paulatim the RAAMC Head of Corps, Canberra, 2005

11 pages.

An illustrated article in the RAAMC Corps magazine. The experiences of a young medic attached to RAR Battalions during peace and the Vietnam War are related, highlighting many lessons for medics and Infantrymen alike.

 

JONES, Geoff – A soldier’s tale: a story of adventure and misadventure, of love of family and a life in the Australian Army

Australian War Memorial, Canberra, 2021

ISBN: Nil

Illustrated, maps, four appendices; 173 pages.

This autobiography is available in the AWM Publication Collection. Author was a 17 year old looking for adventure.  Growing up in the 1950s and 1960s in Sydney, Geoff was full of youthful exuberance with a talent for misadventure. It was only natural that he would channel his adventurous spirit into a life in the army. He describes his experience of mortal combat in the Vietnam War in 1966 and 1970/71.and its after-effect.  His experiences in a full and immensely satisfying army career are also well described.  The army provided for his family and it gave them unforgettable adventures across the length and breadth of Australia and North America.  His is a story of allegiance to his country, of mateship, and of a loving family who supported him all the way.

 

JONES, Geoff – A soldier’s tale: a story of adventure and misadventure, of love of family and a life in the Australian Army (second edition)

Australian War Memorial, Canberra, 2022

ISBN: Nil

Illustrated, maps, five appendices; 175 pages.

This autobiography is available in the AWM Publication Collection. Author was a 17-year old looking for adventure.  Growing up in the 1950s and 1960s in Sydney, Geoff was full of youthful exuberance with a talent for misadventure. It was only natural that he would channel his adventurous spirit into a life in the army. He describes his experience of mortal combat in the Vietnam War in 1966 and 1970/71and its after-effect.  His experiences in a full and immensely satisfying army career are also well described.  The army provided for his family and it gave them unforgettable adventures across the length and breadth of Australia and North America.  His is a story of allegiance to his country, of mateship, and of a loving family who supported him all the way. New appendix includes awards received.

 

KERCHER, Peter

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

40 mins 13 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Kercher (1 RAR and 7 RAR) who served in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1640

 

KELLY, Andrew (Jock)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

40 mins 41 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Kelly (AATTV) who served in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1629

 

KNOX, Colin – Bullets, bombs and buffalo bulls

Jabiru Publishing, Cairns, 2019

ISBN: 9780648574149

169 pages.

A memoir of the author who served with C Coy 7 RAR during the Tet Offensive 1968. Covers his work in Northern Territory as well as his tour of duty in Vietnam.

 

KRASNOFF, Stan – Krazy Hor

Allen and Unwin, Sydney, 2004

ISBN: 1741140064

216 pages.

Story of a soldier’s experiences culminating as Commanding Officer of 3RAR.

 

KRASNOFF, Stan – Shadows on the Wall

Allen & Unwin, Crows Nest NSW, 2002

ISBN: 1 86508 8870

193 pages.

RAR author was posted to the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam and took part in the American Project Rapid Fire. This book is a stylised reminisce of his service in Vietnam and his post-Vietnam service in the peacetime Australian Army.

 

KRASNOFF Stan – Where To For Valour: the Keith Payne Story

Shala Press, 1995

ISBN: 0646251023

242 pages,

The Keith Payne VC story is told, with occasional references to the RAR, including Payne’s service in the RAR and in the AATTV.

 

LAMENSDORF, Jean Debelle – Write Home for Me: A Red Cross Woman in Vietnam

Random House Australia, Milson’s Point NSW, 2006

ISBN: 9781740513937

302 pages.

The story of a Red Cross girl in Vietnam at the time of the Battle of Long Tan. She relates the contact she had with members of 6RAR, and D Coy in particular.

 

LAMPARD, Kerry (Lumpy)

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

41 mins 21 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Lampard (1 RAR, SASR) who served in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/894

 

LAUGHTON, K C – Not quite men, no longer boys

IAD Press, Australia, 1999

ISBN-10: 1864650060

ISBN-13: 978-1864650068

Illustrated; 352 pages.

An aboriginal serviceman’s story of his tour of duty in Vietnam with the RAAC. Mentions RAR units and individuals with whom he served, and in support of.

 

LAW, Arthur (Alfred)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 44 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Law (1 RAR) who served in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1434

 

LEE, Sandra Finger – Vietnam on Canvas – Ken McFadyen: An Artist at War

Barrallier Books, Barrallier, VIC, 2013

ISBN 9780980663303(hbk)

Index, notes; 144 pages.

Ken McFadyen served with the Australian forces in Vietnam from July 1967 until May 1968, attached to 2RAR. Appendix lists the post-WWII artists.

 

LOCKE, Graham – Call Sign ‘Tiger 62’: The story of the Assault Pioneer Platoon of the 5th Royal Australian Regiment, Vietnam 1969

 Zeus Publications, Burleigh QLD, 2006

ISBN: 1921118083

Illustrated, maps, index; 130 pages.

Author served in this platoon in 5 RAR

Lex McAulay, Blue Lanyard Red Banner: The Capture of a Vietcong Headquarters by 1st Battalion the Royal Australian Regiment, Operation Crimp, 8-14 January 1966. Banner Books, 2005. Book-length version of the previous item.

 

 

LOCKHART, Greg – The Minefield: An Australian Tragedy in Vietnam

Allen & Unwin, Sydney, 2007

ISBN: 978 1741141061

Index, bibliography; 306 pages.

The author explains the origins and consequences of Brigadier Stuart Graham’s decision to lay an 11 kilometre-long minefield in Vietnam in 1967, a minefield that failed to achieve its intent as a barrier, and enabled the enemy to lift M16 anti-personnel mines that were then used against the Australians to deadly effect.

 

LUCACI, John

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 50 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Lucaci (7 RAR) who saw operational service in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1452

 

LUNN, Hugh – Vietnam: A Reporter’s War

University of Queensland Press, St Lucia, 1986

ISBN: 0702220183

Photos; 259 pages.

Arriving at the height of the war in 1967, the young Australian correspondent witnessed some of the most bloody and dramatic events culminating in the 1968 Tet offensive, when the Viet Cong invaded Saigon as part of a country-wide offensive. The author mentions the service and death of an RAR officer serving with AATTV at the time, and provides a visually revealing insight into the war fought by the RAR battalions and others.

 

LLOYD-THOMAS, Kevin – Beat PTSD – How A Combat Soldier Conquered Chronic PTSD To Live A Life

That Truly Matters And How You Can Too

Global Publishing, Mt Evelyn, 2018

ISBN: 978 1925 288 162

Black and white photos; 22 pages.

The author completed two tours of duty as an Infantryman and then as a section commander, resulting in what the author describes as chronic PTSD and a suicide attempt. He overcame his difficulties and has recorded much good advice in his book for others with similar issues.

 

MacGREGOR, Sandy – Classified Memoirs: A Life too Interesting

Publisher TBA, location TBA, 2019

ISBN: TBA

X pages.

A personal story that includes the author’s experience as a junior sapper officer in support of 1 RAR when it was a component of the 173 US Airborne Brigade in Vietnam, including clearance of portions of the Cu Chi tunnel system.

 

MACKAY, Ian – Australians in Vietnam

Rigby, Adelaide, 1968

BIB ID: 1683595

ISBN – none

Maps on linings. Illustrated; 201 pages.

This story is of the early days of Australia’s commitment to South Vietnam, and covers aspects of AATTV operations as well as the first 1RAR and 5RAR tours of duty.

 

MACKAY, Ian – Phantoms of Bribie: The Jungles of Vietnam to Corporate Life and Everything in Between

Big Sky Publishing, Sydney, 2017

ISBN-13: 9781925275575

Index, images; 32 pages

This is the author’s story of operational service in Vietnam. Mackay served with the SAS and in Malaya, experience serving him well later in Vietnam where he was Officer Commanding Bravo Company 6 RAR. During Operation Bribie he led his outnumbered company in a desperate bayonet charge, followed by close quarter fighting, against a well dug in and determined enemy. This action illustrated the courage, the battle discipline and spirit of the well trained Australian combat infantryman. The book also covers a wider part of the author’s life.

 

MacKENZIE, Alistair – Pilgrim Days: from Vietnam to the SAS

Osprey Publishing, New York, 2019

ISBN: HB 9781472833181

Index, colour and black & white photographs; 224 pages.

The NZ author relates his time serving in several armies and conflicts throughout the world. Part of this was in V Company with 2 RAR in Vietnam.

 

McGURGAN, Bernard

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

42 mins 03 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features McGurgan (several RAR, AATTV) who served in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1052

 

McKAY, Gary MC – After the blood boils: the warrior’s dilemma

Living History, Manly NSW, 2022

ISBN: 9780648922612

Index, illustrated; 208pp.

A military memoire by the author focusing on his military service that included a tour of duty in Vietnam with 4 RAR during which he was wounded mid 1971, and his post-military career writing and battling PTSD.

 

McKERNAN, Michael – When this thing happened: a story of a father, a son, and the wars that changed them

Scribe Publications, Brunswick VIC, 2015

ISBN-10: ‎ 1925106896

ISBN-13: 9781925106893

256 pages.

In this story, the son serves with 5 RAR in Vietnam with about half of the book devoted to that experience. As deputy director of the Australian War Memorial for many years, Michael McKernan has written about many stories of war. For him, war was never about the big picture; it always came down to the individual. Yet little did he know when he met his future wife in 1989 that her father would soon be telling him his own story, of being made a slave to the Nazis in the Second World War, and its unforeseeable consequences. One of these consequences was that Mychajlo Stawyskyj’s son Joe would grow up in Australia and be sent to fight in Vietnam as a national serviceman, where he would become one of that war’s worst casualties. McKernan pieces together the disrupted lives of his father-in-law and brother-in-law, creating a compelling narrative and an unforgettable story about the cost of war to one Australian family.

 

MADDEN, Michael, C – Dasher: The Kevin Wheatley VC story

Big Sky Publishing, Sydney, 2021

ISBN: 9781722388657

Illustrations; 361 pages.

The story of Warrant Officer ‘Dasher’ Wheatley, member of the RAR and posted to the AATV in Vietnam at the time of his bravery which led to the award of the Victoria Cross.

 

MADDOCK, Kenneth (Editor) – Memories of Vietnam

Random House Australia, Milson’s Point NSW, 1991

ISBN: 0091825911

Bibliography; 283 pages.

A series of short stories where some Australians who knew the war from close-up to close quarter contact look back over the years and recall their experiences in their own words. RAR members are among the contributors.

 

MADDOCK, Kenneth: WRIGHT, Barry (Editor) – War Australia & Vietnam

Harper & Row (Australasia), Melbourne, 1987

ISBN: 0 06 312099 2

Index; 314 pages.

Barry Wright, an anthropologist and Vietnam veteran, and Kenneth Maddock, an anthropologist, have brought together a remarkable record of human conflict which breaks new ground. The theme of the impact of a war has probably never before been tackled from such a diverse range of points of view and backgrounds.

 

MARTENS, Ted (Snake) (Editor) – Two’s company: tall tales but true, a tour of the funny farm

Self-published, Townsville, date not known

ISBN: Nil

Booklet with B & W photographs, newspaper clippings; 125 pages.

Comprises reminiscences by C Coy 2 RAR soldiers during their second tour of duty in Vietnam.

 

McAULAY, Lex – The Battle of Long Tan

Century Hutchinson Australia, 1986

ISBN: 0099525305

Index, maps on linings,187 pages

This book tells the story of the Battle of Long Tan and the men who fought it.

A moving story of great courage in the face of overwhelming odds. Several editions including a 1987 paperback published by Arrow Books

 

McAULAY, Lex – Blue Lanyard, Red Banner

Banner Books, Maryborough QLD, 2005

ISBN: 1875593284

Index, bibliography; 245 pages.

The account of the capture of a Viet Cong Headquarters by 1^st Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment during Operation Crimp, 8-14 January 1966.

 

McAULAY, Lex – Remember When? Some Over A Beer Yarns: Australians in South Vietnam 1965-71

Banner Books, Sydney, 2016

ASIN: B01BSI01DI

Kindle; 165 pages.

A collection of Army anecdotes and yarns typical of those exchanged when veterans have a beer with friends and remember people, places and events of that time and place, with a few jokes and funny things that happened. There are no political, diplomatic or military analyses here, and only one name is mentioned because it is relevant to the yarn. Believed to be true, though two could well be ‘urban myths’. Many were personally experienced by the author during his three tours of duty in South Vietnam, or he was close by and heard of it soon after. These anecdotes are provided to place on record some happenings from that now-distant war in a small part of the Australian involvement. Most will come from RAR members.

 

McAULAY, Lex – More Remember When? Some over a few beers yarns: Australians in south Vietnam 1965-71

Banner Books, Sydney, 2016

ASIN: B01JV7R2AI

Kindle edition, 72 pages.

As successor to the popular ‘Remember When’ published almost a year earlier, this is a second collection of yarns about Aussies in South Vietnam, this time 83 anecdotes and items of information.

 

McGURGAN, Bernie – Calling Hill 55: an Australian advisor’s war in Vietnam

Lumino Press, Hamilton QLD, 2015

ISBN: 9781921538315

Illustrated, maps, glossary; 200 pages.

A detailed and personal account of the author’s time as an advisor with the AATTV in 1970-71. Many RAR members are mentioned in this story.

 

McHUGH, Siobhan – Minefields and miniskirts: Australian women and the Vietnam war

Doubleday, Sydney/London, 1993

ISBN: 0868244902

Illustrated, index, bibliography; 295 pages.

Based on research among 50 different women to serve in Vietnam and/or had direct dealings through entertainment, philanthropy, or were related to veterans; all of whom will have come into contact with RAR members. Another perspective of the war.

 

McKay MC, Gary – After the blood cools: the warrior’s dilemma

Living History, Manly NSW, 2022

ISBN: 97806448922612

Illustrated; 208 pages.

This book is in two Parts. In the first, the author reflects upon his distinguished military career, focussing on his service in South Vietnam where, as OC 11 Platoon, D Company 4 RAR, he was awarded the Military Cross for actions during the Battle of Nui Le in 1971. In the second, he addresses his service and experiences since returning to Australia.

 

McKAY, Gary – Bullets, Beans & Bandages, Australians at War in Vietnam

Allen & Unwin, St Leonards NSW, 1999

ISBN: 1 86508 074 8

Index, glossary; 300 pages.

Gary McKay conducted extensive interviews with over a hundred veterans and their families in order to build up a picture of their war.

 

McKAY, Gary – Delta Four: Australian Riflemen in Vietnam

Allen & Unwin, St Leonards NSW, 1996

ISBN; 1864481668

Index; 313 pages.

Delta Four exposes the inner workings of a rifle company – how its soldiers trained for war, and how they operated and fought in the war zone. A revealing perspective of day to day operations at sub-unit level.

 

McKAY, Gary – Vietnam Fragments: An Oral History of Australians at War

Allen & Unwin, St Leonards NSW, 1992

ISBN: 1863732977

Index, bibliographical references; 307 pages.

A rare collection of impressions, reactions, feelings and fears of the typical front line soldier – the often spell-binding personal experiences of Australians on active service in Vietnam.

 

McKAY, Gary – In Good Company: One Man’s War in Vietnam

Allen & Unwin, St Leonards NSW, 1987

ISBN: 0043550282

Index; 197 pages.

The autobiography of a national serviceman who was commissioned and led his platoon against the enemy including the NVA.

 

McKAY, Gary – Going Back: Australian Veterans Return to Vietnam

Allen & Unwin, Crows Nest NSW, 2007

ISBN 9781741146349

Index, bibliography; 222 pages.

The author returns to Vietnam with a group of other RAR and other veterans to record their reactions when confronted by the past and their former enemies.

 

McLEOD, Sydney A – No Boxes: A Triumph of Spirit

Self-published, CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2012

ISBN-10: 1475126395

ISBN-13: 978-1475126396

402pages.

An RAR veteran’s personal story of his youth and then service in Malaya, Borneo and two tours of duty in Vietnam.

 

McLEOD, Sydney A – The Nigger in the Wood Pile: Some fact of considerable importance that is not disclosed – something suspicious or wrong

Self-published, CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2015

ISBN-10: 1519320558

ISBN-13: 978-1519320551

132 pages.

An RAR veteran’s story, stated to be true, of how the soldiers of the 1st Military Aid Team in which he served were allegedly mis-employed and then denied normal recognition in Vietnam. A contentious publication, this book has attracted mixed reviews.

 

MEECHAM, OAM RJ (Compiler) – In Support of Fellow Veterans: Veterans supporting Veterans

Zeus Publications, Burleigh QLD, 2012

ISBN: 978 1 921919 40 4

Black and white photos; 288 pages.

Twenty-five authors contribute 33 chapters which collectively describe some Vietnam era and post-Vietnam re-unions, other 4 RAR and associated events.

 

MEECHAM, OAM RJ (Compiler) – Many a Long Road Travelled: The meaning of ‘Duty First’

Zeus Publications, Burleigh QLD, 2012

ISBN: 978 1 921919 38 1

Black and white photos; 305 pages.

Thirty authors, many being RAR members contribute 36 chapters on matters affecting veterans in both peace and war, before and after enlistment, addressing events and personnel who served in the RAR.

 

MEECHAM, OAM RJ (() – Together Then, Together Again

Zeus Publications, Burleigh QLD, 2012

ISBN: 978 1 921919 39 8

Black and white photos; 287 pages

This book contains 50 chapters on a range of subjects experienced in the post-Vietnam era by veterans of that conflict, especially RAR veterans, many of whom feature in it. It provides an illuminating range of views and experiences which focus on mateship under fire, and how such that relationship endures long after the war.

 

MEEHAN, Robert (Bob) J, OAM – In the footsteps of the Road Runners

In House Publications, Underwood Qld, 2019

ISBN:  9781925962758

350+ b/w photos; 509 pages.

The life and times of the members of DELTA Company, 4 RAR/NZ from training in Townsville to the end of our tour of Vietnam, 1972 as related by one its members at the time, the author.

 

MILAM, Greg – And bring the darkness home: the Tony Dell story

Pitch Publishing, Worthing UK, 2021

ISBN: 9781785318511

Illustrated, bibliography; 221 pages.

This is a biography about Tony Dell an international cricketer who suffered from PTSD as a result of his national service in the Australian Army in Vietnam with 2 RAR.

 

MILLIE, David Millie – Team 19 in Vietnam: An Australian Soldier at War

University Press of Kentucky, Lexington USA, 2013

ISBN: 0813143268, 9780813143262

Bibliography, index; 411 pages.

Millie served with the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam in Quang Tri province, Vietnam during 1968.

 

MISKIEWICZ, Edward (Ted)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

40 mins 36 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Miskiewicz (6 RAR) who served in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1635

 

MOLLISON, Charles S – Long Tan and Beyond: Alpha Company 6 RAR in Vietnam 1966-67

Cobbs’ Crossing Publications, Woombye NSW, 2005

ISBN: 0 9757507 0 4 (softcover)

Maps, photos, bibliography, index; 428 pages.

Written by is company commander at the time, this company story is a narrative of its tour of duty. Appendices include the Battle of Long Tan’s After Action Reports, Honours and Awards, Nominal Roll, advice on Soldiers’ Rehabilitation.

 

MOREMAN, Dr John (Editor) – Vietnam – Our War, Our Peace

Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Canberra, 2006

ISBN: 1920720707

139 pages.

Selection of personal stories of 44 Vietnam veterans and their activities in the community post Vietnam. 15 of the veterans were members of the RAR. This DVA product Call number F 59.7043394 V666. 

 

MORGAN, Dave – My Vietnam War: Scarred Forever

Big Sky Publishing, Newport NSW, 2014

ISBN: 9781922132772

Illustrations, one map, portraits, 296 pages.

A typical 20 year old, Morgan forced into extraordinary circumstances in Vietnam where he was exposed to an atmosphere of ever-present danger and sheer terror that would impact him forever. His return to a divided Australia would isolate him further. Based heavily on personal letters and diary entries which, combined with his own recollections and diary entries, and the short stories of seven other veterans, to capture the unbelievable danger and horror that young men experienced in Vietnam.

 

MORGAN, Dave – The Invisible Trauma – coping with PTSD

Big Sky Publishing, Newport NSW, 2022

ISBN: 9781922765345

346 pages.

In any war the health of a fit soldier can drastically change in an instant and so it was for the men and women in the Vietnam war. While the consequences of major physical injury from a high velocity gunshot wound or from shrapnel from an exploding anti-personnel mine or from the explosive effects of an artillery shell or mortar were obvious, the effects of psychological injury were not. Author, who served as a Signals Corps man attached to RAR battalions, gives an account of his battle with PTSD and follows his book on his war experiences in the Vietnam War.

 

MORTIMER, Brian

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

40 mins 52secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Mortimer (1 RAR,) who served in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/644

 

MURPHY, Paul J – The Quiet Australians, Saint & Sinners, The effects of war and a life thereafter

Book Pal, Sunnybank Hills QLD, 2011

ISBN: 9781742840857

Photos, 540 pages.

This book is the autobiography of a young man who volunteered for National Service and went to serve in Vietnam. Over the years and to the present day he has repeatedly returned to that country to live with and help those there disadvantaged by the war.

 

NEALE, Vincent P – A green baggy skin

Self-published, Seaford VIC, 1998

ISBN: 9780646351872

Illustrations; 124 pages.

A veteran’s story of his service including that in Vietnam.

 

NETTLETON, Michael

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

42 mins 23 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Nettleton (5 RAR) who saw operational service in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/628

 

NEWMAN, Barry M (Editor) – Vietnam Remembered: Notes by South Australian CMF Observers

John Davis 4 Hour Printing Services, Norwood SA, 2001

ISBN: 0646415530

Index, 328 pages.

The accounts of the individual experiences of 59 CMF officers who visited the and observed the operations of Australians fighting the Vietnam War. Twenty were infantry officers attached to the RAR battalions in the period 1967 to 1971.

 

NINH, Boa – The Sorrow of War

Martin Secker & Warburg Ltd, London, 1993

ISBN: 0 436 31042 2

216 pages.

English translation of a 1991 novel written by a North Vietnamese soldier. While he deals primarily with operations fighting the Americans, his story and how the enemy suffered as ordinary soldiers against the Western forces supporting the South Vietnamese forces, it is probably the same one that could be told by North Vietnamese Army soldiers who fought the RAR. A rare opportunity to hear from the other side. The author was one of ten men of the original 500 -strong unit to survive the war.

 

O’FARRELL, Terry – Behind Enemy Lines: An Australian SAS Soldier in Vietnam

Allen & Unwin, St. Leonard’s NSW, 2002

ISBN: 9781865085906

Illustrated, index; 264 pages.

Author enlisted in the Australian Army early in 1966 and was assigned to SAS later that year. Served with SASR in Vietnam 1968- 1969. Served another tour in Vietnam in 1971. Covers SAS operations in support of the total Australian effort. Following Vietnam he remained in the Army rising through the ranks to Major. Several RARs mentioned.

 

O’HALLORAN, John, with TEAGUE, Ric – The Platoon Commander: the extraordinary story of the man who lead Australia’s most decorated platoon in Vietnam

Hachette Australia and New Zealand Pty Ltd, Sydney, 2021

ISBN: 9780733647475

Illustrations; 342 pages.

Author faces his biggest military challenge during Operation Bribie when he guided 5 Platoon, B Company, 6 RAR through some of the biggest contacts engaged in by Australians during the Vietnam War.

 

PARRY, Bill – Still Walking Through Life

Winston Oliver Parry, Mango Hill QLD, 2009

ISBN: 9780957951341 (pbk)

265 pages.

The author’s follow up edition to “Walking Through Life”, stories recounting the author’s war experience and after effects. Another valuable personal impression of the Vietnam War.

 

PARRY, Bill – Just a Nasho

W.O. Parry/Immaculate Heart Printhall Baguio City Philippines, 2003

ISBN: 0957951310

230 pages

“In Vietnam they all wore the green suit it did not matter whether they were regulars or nashos did not matter they were here to fight the enemy” sums up the theme for this book.

 

PEDERSON, Geoff – Two years too long: a ‘Nasho’ in Vietnam

Peacock Publications, Norwood SA, 2004

ISBN: 9781876087906

Illustrations, maps, 120 pages.

An RAR veteran’s personal reminiscences of the Vietnam war.

 

PEMBERTON, Gregory (Editor) – Vietnam Remembered

Weldon Publishing, Willoughby NSW, 1990 (1^st Edition), reprint in 1991 

Lansdowne Publishing Pty Ltd, 1993 and 1996

New Holland Publishers, 2009 and 2017 (updated editions)

ISBN: 0863020721  (1990 and 1991)

ISBN: 9781742579450 (2017)

Index, bibliographical references; 292 pages (early editions).

A wide ranging view of the Vietnam War from an Australian perspective. Includes a Roll of Honour and Nominal Roll by units of all Australians who served in Vietnam. Two chapters on operations have direct relevance for the RAR. Later editions contain updated and expanded materials.

 

PETERSON, Barry with CRIBBIN, John – Tiger Men: An Australian Soldier’s Secret War in Vietnam

Macmillan, South Melbourne,1988

ISBN: 0333478193

Index; 245 pages.

Although most of the book describes the author’s time in the AATTV among the Rhade Montagnard of Vietnam, he completed a second tour of duty with 2RAR. At least two subsequent editions published from SE Asia and by others, some with slightly different names.

 

PHILLIPS, WHJ (Bill) – Too good to be true

Self-published, Coffs Harbour NSW, 2003

ISBN: 0957889380

Illustrated, maps, two volumes; page number not identified.

An RAR veteran’s personal reminiscences of the Vietnam war.

 

RAVENSCROFT, Bruce – 1970–1971 Diary (PR10289)

Held by the Australian War Memorial

A private record titled PR10289, Papers of Ravenscroft, Raymond Bruce (Private). Author served with 7 RAR in Vietnam and this is his personal diary held at the AWM.

 

RAVENSCROFT Bruce – Contact-Wait Out: A Vietnam Diary

Australian Military History Publications, Loftus NSW, 1997

ISBN: 0646315382

197 pages.

The daily diary of a soldier’s service in South Vietnam with 7RAR.

 

REES, Peter – The Boy from Boree Creek, the Tim Fischer Story

Allen & Unwin, Crows Nest NSW, 2001

ISBN: 1865085340

Index, bibliography; 354 pages.

This is the story of Tim Fisher’s life which includes his time as a National Serviceman and as a platoon commander with 1RAR in South Vietnam.

 

REYNOLDS, Stephen (Blue)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

39 mins 54 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Reynolds (2 RAR) who served in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1406

 

ROLFE, William (Bill)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 08 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Rolfe (2 RAR) who served in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1631

 

ROSE, Peter – Soldier’s Conscience: The Ethical Complexity of Vietnam Service

Barton Books, Canberra, 2008. 

ISBN: 9780980490107 (pbk)

Index and maps; 115 pages.

Addresses the ethical issues faced by Australian soldiers in Vietnam resulting from the severe cultural dislocation of deployment into a war zone.

 

ROSER, IM – Vietnam Veterans: sons of the Hunter: the story of 104 Vietnam veterans

Australian Military History Publications, Loftus, 2002

ISBN-10: 1876439394

ISBN-13: 978-1876439392

Illustrations, maps, index; 320 pages.

Individual perspectives of Vietnam veterans including many RAR members.

 

ROWE, Maree (Compiler) – Vietnam Veterans: Sons of the Hunter

Australian Military History Publications, Loftus NSW, 2002

ISBN: 1876439394

Index; 308 pages.

Personal stories of 104 Vietnam veterans, of which at least 43 were members of the RAR.

 

RINTOUL, Stuart – Ashes of Vietnam: Australian Voices

William Heinemann, Richmond VIC, 1987

ISBN: 085561059X

246 pages.

Australia’s forgotten soldiers tell their story. Over 100 revealing, sometimes horrifying interviews present this intensely moving testimony. Includes RAR contributors.

 

RYAN, Danielle – Beneath the Southern Cross I stand: the true story of an Australian soldier

Ingram Spark, Melbourne, 2021

ISBN: 9780646853222

Index, bibliography; 203 pages.

A true story about Darryl ‘Coop’ Cooper who served with 4 RAR in Malaysia/ Borneo, and with 2 RAR for both tours of duty in Vietnam.

 

RYSCHKA, DF – Too Young to Vote but old Enough to Kill

Xlibris, International, 2012

ISBN: 9781469180878

545 pages.

Author’s experiences serving with 2 RAR including in Vietnam.

 

SABBEN, Dave MG – Mentions in despatches: An Infantry Platoon in Vietnam June 1966 – June 1967

Lothian Custom Publishing, Middle Park VIC, 2023

 ISBN: 0794712633945

Illustrated, maps, index; 500 approx pages.

An account by the author of his tour of duty 6 RAR on their first tour of Vietnam, using a diary method. Released in Mar/Apr 2023.

 

SAVAGE, David – Through the Wire: Action with the SAS in Borneo and the Special Forces in Vietnam

Allen & Unwin, St. Leonards NSW, 1999

ISBN10 : ‎1864488689

ISBN13‏ :‎ 9781864488685

Maps, illustrated; 239 pages.

Borneo gets only a few pages; the bulk of the book deals with the author’s tour in Vietnam. On arrival he was made commander of 212 Company of the II Corps MIKE Force, which he almost immediately had to lead to the relief of Duc Lap (SF Camp A-239, in Quang Duc near the Cambodian Border, southwest of Ban Me Thuot), under heavy PAVN attack in late August 1968. Wounded in the battle; in September he was made the intelligence officer for the II Corps MIKE Force. Mention of RARs.

 

SCHROEDER, Jens – Ten foot tall and bullet proof

Jens Schroeder

YouTube footage, 20 mins, 24 secs.

Narrative by a National Serviceman of his, and others, typical service in Vietnam. Applicable to all RAR deployments to the Vietnam War, this video includes casualty rates, training, operations and a wide coverage of the typical Vietnam veteran’s experience. Accessible at https://vimeo.com/163979892

 

SCOTT, Col F. Peter DSO (Commanding Officer 3RAR 1969-1972)– Command in Vietnam: Reflections of a Commanding Officer

Slouch Hat Publications, McCrae VIC, 2007

ISBN: 9780975835333

Index, bibliography; 160 pages.

Mainly focuses on the issues and problems of commanding an Australian

Infantry Battalion (3RAR) during the war in South Vietnam in 1971. Nominal and Honour Rolls included.

 

SIMS, Geoff – A real mate: The moving story of Nguyen Van Te and Jim Ellis

ABC Books, Sydney, 1991

ISBN-10: 073330091X

ISBN-13:  9780733300912

B & W illustrations, maps; 192 pages.

Biography of a Vietnam veteran and his Vietnamese friend made during the war. Mentions RAR battalions and individuals.

 

SISSON, Colin P – Wounded Warriors, The true story of a soldier in the Vietnam War and the emotional wounds inflicted

Total Press Ltd, New Zealand, 1993

ISBN: 0473018071

Coloured pictures, index; 182 pages.

The author served with V Coy 2RAR (ANZAC) from late 67 to mid 68. It details his service in Vietnam and his subsequent PTSD healing process. V2 Company Nominal Roll included.

 

SMITH, Colin – The Killing Zone: New Zealand Infantry in Vietnam

AQU Press, Auckland, 1994

ISBN: Nil

Illustrated; 60 pages.

A personal record of the war from an NZ perspective. NZ rifle companies were embedded in ANZAC battalions.

 

SMITH, Neil C – Australian Army female service in South Vietnam, 1965 -1975

Mostly unsung heroes military history and publications, Gardenvale VIC, 2004

ISBN: 9781876170328

9 pages.

Coverage of Australian Army nurses who were deployed to Vietnam where they served in patient care at Vung Tau, the great majority of casualties being RAR soldiers.

 

SMITH, Terry AM, MBE – Training the bodes: Australian Army advisors training Cambodian infantry battalions – a postscript to the Vietnam war

Big Sky Publishing, Sydney, 2016

ISBN: 9781921941016

224 pages.

Author service over 30 years included three and a half years on full time duty in the Regular Army, from 1970 to 1973, after volunteering for service in South Vietnam where he served with the Phuoc Tuy Training Battalion of the United States Army Vietnam Forces Armee Nationale Khmer (FANK) Training Command, until the completion of that programme in November 1972 and thereafter, with the Jungle Warfare Training Centre at Van Kiep. Following the withdrawal of the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam from South Vietnam on 18 December 1972, he completed his full time military service with 5 RAR, before returning to civilian life in December 1973. 

 

SPRAGG, Griffith –When Good Men Do Nothing

Australian Military History Publications, Loftus NSW, 2003

ISBN: 1876439912

Index, bibliography, B & W photographs; 296 pages.

An autobiography in which RAR individuals are mentioned. It covers the very interesting life of an average Australian as he gives an introspective look into the mind of a front-line soldier. The author served on the Kokoda Trail during World War Two. Prior to demobilisation he spent six months in a hospital where he came to know a number of men who had been Japanese POWs. As a result he undertook medical studies and served a tour in Vietnam as a psychiatrist seeing many RAR patients suffering from battle stress.

 

STANTON, Allan – Before I forget

Sid Harta Publishers, Glen Waverley VIC, 2009

ISBN-10: 1921362456

ISBN-13:9781921362453

Illustrations, maps; 153 pages.

A national service veteran’s account of his war in Vietnam with 3 Cavalry Regiment. Mentions the RAR units and many personnel with whom he served.

 

STEWART, Charles (Charlie)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

42 mins video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Stewart (RAR and SASR) who saw operational service in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2002

 

STONE, Gerald L – War without Honour

Jacaranda Press, 1966

BIB ID: 758981

ISBN: Nil

Maps on linings; I54 pages.

A journalist’s perspective on the Vietnam War in 1965. Two chapters provide interesting perspectives about 1RAR at Bien Hoa.

 

STREVENS, Steve – The Jungle Dark

Pan McMacmillan Australia, Sydney, 2015

ISBN: Nil

Index; 296 pages.

The true story of the characters and events surrounding the 6 RAR mine incident that gave rise to the famous song “I was only Nineteen” by John Schumann, a tune regarded by many as the epitome of the war for men on the ground in South Vietnam.

 

STUART, Raymond (Ray)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

39 mins 46 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Stuart (2 RAR and 3 RAR) who served in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2067

 

STUMER, Robert (Bob)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 59 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Stumer (6 RAR) who saw operational service in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1883

 

SUTHERLAND, Stan – In This Man’s Army: A Vietnam War Memoir

Stan Sutherland, Yackandandah VIC, 2007

ISBN: 9780646471815 (pbk)

356 pages.

This book gives an insight into the normal tasks and experiences of the Australian Infantry soldiers’ day-to-day life during an active tour of duty in

South Vietnam in the mid sixties through to the early 1970s in B Coy 3 RAR, B Coy 9 RAR and D & E Platoon, HQ Company 1 ATF.

 

TATE, Donald – Anzacs Betrayed

Finite Publishing, Caloundra QLD; xxxx

ISBN: 978-0-9875860-0-1

307 pages.

A narrative dealing with the contentious matter of 40 members of the 4th Battalion (4 RAR) who were placed into an ad hoc D&E Platoon in May 1969 tasked with interdicting a very large enemy force in the Thua Tich region of Xuyen Moc Province, South Vietnam-  a platoon which was then deleted from all records of the Vietnam War until May 2008.

 

TATE, Donald – ‘Contact Front’: Accounts of the Ambush of July 19 1969 involving 7 platoon C Company the 9th RAR

Self published; Caloundra QLD, xxxx

ISBN: 978-0-9875860-5-6

39 pages.

This is a record of an action that took place in Vietnam on July 19th 1969 involving C Company of the 9th Battalion (9 RAR). It includes documents, photographs, first-hand accounts, and media reports and corrects the record which was incorrectly recorded in a history of the 9th Battalion published in 1974.

 

TATE, Don – Front Toward Enemy

Self-published, Caloundra QLD, 2018

ISBN: 978-0-9875860-3-2

150 pages

This expose reveals the maladministration and, corruption of the war service records of RAR infantryman Private Donald Tate, wounded in action during the Vietnam War, and provides all relevant documentation and proof of his service.

 

TATE, Donald – The Service History and other Contentions of Private Don Tate (Vietnam War- Army) 

Self published, xxxx, xxxx

ISBN: 978-0-9875860-3-2

411 pages.

The full service record of the author in the Vietnam War across three units, including all pertinent documents, first-hand accounts, media reports, photographs etc., as well as details of other contentions involving him.

 

TATE, Donald – The 2nd D&E Platoon in Vietnam: Anatomy of a Military Cover-up

Self-published; xxxx, xxxx

ISBN: 978-0-9875860-4-9

99 pages.

The 2nd D&E Platoon was made up of regular soldiers from the 4th Battalion (4 RAR) who formed the ‘2nd D&E Platoon’ in May 1969 when the battalion had returned to Australia. The platoon was involved in a number of actions against the Viet Cong- including the significant ambush at Thua Tich on May 29 1969. It was subsequently deleted from all records of the war until formally recognised by the federal government in May 2008.

 

TATE, Don – The War Within

Murdoch Books, Sydney, 2008

ISBN: 9781741962093

461 pages.

The author’s evocative and often confronting memoir about his journey from a young country boy to manhood, including his service experience in the Vietnam War with 4 RAR, 2nd D&E platoon, and 9 RAR with whom he served when WIA.

 

TAYLOR, Adrian – From Nui Dat to Discharge: Honouring their Service: 4 Platoon B Company 7 RAR Vietnam 1970 -1971

Digital Print Australia, Adelaide, 2017

ISBN: 9780987511102

Profusely illustrated; 415 pages.

An extensively illustrated story of the platoon with biographies of all its soldiers. Contains much platoon level detail including contact reports, documents and many images of documents that the typical platoon soldier saw or dealt with during their tour of duty. Most RAR troops to serve in Vietnam, and elsewhere deployed. will relate well to this book.

 

TAYLOR, Adrian – From Nui Dat to Discharge: honouring their service 4 Platoon B Company 7 RAR, Vietnam 1970 -1971 Book 2

Digital Print Australia (Adrian Taylor), Privately, 2020

ISBN 10: 0987511114

550 photographs, documents, maps; 397 pages.

This book is a unique collection of personal stories of the fifty men (and one tracker dog) who served at various times with 4 Platoon, B Company, 7 RAR in Vietnam during 1970 and 1971. Over twenty years the author, himself a former member of the platoon, contacted nearly every living member of the platoon and invited them to recount their story. Many contributed, telling of their backgrounds before they joined the Army, experiences in Vietnam, and how they tried to return to a normal life back in Australia. Three members were killed in action in Vietnam, and a number have died since. The author has obtained personal accounts from their relatives, many revealing the devastating effect these deaths have had on their grieving families.

 

TEAGUE , Ric – Born on Anzac Day

Rosenberg Publishing, Kenthurst NSW, 2015

ISBN 10: 1925078477

ISBN 13: 9781925078473

Illustrated; 312 pages.

The story of Vietnam veteran Allan ‘Aldy’ Aldenhoven, born in Darwin. His mother was of “The Stolen Generation” and his father a descendant of German settlers. Grew up in Adelaide, and was conscripted to fight in the Vietnam War.  He was with the 7 RAR where his fighting spirit was legendary.

 

THOMPSON, John OAM – A Vietnam Vet’s Remarkable Life

Brolga Publishing, Melbourne, 2012

ISBN: 9781922036148

Illustrated; 260 pages.

This is the story of a wounded Royal Australian Engineers soldier and what happens to survivors. John “Jethro” Thompson joined the Australian Army in 1964 and served in Sabah British North Borneo in 1965. In 1967 he was posted to 1 Field Squadron (RAE) in Vietnam. Five months later he was seriously wounded after standing on a landmine. Refers to RAR units in which his unit was in support.

 

TICHENER, Percy – Every man and his dog

Pakera Publishing, Melbourne, 2011

ISBN: 9780646534763

Soft cover, photographs; 244 pages.

Second edition. Author served with 6 RAR/NZ (NAZAC) as a tracker. Following evacuation through illness he returned to a rifle company, was seriously wounded and returned to Australia. Content includes dog and human tracking and platoon level operations, including the training of surrendered enemy. Based on fact, fictional names are used in this irreverent story. It is fiction based upon fact to protect the identity of individuals. A good irreverent yarn, devoid of political correctness.

 

TOWERS, Mike – A Jungle Circus: Memories of Vietnam

Allen & Unwin, Sydney, 1999

ISBN: 1864489170

Bibliography; 234 pages.

A national serviceman’s story of his 24 months in the army including a tour of duty in the RAR in South Vietnam. A humorous and compassionate portrait.

 

VICKERY, Brian – Down from the mountains: the path of a baby boomer

Xlibris Corporation, 2020

ISBN: 978198950635/06528

Illustrated, index; 308 pages.

Primarily written to record the history of the author’s father and uncles during World War II, it includes the author’s own service in the RAR including with 1, 9 and 5/7 RAR.

 

WALKER, Frank – Ghost Platoon: 2^nd D & E Platoon Vietnam 1969

Hachette Australia, 2011

ISBN 13: 9780733626432 ISBN 10: 0733626432 (1^st Edition)

Map, Illustrations, Bibliography, Index, 338 pages.

A second D & E Platoon was formed and operated from April to June 1969. It was engaged in a major contact in the east of the Province and then disbanded. It took three decades and much angst to have the achievements of the platoon recognized and accepted. The story includes the aftermath and the impact on the men of the Ghost Platoon. Later editions published in 2013 and 2015.

 

WALKER, Frank – The Tiger Man of Vietnam

Hachette Australia, Sydney, 2009

ISBN: 978 0 7336 3661 5

Index, Notes, timeline, black & white photos, maps, bibliography: 356 pages.

The story of Captain Barry Peterson, MC an RAR member assigned to work for the CIA in the Central Highlands of Vietnam in the Phoenix Program.

 

WALTER, Bob – There’s Nothing Wrong With Me: The Veteran’s Journey into the PTSD Minefield

Openbook Howden, St Marys SA, 2012

Photographs, 54 pages.

Using stories and poems, this work is based largely on the author’s Vietnam service experience, following the veteran’s journey from recruit training through war service and on to the subsequent experience of living with the consequences of war. Provides an insight into the impact of PTSD on the lives of veterans, their partner and families.

 

WALTERS, Ian – Dasher Wheatley & Australia in Vietnam

NT University, Darwin, 1998

ISBN: 1876248106

Index, bibliographical references; 179 pages.

Statistical type reference on The Victoria Cross in the coverage. Many references to the Royal Australian Regiment.

 

WATERSTON, David – A machine gun spray of memories

Military History and Heritage Victoria, online, 2021

An article about the author’s experiences with 6 RAR/NZ (ANZAAC) in 1969 in Vietnam. Accessible at https://www.mhhv.org.au/a-machine-gun-spray-of-memories/

 

WATSON, Don – The Passion of Private White

Scribner Australia, Cammeray NSW, 2022

ISBN: 9781760855079

Illustrated, Notes; 256 pages.

White was a national service member of 2 RAR in Vietnam, first tour, Following the war, he spent most of him time living in a remote location in Arnhem Land, closely integrating with Aboriginal peoples living close to their ancestral way of life even today. The section of the book dealing with his service in the Army and especially in Vietnam gives some context to the full story.

 

WHITE, Kerry – Dominoes and Marbles: A Young Man’s Life and Times in Peace and War

Amazon Digital Services, Internet, 2018

ASIN: B01D6XKC44

Kindle version only; 337 pages.

White served with 5 RAR as a national serviceman, presenting a typical soldier’s view of his war in Vietnam. He wrote this book to be available initially online, however enquiries about a ‘real’ book may be made to the author at his invited address of [email protected]

 

WHITTAKER, Bob – Jellybeans in the Jungle

EIEIO, Toowoomba, 2011

ISBN: 0646559591, 9780646559599

165 pages.

Story of a National serviceman’s tour of duty following conscription, recruit and Corps training, originally from a position of sympathy for the anti-war movement at the time. Whittaker tells the story of his military service and the post-war return visits to Vietnam. The book is dedicated to his platoon commander in South Vietnam, Doug Gibbons (5 Pl, 7 RAR).

 

WILLIAMS, Alan

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

42 mins 01 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Williams (2 RAR, SASR, AATTV) in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1616

 

WILLIAMS, Jean R – Cry in the Wilderness: Guinea Pigs of Vietnam

Homecoming Publications Australia, 1995

ISBN: 0949525243

References; 294 pages.

Examines the after effects on returned soldiers from South Vietnam of the herbicide program.

 

WINTER, Peter – The Year I Said Goodbye

Wakefield Press, Kent Town SA, 2003

ISBN: 186254610X

269 pages.

Peter Winter was a well-trained and proud career soldier when he went to South Vietnam in 1970 as a platoon commander. Whether he was recording an exhausting day on operations or enquiring after family and friends, Peter Winter’s letters are redolent with an obvious love and care for those at home and the men in his charge. The experience of war resulted in anger, upheaval and a general feeling of isolation. This is a compilation of the letters he wrote home.

 

WOODS, Brian

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

40 mins 13 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Woods (9 RAR) who served in Vietnam. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2014

 

WOODS, Claire and SKREBELS, Paul – Veterans Remember: Stories for the community

Ginninderra Press, Port Adelaide SA, 2010

ISBN: 9781740276047

B & W photographs; 145 pages.

Comprising primarily stories of WW II veterans, this work also includes a 4 RAR veteran of Vietnam.

 

 

PEACE KEEPING & PEACE MAKING OPERATIONS

(Somalia 1992-93, 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 (Rhodesia, Uganda)

 

BREEN, Bob – A Little Bit of Hope: Australian Force Somalia

Allen & Unwin, Sydney, 1998

ISBN: 186448702X

Index, bibliographical references; 499 pages.

Personal account of the experiences of the Australian men and women who served in Somalia January -May 1993. It also provides an analysis of Operation SOLACE: the decisions, factors and events that led to its success, and the frustrations and failures experienced. Also Includes Nominal Roll of the Australian Force.

 

FARRELL, John Hunter – Peacemakers: INTERFET’s Liberation of East Timor

Fullbore Magazines Pty Ltd, Rocklea QLD, 2000

ISBN: 0 646 39424 X

Maps, Glossary, Multiple colour images, 96 pages.

A highly illustrated early publication of the operations in East Timor, covering the period stated in its third tier title: Day one in Dili to the border and the enclave. Several battalions mentioned, and many individuals identifiable.

 

FRY, Gavin – Rwanda, The Australian Contingent 1994-1995

National Capital Printing, Canberra, 1996

ISBN: 06/12234795

Index, 185 pages.

This pictorial history of Australia’s United Nations Contingent to Rwanda brings together the work of five photographers – David Lloyd, Angela Blakely, George Gittoes, Cpl Geoff Fox and Cpl Robyn White. Each had a different prospective and worked to an individual brief.

 

HAMILTON-SMITH, Martin

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

41 mins 32 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Hamilton-Smith (6 RAR and SASR) who saw UN service in the Sinai and Counter-Terrorism duties with SASR. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2021

 

McINTOSH, Patrick

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

39 mins 47 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features McIntosh (2/4 RAR, 5/7 RAR and 8/9 RAR) who served in Rwanda as the Commander Australian Medical Support Force – Rwanda, a position he was appointed to while CO 2/4 RAR. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2450

 

McKAY, John (Don)

UNSW, Canberra, 2003

41 mins 13 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features McKay (1 RAR) who saw operational service in PNG. He also served extensively in WW II and since as a career Infantryman. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/343

 

MOSS, Robert (Mossy or the Cat)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

39 mins 41 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Moss (2 RAR) who served with ASC 2 in Rwanda. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/2135

 

O’HANLON, Peter – World War Bloody Timor

Big Sky Publishing, Newport NSW, 2022

ISBN13: 9781922615695

Illustrated, 380 pages.

Story of the life of an ordinary soldier who served three tours with RAR battalions in East Timor including part of INTERFET. Said to show the real hard truth of Service life, including drama, laughs and first-hand accounts of deep turmoil.

 

 O’HALLORAN, Kevin – Pure Massacre: Aussie soldiers reflect on the Rwandan Genocide

Big Sky Publishing, Sydney, 2010

ISBN: 9780980325188(pbk)

Index, bibliography; 293 pages.

A record of what happened during this peacekeeping mission by one who was there; gives a new and personal voice to the Kibeho Massacre. Nominal Roll; well illustrated.

 

RAMSDEN, Graeme – Letters from Timor: a chaplain’s tour of duty

Big Sky Publishing, Newport NSW,

ISBN: 9781921941009

Illustrated, index; 172 pages.

Book includes service on East Timor as a chaplain, working primarily with RAR battalions, several of which are mentioned.

 

PICKARD, Terry – Combat Medic: An Australian’s eyewitness account of the Kibeho massacre

Big Sky Publishing, Wavell Heights QLD, 2008

ISBN: 9780980325126

Diagrams, photographs, glossary of military terms and abbreviations; 180 pages.

Author’s first hand experience in Rwanda during 1995. He served with an 8/9 RAR company at Air Base Butterworth and later, in the multi-Corps Medical Support Force protected by a 2 RAR company as part of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Rwanda. A platoon of 2 RAR was involved in the situation that unfolded at Kibeho.

 

ROBINS, Paul (Robo)

UNSW, Canberra, 2004

40 mins 26 secs video

One of the Australians at war film archive series of interviews, this product features Robins (1 RAR) who served in Somalia. Accessible at https://australiansatwarfilmarchive.unsw.edu.au/archive/1765

 

STONE, Gary – Duntroon to Dili: Mayhem and Miracles Traumatic Stress and Trust in God

Barrallier Books Pty Ltd, West Geelong VIC, 2014

ISBN: 9780992530129

Index, illustrations, 348 pages.

Stone’s operational experiences started with UN duties in the Iran-Iraq War as an RAR member where he saw, and describes, its effects on a scale rarely seen by other Australians. Following his ARA career, he trained as a Deacon in the Catholic church and then served in both the Army and Federal Police as a chaplain. In this second phase of his career, he saw service in Timor-Leste, The Solomon Islands, Bougainville and the 2004Asian Tsunami alongside RAR veterans. This book is the story of that career and addresses religious beliefs and PTSD and other Service-related issues.

 

TRUSCOTT, Jim – The outlaws return to East Timor: The old and the bold motorcycle tour from 19 May to 3 June 2019

Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra, 2019

ISSN: 0048 8933

Colour and B & W photographs; 17 pages.

This article in Sabretache, Volume LX – Number 3 covers a return to East Timor by a number of RAR veterans, naming many locations that most RAR battalions served at since 1999. Article available from MHSA website at http://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-downloads/

 

 

IRAQ 2003-09 and 2014–ongoing

 

BOX, Dax – Carry Me Home: The Life and Death of Private Jake Kovco

Allen & Unwin, Sydney, 2008

IBSN: 9781741752748

290 pages.

The inside story of the man and the RAR soldier including the two year investigation into his death while on active service in Iraq.

 

FIELDING, Marcus – Red Zone Baghdad: My War in Iraq

Big Sky Publishing, Newport NSW, 2011

ISBN: 978-1-921941-17-1

No index, Timeline Appendix; 246 pages.

Author’s experiences in Iraq, embedded in the Coalition Headquarters during 2008-9 as a senior staff officer.

 

MOLAN, Jim Maj-Gen – Running the War in Iraq

Harper Collins, 2008

ISBN: 9780732287818

ISBN 10: 0732287812

Index; 384 pages.

The author’s experience as Chief of Staff to the US Commander, General George Casey, of the Multi National Force in Iraq. An insightful record of the operations of the Coalition forces in Iraq, and the role played by an Australian General seconded to the US forces.

 

REDENBACH, Robert – Waveman

Courtney Ballantyne Publishing, Gold Coast, 2006

ISBN: 9780980382242

219 pages.

Author served with 3 RAR after initially posted to the Independent Rifle Company as an Infantryman at Canungra. This book chronicles is time in the army as well as post-Army where he worked in Iraq as an independent operator.     

 

AFGHANISTAN 2006-2021

 

CULLEN, Andrew and CULLEN Zoe – Resurrected: a story of hope

Linky Muller, 2016, and Readex 2014 (online)

ISBN-10: 1539865541

ISBN-13: 978-1539865544

B & W photographs, maps; 302 pages.

Author served for 17 years initially in the RAR, and after commissioning in the Engineers working as an EOD specialist in Afghanistan. He developed PTSD on return and has since recovered, supporting other overcome that adversity.

 

DONALDSON, Mark, VC – The Crossroad: A story of life, death and the SAS

Pan MacMillan Australia, Sydney, 2013

ISBN: 9781742612287

422 pages.

Author was the first VC recipient in Afghanistan in 2008 (the 97^th such award to Australians) while serving with the SASR. This book is his life story and includes time spent in 1 RAR.

 

KEIGHRAN, Daniel – Courage under Fire

MacMillan Australia, 2020

ISBN: 9781760787653

Illustrations, Index; 384 pages.

Also available as an audio CD.

Co-written with Tony Park, this book is an autobiography and includes the battle on 24 Aug 10 that led to the award of the VC to Keighran.

 

KNIGHT, Tony – Havoc-06: A combat controller on operations

Big Sky Publishing, Newport NSW, 2022

ISBN: 9781922615657

Illustrated; 324 pages.

Experiences of an RAAF Air Defence Guard assigned in Afghanistan to provided tactical strike control support to 2^nd Commando Regiment. Gives insights into the same support provided to several other RAR forces in -theatre.

 

LANGDON, Rob – The Seventh Circle: former Australian soldier’s extraordinary story of surviving seven years in Afghanistan’s most notorious prison

Allen & Unwin, Crows Nest NSW, 2017

ISBN: 978 1 76029 640 7

304 pages.

An autobiography of a person who served in 1 RAR in the Solomon Islands and East Timor prior to leaving the army and working in the private security sector overseas including Iraq and then Afghanistan where the bulk of this story is set. Includes photographs of the author and other identifiable individuals.

 

LEDGARD, Terry – Bad Medicine: A no-holds-barred account of life as an Australian SAS medic during the war in Afghanistan

Penguin Random House, Melbourne, 2016

ISBN: 9780143797272 (pbk)

Index; bibliographical references; 249 pages.

While concentrating on the SAS story, this book also refers to RAR units deployed at the same time. The story is the author’s, written after he left the ADF and the book points out that his views do not reflect those if Defence or government policy.

 

LEE, Sandra – 18 hours: the true story of a modern day Australian SAS hero

Harper Collins, Sydney, 2006

ISBN: 9780732282462

ISBN 10: 0732282462

384 pages.

Real-life story of how an Australian SAS signalman’s courage (ex- RAR Jock Wallace) under fire saved more than 80 lives in Afghanistan. Also available in an MP3 CD-based audio version, 9 hours 39 minutes, read by Michael Carman.

 

PETERS, Darren – Darren Peters, SOTG V, remembers his mate Luke Worsley killed in action 23 November 2017 fighting for Australia

O- line story of the death in action of Luke Worsley, 2 Commando Regiment ( B Cot 4 RAR before the unit changed names) in Afghanistan. Posted online 24 Nov 2015. Article also refers to Cameron Baird, VC, MG who was himself KIA later, serving with the same unit. Accessible at

https://www.michaelsmithnews.com/2015/11/darren-peters-sotg-v-remembers-his-mate-luke-worsley-killed-in-action-23-november-2007-fighting-for-.html

 

POATE, Hugh – Failures of command: the death of Private Robert Poate

New South Publishing/University of NSW, Sydney, 2021

ISBN: 9781742257237

Illustrated, map, index; 368 pages.

Private Poate was killed on 29 August 2021 by a member of the Afghan National Army, an incident known as a ‘green on blue’ casualty. At the time he was posted to 6 RAR and assigned for duty to the 3 RAR Task Group serving in Afghanistan. Includes a list of ADF soldiers killed and/or died while serving in Afghanistan. Book is the result of a father’s quest to find the truth behind the death of his son. The book reveals a labyrinth of excuses, denials, half-truths, cover-ups, contrived secrecy, orders not followed and lessons NOT learnt by the RAR and its campaign HQ in Afghanistan.

 

PRONK, Dan (Dr) – The combat doctor: a story of battlefield medicine and resilience

MacMillan, Sydney, 2022

ISBN: 9781760988067

Illustrated; 335 pages.

Autobiography covering the author’s four deployment to Afghanistan with SAS and other Special Forces, and his wider military service during which he was posted to 5 RAR prior to being accepted into Special Forces.

 

SMITH, Fred – The Dust of Uruzgan

Allen and Unwin, Crows Nest NSW, 2016

ISBN: 978 1 76029 221 8

No index or references, 416 pages.

An on-the-ground account of Australia’s involvement by an Australian diplomat/musician of the struggle in Uruzgan, Afghanistan. Part memoire, part history, part eyewitness account, it outlines what the Australian forces generally faced in the impoverished province. It refers to some of the RAR units and supporting forces, recounting the setbacks and successes of a contingent of Australian soldiers, diplomats and aid workers struggling to make a difference.

 

THOMPSON, Jimmy & MACGREGOR – Tunnel Rats Vs The Taliban: how the Aussie sappers in Aghanistan took on the Taliban

Allen & Unwin, Crows Nest NSW, 2016

ISBN: 9781760113544

Illustrations, maps, index; 269 pages.

This is the story of the sappers in Afghanistan whose raw courage and skills were inspired by the original Australian Tunnel Rats of the war in Vietnam. These Tunnel Rats of Afghanistan worked within the MTFs/MRTFs which were based on either Engineers or RAR-dominant units to help rooted out the enemy from their caves and mountain hideouts, defused thousands of improvised explosive, built bridges and schools to win a war of hearts and minds, and also fought side by side with special forces commandos and SAS troops. They, too, lost a disproportionate number of their comrades, many returning home with post-traumatic stress disorder.This is the powerful story of the sappers, the Army engineers in Afghanistan whose raw courage and skills were inspired by the original Australian Tunnel Rats of the war in Vietnam. These Tunnel Rats of Afghanistan have rooted out the enemy from deep inside their caves and mountain hideouts, have defused thousands of improvised explosive devices (the booby traps and landmines of this most recent of wars), built bridges and schools to win a war of hearts and minds, and fought side by side with special forces commandos and SAS troops. They, too, lost a disproportionate number of their comrades and many returned home with the devastating baggage of war, post-traumatic stress disorder.

 

THOMLINSON, Damien with COWLEY, Michael – Without Warning: A soldier’s extraordinary story

Harper Collins Publishers, Sydney, 2013

ISBN: 978 0 07322 9716 (pbk)

No index, photographs; 290 pp.

Experiences of a soldier who, after training with 4 RAR (Cdo)/2 Commando Regiment deployed to Afghanistan where he was severely wounded by an IED in 2009. Also available in e-book.

 

WALES, Mark- Survivor: Life in the SAS

Pan Macmillan Australia Pty Ltd, Sydney, 2021

ISBN: 9781760980751

Illustrations; 368 pages

Author’s autobiography, including military experiences in Afghanistan. Served in 2 RAR also.

 

WARREN, Paul (with Jeff AFTER) – The Fighter

Allen & Unwin, Crows Nest NSW, 2015

ISBN: 9781743439920

304 pages.

The harrowing story the author’s – previously a martial arts expert – tour of duty with 1 RAR in Afghanistan and how he survived an IED blast that killed his friend (PTE Bernado), to go on and recover and now work with Mates4Mates to assist fellow wounded veterans. Gives a valuable insight into what every soldier on patrol faced, particularly the RAR members, during the war in Afghanistan.

 

  

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)

 

DOUSSETT, Raymond A – Rotor in the Green – An Autobiography

Rotor in the Green, Townsville, 1996

ISBN: 0 646 26633 0

Bibliography, Appendixes; 341 pages.

Although an autobiography by an Army Aviator, the book covers a range of training and operational flying in both Australia and overseas including PNG, and covers humanitarian tasks. Several references are made to support flying in favour of several RAR battalions, and in so doing provides an “above the ground” perspective on some of the RAR’s training and DAAC tasks which benefit from Army Aviation support.

 

STRETTON, Alan – Soldier in a Storm

Collins, Sydney, 1978

ISBN: 0 00 216406 X

320 pages.

Alan Stretton’s autobiography includes details of his service as CO 2 RAR in Malaya 1961-1963. A personal account of the author’s experiences in leading the initial efforts to recover from the Cyclone Tracy disaster of 1974, the military response to which included 5/7 RAR and 6 RAR and other RAR individuals in many support and staff roles at the time.

 

FUTURE/NEXT

 

HEDDERMAN, Billy – Unbowed: a soldier’s extraordinary journey back from paralysis (book)

Big Sky Publishing, Sydney, 2019

ISBN: 9781922654494

Colour and B & W Photographs; 288 pages.

The story of an ex-Irish Army officer with service in Chad, Bosnia and the Middle East who then joined the Australian Army to serve with 6 RAR. Includes the account of his partial recovery from paralysis. See also entries in Part 8 and 10, being video and audio sources which supplement this book.