GENERAL
This Part contains sources of reference to the RAR by other Australian Defence Force Services, non-Infantry Corps of the Australian Army, and non-military eg Police, Border Security and others. Foreign (non-Australian) sources are contained in Part 5.
ALLSOP, Nigel – Australian War Dogs: The Story of Four-legged Diggers
New Holland Publishers, Sydney, 2017
ISBN: 9781742579672
Index, 189 pages.
The authors colludes with other dog handlers from Army and Air Forces to present this history. Primarily written from the perspective of engineers using dogs as explosives locators, the book does refer to RAR battalions supported with such canine skills, as well as the RAR’s use of dogs as trackers from Malaya onwards. Includes a section on RAAF dog use.
AYLIFFE, Keith & POSNER, John – Tracks of the Dragon: A History of Australian Locating Artillery
Australian Military History Publications, Loftus NSW, 2004
ISBN: 1876439769
ISBN: 9781876439767
Index, bibliography; 340 pages.
A history of locating enemy artillery by the Australian armed forces, history of skills and equipment, locating units and locators since WW I. Sound-Ranging was then developed to detect enemy weapons and ‘target acquisition’ was born. No longer was there a reliance on the human eye to locate enemy guns and mortars. In an attempt to neutralise the enemy’s indirect-fire weapons, tactics and technology have changed dramatically since those early days. By the Vietnam War, radar was in use. Locating artillery had an important role in the battles fought by Australian RAR battalions that featured enemy indirect fire attack.
BLAXLAND, John – Signals Swift and Sure: A History of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals
Terra Australis Books, Daisy Hill, 1998
ISBN: 0646365517
Index, bibliography, endnotes, B & W illustrations; 428 pages.
Sponsored by the RASigs Corps Committee, this book focuses on the Signals Corps. Several RAR battalions are mentioned as the role played by Signals is addressed.
BURKE, Arthur – 105th Battery Royal Australian Regiment – a concise history
Arthur Burke, Brisbane, 2005
ISBN: 0-9750369-1-5
Abbreviations; 48 pages.
Author served with this unit including as its commander. The history primarily records the battery’s history and in so doing refers to the battalions of the RAR in which it fired in support in Malaya and Vietnam, and back in Australia when not operationally deployed. Several major engagements are described.
CARMICHAEL, Max with Benfield, Frank & KEIRIN Joyce – With Skill and Fighting Craftsman of the Australian Army 1942-2014
Copyright Publishing Company, Brisbane, 2014
ISBN: 9871921452192
Colour & Black and White photographs, index, bibliography; 402 pages.
Primarily about the RAEME, this A4 size publication includes reference to the RAR battalions in Malays and Vietnam and the role played by RAEME personnel.
COLLINS, Peter (Editor) – Strike Swiftly: The Australian Commando Story
The Watermark Press, Sydney, 2005
ISBN: 094928470X
Index, bibliography, 323 pages
The story of the development of Commando units in the Australian Army, covering from World War II to the present. Includes a chapter on the conversion of 4 RAR from a light infantry battalion to a commando regiment.
CUBIS, Richmond – A History of ‘A’ Battery: New South Wales Artillery (1871-1899) Royal Australian Artillery (1899-1971)
Elizabethan Press, Sydney, 1978
ISBN: 855510129
Index, bibliography; 335 pages.
A detailed history of the Battery with mentions of the RAR to whom they provided support in Korea and then the various SE Asian conflicts.
Department of Air – The Golden Years: Royal Australian Air Force 1921-1971
AGPS, Canberra, 1971
ISBN-10: 0642981841
ISBN-13: 978-0642981844
Colour and B & W photographs; 124 pages.
Campaigns involving RAR battalions are mentioned in the post-WW II years including Vietnam where more detailed coverage including photographs of RAR troops receiving support from the RAAF. Available at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/LIB36340
DOOLAN, Ken: HMAS Tobruk: Warship for Every Crisis
Grinkle Press, Queanbeyan, 2007
ISBN: 0980282101
Index, bibliography, b&w photos; 157pp.
Covers 25 years of HMAS Tobruk’s service in the Royal Australian Navy. Includes support to several deployments of RAR units and personnel including Operation Solace – Somalia 1993, Operation Bel Isi – Bougainville, Operations Warden and Stabilise – East Timor, Operations Plumbob and Trek – The Solomons, as well as other exercise and operational deployments in support of ADF-wide endeavours. Many RAR members will have memories of traveling on or being supported by this ship over the years.
DAVIES, Bruce & McKAY, Gary – The Men Who Perserved: AATTV
Allen & Unwin Australia, Sydney, 2005
ISBN: 1741148316
Index, bibliography, 418 pages.
Includes Nominal Roll and Foreign Awards to members of the AATTV 1962-72. The most highly decorated unit of the Vietnam War. Some references to the RAR battalions.
DUNN, J B ‘Lofty’ – Eagles Alighting
Impact Printing, Hawthorn VIC, 1999
ISBN: 0646373234
Index, bibliography; 320 pages.
A history of the 1st Australian Parachute Battalion also including an outline of the Parachute Training School and 3 RAR (Parachute).
EVANS, Air Marshal David – War: A matter of principles
Palgrave Macmillan, 1997
ISBN-10: 0333699165
ISBN-13: 978-0333699164
Index, bibliography; 183 pages.
Among a review of the principles of warfare in recent times, this book contains a brief account in Korea and Vietnam of the RAR’s activities relative to the use of surprise. One of several in the RUSI Defence Studies series.
FAHEY, John – The factory: The official history of the Australian Signals Directorate Volume 1
Allen & Unwin, Crows Nest NSW, 2023
ISBN: 9781761067723
Illustrated, index, bibliography; 568 pages.
The story of Australia’s talented signals intelligence unit and its role as a national agency including a member of the five eyes signals intelligence system. The agency’s involvement with the RAR in SE Asia appears in the later chapters.
GLADWIN, Michael – Captains of the Soul: A history of the Australian Army Chaplains
Big Sky Publishing Pty Ltd, Newport NSW, 2013
ISBN: 978-1-922132-52-9
Bibliography, index, end notes, B & W photographs; 398 pages.
Coverage of chaplaincy in post-World War II conflicts up to and including Vietnam; includes references to RAR battalions with whom the chaplaincy served.
GOODMAN, Rupert – Our war nurses: the history of the Royal Australian Army Nursing Corps
Boolarong Publications, Bowne Hills, 1988
ISBN: 9780864390400
Illustrated, maps, index; 294 pages.
A Corps history; RAANC personnel have been deployed in support of virtually all RAR deployments; providing the bulk of the patients since 1948. Some RAR individuals are in photos and units mentioned in the text.
GOODMAN, Rupert – Queensland nurses: Boer war to Vietnam
Boolarong Publications, Bowne Hills, 1985
ISBN: 98781925522310
Illustrations, index. 280 pages.
Provides insight into the experiences of wounded and sick RAR members at the hands of Queensland Army nurses. Photos include RAR individuals relevant sections post-WW II.
GOODMAN, Rupert – Queensland nurses: Boer war to Vietnam (2nd Edition)
Boolarong Publications, Salisbury, 2017
ISBN: 0908175949
Illustrations, index. 387 pages.
Provides insight into the experiences of wounded and sick RAR members at the hands of Queensland Army nurses. Photos include RAR individuals relevant sections post-WW II.
GREVILLE, Brigadier P.J. CBE, BE – The Royal Australian Engineers 1945 to 1972 – Paving the Way: The 4th volume of the history of the Royal Australian Engineers
Publishing Services Loftus Australia, Canberra, 2002
ISBN 10: 0959687106
ISBN 13: 9780959687101
Index, 978 pages.
One of a four Volume set produced by the Corps Committee of the royal Australian engineers, it describes the events of the years 1945 to 1972, the end of the Corps’ involvement in the Vietnam War, and covers the various activities of the Corps throughout the period in some detail. All nine RAR Battalions of the time are mentioned throughout.
GREY, J & DENNIS, P – From past to future: the Australian experience of air/land operations
Publication source is unknown in this online resource. There is no Contents in this 101-page document, but a rapid scroll through it locates the papers by heading. Endnotes are provided.
A series of seminar papers addressing the Air/Land support capabilities and experiences, including air support operations in Korea, Vietnam, during peacetime and projected into the future. RARs are mentioned in some of the papers, giving context to actual operations. Accessible at https://www.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/2019-11/1995_from_past_to_future_aust_experience_of_land_air_operations_0.pdf .
GREY, Jeffery – Up Top: The Royal Australian Navy and Southeast Asian Conflicts 1955-1972
Allen & Unwin in association with the Australian War Memorial, Sydney, 1998
ISBN: 1864482907
Index, bibliography; 380 pages.
One of the Official History Series, the book includes information of RAN support to 1ATF and Battalions of the RAR in South Vietnam. Roll of Honour, Honours and awards to RAN personnel (all campaigns) are included.
HALPIN, Jacqui – Australia remembers 6 – Wartime nurses: care and compassion
Big Sky Publishing, Newport NSW, 2022
ISBN: 9781922615602
Illustrated; 72 pages.
Book 6 in the Australia Remembers series. Australia Remembers 6: Care and Compassion – Wartime Nurses shines a light on the remarkable women, and later men, who have served, and continue to serve Australia during times of war, conflict and natural disasters. The hardships, dangers and sorrows they faced is made accessible to younger readers and highlights the outstanding contribution of these often-forgotten heroes. Most of their wound patients are RAR members
HORNER, D. M. – The Gunners: A History of Australian Artillery
Allen & Unwin Australia, St Leonards NSW, 1995
ISBN: 1863739173
Index, bibliography; 564 pages.
All Battalions of the Regiment are mentioned in this classic coverage of the Australian Artillery over time up to the date of publication.
HORNER, D.M. – SAS: Phantoms of War
Allen & Unwin Australia, St Leonards NSW, 1989
ISBN: 0045200068
Index, bibliography; 527 pages.
All Battalions of the Regiment feature in this history of the SASR.
HULSE, George – In Dogs We Trust – We are the war dog team and this is our story
Self-published, 2017
ISBN:978-0-646-99970-8
Index, photographs; 179 pages. Primarily about Engineer and RAAF use of war dogs, this book is based heavily on personal interviews with dog handlers and their customers. Covers infantry/RAR handlers and mentions RAR battalions and deployment groups in Afghanistan and Iraq that included such elements, mainly in one chapter. A supplementary chapter has since been published and is on-line at http://aussiewardogs.org/page/book .
LAKIN, Shaune – Contact – Photographs from the Australian War Memorial Collection
Australian War Memorial, Canberra, 2006
ISBN: 0975190466
Index, bibliographical references; 283 pages.
The first authoritative survey of the Australian War Memorial’s photographic collection, and of the history of Australian war photography more broadly. These photographs are reproduced alongside a detailed discussion of the history of Australian war photography and the Memorial’s photographic collection. The RAR is represented.
LAX, Mark – Taking the Lead: The Royal Australian Air Force 1972-1996
Big Sky Publishing, Newport NSW, 2020
ISBN: 978192265951
Bibliography, index; illustrated; 460 pages.
Addresses RAAF training and operations from the end of the Vietnam War which included support for the RARs.
LEONARD, Bob, OAM, BEM (Editor) – Their Service Our Heritage:1885-1998, the Story of the Medicos
Westpac Sub-branch RSL (NSW Branch, Sydney, 1998
ISBN: 0 646 35214 8
Black and white photographs; 142 pages.
This book comprises 51 articles from a range of health care professionals in the Australian Armed forces over the period and refers to all RAR battalions.
LINDSAY, Neville – Equal to the Task: Volume 1 The Royal Australian Army Service Corps
Historia Productions Australia, Kenmore QLD, 1992
ISBN: 0646067079
Index, bibliography; 511 pages.
Some Battalions are briefly mentioned in relation to the support provided by them by the RAASC.
LITTLETON, James (MSC) – With the Armed Forces: Australian MSC Service Chaplains 1915-2003
Missionaries of the Sacred heart (MSC), Coogee NSW, 2009
ISBN: Nil
Colour and B & W photographs; 72 pages.
One of these chaplains was CAPT Ray Johnson who was posted to 8/9 RAR in 1981.
MACDOUGALL, Anthony Keith – Australians at War: A Pictorial History
Five Mile Press, Victoria, 2007
ISBN: 9781741789577
Index, bibliography; 368 pages.
Australians have fought in overseas wars for more than a century. This new edition brings their remarkable story up to date and includes an account of recent operations in East Timor, Afghanistan and Iraq. Eleven editions were published between 2002 and 2007; expect more.
MALONE, M. J. – SAS Rendezvous
Imprimatur Books, xxxx, 2007
ISBN: 1 9210 3698 2
248 pages includes index.
Mentions the RAR Battalions. Jubilee Edition.
MALONE, M. J. (Editor) – SAS Pictorial History of the Australian Special Air Service 1957-1997
Access Press, xxxx, 1997
ISBN: 0864451148
Index; 416 pages,
Includes pictures of RAR activities over several conflicts.
McCARTHY, Dayton – The Once and Future Army: A History of the CMF, 1947-1974
Oxford University Press, Melbourne, 2003
ISBN: 0195515692
Index, bibliography; 303 pages.
This post-WW II history addresses the Citizen Military Forces (CMF), the predecessor to today’s Army Reserve. Once numerically superior to the Australian Regular Army, it was the predominant component of the Army until the changing nature of warfare led to the dominant use of professional soldiers posted to full-time units. This book illustrates its organization, role and social composition along with the rivalry with the Regular Army, and unfortunate development in an Army that is comprised of all natures of service to fulfil its role.
McCULLAGH, Catherine – Willingly into the Fray: One Hundred Years of Australian Army Nursing
Big Sky Publishing, Sydney, 2010
ISBN: 9780980658262
Index, bibliography; 496 pages.
A journey through the lives of Army nurses from the early days of 1899 to modern times. Some more recent activities of the RAR are included in the later chapters which deal with deployments in which the RAR has served.
McPHEDRAN, Ian – The Amazing SAS: the inside story of Australia’s special forces (also titled Amazing Special Air Service)
Harper Collins, Sydney, 2007
ISBN 9780732279844 & 073227984
Index; 382 pages.
A coverage of the SASR, including references to RAR battalions and individuals.
NELSON Robert, MARGAN Frank, BREEN Peter, REID Stuart, EVANS David, – A Pictorial History of Australians at War
Paul Hamlyn Australia, Sydney, 1970
ISBN: 0600369560
Pictorial; 323 pages.
Provides an overview in commentary and pictures of all conflicts involving Australia up to Vietnam in 1970.
NELSON Robert, MARGAN Frank, BREEN Peter, REID Stuart, EVANS David, – A Pictorial History of Australians at War
Paul Hamlyn Australia, Sydney, 1980
ISBN: 072710439X
Pictorial; 323 pages.
An updated coverage of Australians at War from 1885 onward.
O’CONNOR, John – Australian Airborne: the history and insignia of Australian military parachuting
John O’Connor, Kingsgrove NSW, 2005
ISBN: 095742117
Maps, index, bibliography; 440 pages.
Includes coverage of Airborne Platoon RAR; 3 RAR, 4 RAR (Commando) and D Coy 6RAR.
NICHOLLS, Rochelle – The Korean Kid
Big Sky Publishing, Newport NSW, 2020
ISBN: Nil
Endnotes; 294 pages.
The story of a young Australian pilot’s baptism of fire in the jet fighter age. He served in Korea and during Konfrontasi and mentions several RARs whom he flew in support of. Useful for a fighter pilot’s perspective of the ground war.
ODGERS, George – Across the Parallel – Korean air War
William Heineman Ltd, Melbourne, 1952
ISBN: Nil
Index, illustrated; 239 pages.
A RAAF account of Australia’s 77th Squadron’s role in the war. Refers to 3 RAR and the 27th British Commonwealth Brigade to whom they rendered close air support. Odgers later authored the RAAF Official History of the war against Japan.
ODGERS, George – Diggers: The Australian Army, Navy and Air Force in Eleven Wars from 1860 to 1994
Lansdowne, Sydney, 1994
ISBN: 1863023879 (vol 2)
Index, Roll of Honour for VC Winners; 543 pages
Covers all the post-WWII campaigns to the date of publication.
ODGERS, George- 100 Years of Australians At War
New Holland Publishers Australia, French’s Forest NSW, 2001
ISBN: 1864367636
Index; 400 pages.
Revised and updated version of “Diggers”. Covers the involvement of Australians in conflicts from the Boer War to the First Gulf War and also covers Australia’s continuing rise as a keeper of the peace under the auspices of the United Nations. Several editions, including 2003.
OPPENHEIMER, Melanie – The Power of Humanity: 100 years of Australian Red Cross 1914-2014
Harper Collins Publishers, Sydney, 2014
ISBN: 36 009 913517
Index, Illustrations; 328 pages.
This wide-ranging coverage of the Red Cross during wartime contains five Parts, 11 Chapters, Red cross Awards and a Nominal Roll. Mentions RAR members and battalions in the post-WW II section where the relationship between the Red Cross and the ADF while deployed is addressed.
OSWALD, Bruce & WADDELL, Jim (Editors) – Justice in Arms; Military Lawyers in the Australian Army’s First Hundred Years; Australian Army Legal Corps
Big Sky Publishing Pty Ltd, Sydney, 2014
ISBN: 978-1-922132-50-5
Photographs, index, appendices, bibliography; 575 pages
This history of the Australian Army Legal Corps traces both the political and institutional imperatives as well as the many colourful characters who managed this interaction. It describes the extraordinary contribution of Army legal officers to both the profession of arms and the development of the law. While the majority of Army Legal Officers were lawyers in their first career, many had also initially served in other Army roles and other Corps including as officers and other ranks of the RAR in the Vietnam War before qualifying in law. There is a dedicated chapter on the Vietnam War written by an ex-RAR officer including coverage of its Australian murder trials by court martial. The final chapter involves the many Australian Army operations overseas to the year 2000 including as part of United Nations forces.
PALAZZO, Albert – Defenders of Australia: The Third Australian Division – Citizen Soldiers in the Service of Australia
Australian Military History Publications, Loftus NSW, 2002
ISBN: 1876439033
Index, bibliography, list of tables; 245 pages.
Detailed study which connects the CMF/ARES members of the 3rd Division (a prominently Reserve Division since WW II) to the Royal Australian Regiment when ex-citizen soldiers served in the RAR battalions, including overseas.
PALAZZO, Albert – The Royal Australian Corps of Transport: A History of Australian Army Transport 1973-2000
Australian Military History Publications, Loftus NSW, 2000
ISBN: 1-876439-80-7
Index, B & W photographs, tables, appendices; 185 pages.
PEARCY, Arthur – Dakota at war
Unwin and Allan, London, 1982
ISBN: 9780711012171
Illustrated; 128 pages.
History of the use of Dakotas including by the RAAF in support of RAR and other troops.
In the coverage of this Corps history, several RAR battalions are mentioned.
PEEL, Jack –Tarra: the story of Army small ships
Big Sky Publishing, Newport NSW, 2020
ISBN: Nil
Illustrated, End notes, appendix with small ship data; 213 pages.
The RAR rates a small mention in this book which provides an account of the operation of Army small ships in support of land operations.
PERRY, Warren – The Naval and Military Club: a history of its first hundred years 1881-1981
Lothian Publishing Company, Melbourne, 1981
ISBN: 0850911494
Illustrated, maps, index, bibliography; 435 pages.
A private club history which includes some detail on RAN support to some deployments involving the RAR battalions.
STEPHENS, Alan – The Royal Australian Air Force: The Australian Centenary History of Defence Volume II
Oxford University Press, South Melbourne, 2001
ISBN: 0 19 554115 4
Interviews, Select Bibliography, Chapter Notes, Index; 340 pages.
This volume in The Australian Centenary History of Defence series of seven volumes provides data on the RAAF. While it does not mention the RAR, it includes data on all of the RAAF assets that have supported or transported RAR members from the Occupation of Japan onwards. It includes a section on Air Base Butterworth which RAR battalions sometimes moved through and at which where RAAF units were based and protected non-stop by RAR and other rifle company groups from 1970 to 1989 during the Communist Insurgency. Useful background to RAR operations studies.
STEVENS, David – The Royal Australian Navy: The Australian Centenary History of Defence Volume III
Oxford University Press, South Melbourne, 2001
ISBN: 0 19 554116 2
Foldout ship’s diagrams, Notes, Appendices, Further reading, Index; 336 pages.
This volume in The Australian Centenary History of Defence series of seven volumes provides data on the RAN. While it does not mention the RAR, all members of the RAR who have been transported to, from or during exercises and deployments will find the fold out cutaway diagrams of those vessels a unique and interesting source of visual information. Sections on supply and naval support are also covered in a manner that Army publications do not. Useful background to RAR operations.
TYQUIN, Michael – Little by Little: A Centenary History of the Royal Australian Army Medical Corps
Australian Military History Publications, Loftus NSW, 2003
ISBN: 1 876 439 15 7
Index, Bibliography, photographs, maps, illustrations; 684 pages.
Covers all campaigns in which the RAAMC served; Vietnam gets significant detail among the post-WW II campaigns (understandable given relative casualty rates). Most RAR battalions are mentioned; all battalions included RAAMC personnel.
VADER, John – ANZAC: The Story of the Anzac Soldier
New English Library, London, 1970
ISBN: 0450006727
127 pages.
The Regiment appears in the latter pages of this book which is a useful overview of the Australian soldier, primarily Infantry, who created the legend of the ANZACs which is in part continued by members of the Royal Australian Regiment.
WILSON, David – Seek and strike: 75 Squadron RAAF, 1942-2002
Banner Books, Maryborough QLD, 2002
Black & white illustrations, index; 229
ISBN 10: 1875593233
ISBN 13: 9781875593231pages.
75 Sqn was used to train pilots for Korea who then supported 1,2 and 3 RAR. It went on to fly in support of a range of RAR training and operational deployments including while operationally deployed to Air Base Butterworth, Malaysia and later in Iraq from 2003.
WOODARD, CW (Tasi) – Jungle green and rugby
Xlibris, Australia, 2022
ISBN-10: 1669887707
ISBN-13: 978-1669887706
Illustrated; 278 pages.
An artillery veteran of both the Malayan Emergency and Vietnam War, the author tells his story of time in the Army and after being an accomplished rugby player. The components on his wartime experience includes references to the RAR units in which his unit was in support. A good Other Arms perspective of support to RAR units.
JAPAN AND KOREA 1946-53
HURST, Doug – The Forgotten Few: 77 RAAF Squadron in Korea 1950-53
Allen & Unwin Australia, Crows Nest NSW, 2008
ISBN 9781741755008
Index, maps; 256 pages.
The story of the men of the RAAF’s No 77 fighter squadron, the only RAAF squadron to take part in the Korean War, initially with propeller-driven WW II vintage Mustangs which were replaced by Meteor jet fighters when the Chinese, with their MiG 15s, entered the war. Support to ground troops including the three RAR battalions in Korea is mentioned.
WILSON, Graham – Accommodating the King’s Hard Bargain: Military Detention in the Australian Army 1914 – 1947
Big Sky Publishing, Newport NSW, 2016
ISBN: 9781925275834
Black and white photographs, index; 706 pages.
This book covers WWII and onwards part when the RAR was formed, and mentions RAR battalions against the background of the major campaigns of WWII.
ZUPP, Owen – A very different war: RAAF operations in the Korean War
Big Sky Publishing, Newport NSW, 2024 (April)
ISBN: 9781923004962
Illustrated, maps, bibliography, index; 186 pages.
The RAAF entered the jet age in the Korean war and fought indirectly in support of 1, 2 and 3 RAR along with other allies from 1950-53. Several of its members remain unlocated among the MIA.
SOUTH EAST ASIA 1950-current
(includes Malaya, Borneo, Singapore & Malaysia)
BLACKELY, Andrew Bradford – Malaya – the undeclared war: my story
Self-published, 2019
ISBN-10: 1520354843
ISBN-13: 978-1520354842
Photographs, index; 59 pages.
British author’s perspective of the Malayan Emergency; useful soldier’s eye view of operations against the CT, much the same as RAR troops would have experienced.
FOLLOWS R & POPHAM, H – The jungle beat: fighting terrorists in Malaya 1951-61
Eye books direct, London, 1999
ISBN-10: 0953057577
ISBN-13: 978-0953057573
Photographs, index; 224 pages.
British perspective of the war in Malaya that involved 1, 2 and 3 RAR.
LAX, Mark – Malaysian Emergency and Indonesian Confrontation 1950 to 1966
Big Sky Publishing, Newport NSW, 2021
ISBN: 9781922488947
Illustrated, maps, index; 278 pages.
Australia’s involvement in the Malayan Emergency from 1950 to 1960 and later in a Confrontation with Indonesia in the 1960s is little remembered today. Yet the deployment of over a third of the RAAF to support the British and Malayan governments in what became a long war of attrition against communist insurgents in the former case, and against Indonesian regulars and militia in the latter, kept the RAAF engaged for over 15 years. 1, 2, 3 and 4 RAR served in these campaigns during which the RAAF air support was vital. One of the RAAF Air Campaign series.
MORDIKE, John (Ed) – South East Asian Commitments 1950-1965: The Proceedings of the 1997 RAAF History Conference
RAAF Airpower Studies Centre, Canberra, 1998
ISBN: 061226516X
136 pages.
These proceedings, downloadable also from http://airpower.airforce.gov.au/APDC/media/PDF-Files/Conference%20Proceedings/CONF15-RAAF-History-Conference-1997-South-East-Asian-Commitments-1950-1965.pdf ‘ include operations in Malaya and Malaysia providing ground support to the deployed RARs.
SMITH, Alan H – GUNNERS IN BORNEO – Artillery During Confrontation 1962-66
Royal Australian Artillery Historical Company, Manly NSW, 2008
ISBN: 9780980393309
Index, illustrations, maps; 184 pages.
Covers the onset of Indonesian confrontation with Malaysia in 1961 and the subsequent military reaction by the security forces (British Commonwealth) to stop that insurgency war spreading to Kalimantan, Sabah and Brunei in North Borneo, and Malaya/Singapore up to cessation of hostilities in 1966. The main theme covers the role of artillery (field and locating branches) in supporting RAR infantry patrols and guarding borders with Indonesia.
VIETNAM 1962-75
2nd Field Ambulance Vietnam 1966/7 (first of 4)
YouTube
Video, privately compiled, 14 mins 25 secs.
2nd Field Ambulance was committed to Vietnam in March 1966 to support the Australian forces. Stationed at Vung Tau from 1 April 1966 until 5 July 1967, with an Advanced Dressing Station at Nui Dat. It played a major caring role for the Australian casualties, most of whom were RAR members, some of whom can be seen in this audio-visual record. Accessible at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ty0wFkaW_dE
2nd Field Ambulance Vietnam 1966/7 (second of 4)
YouTube
Video, privately compiled, 14 mins 25 secs.
2nd Field Ambulance was committed to Vietnam in March 1966 to support the Australian forces. Stationed at Vung Tau from 1 April 1966 until 5 July 1967, with an Advanced Dressing Station at Nui Dat. It played a major caring role for the Australian casualties, most of whom were RAR members, some of whom can be seen in this audio-visual record. Accessible at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D22OiLHdC3Y
ANDERSON, Paul – When the Scorpion Stings: The History of the 3rd Cavalry Regiment, Vietnam, 1965 -1972
Allen & Unwin Australia, Crows Nest NSW, 2002
ISBN: 9781865087436
Index; 318 pages.
3 Cavalry Regiment was the first unit involved in the establishment of 1 ATF at Nui Dat and the last to leave. RAR Battalions are mentioned. Nominal Roll included for 3 Cav Regt troops.
Army Nurses in Vietnam (F03240)
Australian War Memorial, Canberra, 1971
16mm/b&w/sound, 8 mins 25 secs.
Activities of the Royal Australian Army Nursing Corps in South Vietnam filmed by the Directorate of Public Relations (DPR206). Nurses are shown caring for and assisting in operations on wounded soldiers in the Australian hospital in Vung Tau during the Vietnam War. Most patients were RAR soldiers, and many will be identified by fellow veterans who knew them. See https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/F03240
AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL – Impressions Australians in Vietnam
Australian War Memorial, Canberra, 1997
ISBN: 0642280592
24 pages.
Educational notes for teachers and students on the Vietnam War. The RAR is mentioned.
BARLOW, Pam (Ed) – The Longest Mile: A Nurse in the Vietnam War (1968-69)
Self-published, Townsville, 2006
ISBN: 0 646 453483
Maps, B & W photographs, glossary; 142pp.
Story of Nursing Sister JBF MacLeod based on her letters home. Foreword by RAR BRIG N H Weekes AM MC who was himself a casualty treated at 1st Field Hospital at Vung Tau where the great majority of casualties treated were also RAR soldiers. Several RAR battalions are mentioned and some images include such members.
BARR, Marshall – Surgery, Sand and Saigon Tea: An Australian Army Doctor in Vietnam
Allen & Unwin, Crows Nest NSW, 2001
ISBN: 1 86508 463 8
Black and white photographs, Glossary, Index; 252 pages.
A surgeon’ perspective of the war; where the great majority of casualties treated were RAR members, many of whom could read about themselves being cared for through the anonymity of this record. Individual RAR members are mentioned by name to give context to this narrative.
BATE, Ray – Military Police – The First in South Vietnam May 1965
Raymond Bate, Isle of Capri QLD, 2007
ISBN: 9780949749857
Maps, bibliography; 38 pages.
Covers the 1st Australian MP Section in South Vietnam from May 1965 to May 1966. Often regarded as “the other enemy” by the RAR, but in aside from disciplinary support tasks, their duties in protection support was vital.
BIEDERMANN, Narelle – Tears on My Pillow: Australian Nurses in Vietnam
Random House Australia, Sydney, 2004
ISBN: 1740511999
Index, 250 pages.
43 Australian Army nursing sisters served in South Vietnam between April 1967 and November 1971 for up to 12 months. The RAR is not directly mentioned however the great majority of casualties treated, and the reason why the nurses were deployed to South Vietnam was the RAR. The story provides a ‘behind the scenes’ aspect to the care of those who became casualties. RAR members married some of these nurses. Nominal Roll of nurses.
BOWDEN, T – One crowded hour: Neil Davis, combat cameraman
Harper Collins Publishers, Melbourne, 2013
ISBN: 0002174960
B &W photographs; 436 pages.
Davis’ eleven years’ coverage of the conflict in Indo-China featured Davis being the only western cameraman to film with the South Vietnamese army and once actually managed to cross over battle lines to film with the Viet Cong. Davis also covered the war in Cambodia and Laos. In 1975 he scooped the world’s press by filming the taking of Saigon’s Presidential Palace. Ironically in September 1985, having survived so much war, Neil Davis was killed while filming an attempted coup in the streets of Bangkok. Incredibly his still-running camera captured his own death. Coverage of the Vietnam war in which all RAR fought.
BRADFORD, David – The Gunner’s Doctor: Vietnam Letters
Random House Australia, North Sydney, 2007
ISBN: 978 1 74166 470 6
Glossary: 313 pages.
Author’s recounting of his tour of duty in Vietnam in 1968-9 where he served as a doctor. Based on his letters home and kept by his mother, the author recounts multiple references to the RAR battalions which comprised the bulk of the combat troops deployed.
BRAYLEY, Annabelle – Our Vietnam Nurses
Penguin House, Australia, 2016
ISBN: 9780143797029
Maps, photographs, 320 pp.
A history which pays totally deserved tribute to the nurses of the Royal Australian Army Nursing Corps who served in Vietnam tending the wounded and ill soldiers, primarily RAR members. RAR members feature in the book and are identifiable in several photographs. Most battalions also mentioned.
BROWN Malcolm, MacGLADRIE, Stuart & SUTTON, Candice – Your Leaving Tomorrow – Conscripts and Correspondents Caught up in the Vietnam War
Random House Australia, Sydney, 2007
ISBN: 9781741665819
Maps; 208 pages.
Anti-war story based on the experiences of conscripts and the media covering the war in South Vietnam. Some mention of 1 RAR and 5 RAR, with pictures of 1 RAR.
CAMERON, Bruce – Canister! On! Fire!
Big Sky Publishing, Newport NSW, 2012
ISBN 978192119411993 (hbk) Vol 1 & Vol 2
Vol 1 – Index, 541 pages
Vol 2 – Index, Nominal Roll, bibliography, 377 pages
Two volume book, featuring the liberal use of maps and photographs to help tell the story of Squadrons of the 1st Armoured Regiment fighting their own battle or in support of the RAR battalions they supported. An extensive and very detailed history with numerous individuals and units identified.
CAMERON, Martin – A Look at the Bright Side
Detail Printing, Richmond VIC, 1988
ISBN: 0731642376
100 pages.
Derisive humour based on flippant ridicule of the reasons for the war. There were two choices in Vietnam – laugh or cry. According to this book, the Aussie soldiers did both as they coped. The RAR is represented.
CAMPBELL, Colin – More Bang for No Bucks – self-propelled artillery used by Australian cavalry in Vietnam 1967-68
Publisher TBA
ISBN: 978-0-9870720-0-9
Index, 24 pages of colour photographs; 116 pages.
This book describes the unique story of armoured, artillery and infantry soldiers drawn together in Vietnam in 1967-68 to form 6 Troop, A Squadron, 3rd Cavalry Regiment. The Troop served in six M108 self-propelled howitzers, loaned at no cost from the US Army and primarily provided defensive fire support at Nui Dat.
CARROLL, JR – Out of Sight, Out of Mind: The Royal Australian Navy in Vietnam 1965-1972
Rosenberg Publishing, Dural NSW, 2013
ISBN: 9781922013491
Bibliography, References, Index; 216 pages.
An RAN history of their war, with references to the RARs moved to and from Vietnam by Navy, especially HMAS Sydney and supported throughout by the rest of the fleet and its air arm.
COULTHARD-CLARK, Chris – The RAAF in Vietnam: Australia’s Air Involvement in the Vietnam War 1962-1975
Allen & Unwin in association with the Australian War Memorial, Crows Nest, 1995
ISBN: 1863733051
Index, bibliography; 412 pages.
This volume from the Official History series for this period covers the RAAF’s air operations in Vietnam and includes its support to the RAR. Awards and Decorations included.
EATHER, Steve – Get the bloody job done: the Royal Australian Navy Vietnam Helicopter Flight and the 135th Assault Helicopter Company 1967-71
Allen & Unwin, St Leonards NSW, 1998
ISBN: 1864488026
Maps, photographs’ bibliography; 166 pages.
RAN role in the medevac of casualties during the Vietnam War, most of whom were RAR patients.
EATHER, Steve – Target Charlie: the exciting story of Australia’s air war in Vietnam
Aerospace Publications, Canberra, 1993
ISBN: 1875671048
Photographs, index, bibliography; 132 pages.
The story of Australia’s air war in Vietnam. Includes details of 35 Squadron (DHC Caribou), 161 Independent Reconnaissance Flight (Sioux Kiowa Cessna 180 Bird Dog Pilatus Porter), 9 Squadron (Bell Iroquois) and 2 Squadron (Canberra). Includes Roll of Honour, unit awards for 2 Squadron, and British Commonwealth Awards for operations service to RAAF and Army Aviation. Reference to ground attack and other support roles to Army, the bulk being RAR.
FAIRFAX, Denis –Navy in Vietnam – a record of the Royal Australian Navy in the Vietnam war 1965-1972
Australian Government Publishing Service, Canberra, 1980
ISBN: 0642028214
Illustrated, index, references; 232 pages.
Includes details of Naval operations in support of the war on the land and features the ‘Vung Tau Ferry’ as RAR members who travelled to and from Vietnam fondly remember HMAS Sydney and its escort ships.
FENTON J, O’FLYNN H, HART S and MURRAY P – A history of 547 Signal Troop in South Vietnam
72 Electronic Warfare Squadron, Cabarlah QLD, 1987
ISBN: Nil
Illustrations, maps; 51 pages. A history of the unit which had an intercept and research function in Vietnam. Mentions most RARs to deploy.
FLETCHER, Larry Elton – Charlie Chasers: History of USAF AC-119 shadow gunships in the Vietnam war
L & R Publishing, New York, 2013
ISBN: 1555717314
Photographs, index; 300 pages.
Tells the story of the AC-119 Shadow gunships which wreaked havoc on the enemy during the Vietnam War. The fixed-wing aircraft provided close fire support of U.S. and friendly troops including RAR battalions with the ability to fire up to 6,000 rounds per minute and deliver it with deadly accuracy. Ground troops came to rely on the AC-119 as dependable aerial defenders of fire support bases and other defended locations.
FLORENCE, Brian – History of 1 Field Squadron Group, Royal Australian Engineers, South Vietnam 1965 – 1972
Corps Committee of the Royal Australian Engineers, Moorebank NSW, 2013
ISBN: 9780646906300
Maps, plans, images, indexes of operations and awards, honour roll; 379 pages.
A history of this group’s tours of duty in Vietnam, most of which was in support of the RAR battalions over the time which are mentioned.
FURLONGER, Brian (Ed) – Then and now: ABC correspondents abroad
ABC Books, Sydney, 1981
ISBN-10: 0642972702
ISBN-13: 978-0642972705
112 pages.
ABC correspondents’ perspective of covering the Vietnam War where all RAR battalions served.
GODFREY, John & Burrow, Bruce (Eds)- Gunners Vietnam 67-68
Peregrine Publishing, North Hobart, 2016
ISBN: 9780994639608
Index, over 150 maps and Illustrations, 100 pages.
106 Field Battery, 4th Field Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery operated from numerous Fire Support Bases throughout South Vietnam in 1967-68, as well as from Nui Dat. As primarily the direct support battery for 7 RAR its men and guns played a crucial part in the Battle of Suoi Chau Pha and the 68 Tet Offensive Battle of the Bunkers.
GOWER, Steve – Rounds Complete: An Artillery Observer in Vietnam
Big Sky Publishing, Sydney, 2017
ISBN: 978192552053
Bibliography, Index; 224 pages.
The author served in the 101st Field Battery as a forward observer with the 5 and 6 RAR, tasked to provide ‘timely, accurate and effective fire support’ of the Australian artillery, providing deadly firepower to support the soldiers who battled both the jungle and its shadowy inhabitants. He describes living the life of an infantry soldier, tramping the ground and joining his infantry mates in a variety of operations including search and destroy, cordon and search, heliborne and road-protection operations and company patrols from forward operating bases.
GUEST, Robert – The Team In Pictures 1962-1972
Canberra Printing Services, Canberra, 1972
ISBN: 0646104446
Index; 184 pages.
AATTV pictorial record; contains many pictures of RAR personalities.
HAM, Paul (Ed) – Captain Bullen’s War: The Vietnam War Diary of Captain Paul Bullen
Harper Collins, Sydney, 2009
ISBN-10 : 0732288436
ISBN-13 : 978-0732288433
Illustrated; 474 pages.
Bullen commanded the map-producing section of the Australian Task Force during 1968. Refers to a range of his ‘customers’, including 1st ATF and RAR battalions. Insight value for the vital mapping function upon which all troops depended.
HANNAH, Kristin – The Women
St Martins Press, Sydney, 2024
ISBN: 9781250178633
Illustrated, 400 pages.
The story of Women’s Royal Australian Army Nursing Corps personnel who deployed to Vietnam, mainly to the 1st Field Hospital at Vung Tau where they treated large numbers of sick and injured including sometimes by escorting wounded home in C130 medevacs via Butterworth Air Base in Malaysia. Most casualties were RAR members, and also included other allies and during the Tet Offensive in 1968 in particular, overflow Vietnamese casualties that the civilian hospitals could not handle.
HOLLOWAY, David – Hooves, wheels and tracks: a history of the 4th/19th Prince of Wales’s Light Horse Regiment and its predecessors
Regimental trustees of the 4th/19th Prince of Wales’s Light Horse Regiment, Fitzroy VIC, 1990
ISBN: 0731690427
Illustrations, maps, bibliography; 850 pages.
One troop of this unit served with 1 RAR in Vietnam, Bien Hoa Province in 1965-6.
HOPKINS, R.N.L – Australian Armour: History of the RAAC 1927-1972
Australian War Memorial & Australian Government Printing Service, Canberra, 1978
ISBN: 0642994072 & 0642994145 (pbk)
Index, maps, bibliography; 371 pages.
Military operations in the Vietnam War, major history produced by a prominent Royal Australian Armoured Corps officer. Refers to RAR battalions with whom armour fought in support.
HOWE, Bob – Dreadful lady: Canberra over the Mekong Delta
Big Sky Publishing, Newport NSW, 2023
ISBN: 9781922896407
Illustrated, maps, index; 222 pages.
No 7 in the Australian Air Campaign Series; this book covers operations by No 2 Squadron RAAF in Vietnam in their Canberra bombers. From April 1967, the squadron spent four years attacking enemy targets, many of them in the Mekong Delta region. The riverine operations supported by No 2 Squadron were part of an allied effort to disrupt the enemy’s movement of troops and supplies to locations in South Vietnam. Howe arrived in Vietnam in 1969 as a Canberra navigator/bomb-aimer, but much of his time was spent as a specialist in bombing operations. Mentions 1 ATF and some RAR.
GRANDIN, Bob – Answering the Call: Life of a helicopter pilot in Vietnam and beyond
Big Sky Publishing, Newport NSW, 2019
ISBN: 9781922265401
Index, photographs; 262 pages.
Includes helicopter support to the Battle for Long Tan involving 6 RAR, and other operations. Other RAR battalions and personalities mentioned.
HARTLEY, Bob and HAMPSTEAD, Barry – The Story of 547 Signal Troop in South Vietnam 1966 to 1972 (1st Edition)
Australian War Memorial, Canberra, 2014
ISBN: Nil
Illustrated, maps, pp unknown.
A one volume collection which tells the story of the unit, including its establishment, training, deployment, personnel, general life and operations while in Vietnam, the withdrawal, and return to Australia. The manuscript contains images, maps, operational information and equipment as well as first-hand accounts of soldiers’ experiences. A digital version of the second edition is also available. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C2078518
HARTLEY, Bob and HAMPSTEAD, Barry – The Story of 547 Signal Troop in South Vietnam 1966 to 1972 (2nd Edition)
Australian War Memorial, Canberra, 2016
ISBN: Nil
Illustrated, maps, online collection pp unknown.
Tells the story of the unit, including its establishment, training, deployment, personnel, general life and operations while in Vietnam, the withdrawal, and return to Australia. The manuscript contains images, maps, operational information and equipment as well as first hand accounts of soldiers’ experiences.
The first edition, written in 2014 consisted of one volume. For ease of printing and access, this second edition updated in 2016 consists of 6 volumes:
Book 1: 1966
Book 2: 1967 – 1968
Book 3: 1969 – 1970
Book 4: 1971 –
Book 5: Annexes A-I
Book 6: Annexes J-W
A digital version of this second edition is also available. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C2078518
HOLMAN, Vicki RH – A Civilian Surgeon in Vietnam 1967-68
Boolarong Press, Salisbury QLD, 2015
ISBN: 9781925236293
B & W and colour photographs; 191 pages.
An account of the trials and tribulations of the Australian Surgical Team sent to Bien Hoa from September 1967 to September 1968. The RAR is briefly mentioned when members of 6 RAR visited the Surgical Team.
LEWIS, Stephen – Voyages to Vietnam: Photographs by Australian naval and military veterans of the Vietnam conflict
My Vietnam Trust, Adelaide, 2006
ISBN: 0 957908 0 3 paperback
Photographs, index; 207 pages.
Primarily a photographic record with captains and description which identify primarily RAN assets and personnel but also includes Army including RAR personnel.
Life of a door gunner
Veteranweb
YouTube, 8 min 31sec video.
Ex-RAAF door gunner Victor Smith (Airfield Defence Guard) 9 Squadron provides a narrative of a typical door gunner’s missions. Footage includes RAR casualties in medevac, and troops on the ground during machine gun fire suppression in support.
Accessible at https://veteranweb.asn.au/news/life-of-a-door-gunner-in-vietnam/
MANGOLD, Tom & PENYCATE, John – The Tunnels of Chu Chi
Pan Books, London, 1986
ISBN – none
Index; 287 pages.
The story of the secret tunnels in Vietnam, which became the battleground for an extraordinary war fought deep underground; includes the Royal Australian Regiment’s involvement.
McGREGOR, Sandy – No need for heroes: the Aussies who discovered the Viet Cong’s secret tunnels
Calm Pty Ltd, Lindfield NSW, 1993
ISBN-10 : 0646151673
ISBN-13 : 978-0646151670
Illustrated, maps; 272 pages.
Story of the OC of 3 Field Troop, Royal Australian Engineers during that unit’s tour of duty Sep 76 to Sep 66. Not a formal history; mentions 1 RAR in whose support it was. A large complex of tunnels was uncovered by 1 RAR, later discovered to cover approximately 56 square kilometres. It consisted of over 200 kilometres of tunnels in multiple levels, and included living, working and storage areas. Policy at the time was to destroy tunnels and bunkers, but the engineers of 3 Field Troop began searching them and captured large quantities of weapons, food, equipment and documents. Following these successes, American units throughout Vietnam received orders to clear tunnels before destroying them.
McKAY, Gary & NICHOLAS, Graeme – Jungle Tracks: Australian Armour in Vietnam
Allen & Unwin Australia, Crows Nest NSW, 2001
ISBN: 1865084492
Index, bibliography; 325 pages.
Veterans of the Armoured Corps share their experiences of fighting in the jungles and paddi fields. RAR units and individuals are named in many joint actions. Particularly good examples are provided of infantry-tank co-operation, where the main battle tanks proved their worth in terrain considered very unsuited to tanks.
McMILLAN-KAY, Robert M – Vietnam: A Technical Tour with the 1st Topographical Survey Troop
Self-published, Maleny, QLD, 2002
ISBN: 0959103015
Illustrated, index, maps; 172 pages.
Author provides a technical coverage of the world of survey and mapping during the Vietnam War, vital to the war fighting effort and essential to RAR operations.
McNEILL, Ian – The Team: Australian Army Advisers in Vietnam 1962-1972
The Australian War Memorial, Canberra, 1984
ISBN: 0642877025
Index, bibliography; 534 pages.
Some of the battalions are mentioned. Honour Roll, Nominal Roll, Awards.
MODYSTACK, Neville J – The Pony Soldiers: The Australian Light Horse Vietnam 1965-1966
Australian Military History Publications, Loftus NSW, 2003
ISBN: 1876439572 & 9781876439576
Index, bibliography; 112 pages.
This unit worked primarily in support of 1RAR but 5RAR is also briefly mentioned.
MOORE, Peter & PLEACE, Trevor (Compilers) – Vietnam Lives: Works by Australian Vietnam Veterans from the sixties to the eighties
P Moore, Toukley NSW, 1986
BIB ID: 1545544
ISBN – Nil
76 pages.
A book of poems, sketches and photographs. Limited to 1,000 copies.
MORDIKE, John (Editor) –The RAAF in the War in Vietnam: The Proceedings of the 1998 RAAF History Conference
RAAF Air Power Studies Centre, Canberra, 1999
ISBN: 0642265372
Bibliographical references; 108 pages.
Provides an interesting background to RAAF activities in Vietnam and operational support to 1ATF, of particular interest to the RAR are the presentations on the helicopter operations of 9 Squadron and Major General John Hartley’s – The Platoon Commander’s War, providing perspectives on his service with 5 RAR during 1966-67 and the RAAF support as perceived at that level.
MOREMON, John assisted by PAGE-ALLEN, Courtney, – Vietnam: Australian Vietnam Forces National Memorial
Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Canberra, 2002
ISBN: 1920720057
“Publication no: P714”; 71 pages.
Contains photographs and text of the Vietnam conflict and the National Memorial, recognising the service personnel, including the RAR, who served there.
MORISON, Russ – Peas, Beans and Bullets – Aussie Soldiers Supporting the Combat Force – Recognising the Service of Australian Supply Platoon Soldiers in the Vietnam War
Trendsetting Printing, Fyschwick ACT, 2019
ISBN: 978-0-646-99938-8
Maps, photographs, bibliography, addenda; 119 pages.
A logistic support function book, it also refers to 1RAR and 6 RAR, including the Battles of Coral and Balmoral. General reference to all battalions which formed the bulk of the troops supported in the Vietnam War.
MORISON, Russ – Sustaining the fight – RAASC operations in Vietnam
Self-published, Canberra, 2021
ISBN: 9780646850412
Illustrated; with 240 pages in full colour.
Book covers the work of the Royal Australian Army Service Corps (RAASC) companies totalling 4,000 members, including those posted to all RARs, in the Vietnam War. Provides a great insight to how the RARs and other units functioned (or didn’t) from a logistics perspective.
MOSS, Kevin – Bush connections: A Vietnam conscript’s memo
Self-published, Australia, 2021
|
ISBN |
0645283207, 9780645283204 |
240 pages.
Kevin Moss spent one year with Army Aviation at the 1st Australian Task Force at Nui Dat in Phuoc Tuy Province, South Vietnam, from October 1969 to September 1970. His story includes references to RARs, including 1 RAR with whom he worked in support during his time in Vietnam.
NASH, RJ – Ordnance at the Sharp End: Ordnance Field Park Nui Dat South Vietnam, 1966-72: Historical Accounts and Experiences from Men Who Served With the OFP
Shannon Books Australia, Ferny Grove QLD, 2006
ISBN: 0646455419
Illustrated, nominal roll, DVID included; 324 pages.
A history of the Corps in Vietnam; mentions some of the RARs supported. The DVC accompanying the book contains over a thousand images set to music; compiled by the author.
NEALE, VP – A green baggy skin
Self-published, Seaford Vic, 1998
ISBN: 9780646351872
Illustrated; 150 pages.
Author served with 1 Field Squadron, Royal Australian Engineers. This story refers to RARs in-country at the time and describes the infantry-engineer relationship.
NOLAN, Peter – Possums and Bird Dogs. Australian Army Aviation’s 161 Reconnaissance Flight in South Vietnam
Allen & Unwin, Crows Nest NSW, 2006
ISBN: 1741146356(pbk) & 1741750423(hbk)
Index, Bibliography; 240 pages.
History taken from Flight records supplemented by oral histories. All nine RAR battalions are mentioned.
NOTT, Rodney & PAYNE, Noel – ‘The Vung Tau Ferry’ (HMAS SYDNEY) And Escort Ships (Vietnam 1965-1972)
Rosenberg Publishing, Dural NSW, 2008 (4th ed)
ISBN: 9781877058721(pbk)
Bibliography, maps; 253 pages.
Although there is no specific reference to the RAR in this publication the ‘ferry’ transported most of the RAR to and from South Vietnam.
ODGERS, George – Mission Vietnam – RAAF Operations 1964 -1972
Australian Government Publishing Service, Canberra, 1974
ISBN: 0642002355
Index, maps, more than 300 photos; 186 pages.
Provides a coverage of aerial operations across all dimensions including close air support and helicopter lift operations of intimate importance to RAR units.
PEDRINA, Jeff – Wallaby airlines: twelve months flying the Caribou in Vietnam
Big Sky Publishing, Newport NSW, 2022
ISBN: Nil
Illustrated, Endnotes, Index; 166 pages.
No 6 in the The Australian Air Campaign Series, this book covers the operations of the Caribou operated by 35 Squadron RAAF in Vietnam. Colloquially revered by users as Wallaby Airlines, virtually every RAR member to serve in Vietnam, and for the life of that aircraft elsewhere will have flown in it.
PELVIN, Richard – Vietnam: Australia’s Ten Year War 1962-72
Hardie Grant Books, Prahran VIC, 2006
ISBN: 1740663896
Catalogue of photographs in the AWM; 220 pages.
Over 300 rarely seen photographs, pamphlets, letters, newspaper excerpts and diary entries bring to life Australia’s key operations in the Vietnam War, including the famous Battle of Long Tan, and create an intimate portrayal of the very human side of battle experienced by the RAR and others.
PENNINGTON, Vic – The Team in Vietnam: The Lighter Side
Wakefield Press, Wakefield SA, 1992
ISBN: 1862542880
140 pages.
Records some of the lighter moments of the AATTV in South Vietnam including some from its RAR members.
PICKEN, Bruce- Fire Support Bases Vietnam: Australian and Allied Fire Support Base Locations and Main Support Units
Big Sky Publishing, Sydney, 2012
ISBN: 9781921941542
Bibliography, References, Index; 500 pages.
The book is a detailed account of every Australian fire support base by date, location and role. It provides an outline of the operations in which they participated, which includes every RAR battalion, all of which feature in the story.
POUND, Gordon – What soldiers do: An Australian artilleryman in Vietnam
Australian Military History Publications, Loftus NSW, 2008
ISBN: 9780980379631
Illustrated, index; 287 pages.
Primarily a history of artillery in Vietnam, whose prime task was to provide fire support for the RAR battalions, it is a comprehensive reference for all RARs which are mentioned in it.
ROONEY, David – Military mavericks: extraordinary men of battle
Cassell, London, 1999
ISBN: 978304353163
Black and white illustrations, index; 251 pages.
Discusses leaders who have inspired their troops over time, and achieved results in often unexpected ways. The most relevant to the RAR researcher in this book is probably Giap, commander of the North Vietnamese.
SCOTT, Peter – A Night in the Year of the Monkey: The decimation of Australian Army Sappers on Standing Patrol during the Battle of Fire Support Base Andersen, South Vietnam Tet Offensive 1968
Self-published, WordPress, 2017
ISBN: Nil
Colour and black and white photographs, References; 36 pages.
Author, a Vietnam Tunnel Rat, tells the story of the loss of an Engineer Standing Patrol from 3 Troop, 1st Field Squadron, RAE at Fire Support Base Andersen. 2 RAR (ANZAC), 3 RAR and 7 RAR are included in this narrative, along with individuals. Dedicated to those killed in action. Accessible at and downloadable from https://firesupportbaseandersentet1968.wordpress.com/
SEARLE, Rod, BELL, Denise, DANAHER, Paul and ANDERSON, Gregory – Call Sign Vampire: The inside story of an Australian Field Hospital during the Vietnam War
1st (Aust) Field Hospital Association Inc, Victoria, 2021
ISBN: 9780646835990
Illustrated, maps, graphic surgery photos; index, Roll of Honour; 280 pages. Special packaging.
This book is a comprehensive overview of the 1st Australian Field Hospital based at Vung Tau, South Vietnam. The unit was raised in Vietnam 1 April 1968 and returned to Australia 25 Nov 1971. It is told through a compilation of operational facts, the personal accounts of those who served and the soldiers they treated, mostly men of all RARs to serve in Vietnam. Graphic images add a visual depth that cannot be conveyed in words. The narrative is compelling and a testament to a cohesive team united in purpose and aims. Throughout this book, the reader will gain understanding of how the hospital was not just about the medical teams but also about personnel such as the cooks, the clerks, the drivers and how everyone fitted together like cogs in wheel to ensure that the hospital ran smoothly and efficiently. The book finishes with an Honour Roll of all who served with 1st Australian Field Hospital and its co-located units.
SMITH, Derek, V. – A Twist in the Pogo’s Tale: An Army Clerk’s Passage from Childhood to War in Vietnam
Self-published, Townsville QLD, 2016
ISBN: 9780994559104
Maps, appendices;132 pages.
Author completed two tours of duty, one with RAE. An intriguing story of life in a support role to the RAR some of whose battalions are mentioned several times.
The proud sons of sappers
Veteranweb
YouTube, 5 mins 10 secs.
Video of 1st Field Squadron RAE 1968-70 in Vietnam. RAR troops feature in this video with the Engineers in support in a wide range of tasks including dealing with mines and boobytraps, the scourge of everyone especially RAR troops. Accessible at https://veteranweb.asn.au/news/sappers-in-vietnam/
The Royal Australian Navy in Vietnam 1962-1972
YouTube
Video, 12 min 54 secs
A series of stills photographs put to music; no dialogue. Shows the RAN in a range of roles including transporting RAR battalions via the Vung Tau ferry operations. Accessible at https://veteranweb.asn.au/news/the-royal-australian-navy-in-vietnam-1962-1972/
THOMPSON, Jimmy with MACGREGOR, Sandy – A Sappers’ War: How the legendary Aussie Tunnel Rats fought the Vietcong
Allen & Unwin, Sydney, 2012.
ISBN-10: 1743310552
ISBN-13: 9781743310557
Photographs; 254 pages.
A detailed coverage of the battle between Royal Australian Engineer ‘tunnel rats’ and the enemy in Vietnam. These teams, often referred to as ‘splinter teams’ frequently accompanied RAR units on operations, or were called in to assist at the earliest opportunity. RARs are mentioned.
THOMPSON, Jimmy with MacGregor, Sandy –Tunnel Rats: The Larrikin Aussie Legends who Discovered the Vietcong’s Secret Weapon
Allen and Unwin, Sydney, 2011
ISBN: 10: 1742374891
ISBN: 13: 9781742374895
Illustrations; 242 pages.
Story of 3 Field Troop (Engineers) operations in tunnel search and destruction within the context of the Vietnam War. Mentions RAR battalion in support of whom they operated and often deployed with.
THURGAR, Jack & CROTHERS, Richard (compiled by) – Australian Vietnam Forces National Memorial
R.W. Crothers & Associates, 1992
ISBN: 0646124420
Index, Awards, Roll of Honour; 160 pages.
A photographic record of the Dedication Weekend in Canberra of the Vietnam Forces National Memorial. One of the few occasions when all the colours of the Regiment have been paraded together.
THURGAR, Jack & WRIGHT, Charles (compilers) – Welcome Home
CPP Communications Limited, Canberra, 1988
ISBN: 0731639464
160 pages.
A pictorial record of the most historic march of the 80s, being the 1987 Welcome Home Parade for Vietnam veterans. Lists of Honours and awards and a Roll of Honour are included.
WHITE, Tony AM – Starlight: an Australian army doctor in Vietnam
Copyright Publishing, Brisbane, 2011.
ISBN: 9871876344689
Index, illustrated incl maps, bibliography; 184 pages.
Author’s account if his service as an RMO in Vietnam, Mentions the RARs with whom he served and from which patients came.
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)
BRYANT, James – A More Lasting Peace: Reflections on Interagency Operations in the Solomons and Iraq
Land Warfare Studies Centre Australian Army, Canberra, 2007
ISBN: Nil
Bibliography, Index, maps; 168 pp.
RESTRICTED. A controlled examination of interagency operations in Operation Helpem Fren (ADF component was known as Operation Anode (RAMSI – Solomons) and then Iraq featuring relationships between Army and other agencies including multi-national entities. Mentions sub-units of RAR battalions and individuals who played roles in both deployments. Author served with the RAR.
Department of Defence – Management of Australian Defence Force Deployments to East Timor (paper)
Australian National Audit Office, Canberra, 2002
ISBN: 0642806209
References; 127 pages.
Auditor-General Report No 38 2001-02 – Performance Audit of the deployment to Est Timor. Mentions all involved RARs with 5/7 RAR featuring the most. Also online at https://www.anao.gov.au/sites/default/files/anao_report_2001-2002_38.pdf?acsf_files_redirect
LAW GA (LTCOL), HUTTON DC (LTCOL and MONTEITH, CA (CAPT) – A report on the health service support lessons of Operation TAMAR (Rwanda) – AWM 366-50
Official unpublished report AWM 366-50, 1995
ISBN: nil
This report was submitted to Land Commander MAJGEN P A Arnison and is available on loan from the AWM’s ADF Peacekeeping Centre library.
PEARN, John – Reflections of Rwanda: a selected photo-archive of service with the Forward Surgical Team, the Australian Medical Support Force, UNAMIR II, Rwanda
Department of Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, 1995
ISBN: 0 86766 602 6
Index, many photographs; 117 pages.
The (then) Colonel John Pearn compiled this reflective and highly illustrated publication early after his return with the second contingent to deploy to Rwanda. The book refers appropriately to the force protection element, a company from 2/4 RAR and other individuals who provided the security essential for the medical component of the force to function.
PEMPER, Tammy – Scorched Earth: Peacekeeping in Timor during a campaign of death and destruction
Big Sky Publishing, Newport NSW, 2019
ISBN: 9781922265432
Colour and B & W photographs, index; 320 pages.
Biography of the author’s husband Peter, a federal Police officer during the Timor campaign. RAR battalions and individuals are mentioned in this story which comes from a police UN peacekeeper perspective.
SMITH, Hugh (editor) – Peacekeeping: Challenges for the Future
Australian Defence Studies Centre ADFA, Canberra, 1993
ISBN: 0731702743
Index, bibliography; 229 pages.
There are eight presentations recorded in this publication of which the Australian experience in Operation Restore Hope in Somalia is most pertinent to the RAR given an entire battalion (1 RAR) supplemented by 2/4 RAR troops deployed. Most other deployments covered included some RAR troops.
VANN, Kevin J. OAM – Bridging the Gap: The 3rd Combat Engineer Regiment in Timor 1999-2000
Australian Military History Publications, Loftus NSW, 2001
ISBN: 1876439556 & 9781876439552
Index, maps; 218 pages.
This is the history of 3 CER in East Timor. Several of the RAR battalions are also mentioned.
WILSON, David – Warden to Tanager: RAAF operations in East Timor
Banner Books, Maryborough QLD, 2003
ISBN: 1875593268, 187593276
Illustrations, maps, index; 160 pages.
Details the events in East Timor from September 1999 to February 2000. While concentrating on RAAF actions at that time, it provides good context for the Army operations including to 2 RAR, 3 RAR and 5/7 RAR on the ground during the time the book covers.
IRAQ 2003-09 and 2014–ongoing
BRYANT, James – A More Lasting Peace: Reflections on Interagency Operations in the Solomons and Iraq
Land Warfare Studies Centre Australian Army, Canberra, 2007
ISBN: Nil
Bibliography, Index, maps; 168 pp.
RESTRICTED. A controlled examination of interagency operations in Operation Helpem Fren (ADF component was known as Operation Anode (RAMSI – Solomons) and then Iraq featuring relationships between Army and other agencies including multi-national entities. Mentions sub-units of RAR battalions and individuals who played roles in both deployments. Author served with the RAR.
AFGHANISTAN 2006-2021
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 2nd Commando Regiment. Gives insights into the same support provided to several other RAR forces in -theatre.
YEAMAN, Stuart – Afghan Sun: Defence, Diplomacy, Development and the Taliban
Boolarong Press, Salisbury QLD, 2013
ISBN: 9781922109910 (pbk)
Index, Appendices on Honours and Awards, Nominal roll; 360 pages.
Author was Commanding Officer of 6th Engineer Support Regiment that included a company of 3 RAR. Also known as Reconstruction Task Force (RTF 4), this organisation was the last of four engineer-heavy battle groups to serve in Afghanistan, followed in late 2008 by Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Forces (MRTF) and then the Mentoring Task Forces (MTF) whose role changed as their title indicates. All were part of the ADF’s Task Force 633. This is the story of what and how RTF 4 constructed its many achievements and how the RAR company helped provide the force protection necessary for the main body to achieve its intent.
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)
Nil entry
