This Part contains sources generated by other than Australian authors. Includes authors/agencies that might have been enemies at the time of the applicable conflict.
GENERAL
BYRNES, GM – Green shadows: a war history of the Papuan Infantry Battalion, 1 New Guinea Infantry Battalion, 2 New Guinea Infantry Battalion, 3 New Guinea Infantry Battalion
Self-published, Newmarket, 1989
ISBN: 9780731691202
Illustrated, maps, index, 272 pages.
A history of the units that became the Pacific Island Regiment (PIR) which was assisted by primarily RAR officers and WO/SNCOs in key command and tech positions to assist the PIR become part of the PNGDF.
ENGLISH John A & GUDMUNDSSON Bruce I – A Perspective on Infantry
Praeger Publishers, Westport CT USA, 1994
ISBN: 0030596998
Index, bibliography; 201 pages.
A brief mention of the US Army’s reliance on 1RAR to help train them in Vietnam.
ENGLISH, John A. & GUDMUNDSSON, Bruce I. – On Infantry
Greenwood Publishing Group, New York, 1994 (revised edition)
ISBN: 0275949729, 9780275949723
Illustrations, index, references; 201 pages.
First published in 1984 this book is a treatise of Infantry operations with reference to a range of forces and campaigns including anti-insurgency operations in Korea and Malaya where the RAR served.
GUGELER Russell A – Combat Actions in Korea (1st Edition)
Office of the Chief of Military History US Army, Washington, 1970
Library of Congress No 70-603408
Index; 252 pages. Paperback version published in 2013 by BiblioGov : ISBN-10: 1288574347 and ISBN-13: 978-1288574346
American Official History Series – Army volume; refers to 3 RAR and 27th British Commonwealth Brigade in joint operations with the US forces.
SINCLAIR, James – To find a path -The life and times of Pacific Islands Regiment, Volume 1 -Yesterday’s heroes 1895-1950
Boolarang Publications, Gold Coast QLD, 1990
ISBN: 9780731691203
Illustrated, maps, index, 310 pages.
Deals with the origins of the armed forces and draws on the historical roles of the Royal Papuan Constabulary and the Territory of New Guinea Police Force that became the PIR where RAR officers and some technical other ranks served. Tells the story of the service of Papuan and New Guinea soldiers, police and villagers in fighting for their country. Includes a comprehensive history of the Pacific War campaigns in New Guinea during WWII and its transition to become the PIR. Many RAR members, mainly officers, served in the unit.
SINCLAIR, James –To find a path – The life and times of Pacific Islands Regiment (50th Anniversary Commemorative Edition)
Boolarang Publications, Gold Coast QLD, 1990
ISBN: 9780731691203
Illustrated, maps, index, 310 pages.
Edited by LTCOL Maurie Pears, MC, this variant of the prime book deals with the origins of the armed forces and draws on the historical roles of the Royal Papuan Constabulary and the Territory of New Guinea Police Force. A record of the service of Papuan and New Guinea soldiers, police and villagers in fighting for their country. Includes a comprehensive history of the Pacific War campaigns in New Guinea during WWII. Many RAR members, mainly officers, served in the unit including when it became the Pacific Islands Regiment (PIR).
SHEFFIELD, G.D. (Editor) – Leadership & Command: The Anglo-American Experience Since 1861
Brassey’s (UK) Ltd, London, 1997
ISBN ISBN-10: 1402060742
ISBN-13: 978-1857531176
242 pages.
Contains a chapter on US and Allied Leadership and Command in the Korean and Vietnam Wars by Robert O’Neill which has very interesting observations about Australian Army leadership, command and operational philosophy.
WILLIAMS, Tony – ANZACs: Stories from New Zealanders at war
Hodder, Moa Publishers Ltd, Auckland, 2000
ISBN: 1869588096
Illustrated, Appendix; 304 pages.
Some of the soldiers mentioned served with RAR units: Jack Speirs with 3 RAR in the Battle of the Hook in Korea; Baz Missen with 2 RAR/ANZAC in V5 company second tour of Vietnam, and Hini (Jim) Komene with 2 RAR/ANZAC with V2 company and later with V5 company.
JAPAN & KOREA 1946-53
ALEXANDER, B. – Korea – The Lost War
Arrow Books, 1989
ISBN: 0-09-95652-X
Index; 558 pages.
An American-centric history of the war with references to 27 British Commonwealth Brigade, including reference to the RAR battalions.
ALEXANDER, Bevan – Korea -The First War we Lost
Hippocrene Books, New York, 1989,1991, 1996
ISBN 10: 0781805775
ISBN 13: 978-0781805773
Photographs, Index; 587 pages.
An American history; includes several mentions of Australian Battalions including battles of
the Apple Orchard, Kapyong and Lieutenant Colonel Charles Green’s leadership and death (CO 3 RAR).
Anonymous – 1 Royal Tank Regiment War Diary 1952 (Korea)
Bovington Tank Museum, Bovington UK, 2007
ISBN: Nil
Nominal rolls, 246 pages.
This diary and associated documents covers the period 9 Dec 52 to twelve months later. 1 RTR was commanded at the time by LTCOL GC Hopkinson. Refers to action in direct support of 2 RAR when both units were in occupation of The Hook, Korea. Typed up in 2007 by LTCOL Woodhouse.
Anonymous (Chinese) – War of Resisting US Aggression and Aiding Korea
Unknown publisher, circa 2006
ISBN: 7-01-00325201, 7010032521
Coloured and B & W photographs, maps, charts/tables; 290 pages.
A Chinese publication. Being a 50th anniversary pictorial. No authors are acknowledged in English, although there are sub-titles to photographs including British POW. No Australians are identified in those photographs, but as the text is in Chinese it is possible the RAR or members rate a mention. Many illustrations are listed as coming from the Exhibition Hall of Resisting US Aggression and Aiding Korea, a campaign -specific repository.
BARKER, AJ – Fortune Favours the Brave: The Battle of the Hook, Korea, 1953
New English Library, London, 1976
ISBN-10: 0850521084
ISBN-13: 978-0850521085
Index, 160 pages.
First published in 1974, this British history describes the battle with only rudimentary references to other Commonwealth participants including 3 RAR.
BATES, P. – Japan and the British Commonwealth Occupation Forces 1946-52
Brasseys, London, 1993
ISBN: 1-85753-000-4
Index; 270 pages.
British-oriented coverage of BCOF and deployments to Korea. Contains multiple references to the RAR battalions.
CAREW, Tim – Korea – The Commonwealth at War: The story of the Fighting Commonwealth Regiments 1950-1953
Cassell & Co, London, 1967
Bib ID 964047
Reprinted as The Korean War
Pan Books, London, 1970
ISBN: 0330024744
Index, bibliography; 319 pages.
The three battalions of the Regiment at the time (1, 2 & 3 RAR) are individually mentioned along with other units of the Commonwealth in this British history of the Korean War. Honours and Awards data included.
CLARK, Mark – From the Danube to the Yalu
George G Harrap & Coy Ltd, London, 1954
ISBN: Nil
Index; 356 pages.
An American focus on the war, providing an international perspective of the Korean War. Refers to Australian battalions in the British Division which in turn is remarked upon as a fine formation, albeit a small contribution to the total UN effort.
COLLINS, Lawton J – War in peacetime: the history and lessons of Korea
Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston, 1969
ISBN: Nil
Library of Congress card number 69-15008
Maps and illustrations; 419 pages.
Collins was the US Army Chief of Staff and a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff during the Korean War. The 27th British Infantry Brigade of which 3 RAR and then 1 and 2 RAR were part are mentioned in this US history. Gives a wider context for the way and where the RARs fitted into it within the parent brigade.
CUNNINGHAM-BOOTHE, Ashley and FARRAR, Peter – British Forces in the Korean War
British Korean Veterans Association, Leamington UK, 1988
ISBN: 0951262203
Maps, B & W photographs; 200 pages.
This publication provides an overview of the British Commonwealth forces who participated, including the three RAR battalions to serve there.
DAVIES, George – The Occupation of Japan: The rhetoric and the reality of Anglo-Australasian relations 1939-1952
University of Queensland, St Lucia, 2001
ISBN: 0-7-22-3209-2
Index, bibliography; 391 pages.
NZ author provides a well-documented account of the social engineering that BCOF took part in during its occupation of Japan shortly after the surrender. The Australian forces, including the three battalions destined to become 1,2 and 3 RAR, are appropriately positioned in this coverage of the BCOF–based support to the war in Korea.
DESMOND, Pip – The war that never ended: New Zealand veterans remember Korea
Penguin Books, Rosedale NZ, 2013
ISBN: 97807143568483
Illustrated, index, glossary; 256 pages.
Introduced by Ian McGibbon, this book consists a coverage of NZ war history focussing on Korea. The RAR battalions are mentioned as is CAPT Reg Saunders.
DROHAN, Brian – Imjin River 1951: Last stand of the ‘Glorious Glosters’
Osprey Bloomsbury Publishing, Oxford, 2018
ISBN: 9781472826923
Illustrated, maps, diagrams, index; 96 pages.
3 RAR is mentioned in the aftermath of the Battle of Kapyong in this British regimental story of the Gloucester Regiment in the 29th Infantry Brigade during the Korean War.
GURR, Robert – Voices from a Border War: 1 Royal New Zealand Regiment 1963 to 1965
Landmark Printing Cheltenham, Victoria 1995
| ISBN: 0646225030 |
Index, Nominal roll, Awards & Honours, 170 pages.
3 RAR is mentioned briefly in this NZ history.
HASTINGS, Max – The Korean War
Michael Joseph Ltd, London, 1987
ISBN: 0-7181-2068-X
Index; 476 pages.
American-centric history of the Korean War with references to the RAR; good supporting data including a chronology, and list of national participants and their major formations.
HOLLES, Robert – Now thrive the armourers
George G Harrap, London, 1952
ISBN: 9780553283211
Illustrated, maps; 176 pages.
A Gloucester Regiment soldier’s story of that unit’s war in Korea, including fighting alongside RAR battalions in the British Commonwealth Division.
HOYT, Edwin – On to the Yalu
Stein and Day, New York, 1984
ISBN: Nil
Index; 303 pages.
An American history of the Korean War with references to 27 British Commonwealth brigade and the RARs. Good big picture coverage that places RAR’s role into perspective.
JACOBS, James – From the Injin to the Hook: A national service gunner in the Korean War
Pen and Sword Military, London, 2015
ISBN: 9781781593431
Illustrated, index; 210 pages.
The story of a British a 4.2” mortar battery during the Korean War. Mentions the RAR battalions (1, 2 and 3 RAR) who also served in that war.
JOHNSTON, William – A War of Patrols: Canadian Army Operations in Korea
UBC Press, Vancouver, 2003
ISBN: 0774841060 & 9780774841061
Official Canadian military history series. 448 pages.
Provides Canadian perspectives on the operations of the RAR’s battalions in Korea 1950-53.
LECKIE, Robert – Conflict: the war in Korea 1950-1953
Da Capo Press, New York, 1996
ISBN-10: 0306807165
ISBN-13: 978-0306807169
Illustrations, index, bibliography; 496 pages.
US history of the war in which 1, 2 and 3 RAR served. Mentions 27th Commonwealth Brigade and some of the battles in which the Australians fought.
MALKASIAN, Carter – The Korean War 1950-53
Osprey Publishing, London, 2023
ISBN: 9781472853172
Illustrated, maps; 144 pages.
British account of the war in Korea. Mentions the three RAR battalions in 27 Commonwealth Brigade.
McGIBBON, Ian – New Zealand and the Korean War: Volume I – Politics and Diplomacy
Oxford University Press, Melbourne, 1992
ISBN: 0 19 558253 5
Index, bibliography; 468 pages.
New Zealand was involved militarily in Korea from 1950 to 1957, first as part of the United Nations ‘police action’ to repel North Korea’s invasion of its southern neighbour, and then in a garrison role after the armistice in July 1953. McGibbon’s first volume on the Korean War, published in 1992, sets out the reasons why New Zealand became involved in the fighting in the Korean peninsula. The RAR is mentioned in outline.
McGIBBON, Ian – New Zealand and the Korean War: Volume II – Combat Operations
Oxford University Press, Melbourne, 1996 (with corrections)
ISBN: 0 19 558343
Index, bibliography; 508 pages.
Volume two tells the story of New Zealand’s military and naval operations and describes how a force of civilian volunteers became one of the best artillery regiments in the United Nations forces in Korea. The RAR is mentioned in more detail. Roll of Honour, Honours and Awards included.
POULTON, Wilfred – K Force in Korea: A soldier’s Life in the 16th New Zealand Field Regiment
Wilfred Poulton, 2004
ISBN: 0-476-00029-7
Illustrated, 152 pages.
Refers to the RAR battalions to who the gunners provided fire support. One of the many relationships which maintain the ANZAC tradition.
RIDGEWAY & CLARK – Veterans of Foreign Wars: Pictorial History of the Korean War
Wise, New York, 1954
ISBN: Nil
ASIN: B000M55WFG
Photographs, maps; 774 pages.
This US pictorial history includes reference to 3 RAR.
SALMON, Andrew – Scorched Earth, Black Snow: The First Year of the Korean War
Aurum, London, 2011
ISBN: 1845137302
Index, b&w plates; 469 pages.
The first year of the Korean War was a series of epic battles, ending in a legendary and harrowing retreat. British and Australian troops were dispatched to fight with UN forces. After breaking out of the “Pusan Perimeter,” 27th Brigade spearheaded the UN drive north. After a spectacular series of battles, 27th Brigade including 3 RAR was halted to allow the Americans the glory of reaching the Chinese border where, in a shock counter-offensive, enemy forces stormed south. In a desperate action, 27th Brigade fought its way out of the trap.
THOMPSON, Reginald – Cry Korea
MaDonald and Co, London, 1951
ISBN: Nil
303 pages.
British officer’s memoirs of the first year of the Korena War, referring to the “Australian battalion” (3 RAR) in sufficient detail to place its role in the British divisional structure fighting there at the time.
WHITING, Charles – Battle ground Korea: the British in the Korean War, 1950-51
Sutton Publishing, xxx, 1999
ISBN-10: 0750920858
ISBN-13: 978-0750920858
Black and white illustrations, Index; 184 pages.
UK-centric coverage of the war which included the 27th and then 28th British Commonwealth Brigades with which 1, 2 and 3 RAR served in Korea.
WILLIAMS, Jeffery – Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry at Kapyong Korea 1950
Leo Cooper, London, 1972
ISBN: 085052119X
110 pages.
Awarded the United States Presidential Unit Citation in the same action as 3 RAR.
SOUTH EAST ASIA 1950-current
(includes Malaya, Borneo, Singapore & Malaysia)
BIN HASHIM, Sharom (Ed) – The Malaysian Army’s battle against communist insurgency in peninsular Malaysia 1968-1989
Army Headquarters, Kuala Lumpur, 2001
ISBN: 9789834053406
Colour and B & W photographs, maps, tables, bibliography; 218 pages.
Official Malaysian Army history of the Communist Insurgency War/Second Malaysian Emergency during which all RAR deployed rifle companies to Air Base Butterworth to protect RAAF assets, people and dependents against the CT threat.
CHIN Kim Wah – The Defence of Malaysia and Singapore: The transformation of a security system 1957-71
Oxford Press, London, XXX
ISBN: TBA
Index, Reference Notes: x pages.
An examination of the strategic issues and treaties involving other countries including Australia. Refers to the Commonwealth forces including RARs to serve in Malaysia, Borneo and Singapore.
DAVIS, Adam – Borneo Standoff: Volume 1 – Malaysian-Indonesian confrontation, 1963-1966
Helion and Company, London, 2023
ISBN: 9781804510193
Illustrated; 88 pages.
A British history of the war in Borneo. Refers to the Commonwealth forces and their role in the successful operations in the defence of Malaysia.
DICKENS, Peter – SAS The Jungle Frontier: 22 Special Air Service Regiment in the Borneo Campaign, 1963-1966
Arms & Armour Press, London, 1983
ISBN: 0458970905 (Canada) 0853685975
Index, bibliography; 248 pages.
The RAR is mentioned briefly in this campaign where SASR operations were primarily in support of 4 RAR. Most members of the SASR come from, and many return to, the RAR.
Final Report (NZ) by the Medallic Recognition Joint Working Party on Service in SE Asia 1950- 2011
Headquarters New Zealand Defence Force, Wellington, 2021
ISBN: Nil
Examines a range of service by NZ veterans including at Air Base Butterworth where RAR coys from 1 RAR and 6 RAR also served. Individuals are mentioned as witnesses. This report, based on limited and misleading evidence determined that NZ vets (like their AS counterparts did not render operational (or warlike) service.
FOWLER, Will – Britain’s Secret War: The Indonesian Confrontation 1962-66
Osprey Publishing, Oxford, 2006
ISBN: 13 978 1 84603 048 2
Bibliography, index, black and white photos and colour plates; 49 pages.
Provides an overview of the campaign both in Borneo and Peninsula Malaya. Mention is made of the RAR operations within the context of a British Commonwealth (British-centric) perspective.
GURR, Robert – Voices from a border war: 1st Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment 1963-1965
Landmark Printing, Cheltenham VIC, 1995
ISBN: 064622503
Index, illustrated, nominal roll and maps; 170 pages.
A regimental history of the period in Malaya and Borneo. The RAR units serving at the same time are mentioned.
HALE, Christopher – Massacre in Malaya: Britain’s My Lai
History Press, Gloucestershire, UK, 2013
ISBN-10: 0752487019
ISBN-13: 978-0752487014
Illustrations; 432 pages.
A British book claiming to expose a massacre by allied troops during the Malayan Emergency 1948-60. Drawing upon recently released files from the British National Archives, the history a narrative based on eyewitness accounts from both government forces and Communist fighters is presented, allegedly exposing the truth about a massacre of Chinese villagers at Batang Kali. RAR is not mentioned, but this book provides valuable insights into the conditions faced later by members of the RAR battalions. There are NO inferences of any such event having involved Australians.
JACKSON, Robert – The Malayan Emergency and Indonesian Confrontation: the Commonwealth’s Wars 1948-1966
Pen and Sword, UK, 2011
ISBN-10: 1848845553
ISBN-13: 978-1848845558
Illustrated, maps, index; 176 pages.
A British history of the Malayan Emergency and the Confrontation, which together involved Commonwealth troops for that period, including RAR battalions.
JAMES, Harold & SHIEL-SMALL, Denis – The Undeclared War: the Story of the Indonesian Confrontation 1962-1966
Leo Cooper, London, 1971
ISBN: Nil
Indexes, maps, B & W photographs; 201 pages.
3 RAR is mentioned in this history.
KITSON, Frank – Low Intensity Operations: Subversion, Insurgency and Peace-keeping ( 1 SEA)
Faber and Faber, London, 2010
ISBN-10: 0571271022
ISBN-13: 978-0571271023
Index; 220 pages.
First published in 1971. General Kitson was an acknowledged British expert in these operations and produced the is work. It forms an excellent basis for understanding the British (and Commonwealth) approach to operations in Malaya. At one stage it was recommended reading for senior officers of the RAR and higher HQ deployed during the Malayan Campaign.
LENG, Lim Cheng & LEE, Khor Eng – Waging an Unwinnable War: The Communist Insurgency in Malaysia (1948-1989)
Xlibris, Printed in Australia, 2016
ISBN: 1 800 455 039
Appendices, Abbreviations and Notes, no photographs, Chronology; 209 pages.
A study of the full Communist Insurgency, known in Australia as the Malayan Emergency (1948-60), THAI Border operations (1961-63), and with recent hard historical proof, the Communist Insurgency War/Second Malaysian Emergency (1968-89). This book covers in detail the war in which RAR battalions and then rifle companies at Air Base Butterworth faced the Communist Terrorists. Provides details not published before that proves there was a state of war until 1989 when the CTs finally signed a Peace Accord.
MILLER, Harry – Menace in Malaya
Harrap, London, 1954
ASIN: B0000CIXBP
Maps, Illustrations; 284 pages.
An early publication outlining the Communist insurgency in Malaya into which the RAR battalions deployed. This book does not mention the RAR, but will have been studied by some of the deployed personnel.
PENG, Chin – My Side of History
(As told to Ian Ward and Norma Miraflor)
Media Masters Pte Ltd, Singapore, 2003
ISBN: 9810486936
Includes index, bibliographical references, 527 pages.
Chin Peng, the leader of the ongoing communist insurgency in Malaya/Malaysia that started officially in 1948 and only ended in Dec 1989 with the signing of a peace accord, provides his version of the conflict with British Commonwealth and then Malaysian authorities. Provides a very brief mention of 1 RAR’s success against the communist terrorists and may be described as ‘the one that got away’. Chin Peng was later a guest in Australia at a conference.
PIMLOTT, John – British Military Operations 1945-1984
Hamlyn, New York, 1984
ISBN 10: 0600347273
ISBN 13: 9780600347279
Index, References; 192 pages.
Includes coverage of the Malayan Emergency and the Commonwealth operations there that involved 1, 2 and 3 RAR and the Borneo Campaign with 3 and 4 RAR.
POCOCK, Tom – Fighting General: the Public and Private Campaigns of Sir Walter Walker
Thistle Publishing, London, 2013
ISBN10 1909609587
ISBN13 9781909609587
Illustrations, index, references; 376 pages.
As a pioneer of jungle warfare and a brilliantly successful battalion and brigade commander he had no equal in his field. This service included the Malayan and Borneo Campaigns. The Australian (RAR battalions) are included.
PUGSLEY, Christopher – From Emergency to Confrontation: The New Zealand Armed Forces in Malaya and Borneo 1949-66
Oxford University Press, Melbourne, 2003
ISBN: 0195584538
Index, Bibliography; 528 pages.
This is the story of two near-forgotten wars that New Zealand fought in South-East Asia between 1949 and 1966. New Zealand’s soldiers, sailors and airmen made a significant contribution to the Commonwealth effort to defeat the communist insurgency in Malaya during the Malayan Emergency between 1949 and 1960. Brief mention of the Regiment is made. Roll of Honour, Honours and Awards included.
PYE, Lucian W – Guerrilla Communism in Malaya
Princeton University Press, New York, 2016
ISBN: 978-1-4008-7767-6
386 pages.
Originally published in 1970. An American work based on interviews with Communist guerrillas who fought the Commonwealth and Malayan authorities during the Malayan emergency.
Reassessment of the recommendations of the Medallic Recognition Joint Working Group on New Zealand Military Service In South East Asia 1955-1989
Headquarters New Zealand Defence Force, Wellington, 2021
ISBN: Nil
Maps, bibliography; 63 pages.
This report sets aside its predecessor, known as the Medallic Recognition Joint Working Group Interim (2011) and Final Report on South East Asia (December 2013) and recognises service by NZ veterans who served in a range of places in Malaysia including at Air Base Butterworth as operational and recommends the award of the NZ Operational Service Medal. Reference is made to Australian RCB (RAR) units and individuals. Accessible at https://www.nzdf.mil.nz/assets/Uploads/DocumentLibrary/South-East-Asia-Report-2021.pdf
SCURR, John – The Malayan Campaign 1948-60
Osprey Publishing, London, 1982
ISBN: 085045476X
Illustrated, 50 pages.
British-centric history which mentions all units including 1, 2 and 3 RAR.
SHORT, Anthony – The Communist Insurrection in Malaya 1948-60
Frederick Miller Ltd, London, 1975
ISBN: 054101570
Glossary, Appendix, Bibliography, Index; 547 pages.
This book is a classic on the 1948-60 communist insurrection in Malaya. The author’s unrestricted access to Malayan Government confidential and secret papers without similar access to Communist sources obviously influences his viewpoint to a great extent. It is a record of the events and has influenced the conduct of counter insurgency warfare since. Includes references to 28 Commonwealth Brigade in which 1,2 and 3 RAR served. Also published in a 218 page version by Crane, Russak & Company, New York, 1975. First American edition. ISBN: 0844803065.
SMITH, E.D. – Counter-Insurgency Operations: 1 Malaya and Borneo
Ian Allan Ltd, London, 1985
ISBN: 0 7110 1462 0
Bibliography, B & W photos; 112 pages.
A British history of these two successful counter-insurgency wars. Appendices include UK and Commonwealth Serving Units (lists 1, 2 and 3RAR) and the Order of Battle.
STEINBROOK, Gordon L – Allies and mates: An American soldier with the Australians and New Zealanders in Vietnam 1966-67
University of Nebraska Press, Lincoln USA, 1995
ISBN: 0803242387
Illustrated, maps, index; 190 pages.
An eyewitness account by an American, a unique treatment of the Australian-NZ-US co-operation on the battlefield in Vietnam. The author was attached to and participated in operations with 6 RAR during its first tour of duty.
STUBBS, Richard – Hearts and minds in guerrilla warfare: the Malayan Emergency 1948-1960
Oxford University Press, Oxford, 1989
ISBN-13: 978-0195889420
ISBN-10: 0195889428
Index, bibliography, maps; 304 pages.
This study of the Malayan Emergency examines the military, administrative, economic, political, and social aspects of the guerrilla war fought between the British Commonwealth forces and then the Malayan Government and the Malayan Communist Party, a war in which 1,2 and 3 RAR served.
van der BIJL, Nick – Confrontation: the war with Indonesia 1962-1966
Pen and Sword, UK, 2014
ISBN-10: 1783030186
ISBN-13: 978-1783030187
Illustrated, maps, index; 304 pages.
A British history of the war, it covers the full period from a strategic perspective. Commonwealth forces involved including 3 RAR and 4 RAR are mentioned.
van TONDER – Malayan Emergency : Triumph of the running dogs 1948-1960
Pen and Sword, UK, 2017
ISBN-10: 1526707861
ISBN-13: 978-1526707864
Illustrated, maps, index; 304 pages.
A British history of the Malayan Emergency, where Commonwealth troops were contemptuously referred to by the Communist Terrorists as ‘running dogs’. 1, 2 and 3 RAR played as seminal role in this war.
Veterans rightly given formal recognition of their service
NZ Minister for Defence, Wellington, 2021
Online media release
The Hon Peeni Henare NZ Minister for Defence, announced the award of the NZ Operational Service Medals for service by NZ veterans in SE Asia including at Air Base Butterworth where 1 RAR and 6 RAR served at the same time as RCB, followed by all other Ras during the Malaysian Communist Insurgency War 1968-1989, Accessible at https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/veterans-rightly-given-formal-recognition-their-service
WELLER, Jac – Fire and Movement: Bargain Basement Warfare in the Far East
Thomas Y Crowell Coy, New York, 1967
Bid ID: 538702
ISBN: nil
Maps, bibliography; 268 pages.
Contains a chapter on the Australian and New Zealand armies with observations on their organisation, equipments, training and tactical philosophies for operations in South East Asia where the RAR battalions operated. There is also a chapter on the British Army in Malaya and Malaysia.
VIETNAM 1962-75
161 Battery Royal New Zealand Artillery in the Vietnam War – 1965
YouTube
Video 7 mins 38 secs.
A Red Dune Film, this film is of great significance to the RAR. On 16 July 1965 161 Battery, stationed at Bien Hoa air base near Saigon, opened fire on a Viet Cong position in support of 1 RAR, serving as part of the American 173rd Airborne Brigade. One year later on 18 August 1966, 161 Bty, 16 Field Regiment, RNZA part of the 1st Australian Task Force at Nui Dat fired in support of D Company, 6 RAR in The Battle of Long Tan alongside Australian artillery – 103 Bty & 105 Bty Royal Australian Army and 2/35th Howitzer Battalion, US Army. The Forward (Artillery) Observers attached to D Coy, 6RAR were Capt Morrie Stanley, Bdr Willie Walker and Bdr Murray Broomhall all from 161 Bty, RNZA. They controlled the 24 guns in support of D Coy for more than 3.5 hours in the rubber plantation called Long Tan, firing 6-8 rounds per minute (2 above the intense rate) almost non-stop. 105 Australians and 3 New Zealanders (D Coy, 6RAR) fought and defeated 2,500 North Vietnamese and Viet Cong soldiers. Accessible at https://veteranweb.asn.au/news/161-battery-royal-new-zealand-artillery-in-vietnam-war-1965/
Anonymous – 173rd Brigade Airborne (USA) – The First Three Years
173rd Airborne Association, Fort Benning USA,1965,
ISBN: Not known
Photographs; 110 pages.
This book, a rare and out of print unit publication, was presented to each member of 1st Battalion Royal Australian Regiment at Xmas 1965. 173rd Airborne had lineage back to WW1, and was removed from the US Army Order of Battle in 1978. During the Vietnam War, 1RAR and other support arms and services completed a tour of duty, and therefore received this book which includes Australians.
Anonymous – A Soldier’s View of the Vietnam War: The Story of Victor 4, V Coy, 6RAR/NZ (ANZAC) Battalion
V4 Family Trust, Wellington, 2011
ISBN: 9780473185152
Illustrated (332 colour and B/W photos), index; 335 pp.
A unit history produced by an anonymous team from that rifle company, known as Victor Company in 6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC) during the Vietnam War in 1969/1970. It covers the operations that Victor Company was involved with as well as stories from the soldiers who were there. Includes. Victor Four was posted to Vietnam on the 8th May 1969. Within two weeks it, along with Whiskey Two (another NZ Company) became part of 6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC). For the next 12 months V4 and W2 along with A, B and D Australian Infantry Companies and a combined Support Company of NZ and Australian personnel, operated in the Phuoc Tuy Province. Victor Four Company took part in many other Operations and departed Vietnam on the 8th May 1970.
BOWMAN, John S (General Editor) – The World Almanac of the Vietnam War
Ballintine Books, New York, 1986
ISBN: 0345337263 (Ballantine : pbk.)
ISBN:0886872723 (Pharos Books : pbk.)
Index, bibliography, 512 pages.
A comprehensive daily chronology, presenting the sequence of events with thoughtful commentary and puts Australian (including RAR) involvement within that chronology.
BRASS, Alister – Bleeding Earth: A Doctor Looks at Vietnam
Heinemann, Melbourne, 1968
ASIN: B0000C0913
Illustrated, bibliography; 189 pages.
Author was an Australian doctor who was in Vietnam 1966-67 as a special correspondent for The Medical Journal of Australia. Covers casualty and medical procedures universally appreciated by the predominantly-RAR casualty list.
BRAY, Elvis – Fading memories of an old soldier – Vietnam 1968-1970
Publisher and date unknown
Available online for purchase including Kindle.
139 pages.
Memoire about author’s two years in Vietnam as a US Army helicopter crew chief which includes a story called ‘Australians in the Mine Field’. He was flying medical evacuation (dustoff) out of Vung Tau and assisted the Australians evacuate the wounded. Author states that the Australians (mostly RAR wounded) were as good as any US soldiers he worked with.
CHALLINOR, Deborah – Grey ghosts: New Zealand vets talk about their war
Harper Collins Publishers (NZ), Auckland, 1998
ISBN: 9781869507718
Illustrated, roll of honour, nominal roll; 304 pages.
This is about the NZ veterans, most of whom served in ANZAC battalions or the artillery in direct support of all RARs. Powerful personal stories which address, deaths, physical and mental injuries, comradeship and humour that have a unique nationalistic flavour.
CHAMBERLAIN, Ernie – Tensions, Divisiveness and Discord among the Viet Cong (VC) and with the North Vietnamese Army (NVA) in South Vietnam
Self-published, on line, 2023
Illustrated, 16 pages.
A purpose paper on the enemy faced by all RAR battalions during the Vietnam War, focussing on the differences between the VC and the NVA forces. Accessible at https://veteranweb.asn.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/VietnamTensions-NVA-v-VC-VETERAN-WEB-Apr-2023.pdf
CHAMBERLAIN, Ernest – The 33rd Regiment (North Vietnamese Army): Their History 1965-1989 – (including the Battles of Binh Ba – 1969 and Nui Le – 1971)
Self-published, Point Lonsdale VIC, 2017
ISBN: 978-0-9750350-61
80,000 words.
A translation/exegesis of the mid-2016 33rd Regiment History with four translator’s annexes and 274 footnotes providing context and commenting on/correcting the Vietnamese accounts. Index, bibliography, maps, photographs, and illustrations. Free–to-read on the Internet at: https://www.scribd.com/document/346613212/The-33rd-Regiment-North-Vietnamese-Army-Their-History-1965-1989-including-the-Battles-of-Binh-Ba-1969-and-Nui-Le-1971
CHAMBERLAIN, Ernest – The 33rd Regiment – North Vietnamese Army: Their Story (and the Battle of Binh Ba)
Self-published, Point Lonsdale VIC, 2014
ISBN: 978-0-9750350-5-4
128,000 words.
Not a translation, but an original text with 749 clarifying footnotes. The Regiment’s failed/”unsprung” ambush on (then) Major Murray Blake’s mounted Ready Reaction Force column south of Binh Ba is examined. 22 appendices covering Vietnamese monographs; personal accounts; the Regiment’s organisation, strengths, casualties; a cadre’s critique, SIGINT aspects – including a DF map etc. Index, bibliography, maps, photographs, and illustrations. The RAR fought this unit. Free–to-read on the Internet at: https://www.scribd.com/doc/217396459/The-33rd-Regiment-North-Vietnamese-Army-Their-Story-and-the-Battle-of-Binh-Ba
CHAMBERLAIN, Ernest – The fall of Phuoc Tuy and Vung Tau – April 1975
Self-published, Point Lonsdale VIC, 2019
ISBN: Nil
Illustrated, bibliography; 78 pages.
Written by an Australian Intelligence expert, this publication describes the final battles in the area once dominated by the Australian forces including all nine RARs. Mentions 1st Australian Task Force and then concentrates on how the area fell after the Australians had been withdrawn.
CHAMBERLAIN, Ernest – The Viet Cong D440 Battalion: Their Story (and the Battle of Binh Ba)
Self-published, Point Lonsdale VIC, 2013
ISBN: 978-0-9805623-5-4
89,000 words.
A translation/exegesis of the 2011 D440 History – with six discrete appendices covering organisation, strengths, casualties etc. Includes 311 footnotes commenting on/correcting the Vietnamese account. Index, bibliography, maps, photographs, and illustrations. RAR battalions and members came up against this unit. Free–to-read on the Internet at: https://www.scribd.com/document/137658877/The-Viet-Cong-D440-Battalion-Their-Story
CHAMBERLAIN, Ernest – The Viet Cong D445 Battalion: Their Story
Self-published, Point Lonsdale VIC, 2011
ISBN: 978-0-9805623-4-7
145,000 words.
A translation/exegesis of the 1991 D445 History – with 14 discrete annexes on topics such as biographies, strengths, casualties, the Party, 275 VC Regiment, D440 etc. Includes 851 footnotes commenting /correcting the Vietnamese account. Index, bibliography, maps and illustrations. RAR battalions and members came up against this unit. Free –to-read on the Internet at: https://www.scribd.com/document/62621973/The-Viet-Cong-D445-Battalion-Their-Story
CHAMBERLAIN, Ernest – The Viet Cong D445 Battalion: Their Story (and the Battle of Long Tan)
Self-published, Point Lonsdale VIC, 2016
ISBN 978-09805623-4-7
348,200 words.
A translation/exegesis of the 2004 D445 History with 18 discrete annexes covering personalities, organisations, strengths, casualties and losses, the mid-1966 D445 commander and political officer reports, SIGINT aspects (Annex E, 49 pages), 274 and 275 VC Regiments, the 5th VC Division account etc. Includes 1,759 footnotes providing context and commenting on/correcting the Vietnamese accounts. Index, bibliography, maps, photographs, and illustrations. 6 RAR and other Vietnam vets fought this unit. Rich historical value in reading the other sides’s story. Free–to-read on the Internet at: https://www.scribd.com/doc/306536690/The-Viet-Cong-D445-Battalion-Their-Story-and-the-Battle-of-Long-Tan
CHAMBERLAIN, Ernest – The Viet Cong D445 Battalion: Their Story
Self-published, Point Lonsdale, 2011
ISBN: 978-0-9805623-4-7
Bibliography, references, index, maps and illustrations; 251 pages electronic monograph.
Located on the Australian War Memorial site at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/LIB100043710, this publication shows a battalion on “the other side”. It presents a translation and examination of The heroic 445 Battalion: its History and Tradition (Tieu Doan 445 Anh Hung : Lich Su /Truyen Thong) – ie the “445 Battalion History” published in 1991. As near as possible to a literal translation of the Vietnamese text has been attempted – without any omissions. Includes details and analysis of the Battalion’s engagements with Australian forces, including the Battle of Long Tan.
CHAMBERLAIN, Ernest – The Viet Cong D440 Battalion: Their Story: and the Battle of Binh Ba – June 1969
Self-published, Point Lonsdale, 2013
ISBN: 978-0-98-5623-5-4
Bibliography, references, index, maps and illustration; 168 pages electronic monograph.
Located on the Australian War Memorial site at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/LIB100043708 this publication addresses the history of D440 Battalion including its record in the Battle of Binh Ba in June 1969 when it came up against 5 RAR and supporting arms and services.
CHAMBERLAIN, Ernest – The Viet Cong D445 Battalion: Their Story (and the Battle of Long Tan)
Self-published, Point Lonsdale, 2016
ISBN: 978-09805623-4-7
Bibliography, references, index, maps and illustrations; electronic monograph.
Located on the Australian War Memorial site at https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/LIB100046138, this modest work of some 348,200 words presents a translation and close examination of The Heroic 445 Battalion : its History and Tradition (Tieu Doàn 445 Anh Hùng : Lich Sur/Truy en Thong) ie the D445 Battalion History published in 2004. As near to possible to a literal translation of the Vietnamese text has been attempted.
CHANNON, James B. & RUSSILL, George A. (Complier/Editor) –173rd Airborne Brigade (USA) – The First Three Years: A Pictorial History of the 173rd Airborne Brigade
Brigade Information Office, Saigon, 1968
ISBN: Nil
110 pages.
Contains of pictures including Australian soldiers. It was presented to each member of 1st Battalion Royal Australian Regiment at Xmas 1965. This knowledge from veterans indicates that a later official edition was printed in 1968, funded by the 9th chapter of the 173rd Airborne BDE Association.
DAVIDSON, Leon – Red Haze: Australians and New Zealanders in Vietnam
Black Dog Books, Fitzroy VIC, 2006 (also previous editions)
ISBN 10: 1876372958
ISBN13: 978-1876372958
Illustrations, index; 153 pages.
A book aimed primarily at children over 10, this publication addresses the Vietnam war from both an Australian and New Zealand perspective. Several RAR are mentioned, including the ANZAC battalions.
DAVIES, Bruce – Battle at Ngok Tavak: A Bloody Defeat in South Vietnam, 1968
Allen & Unwin, Crow’s Nest NSW, 2008
ASIN: B01GTQ8A5U
Illustrated, maps, index; 272 pages.
Published in the United States as Battle at Ngok Tavak: Allied Valor and Defeat in Vietnam. Lubbock: Texas Tech University Press, 2009. Ngok Tavak , a satellite camp to the Special Forces camp at Kham Duc in the western part of Quang Tin province, was held by Mobile Strike Force Company 11 (a mostly Nung force with eight US and three Australian advisors, one an Australian captain) and two 105mm howitzers of Battery D, 2/13 Marines. It was overrun by PAVN forces 10 May 1968. Author served with 1 RAR in Vietnam followed by two tours of duty with the AATTV.
DORLAND, Peter and NANNEY, James – Dustoff: Army Aeromedical Evacuation in Vietnam
Center of Military History-United States Army, Washington, 1982
ISBN: 978016075
Index, maps, bibliographic notes; 148 pages. This support featured centrally to operations in Vietnam, and this book provides detail of dust-off operations; being cited in the 7 RAR regimental pictorial history (second edition). Such support was given to all RAR for their casualties and others.
Downloadable copy available at https://history.army.mil/html/books/090/90-28-1/index.html
DORLAND, Peter G & NANNEY, James S – Army Aeromedical Evacuation in Vietnam
Centre of Military History US Army, Washington DC, 2008
ISBN: 9780160754784
Bibliography, index; 134 pages.
An excellent paper on ‘dustoff ‘– army aeromedical evacuation on Vietnam. All RAR veterans relate intimately with this aspect of battle procedure, and many owe their lives to it.
DUGGAN, Pat – What Have They Done to the Rain?
Kukupa Press, Wellington, NZ, 2011
ISBN: 9780473175290
Illustrated, maps; 224 pages.
Author served in 161 Battery, Royal New Zealand Artillery which provided fire support to the battalions in Vietnam. Covers several RAR battalions.
ENGLISH, John & GUDMUNDSSON, Bruce – On Infantry
Praeger Publications, Westport CT USA, 1994
| ISBN | 0275949729, 9780275949723 |
Index, bibliography; 201 pages.
A brief mention of The US Army’s reliance on 1 RAR to train them in Vietnam.
FOSTER, Randy EM – Vietnam Firebases 1965-73: American and Australian Forces
Osprey Publishing, London, 2007
ISBN: 9781846031038
Bibliography, index; 66 pages.
No 58 of the Osprey Fortress series of publications, this book covers the construction and operation of Fire Support Bases and includes Australian ones. No RAR units operated outside the range of either American or Australian (NZ) FSBs in Vietnam.
GIAP, General Vo Nguyen – Banner of People’s War, the Party’s military line
Pall Mall, London, 1971
ISBN: 9780269027628
Illustrations; 144 pages.
Giap’s view of the war in Vietnam, including the time all RAR battalions were deployed.
HALL, Claire – No Front Line: Inside Stories of New Zealand’s Vietnam War
Penguin NZ, 2014
ISBN: 9780143571889
Illustrated; 304 pages.
A series of stories of New Zealand veterans of the Vietnam War, many of whom served with RAR battalions, or in operational support of their ANZAC colleagues. RAR units mentioned.
Home fires burning: New Zealand’s Vietnam War
Papakura Museum NZ
YouTube footage, 27 min, 23 secs
General coverage of the NZ involvement in the Vietnam War. NZ forces were integrated with Australian forces including the gun battery to fire in support of 6 RAR at Long Tan (and other battles, and the rifle companies from 1 RNZIR that were embedded in some RAR battalions (2, 4 and 6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC). Reference to these relationships is made in this work. Accessible at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yWaN1Z6KKqQ
HOWELL, Tony – Jungle Green Shadow: Victor 2 Company 2 RAR/NZ (ANZAC) Battalion Vietnam 1967-1968
John Douglas Publishing, NZ, 2019?
ISBN: 978-0-9951219-0-4 9780995121904 9780995121904
Index, Photographs, illustrations; 470 pages
Set in Nui Dat in 1967-68 during the Vietnam War. Author was a member of 2 RAR/NZ (ANZAC) Bn, the first ANZAC Bn – during the Tet Offensive. On 11 May 1967, the first New Zealand Infantry Company (Victor 1), joined 2 RAR at Nui Dat. They were replaced (by Victor 2 Company) on 12 November 1967. Major Brian Worsnop was in command. A second New Zealand Infantry Company (Whiskey 1) joined 2 RAR in December 1967. To reflect this ANZAC force, the 2 RAR Battalion title was changed to 2 RAR/NZ (ANZAC) Battalion on 1st March 1968. Lieutenant Tony Howell was one of the three Victor 2 Company Rifle Platoon Commanders. There is one fictional chapter that deals with one day in the life of a Lead Scout.
HOWELL, Tony – Vietnam ANZACs: Australians and New Zealanders in the Vietnam War
John Douglas Publishing Ltd, Wellington NZ, 2021
ISBN: 9780995121928
Illustrations, maps, index, nominal roll, casualty list and honours and awards list; 431 pages.
This is a history of the contributions of the ANZAC battalions to the total Vietnam War effort. Their operations are recorded in the context of the nine NZ rifle companies who served with the RAR battalions, making them ANZAC battalions, and the essential NZ units in support.
KARNOW, Stanley – Vietnam: a history
Penguin, Harmondsworth, 1983
ISBN:014026543
Illustrated, bibliography, index; 784 pages.
A US history which covers the entire war from the US perspective; mentions the Australian commitment.
LANNING, Michael Lee & CRAGG, Dan – Inside the VC and the NVA: the real story of North Vietnam’s Armed Forces
Texas A & M University Press, Texas, 2008
ISBN-10: 1603440593
ISBN-13: 978-1603440592
Illustrated, maps, index; 332 pages.
A more recent edition of a 1992 publication. Covers the enemy Australians faced in the Vietnam war.
LOWE, Jim – A Jarhead’s Journey
America Star Books, USA, 2014
ISBN-10:1630841722
ISBN-13: 978-1630841720
Illustrated; 368 pages.
An American veteran’s experiences in Vietnam in the MACV effort. Lowe served with WO2 Dasher Wheatley and refers to him specifically several times, including 1 RAR background in this book, including the actions which led to Wheatley’s VC. WO2 Buth Swanton who was KIA same time as Wheatley, also is mentioned.
WINDROW, Martin & LYLES, Kevin L – Vietnam Anzacs: Australian & New Zealand troops in Vietnam 1962-72
Osprey Publishing, London, 2004
ISBN-10: 1841767026
ISBN-13: 978-1841767024
Illustrated, bibliography; 64 pages.
No 103 of the Elite series, this book is an American record of Anzac troops in Vietnam. Most depicted are RAR/ANZAC battalion members.
MacDONALD, Peter G – Giap the victor in Vietnam
WW Norton & Co, New York, 1993
ISBN-10: 0393034011
ISBN-13: 978-0393034011
Photographs, maps, index; 368 pages.
A biography of the man who led North Vietnam to victory over the South; the supreme commanders of the troops against which the allies including RAR members fought in Vietnam.
McGIBBON, Ian – New Zealand’s Vietnam War: A history of combat, commitment and controversy
Exisle Publishing, Wollombi NSW, 2010
ISBN: 978 0 908988 96 9
Index, bibliography, maps, B &W photos, Roll of Honour, Orders of Battle, Honours and Awards; 704 pages.
This book provides a comprehensive and authoritative account of New Zealand’s involvement in the Vietnam War. All of the RAR battalions– ANZAC linked and others, and RAR itself, are mentioned.
MURPHY, Edward F – Dak To: The 173rd Airborne Brigade in south Vietnam’s Central highlands, June-November 1967
Presidio Press, Novato California, 1993
ISBN: 0891414290
Index, maps, B & W photographs, bibliography; 355 pages.
While primarily an Us history, it does contain material on 1 RAR and their supporting arms which served as part of the 173 Airborne Brigade in 1965-66.
NEWMAN, DS – Vietnam Gunners: 161 Battery RNZA, South Vietnam, 1965-71
Moana Press, Wellington NZ, 1988
ISBN10: 0908705352
ISBN13: 9780908705351
Illustrated, maps, index; 152 pages.
Unit history with most RAR battalions mentioned. 161 Battery fired in support of 1 ATF. The battery was involved in 17 major operations during their time in Vietnam. It was the longest serving Allied unit in South Vietnam after the 173rd Airborne Brigade, having been continuously deployed for six years, ten months and 21 days.
PEDRINA, Jeff – Wallaby Airlines: Twelve Months Caribou Flying in Vietnam
Air Power Development Centre, Tuggeranong ACT, 2006
ISBN: 9781920800130, 1920800131
Maps, index;179 pages.
This monogram covers the operations of the RAAF Caribou transport aircraft of 35 Sqn in Vietnam. RARs mentioned, virtually all RAR members will have travelled in these aircraft.
PIKE, Douglas – War, Peace and the Viet Cong
Terra Australia Books, Diasy Hll QLD, 1967
ISBN: 10: 02662160285
B & W illustrations; 186 pages.
Published in a range of locations and times this book provides a strategic and operational account of the Vietnam war focusing on the Viet Cong against whom the Australians fought.
ROCK, James R – Kiwis under Fire: The New Zealand Armed Forces in South Vietnam c. 1965-72
University of Auckland, Auckland NZ, 1995
ISBN: Nil
51 page thesis.
M.A. Thesis possibly available by contacting the university. Would provide an NZ perspective of their role as members of the ANZAC battalions, and other support units including artillery firing in support of all RARs in Vietnam, including the Batter Commander and his FO parties embedded in those units.
ROTTMAN, Gordon L – North Vietnamese Army soldier 1958-1975
Osprey Publishing, London, 2009
ISBN: 9781846033711
Bibliography, maps, index; 66 pages.
No 135 of the Osprey Warrior series of publications this is an excellent coverage of the Nvietnamese soldier who at the time of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War was the regular enemy soldier facing off against the Allies including all RAR battalions who came into contact with at varying degrees depending on the campaigns involving such enemy forces at the time, especially the Tet Offensive in 1968.
ROTTMAN, Gordon L – Special Forces Camps in Vietnam 1961-70
Osprey Publishing, London, 2007
ISBN: 9781841768397
Bibliography, index; 66 pages.
No 33 of the Osprey Fortress series of publications, this book covers Special Forces Camps in Vietnam where many RAR members served while members of the AATTV including all four VC winners and the only direct battlefield bravery award of the DSO (then- Major Pat Beale DSO, MC).
ROTTMAN, Gordon L – Tunnel rat in Vietnam
Osprey Publishing, London, 2012
ISBN: 9781849087834
Bibliography, index; 66 pages.
No 161 of the Osprey Warrior series of publications, this book provides a detailed account of American tunnel rats in Vietnam. Australians including RAR members carried out the same operations facing the same enemy and installations shown in this book.
ROTTMAN, G – Viet Cong and NVA Tunnels and Fortifications of the Vietnam War
Osprey Publishing, London,2006
ISBN: 10: 1 84603003 X
ISBN: 13: 9781846030031
Index, colour and B & W photographs and illustrations; 64 pages.
Book 48 in the Osprey Fortress series, this publication addresses the typical range of tunnels and fortifications regularly encountered by RAR troops in Vietnam.
ROTTMAN, Gordon L – Vietnam Airmobile Warfare Tactics
Osprey Publishing, London, 2007
ISBN: 9781846031366
Bibliography, index; 66 pages.
No 154 of the Osprey Warrior series of publications, this book covers a prime method of deployment and extraction of the US ground forces in Vietnam also used by all RAR. This book also includes photo of 173rd Airborne Brigade which included 1 RAR in 1964-5.
ROTTMAN, Gordon L – Vietnam Infantry Tactics
Osprey Publishing, London, 2011
ISBN: 9781849085052
Bibliography, index; 66 pages.
No 186 of the Osprey Elite series of publications, this book covers Infantry tactics from an American perspective. Also refers to 2 RAR, and the respect shown by the authors for Australians is further reflected in the use of Australian Vietnam veteran references. A good book to compare US and Anzac tactics; the two worked together quite frequently, and not in the same detailed manner.
ROTTMAN, Gordon L – Viet Cong Fighter
Osprey Publishing London, 2007
ISBN: 9781846031267
Index, Colour and B & W photographs; 64 pages.
Book 116 in the Warrior Osprey series, this publication provides a broad coverage of the local enemy in Vietnam, known to the RAR who fought them as Viet Cong, Charlie or VC.
SALZGER, Rainer – Viet Cong: Charlie and his deadly tricks
Independently published, 2019
ISBN-10: 1728778638
ISBN-13: 978-1728778631
Illustrated, index; 92 pages.
Covers the range of improved weapons and booby traps used by the enemy in Vietnam against the allies to help offset the superior firepower. All RAR veterans will remember these well.
SOUTER, G & J – The Vietnam War Experience
Carlton Books, USA, 2008
ISBN-10: 1844420574
ISBN-13: 978-1844420575
Index, audio CD; 64 pages.
This US book brings to life the experiences of ordinary soldiers on both sides of the Vietnam conflict in which the RAR participated, at the same time putting their stories into a global and political context. Contains rare facsimiles of actual documents.
STANTON, Shelby L – Vietnam Order of Battle
Galahad Books, New York, 1986
ISBN: 0891937005
Index, bibliography; 396 pages.
Contains a chapter on Australian and NZ Orders of Battle in the campaign. This is the complete illustrated reference to the US Army and Allied ground forces in Vietnam. A data source that is encyclopaedic in scope and astonishing detail.
SUBRITZKY, Mike – The Vietnam scrapbook: the second ANZAC adventure
Three Feathers Publishing, Papakura NZ, 1995
ISBN 10: 0958348405
ISBN 13: 9780958348409
B&w photographs, index; 410 pages.
An NZ-focused coverage of the second ANZAC battalion to serve in Vietnam. With Roll of Honour, list of Battle casualties, New Zealand Honours and Awards Published to mark the 30th Anniversary of the start of the Vietnam Conflict and also the 150th Anniversary of the New Zealand Army.
The Battle of Long Tan (North Vietnamese version)
YouTube
Video 4 mins 51 secs.
The North Vietnamese film discusses the Battle of Long Tan (in Vietnamese language). It states that D/6 RAR suffered 17 KIA and two armoured vehicles were destroyed. As with the published D445 and 275 Regiment histories, it claims that “6 RAR was wiped out. After the Battle of Long Tan, the Australian military had to bring its 8th Battalion from Australia to replace the 6th Battalion. … The Battle of Long Tan became a haunting worry, grave mound and burial place for the Australian Task Force in the Vietnam War. Images are most informative. Accessible at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p2W0Wn3KnUo
The Vietnam war explained in 25 minutes
YouTube
28 minutes 35 seconds
American documentary which summarises the war in images and narrative. Mentions allied forces.
Accessible at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tNTh6KlXXU
Victor 4 Company Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment: Vietnam 1969-1970
ILA Productions
YouTube footage, 49 mins 32 secs
Story of V Coy (1 RNZWR) what was part of 6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC) in 1969-70 to serve in Vietnam. NZ-focused, this footage includes NZ veterans describing their tour of duty as part of 6 RAR. Accessible at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dIj2SVFVXe8
WIEST, Andrew (Editor) – Rolling Thunder in a Gentle Land: The Vietnam War
Osprey Publishing Ltd UK, 2006
ISBN 9781846930206 184603020X (hbk)
336 pages, index, bibliography
A wide-ranging perspective on the Vietnam War with one chapter providing the Australian and New Zealand experience. Later 316 page edition in 2013 (ISBN-10: 1782001875; ISBN-13: 978-1782001874).
WILKIE, Dave – Year of the Dove: Diaries of a Medico in Vietnam
Quoin, Christchurch NZ,1998
ISBN: 1877163104
Illustrated; index; 352 pages.
Author served in an RAR/ANZAC battalion on Vietnam and provides a NZ perspective to operations in Vietnam.
WOODRUFF, Mark W. – Unheralded Victory: Who Won the Vietnam War?
Harper Collins Publishers, 2000
ISBN-10: 0004725190
ISBN-13: 978-0004725192
Index, bibliographical references; 360 pages.
Although primarily an American analysis of why the war was lost it is also applicable to research on Australia’s role and on its perspective as to whether the war was “lost” while Australian forces were so deployed. The RAR operations are mentioned throughout.
PEACE KEEPING & PEACE MAKING OPERATIONS
(Somalia 1992-93, Rwanda 1994-95, Cambodea 1994-95, Papua New Guinea 1946 to 1975, East Timor 1999-2012, Bouganville 1994, The Solomon Islands 2000 -2008, all remaining deployments not covered by UN or above (Rhodesia, Uganda)
Nil entry
IRAQ 2003-09 and 2014–ongoing
Nil entry
AFGHANISTAN 2006-2021
McNAB, Chris – The Barrett Rifle: Sniping and anti-materiel rifles in the War on Terror
Osprey Publishing, Oxford, 2016
ISBN: 978 1 4728 1101 1
Index, bibliography; 80 pages.
Includes 2 Commando Regiment’s longest sniping hit in history (p 53). See also Wahlert and Linwood (One Shot Kills) in Part 1. Soldiers and their commanding officer interviewed by the Registrar were/had been RAR members, and worked with RAR counterparts 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)
Nil entry
