This Part covers the very large field of smaller articles and other data which appear in both Infantry and other publications on the RAR. Major series are described below, with specific articles then listed under the applicable war/deployments sub-heading, each citation listing the  name of the parent journal/periodical. Where known, e-links are provided to the increasing number of such sources now becoming available on-line.

Major sources are summarised below. Others will be added as identified. Note: Some of these journals are now fully digitised, but hard copy can often be found/traded/purchased. 

 

GENERAL

Anonymous – A short history of 1^st Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment

In Sabretache, Volume VI – Number 4 – April 1964, pp 89-95. Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. First ever article on an RAR matter published in Sabretache. Covers its creation through to Apr 64. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-1960s-volumes-iii-to-xii/

Anonymous – Camera at War

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 37, October 2006, pp 40-47.

Includes many photos of RAR troops spanning deployments from Korea to East Timor.  

Anonymous – The Special Air Service Regiment

In Sabretache, Volume XXXV – Number 4 – October-December 1994 pp 32-33.

Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. Provides a brief description of the unit including its origins, being initially 1^st Special Air Service Company, the RAR in 1957 and later expanding to a regiment. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-1990s-volumes-xxxi-to-xl/

Australian Army Journal (Generic entry)

Published by the Australian Army Research Centre, Canberra.

The Australian Army Journal, was first known as the Army Journal. Contributions to the journal may be made by serving members or others with an interest in the Australian Army and its activities. The Australian Army Journal commenced publication in 1948 and continued through to 1976. It was revitalised in 1999 and, while published by different entities over time (the Australian Army Research Centre as at 2021), continues to this day. Many of the articles relate directly or indirectly to the RAR. Almost every copy ever produced is now on-line at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/library/australian-army-journal 

Australian Defence Force Journal (ADFJ) (Generic entry). The ADFJ is an Australian Defence Force publication aimed primarily at officers and SNCOs, primarily to encourage professional development through knowledge and debate. Over time, more junior ranks have availed themselves of it with increased encouragement to do so. The first paper journal – Issue 1 – appeared in Nov/Dec 1976, the last paper edition – Issue 192 – in 2013. From that time on, all issues, including retrospective paper-based issues, became available at http://www.adfjournal.adc.edu.au/site/journal_index.asp?page=26&browseby

This site may be searched for topics/keywords/authors etc, general papers immediately below and deployment-specific papers in the following sections. The Journal added the word “Australian” to its title with Issue 86 in Jan/Feb 1991. Up to that time, it was the DFJ.

Australian Infantry Magazine (AIM) (Generic Entry) . The AIM is the voice of the Australian Soldier and is still going strong. In order to provide and generate free flow of information, 15,000 copies are distributed internally to Army personnel free. Every issue runs stories topical not only to our Infantry members but to all Defence Force members and military enthusiasts in general. Features include updates on current operations, the latest training, tactics, combat capabilities, personnel matters, Corps news, reviews, special features and a forum allowing readers to express their views. Produced bi-annually in Apr and Oct and published by the School of Infantry, Singleton NSW. RAR contributors and topics prominent. ISSN: 1447-5545. Another publication titled Infantry Magazine, covering the period January 1969 to April 20o3, was a predecessor to AIM. See IM entry below which will seek to list ALL published articles in due course. Where an article is campaign-specific, a second entry may be found under that heading also.

BARNESS, Peter – A casualty of change: Formation sign badges were a feature of the new post-war Army’s uniform

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 26, pp 58-61.

Includes formation signs, cloth patches with the RAR mentioned in the text of this article.

BLANCH, Craig –A soldier’s soldier

 In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 55, July 2011, pp 60-62.

Story of Ray Simpson, VC who served in the RAR in Korea, Malaya and then in the AATTV in Vietnam where he was awarded the VC.

BLAXLAND, John – Listening to the enemy

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 57, Summer 2012, pp 30-35.

Signal intelligence played a key role in Malaya, Borneo and Vietnam. This article illustrates broadly how this happened and how information gleaned on the enemy patrol timings and locations was used to plan patrols carried out  by the RAR and SASR sub-units in these conflicts.

 

BLAXLAND, John C (LTCOL) – Strategic Cousins? Australian and Canadian Military Outlooks Compared

In Australian Army Journal, Vol 1 No 2, 2003; pp 139-146.

Addresses the Australian-Canadian relationship over Korea, East Timor and Iraq, citing 27^th Commonwealth Brigade (1,2 and 3 RAR) in Korea and 3^rd AS Brigade in East Timor. A useful comparison for these strategically similar nations’ Armed Forces. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2003_2.pdf

BREEN, Bob and McCauley, Greg – The world looking over their shoulders – Australian strategic corporals on operations in Somalia and East Timor

Land Warfare Studies Centre, Canberra, 2008

ISBN: 9780642296856

197 pages.

LWSC Working Paper No 314. This book looks closely at Australian corporals at the cutting edge of Australian peace enforcement operations in Somalia and East Timor at the end of the twentieth century. It describes and analyses their experiences seeking those that will shape military operations in the twenty-first century. Directly about predominantly RAR junior NCOs, with long-term ramifications for all future operations. Accessible at  https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/sp314theworldlookingovertheirshouldersbob_breen_greg_mccauley.pdf

Britain at War (Generic Entry). A British Commonwealth-inclusive journal. Periodically features Australian articles. Campaign-specific articles are listed below.

Bulletin of The Royal Australian Regiment Foundation (Generic Entry) . This Bulletin is a publication of the RAR Foundation, headed by the Chair of the day. It addresses annually, the general business of the Foundation including stipends made, Foundation awards, and an annual update of each RAR battalion’s doings for the year of publication. Issue 34 (2016) is ABN: 31 055 902 433. Also accessible at www.rarfoundation.org.au

CHAMBERLAIN, WM – Asian Battle Diary: The Australians and New Zealanders on Korea and South East Asia: Notes on Chronologies

In Sabretache, Volume X – Number 3 – January 1968, pp 89-95. Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. A chronology of actions across all three Services in Korea and Malaya. Mentions 1, 2 and 3 RAR. Part 1 of a two-part article. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-1960s-volumes-iii-to-xii/

CHAMBERLAIN, WM – Asian Battle Diary: The Australians and New Zealanders on Korea and South East Asia: Notes on Chronologies (Continued)

In Sabretache, Volume X – Number 4 – April 1968, pp 134-140. Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. A chronology of actions across all three Services in Malaya, Borneo and Vietnam up to early 1968. Mentions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 RAR. Part 2 of a two-part article. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-1960s-volumes-iii-to-xii/

CHAMBERLAIN, WM – The Digger in Asia – a Chronology of Australian and New Zealand Military Operations since the Second World War (Introduction)

In Sabretache, Volume XXXIII – Number 4 – October-December 1992, pp 5-10.

Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. Entire journal devoted to the one topic, covering 1945 to 1992. Introduction provides overview of the entire period and sets the scene for war-specific sub-articles, all of which involve RARs. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-1990s-volumes-xxxi-to-xl/

CONTACT Air Land & Sea  (Generic Entry) . A high-quality military magazine focused mainly on the day-to-day work, lives and professionalism of current-day Australian Defence Force members, including Infantry, from a boots-on-the-ground perspective and as far as possible in soldiers’ own words. CONTACT has been published four times per year since March 2004 – issues 1 to 40 in print and electronic only since March 2013. The publisher also produced an Infantry-only special issue in 2008, to coincided with and celebrate the RA Inf 60th anniversary. It, and many other issues, feature the RAR. CONTACT Air Land and Sea is available by free subscription via www.aussiecombat.com

COMBAT Camera . A high-quality military magazine where the photos tell the thousand/million words of the contemporary Australian Defence Force stories including RAR subjects. COMBAT Camera, from the same publisher as CONTACT Air Land & Sea, was initially published four times per year (issue 1 to 14) but is now a ‘special events’ magazine, published when justified (e.g. ANZAC Day 2016 and Avalon Airshow 2017). COMBAT Camera is available via the same free subscription – www.aussiecombat.com

Combat Arms (Generic Entry) . A commercial publication, it frequently contains articles on RAR matters.

 

Command – Observations and Issues from Army Operations

Centre for Army Lessons, Land Warfare Centre, Puckapunyal VIC, 2006

ISBN: Nil – RESTRICTED

A series written for commanders. Also has a website http://wdc.sov.defence.gov.au/cal

This edition refers to AUSBATTs (Timor) and SECDETS (Iraq), both of which represent most RAR battalions.

Command – Insights from Army Operations and Selected Articles

Centre for Army Lessons, Land Warfare Centre, Puckapunyal VIC, 2008

ISBN: Nil – RESTRICTED

A series written for commanders. Also has a website http://wdc.sov.defence.gov.au/cal

This edition refers to Infantry operations in Somalia, Rwanda, Iraq, Afghanistan and the Solomons. which involved most RAR battalions.

CULLINAN, PA – Duntroon and Adventurous Training

In The Duntroon Society, Issue 2/2021, pp 8-20. ISSN 2207-0400.

This paper presents a history of the many Adventurous training exercises undertaken by RMC cadets and staff. Author himself and many cadet and staff were/are RAR members. Accessible at https://www.dunsoc.com/viewnewsletter?issue=2-2021-web

Duty First (DF) (Generic Entry) . DF is an RAR publication aimed at all ranks of the regiment. Produced by the NSW branch of the RAR Association on behalf of the RAR Corporation and all state branches. Most articles within it address current or recent deployments, training and news of interest. Publisher was One Time Publishing, Wonoona NSW. Volume 1 started in July 1970. There were no Contents pages prior to Volume 4 Number 8 (October 1976). In 2023, the journal was resumed, for the first time in a digitally interactive manner. See also Future section below.

EDWARDS, Peter – Malaya and Vietnam: Some Preliminary Thoughts by the Official Historian

In Journal of the Australian War Memorial, No 3, 1983, pp 10-12. A journal article which broadly addresses and compares the two deployments, based principally on the RAR battalions.

EISENBERG, Daniel – Celluloid and service

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 94, Autumn 2021, pp 10-15.

Article on the making of official films, a process that has accompanied and recorded Australians since film was first used. RARs are mentioned in the text and photos.

FERGUSON, I.B. (Lieutenant Colonel) – Command and control of the 81 mm mortar section

In Australian Army Journal, No 151, Dec 61, pp 5-10.

Paper written early in the life of the 81 mm mortar which was introduced into RAR service at the time. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_151_dec_1961.pdf

First (F) (Generic Entry). An annual 1 RAR unit production; known issues include 1980-81.

FRAME, Tom – Conscription, conscience and conflict – a century reflection on the 1916 referendum

In Sabretache, Volume LVII (57) – Number 4 – December 2016, pp 4-12. Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra.

Addresses conscription which helped populate all RAR battalions during the Vietnam war. 1 RAR is specifically mentioned. Accessible at https://www.mhsa.org.au/download/sabretache-vol-lvii-no-4-december-2016/?wpdmdl=2048&_wpdmkey=62035454ea776&refresh=62035454eb9181644385364

GREVILLE, Phil – The unfinished story of Slim Madden, George Cross. In Duty First Vol 2, Mar 1996, p 9.

Story of Private Madden, GC of 3 RAR who perished under captivity at the hands of the North Korean/Chinese forces. Also published under the Australian Dictionary of Biographies. Accessible at https://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/madden-horace-william-slim-11030

HARTIGAN, Brian (Ed) – CONTACT Air Land & Sea magazine

Contact Publishing Pty Ltd, Minnamurra, NSW, 2004 and ongoing

ISSN: 1449-2385  

Excellent illustrations, index in both print and e-publication formats, average 84 pages. CONTACT magazine, launched in March 2004, is a features-based military magazine with an in-depth reporting remit, focused on military operations, exercises, equipment, military activities and ‘all things of interest to soldiers, sailors and aviators’. CONTACT magazine is dedicated to presenting photos and stories that capture the essence of serving-members’ lives and interests, as far as possible from insider perspectives.  CONTACT newsletters are sent to subscribers every Sunday, alternating between news one fortnight and ‘people’ the next. CONTACT web site is an active news, features and interests-based web site, updated daily.  Managing Editor Brian Hartigan served for 12 years as a full-time soldier in the Australian Army (enlisting in November 1990), followed by 15 years in the Active Reserve reaching the rank of sergeant. He proudly deployed on Operation Warden in 1999 as an ARMY Newspaper reporter – and, in 2003, as a force-assigned civilian on the first Australian Federal Police rotation to the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI) as a photographer.  Visit www.militarycontact.com for details, or subscribe via www.aussiecombat.com . Access and subscription is free.

HARTIGAN, Brian (Ed – COMBAT Camera magazine

Contact Publishing Pty Ltd, Minnamurra, NSW, 2004 and ongoing

Excellent illustrations, index e-publication format. This product parallels CONTACT Air Land & Sea magazine and is similarly free to subscribe to. Visit www.militarycontact.com for details, or subscribe via www.aussiecombat.com

HASSETT, General Sir Francis – The Field Marshal Blamey Memorial Oration in US, Vol 47, No 1, (Winter 1993). This article addresses Hassett’s time as CO 3 RAR in Korea and then with 28^th Commonwealth Brigade in Malaya.

HINDS, Lieutenant Colonel S – Man at the top – a short biography of General FG HASSETT AC, CB, DSO, MVO

 In Australian Army Journal, No 319, pp 3-15, December 1975. One of the senior RAR tribal leaders, Hassett served at each command level in the RAR and then commanded at brigade, division, Army and Defence Force levels. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_319_dec_1975.pdf

Helping All That Served (HATS) (Generic Entry)

Privately managed and published

ISBN: Nil 

HATS is both the name and motto of the Integrated Service people’s Association of Australia, an ex-service organisation dedicated to assisting the veteran community and also current serving members of the ADF. Services include assistance with preparation of claims for service, disability and war widows/ers claims, welfare assistance and gaining many other entitlements from the Department of Veterans Affairs. HATS  is published three times a year; March, July, November. Some editions (over 40 to date) feature the RAR. These are both printed, and accessible through http://rnzaf.proboards.com/thread/15992/hats-journal-integrated-servicepeople-oz

HINDS, Lieutenant Colonel S – Man at the top: General FG HASSETT AC, CB, DSO, MVO

In Sabretache, Volume 17 – Number 2 – December 1975; pp 94-99. Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra.

HUTCHESON, MC, JM (Major) – War dogs

In Australian Army Journal, No 75, Aug 55, pp 20-24.

Addresses the use of war dogs, primarily by infantry. This information will have influenced RAR later usage of tracker dogs in Malaysia and Vietnam. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_075_aug_1955_1.pdf

Infantry Information Letters  (Generic Entry). Generated by the Directorate of Infantry for many years, this now-defunct source of valuable information enabled the rapid dissemination of information of Infantry information at a time when the publication of pamphlets took substantially longer. Most articles affected the RAR.

Infantry Magazine (IM) (Generic Entry). This magazine was published by the Head of Corps RA Inf from January 1969 to April 2003 and was replaced by the Australian Infantry Magazine (see above). Specific papers are listed in this Part.

JACKSON, K.H. (Lieutenant) – The employment of the mortar section

In Australian Army Journal, No 149, Oct 61, pp 36-42.

Paper includes discussion on the tactical employment of mortars, timed to coincide with the arrival of the 81 mm mortar in the RAR (and later) reserve battalions of the Australian Army. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_149_oct_1961.pdf

 Journal of the Australian War Memorial

Australian War Memorial, Canberra

ISSN: 1327-0141

Online summary of this publication series. Issues 1 to 27 were published in hard copy, with 28 to 40 online the latter now able to be purchased -see https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/journal. Many contain articles on the RAR. Publication have been temporarily discontinued for the reasons stated on the website. Their re-introduction date is not yet known (as at 14 Mar 23). All copies have now been searched for papers/articles that address RAR matters. The great majority are to be found in this Section of the Bibliography under the applicable deployment (eg Vietnam).

HORNER, David – Australians as peacekeepers

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 88, Spring 2019, pp 52-58.

Article on Australian peacekeeping over 70 years, many of whom have been individual RAR members and up to battalion sized deployments such as 1 RAR in Somalia, and coys of 2 and 2/4 RAR in Rwanda.

 Kapyong Kronicle (KK) (Generic Entry) . An annual 3 RAR unit publication.

KEOGH, MBE, ED E.G. (Colonel) (Editor) – Equipment for the Pentropic Division

In Australian Army Journal, No 134, Jul 60, pp 9-26.

The full edition of this AAJ is devoted to the topic. The section assigned to Infantry weapons covers what the RAR battalions at the time (1, 2 and 3 RAR) were issued when this experimental divisional organization was adopted when the RARs were in Australia. When deployed to Malaya during this period, they switched to the tropic battalion organization. This was a complex time for the RAR battalions. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_134_jul_1960.pdf

KEOGH, MBE, ED, E.G (Colonel) (Editor) – The Pentropic Division

In Australian Army Journal, No 129, February 1960. This entire edition was devoted to the (then) new doctrine of the pentropic division, a structure that subsumed the RARs at the time, and to which they switched while in Australia and then converting to a different organisation when deployed to SE Asia. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_129_feb_1960.pdf

KNUDSEN, Sven – Partners in arms

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 38, April 2007, pp48-52.

Australia-s relationship with America is examined in this article, the last two pages including reference to RAR units.                       

LINWOOD, RJ Captain – Put your head in the sand – here comes their armour

In DFJ, No 1, November 1976, pp 25-34. A paper on anti-armour operations by Australians post- World War II up to 1976. Mentions 3 RAR which has the last Australian Army unit to destroy an enemy AFV (a North Korean T38-85 tank in Korea) and 5/7 RAR.

LINWOOD, RJ – The Sniper – Part 1

In IM, Vol XX, Number 2, July-December 1980, pp 9-20. Covers the selection, preparation and training of military snipers based on the re-introduction of sniping to the Australian Army as an official sponsored skill in 1976. The author was responsible for this work at the Infantry Centre, relying on two Australian Senior NCOs who had completed the UK sniper course, two exchange senior NCOs (UK and USMC) and book research; there were no serving Australian personnel with real sniping experience at the time.

LINWOOD, RJ – The Sniper – Part 2

In IM, Vol XXI, Number 1, January-June 1981, pp 6-10. Covers the operational deployment of military snipers. Since the re-introduction of sniping to the Australian Army in 1976, snipers have been employed in every deployment since, including by Special Forces whose first groups of snipers and sniper instructors were first trained at the Infantry Centre by the author and his team.

Lieutenant General A.L. MacDonald CB, OBE Chief of the General Staff

In Australian Army Journal, No 319, pp 16, December 1975. One of the senior RAR tribal leaders, MacDonald served at every level in the RAR before moving on to higher command. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_319_dec_1975.pdf

MASTERS, Chris – The operators

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 81, Summer 2018 (January), pp 10-15.

Article on some the remarkable individuals, including RAR members, behind the overall performance of Australia’s Special Forces.

McMAHON, Katherine – Witnesses to war

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 30, pp 56-58.

A general article espousing CEW Beans’ assertion that no role in war would be completely recorded without artists and photographers. In the paper and imagery, one can see RAR troops; the man value being the images of infantry soldiers as they really appeared to the cameraman.

PARKIN, R (MAJ) – The Realist Tradition of Australian–American Military Relations

In Australian Army Journal, Vol 1 No 2, 2003; pp 122-130.

An analysis of US-Australian relations in the modern era. Cites 3 RAR in the Korean War and 1 RAR specifically, and AATV and 1 ATF respectively in the Vietnam war examples. It then goes on to address current and future likely relationships in the ongoing conflicts in which both nations take part together. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2003_2.pdf

PAYNE, WO2, R – Everything you always wanted to know about forced marching and were too afraid to ask

In Defence Force Journal No 78, September/October 1978, pp 47-50.

Possibly a tongue in cheek, but accurate, treatise on forced marching, something every RAR solider has done and probably will continue to. See paper at https://defence.gov.au/adc/adfj/Documents/issue_78/78_1989_Sep_Oct.pdf

RISEMAN, Noah – Between the wars

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 76, Spring 2016 (October), pp 38-43.

Articles about attitudes towards indigenous service personnel which have changed, their relatively equal treatment within the Army playing a significant part in fostering leadership and reconciliation when they leave. Some RAR soldiers feature in this article, with photos.

Sabretache (ST) (Generic Entry)

Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra (published continuously since 1958)

MHSA often has articles that include the RAR.  Online access to such articles is now available at https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache/ which covers every edition from 1958 to 2001. Hard copy editions from that date are widely available. All remaining hard copy editions have now also been digitised and are planned to be added to those already on the MHSA website during 2021. Specific RAR entries are progressively added in their respective campaign/deployment sections that follow. General papers that cover more than one operational period include:

SHAW, Peter – The evolution of the Infantry state regimental system in the Army Reserve

In Sabretache, Volume LXI (51) – Number 3 – September 2010, pp 45-46. Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra.

Describes the evolution of the Army Reserve battalions that preceded and then served alongside their ARA counterparts. Every one of these battalions included RAR cadre officers and NCOS, comprising the Adjutant, Quartermaster, RSM, RQMS, Chief Clerk and training and administrative specialist WO/SGT/junior NCOs. Accessible at  https://www.mhsa.org.au/download/sabretache-vol-li-no-3-december-2010/?wpdmdl=1962&_wpdmkey=62034e2fd0162&refresh=62034e2fd152b1644383791

Smart Soldier (SS) (Generic Entry)

Centre for Army Lessons (CAL), Army Knowledge Group, Puckapunyal VIC

ISBN: Nil

47 editions as at Feb 17, with 2-3 published annually on average.

Each edition has a range of articles, almost all of which apply to RAR, some mention units/sub-units. One of an increasing number of in-service products that encourage interactivity with serving soldiers.

STRONG, A.E.G. (Lieutenant Colonel – The 106mm Rifle M40-A1 anti-tank weapon

In Australian Army Journal, No 162, Nov 62, pp 22-32.

This is the first paper to address the 106mm RCL, being an American weapon brought into service to replace the 120mm BAT/WOMBAT, a British weapon used by the RAR serving in Malaya. Originally an Armoured Corps weapon, it was then issued to all RAR battalions and deployed in Vietnam and later, re-introduced in 1975 and remaining as the prime anti-armour weapon in Ras until replacement by the Milan ATGW in the later 1980s. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_162_nov_1962_0.pdf

The Duntroon Society (Generic Entry). Published twice yearly and features articles by and/or about Duntroon and its graduates. Since the demise of other officer training institutions, The Duntroon Society has become the centrepiece journal for commissioned officer of the Australian Army. Most editions carry papers that deal with the RAR or RAR members. Papers of specific RAR interest are listed below. Access via any of them also allows the researcher to tap into every digital copy. 

The First Post (Generic Entry) . Published annually by the Association of the First Infantry Battalions – The First Post: Journal of the Association of First Infantry Battalions is a periodical more newsworthy than intended to carry formal papers or articles, this publication includes Volume 34 as at Jul 1999. Not known to be digitised, might be found in current RAR Association archives. Very useful for identifying personalities, both serving and retired, who worked to protect the interests of battalions carrying the numeral 1, including 1RAR. See also ‘First’ which was produced by the actual unit 1 RAR.

Tiger Tales (TT) (Generic Entry). A regular 5 RAR Association publication. See http://www.5rar.asn.au/tt-archives/tt_archive.htm

Vietnam (V) (Generic Entry) . A magazine comprising papers and articles of the war in Vietnam. Relevant publications are found in the Part.

WALKER, Kate & COOMBES, Jennifer – Love, letters and war

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 35, Winter 2006, pp54-57.

Articles about how soldiers feel and think are expressed to loved ones while deployed to war zones. Features RAR members from Japan and Vietnam.       

Wartime (W)  (Generic Entry)

Australian War Memorial, Canberra, ongoing

ISBN: TBA

This periodical often contains articles relevant to the RAR. Current research will result in the listing of all  articles relevant to the RAR.

WILCOX, Craig – Subtropical training ground

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 35, Winter 2006, pp 24-27.

Shoalwater Bay has been a major training area since The Vietnam War and will remain so into the future. ALL RARs have been there many times and it is one of the enduring training areas for the ADF. Article includes images with RAR troops.

United Service (US) (Generic Entry)

Journal of the RUSI (NSW), Sydney. Contains many papers of value and relevance to the RAR researcher.

von Berg, Michael MC, OAM (LTCOL Retd) – Welcome to “Duty First”

In Duty First, Autumn 2023, pp 94-95.

As the Chair and National President of the RAR Association, the author provides a 2023 statement of the intents and machinations of that body which are central to all serving and former members of an RAR. Accessible at https://www.dutyfirst.com.au/digital/Duty_First_Autumn_2023/Duty_First_Autumn_2023.html

  

JAPAN AND KOREA 1946-1953

  

Anonymous – Battle honour for Maryang San

In Sabretache, Volume XXXVI – Number 2 – April-June 1995 p 41.

Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. Provides the basis for the battle honour awarded to 3 RAR for the battle fought  2-8 October 1951 in Korea. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-1990s-volumes-xxxi-to-xl/

Anonymous – Corporal Ray Parry

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 44, October 2008, p 68.

Short article on Corporal Parry’ service with 3 RAR at the Battle of Kapyong in Korea.

Anonymous – Korea – Battle of Samichon River

In Duty First, Spring 2023, pp 94-95.

A brief account of 2 RAR at ‘The Hook’, also known as the Battle of Samichon River in Korea over the period 24-26 Jul 53 Accessible at https://www.dutyfirst.com.au/digital/Duty_First_Spring_2023/Duty_First_Spring_2023.html

Anonymous – Out in the cold: Australia’s involvement in the Korean War

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 10, Autumn 2000, p 63.

Article on 3 RAR in Korea including a 17 pounder anti-tank gun used by the unit.

Anonymous – Regimental journal of 11 National Service Training Battalion (We serve)

Self-published unit journal, Wacol QLD, 1954-55

This unit publication came out twice yearly and included details on many staff and members who served/went on to serve in the RAR.

Anonymous – The Infantry

In Australian Army Journal, No 129, Feb 60, pp 10-14.

An early paper on the broad battalion structure in the Pentropic Division later adopted by the thee RARs at the time (1, 2 and 3 RAR) while serving inside Australia. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_129_feb_1960.pdf

ARGENT, A (Lieutenant) – The 4.2 inch mortar in Korea

In Australian Army Journal, No 30, November 1951, pp 22 – 24.

Written by a member of 3 RAR at the time, this paper addresses use of the battalion mortars in Korea. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_030_nov_1951_1.pdf

Australian Army Journal Editorial Staff – Battle of Kapyong

In Australian Army Journal, No 59, April 1954. Addresses the famous battle involving 3 RAR and others.

Australian War Memorial – British Commonwealth Occupation Force – Japan 1946-1951

In Sabretache, Volume XVII – Number 1 – July 1975, pp 189-191.

Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. A paper on the BCOF for the period 1946-1951, including the three battalions that became 1, 2 and 3 RAR in that time. Includes duties in Japan and then with operational deployment to Korea. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-1970s-volumes-xiii-to-xx/

BARTLETT, Norman – The Battle of Kapyong from With the Australians in Korea

In Australian Army Journal, No 263, April 1971. Based on the parent publication and shaped for publication in AAJ. 3 RAR fought this battle in Korea.

BLAXLAND, John – Lessons of the Korean War

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 83, Winter 2018 (July), pp 58-63.

Featuring the 65^th anniversary of the Korean War this article refers to the RAR battalions among the Australian forces to serve in that war.

BREEN, Bob – Untried and victorious: was the battle of Maryang San Australia’s finest feat of arms in the Korean War?

In Wartime Magazine, Issue 56, December 2011, Story of 3 RAR’s battle in October 1951 in Korea. Published by the Australian War Memorial.

BUTLER, David – The Hook – Korea

In Duty First, edition and year not identified.  Pp 23-29.

Outlines the last major engagement in Korea between Australians (2 RAR and supporting arms). Accessible online at https://rslvwm.s3.amazonaws.com/I/documents/12350/file/The_Hook_-_David_Butler.pdf

CAMPBELL, Emma – Hot patrols in a cold war

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 56, October 2011, p 41.

About Colin Kahn, with a photo and brief biography in Korea with C Coy 2 RAR on the Hook in Jun 53.

CAMPBELL, Emma – Medal for Maryang San

In In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 56, October 2011, p 29.

Article on 3 RAR five-day long battle in Korea, focussing on Major Jim Shelton’s role during this successful attack on a superior number of enemy.

CHAMBERLAIN, WM – The Digger in Asia – a Chronology of Australian and New Zealand Military Operations since the Second World War (Korea)

In Sabretache, Volume XXXIII – Number 4 – October-December 1992, pp 13-17.

Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. Entire journal devoted to the one topic, covering 1945 to 1992. Korea includes 1, 2 and 3 RAR. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-1990s-volumes-xxxi-to-xl/

CHAMBERLAIN, WM – The Digger in Asia – a Chronology of Australian and New Zealand Military Operations since the Second World War (Occupation of Japan)

In Sabretache, Volume XXXIII – Number 4 – October-December 1992, pp 11-12.

Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. Entire journal devoted to the one topic, covering 1945 to 1992. Occupation of Japan  includes 65, 66 and 67 Bns and their later identity, 1, 2 and 3 RAR. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-1990s-volumes-xxxi-to-xl/

CLARKE, Jim – Words from the front

 In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 19, pp 45-47.

About Australian war correspondents and the difficulties they faced during the Korean war getting news and images. One mentioned is Harry Gordon who relates his experiences with 3 RAR in Korea.

COULTHARD-CLARK, Chris – Toby’s brief war

In Wartime, Issue16, Summer 2001, pp 36-37. Published by the Australian War Memorial.

The story of 11748 Private Toby (aka Tody) Hazel of 3 RAR, killed in action on 25 Jun 53 in Korea near Tongduchon. 2 and 4 RAR are also mentioned in this paper.

COURTENAY, William – Lessons from Korea 

In Australian Army Journal, No 32, January 1952. Includes coverage of infantry operations carried out by the RAR.

CRAWFORD, Captain JJ – Korean Ambush 

In Australian Army Journal, No 46, March 1953. Pp 5-10. Describes a successful major ambush involving 3 RAR in Korea. Article is accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_046_mar_1953_0.pdf

DICKER, Snow – My Korean Adventure

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 9, Summer 2000, pp 26-29.

Article with images to support this RAR soldier’s story serving in Korea with 3 RAR.

Director of Infantry AHQ – Operation Commando

In Australian Army Journal, No 34, March 1952. Operation Commando occurred during October 1951 and involved 3 RAR whose involvement is better known as the Battle for Maryang-san.  This is a remarkable publication given the short time between the battle and publication. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_034_mar_1952_1.pdf

DRYZEK, Rose – Life in the line

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 98, Autumn 2022, pp 56-62.

Addresses how 1 RAR soldiers learning to cope with the extreme weather conditions in Korea.

ESSEX-CLARK, John – The warrior leader

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 48, September 2009, pp 58-62.

Article on how (then) LTCOL Frank Hassett led 3 RAR to victory at Maryang San in the Korean War.

EVANS, Benjamin – An exemplary career cut short – Lt Col CH Green 91919-1950)

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 12, Summer 2001, pp58-59.

An account of the death of CO 3 RAR who was killed in action in 1950.

EVANS, Benjamin – Battle of Broken Ridge Korea 25-26 Oct 50

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 12, Summer 2001, pp 48-53.

In the battle, 3 RAR defeated an enemy supported by armour to secure a vital crossing of the Taeryong River. A map and photos are included.

EVANS, Benjamin – Interceptor swan song

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 16, Summer 2001, pp 52-55.

Covers the first jet age air combat in 1951 onwards in Korea by Australians flying jet Meteor fighters. This paper features LT AE Breen, 2 RAR, in his LT-6G aircraft.

GERSTER, Robin – Hotel Japan

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 35, Winter 2006, pp 48-50.

Features one of the facilities in Japan at which some of the 1, 2 and 3 RAR and their precedent battalions were accommodated during BCOF days in Japan.

GODDARD, Chris – The tinplate empire: After war’s end, toys lead the recovery of Japanese industry

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 100, Spring 2022, pp 52-57.

Coverage of post WW II rebuilding of the Japanese economy including during the BCOF occupation. RAR soldiers feature in this article.

GRAHAM, SG DSO, OBE, MC (GEN Retd) – Insignia worn by 65, 66 and 67Australian Infantry Battalions

In Sabretache, Volume XV – Number 4 – June 1973, pp 157-158.

Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. Provided rare information on the embellishments worn by members of the three battalions while in Japan as part of BCOF immediately before they were renamed and badged as 1, 2 and 3 RAR. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-1970s-volumes-xiii-to-xx/

GREY, Jeffrey – A military alliance at work: Commonwealth forces in the Korean War

In Journal of the Australian War Memorial, No 9 Oct 86, pp 39-46. Published by the Australian War Memorial, Canberra. ISSN 07296274. Includes mention of 1, 2 and 3 RAR among other British Commonwealth contributions.

HEATH, Lenore – Snapshots from Korea

In Wartime, Issue 72, Spring 2015. Published by the Australian War Memorial.

Feature of images from Korea including RAR troops.

HODGES, Ian and EVANS, Benjamin – The Korean War 1950-1953

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 9, Summer 2000, pp 8-15.

An article including maps and imagery of the war in Korea that involved 1, 2 and 3 RAR, some of whom appear in the paper.

HOPTON, Major LI – Maintenance of an Australian Infantry Battalion in Korea

In Australian Army Journal, No 25, June 1951. Refers to 3 RAR.

HOPTON, LI (Major) – Maintenance of the Australian Infantry battalion in Korea

In Australian Army Journal, No 25, June 1951, pp 5-15.

First article to appear in this journal to ever mention an RAR battalion, being 3 RAR. Addresses the maintenance requirements of that unit in Korea in 1951. Accessible at  https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_025_jun_1951_1.pdf

HORSPOLL, Elise – Felt like family: Choi Yung Kil’s Korean War

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 92, Spring 2020, pp 48-52.

Article on a young lost/orphaned boy who was adopted by 3 RAR for part of the war in Korea and actually lived with them for some time until civilian authorities were able to found that could take care of him.

HOWARD, Brian AO, MC, ESM (MAJGEN Retd) – The Korean War 1950-53

In Duty First, Winter 2023, pp 23-25.

An article of the Korean War focussing on the roles played by 1, 2 and 3 RAR. Accessible at https://www.dutyfirst.com.au/digital/Duty_First_Winter_2023/Duty_First_Winter_2023.html

KELLY, Michael – Hard road to Pakchon

In Wartime, Issue 72, Spring 2015. Published by the Australian War Memorial.

Paper on 3 RAR where, in their first operations in Korea, proved their mettle alongside their British comrades.

KELLY, Michael – Secret agents across the Samichon

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 101, Summer 2023, pp 10-14.

Story of the clandestine fight behind enemy lines by Sergeant Jack Harris, 3 RAR, in the closing months of the Korean War.

KELLY, Michael – The Apple Orchard

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 56, October 2011, pp 14-18.

3 RAR’s first major action in Korea was a brilliant success. This article outlines the battle; contains maps and photographs.

KELLY, Michael – The last post: LTCOL Charles Hercules Green, DSO

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 69, Summer 2015, p 72.

A profile of LTCOL Green, CO 3 RAR who was killed in action in Korea.

Korean Operations: 3 RAR Raid on Hill 227 – 25 January 1952

in ADFJ, No 157 (Nov/Dec 02) pp 37-45. Describes 3 RAR action in Korea.

LACHLAN, Grant – The fighting Gunditjmara

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 76, Spring 2016 (October), pp 18-21.

This article contains information and imagery of indigenous RAR member, Reg Saunders, who fought in Korea as well as WW II.

 

LANGTRI, Major JO – Tactical implications of the human factors in warfare

In Australian Army Journal, No 108, May 1958. Refers to the RAR in Korea.

LONDEY, Peter – Australians in BCOF

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 5, Summer 1999, pp 41-43.

BCOF was the first force to feature large numbers of Australians to face the Japanese on their home ground. This paper features 67 Bn (3 RAR).

LONDEY, Peter – Feeling like an ANZAC: The Battle of Kapyong April 1951

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 9, Summer 2000, pp 16-25.

Detailed description of the Battle of Kapyong which involved 3 RAR.

MANERA, Brad – Kapyong captured

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 34, April 2006, pp 33.

An interview is recorded with a 3 RAR Korean War veteran Ray Parry where some rare photographs are presented, having been taken during the Battle of Kapyong itself by Parry. The article includes a coloured photo of Parry who was awarded the Military Medal for his actions in that battle.

MANERA, Brad – The Hook, July 1953

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 22,  pp 10-13.

Describes the last attack by the Chinese on the Hook in Korea in 24-26 Jul 53 which was co-defenced by 2 RAR.

MANNS, Brian – Missing in action

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

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

McCRINDLE, Ron – Samichon Valley 12-13 September 1952

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 37, October 2006, pp 70-73.

Story of a successful fighting patrol carried out by 1 RAR during their tour in Korea. Includes detail of the capture of a Chines POW and his ‘burp’ gun.

MONTGOMERIE, LM (Major) MBE, MC – Award of US Presidential Citation to 3 RAR

In Sabretache, Volume XVI – Number 4 – September 1974, pp 189-191.

Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. Author was awarded the MC in the Battle of Kapyong 23-24 April 1951. This article briefly describes the battle, contains a phot of Montgomerie’s platoon, a list of all 3 RAR KIA in that battle, and the awards made. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-1970s-volumes-xiii-to-xx/

O’CONNELL, Garth – Leading from the front

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 56, October 2011, pp 26-28.

Article about Captain Reg Saunders, the first Australian aboriginal to serve as a commissioned officer, with 3 RAR in Korea.

PICKETT, Lieutenant Colonel George B – Tanks in defence in Korea

In Australian Army Journal, No 31, December 1951. Refers to the RAR battalions there at the time and how tanks worked in support.

PRATTEN, Garth – Professional men at war

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 37, October 2006, pp 12-15.

Includes reference to LTCOL ‘Charlie’ Green who was CO 2/11 Bn AIF and then CO 3 RAR in Korea when he was killed in action from the effects of Chines artillery.

RAMAGE, Susan – Masters of the strategic war

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 46, April 2009, pp 58-61.

Article on LTCOL Ian Hutchinson, CO 1 RAR in Korea.

ROWELL, Lieutenant General Sir Sydney – Lessons from Korea

In Australian Army Journal, No 52, September 1953. Pp 5-8. Mentions 3 RAR in a general high level short paper. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_052_sep_1953_0.pdf

SCOTT, Peter DSO –(LTCOL Retd) – The forgotten battalions

In Duty First, Winter 2023, pp 52-53.

 Author, who was CO 3 RAR 69-72, writes of the formation of the RAR and its antecedent battalions – 65, 66 and 67^th Battalions of the Second AIF which became 1, 2 and 3 RAR in Japan (BCOF 34 Brigade. Emphasis is of course on 3 RAR. Accessible at https://www.dutyfirst.com.au/digital/Duty_First_Winter_2023/Duty_First_Winter_2023.html

SMITH, LTCOL Neil C Smith, AM – Soldiers of BCOF

In Sabretache, Volume LXI (51) – Number 4 – December 2010, pp 5-12. Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra.

Brief paper on the formation and outline duties of BCOF which included the battalions that became 1, 2 and 3 RAR. Accessible at https://www.mhsa.org.au/download/sabretache-vol-li-no-3-september-2010/?wpdmdl=1961&_wpdmkey=62034c3a459b7&refresh=62034c3a473941644383290

STEEL, Nigel – A truce is not a peace

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 43, pp 44-47.

Despite bringing an end to the fighting the 1953 armistice in Korea has still not delivered peace in that country. This article highlights the problems faced by the RAR in maintaining the truce in the years they were deployed after it came into effect.

STEEL, Nigel – Getting the measure of Kapyong

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 39, July 2007, pp 56-59.

Article on the creation of the AWM’s new Korean War diorama. Features RARs including 3 RAR With maps and a range of photographs.  

The Battle of Kapyong

In Army Journal, No 263 (Apr 71), pp 3-24.

Narrative of 3 RAR’s major battle of the Korean war.

The Korean War- background and battles 1945 – 1953

Australian War Memorial, Canberra, 2015

ISBN: 9771328272343

Illustrated edited journal; 73 pages.

Almost the entire edition of this Wartime magazine Issue 72 is devoted to the Korean war in which 1, 2 and 3 RAR played key roles.

Van TONDER, Gerry – Against the red tide (Part 1)

Key Publishing Ltd (Britain at War), Stamford UK, 2020

ISSN: 1753-3090

Article in Britain at War, June 2020, Issue 158, pp 70-77. Colour and black and white images.

Charts the 27^th British Commonwealth Brigade’s service in the Korean War, covering 3 RAR and the Battle of Kapyong in the process.

 

Van TONDER, Gerry – Against the red tide (Part II)

Key Publishing Ltd (Britain at War), Stamford UK, 2020

ISSN: 1753-3090

Article in Britain at War, July 2020, Issue 159, pp 64-74. Colour and black and white images, map.

Completes the story of the 27^th British Commonwealth Brigade’s service in the Korean War, covering 3 RAR and the Battle of Kapyong, and the subsequent creation of 28^th British Commonwealth Brigade that included 1 or 2 RAR on tours of duty, and 3 RAR throughout, until the end of the war.

von BERG, Michael MC, OAM – Korean missing in action

In Duty First, Winter 2023, pp 26-27.

An article about the 43 MIA in Korea of which 24 were RAR members, primarily from 3 RAR. Accessible at https://www.dutyfirst.com.au/digital/Duty_First_Winter_2023/Duty_First_Winter_2023.html

WILLIS, Major JW – The British Commonwealth Occupation Force

In Australian Army Journal, No 81, Feb 56, pp 11-15.

A general paper on the BCOF during the life of which 1, 2 and 3 RAR were renamed from their predecessor WW II battalions and subsequently all deployed to Korea. Accessible at  https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_081_feb_1956_0.pdf

WYSE, Robert – Suspicious minds

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 101, Summer 2023, pp 16-20.

Australian intelligence services took a heightened interest in Korean War ex-prisoners of war after their return home. This article includes several RAR soldiers.

SOUTH EAST ASIA 1950-current

(includes Malaya, Borneo, Singapore & Malaysia)

Anonymous – Rifle Company Butterworth Rotation 126

In AIM Issue 2-2019, pp 46-50.

Populist general article on a 2019 rotation of B Coy 8/9 RAR as RCB126 in Malaysia out of Air Base Butterworth. Fundamental error in first sentence; stating that this rotation was 50 years since 8 RAR served in Malaysia as part of the ‘British Commonwealth Occupation Force’ in 1967. 8 RAR served in Malaysia as part of the FESR prior to deployment to Vietnam. BCOF was in Japan 1945-52 where 1,2 and 3 RAR were officially formed from their predecessor units.

Army Headquarters General Staff – Exercise Grand Slam lessons

In Australian Army Journal, No 125, October 1959. Refers to the RAR.

BENVENUTI, Andrea and JONES, David Martin – Engaging Southeast Asia? Labor’s regional mythology and Australia’s military withdrawal from Singapore and Malaysia 1972-1973

Journal of Cold War Studies, Vol 12, No 4, Fall, 2010 pp 32-62

Covers the period  when 6 RAR was the Australian RAR contribution to 28 ANZUK Brigade in Singapore and provided companies to Air Base Butterworth.

BURNESS, Peter – The new Hall of Valour

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 53, January 2011, pp 55-59.

Features WO II Kevin Wheatley who was awarded his VC for action in Vietnam with the AATTV. His profile here covers his previous RAR service.

BURNS, J.W. (Major) – Mutual support in the jungle

In Australian Army Journal No 187, Dec 64, pp 31-35.

A paper that discusses battalion level operations in which the RARs at the time were engaged, and which helped inform the subsequent RAR deployments to Vietnam. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_187_dec_1964.pdf

CHADWICK, Justin – The atomic division: the Australian army pentropic experiment, 1969-1965

In Australian Army Journal, Volume XVII, Number 1, pp 45-60.

Published by the Australian Army Research Centre, Canberra.

ISSN (Print) 1448-2843

ISSN (Digital) 2200-0992

Describes the Australian experience with pentropic division which included 1,2 and 3 RAR at the time. 1 RAR is specifically mentioned in this paper.

Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/21875%20Defence%20-%20Army%20Journal%20Volume%20XVII_1.pdf

CHAMBERLAIN, WM – The Digger in Asia – a Chronology of Australian and New Zealand Military Operations since the Second World War (Confrontation with Indonesia)

In Sabretache, Volume XXXIII – Number 4 – October-December 1992, pp 27-28.

Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. Entire journal devoted to the one topic, covering 1945 to 1992. Confrontation with Indonesia includes 2, 3 and 4 RAR and RCB. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-1990s-volumes-xxxi-to-xl/

CHAMBERLAIN, WM – The Digger in Asia – a Chronology of Australian and New Zealand Military Operations since the Second World War (Malaya)

In Sabretache, Volume XXXIII – Number 4 – October-December 1992, pp 18-26.

Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. Entire journal devoted to the one topic, covering 1945 to 1992. Malaya includes 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 and 8 RAR and RCB. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-1990s-volumes-xxxi-to-xl/

EAST, MBE Lieutenant Colonel CHA – Seskoad: a unique experience

 In Australian Army Journal, No 200, February 1966. p 3-9. Author, who served with 1 RAR in Korea, and later in Malaya, gives an account of his time at the Indonesian staff college.  Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_200_jan_1966.pdf 

EDWARDS, Peter – Australia’s curious war of diplomacy

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 5, Summer 1999, pp 44-48.

This short paper addresses the Australian commitment to the Borneo campaign also known as Konfrontasi with Indonesia. 3 and 4 RAR took part.

EDWARDS, Peter – Public enemy number one

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 8, Spring, September 1999, pp 50-52.

Author was the Official Historian at the time of publication. This is the story of Chin Peng, the leader of both the Malayan Emergency 1948-60 and the Communist Insurgency in Malaysia 1968-89 which the Official Historian confirms as Chin Peng having ‘ … agreed to end the communists’ commitment to armed struggle only in 1989.’ All RARs sent troops, either as full battalions in the first war, or as company groups known generally as Rifle Company Butterworth in the second. Accessible at https://www.awm.gov.au/sites/default/files/121451/files/publicenemy0.pdf

FLEMING, WRG (Lieutenant) – An Air Ops/Liaison Squadron in Malaya

In Australian Army Journal, No 104, January 1958, pp 27-36.

A paper about the operations of RAF 656 OP/LL Squadron and its aircraft in support of 2 RAR in Malaya. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_104_jan_1958_0.pdf

FLETCHER, J – Peacetime soldiering in Malaya

In AAJ, No 163, December 1962, pp 5 – 13.

Addresses 2 RAR’s experience in 1960-61 following its tour of duty in Malaya 1957-59  after which it converted to a pentropic division structure and then re-geared for further deployment to Malaya followed by post-deployment training and readiness for the future. Online at  https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_163_dec_1962_0.pdf

FLETCHER, Nick – The mighty ATOM

In Wartime, Issue 72, Spring 2015. Published by the Australian War Memorial.

The Malayan Emergency 1948-60 was largely fought, and won, by soldiers using this pocket-sized handbook: The conduct of anti-terrorist operations in Malaya (ATOM).

GARLAND, MC,  RS (Major) – Operations in Malaya

In Australian Army Journal, No 119, April 1959, pp 25-31.

One of the earliest papers on operations in Malaya written by the author who was there with 3 RAR. Describes the essentials of how the battalion was equipped and armed, with some coverage of the enemy CTs. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/2019-11/aaj_119_apr_1959_0.pdf

GARLAND, Major RS – Strategic Review-Stalemate on 38^th Parallel – An Consantoir, Eire – Operations in Malaya

In Australian Army Journal, No 119, April 1959. Refers to the RAR.

HALL, RA and ROSS, A – The political and military effectiveness of Commonwealth Forces in Confrontation 1963-66

In Small Wars and Insurgencies, Vol 19, 2008, pp 238 – 255.

Included in these forces were 3 and 4 RAR in Borneo and mainland Malaysia at the time.

HARUN, A.L & SAUDI, N.S.M – The concept of security and development: Malaysia’s successful approach towards bringing down insurgency in the 1970-1980s

In International Journal of Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences, Vol 10, No.8, 2020, pp 1066-1075.

Authors are from the National Defence University of Malaysia. They confirm the conduct of the war officially called the Communist Insurgency in Malaysia 1978-1989. They also use the terms ‘Second Emergency’ and ‘Malaysian Second Counter Insurgency of 1968-1989’. This paper covers the war in robust academic research terms and mentions the RMAF bombing of CT hide-outs among the various security force operational efforts to succeed in ending the insurgency. Also refers to the Malayan Emergency 1948-60 during which 1, 2 and 3 RAR served. 4 RAR also served between 1960 and the restart of the CIM. All RARs then served in the COM 68-89 through the provision of rifle companies to serve as RCBs at ABB.

HINDS, Allan S (LTCOL) – Man at the top – a short biography of General FG Hassett, AC, CB, CBE, DSO, MVO

In Sabretache, Volume XVII – Number 2 – December 1975, pp 93-99.

Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. Among many other postings and commands at all levels, he served as CO 1 RAR briefly and then CO 3 RAR in Korea. He also served in WW II, Malaya and Vietnam. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-1970s-volumes-xiii-to-xx/

HOWARD, Brian (Hori) – The Malayan Emergency and Confrontation

In Duty First, Summer 2023, pp 70-73.

An article on the continuing deployment of RARs over time in Malaya, Borneo and then Malaysia. From Oct 55 to then end of Communist Insurgency in Malaysia on 2 Dec 89. Accessible at https://www.dutyfirst.com.au/digital/Duty_First_Summer_2023/Duty_First_Summer_2023.html

 

KARL, James – Australia’ other Asian wars

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 41, January 2008, pp 12-15.

Addresses the other deployments in SE Asia prior to the Vietnam War. All four RAR at the time served in one or both of the Malayan Emergency and Borneo Campaigns.

KELLY, Michael – Saving a domino

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 86, Autumn 2019 (April), pp 44-50.

Australia’s fight against communism in the Malayan Emergency was part of a wider pattern of counter-communist aggression in SE Asia, with this article addressing Australian forces’ role. All RARs involved are mentioned.

NIESSL, Richard (LTCOL) – Rifle Company Butterworth 1970-2020: Origins, Role and Future Possibilities

In AAJ, Volume XVI, Number 2, pp 81-102.

A paper covering the deployments of RCB rifle companies to Air Base Butterworth since Nov 70 during which 202 such companies (as at Feb 21) have deployed, the great majority being RAR.

O’HARE, M.P. (Colonel) – The ethos of patrolling

In Australian Army Journal No 171, Aug 63, pp 5-23.

This paper addresses patrolling in the context of RAR battalion operations, being written on the back of experiences in Malaya and Borneo. Patrolling was the core tactic of these operations, intended to locate and fix the enemy and deny him freedom of movement. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_171_aug_1963_0.pdf

PEARSON, OBE, MC C.M.I. (Colonel) and MORROW, OBE W.J. (Colonel) – The Pentropic Division: Another point of view

In Australian Army Journal No 187, Dec 64, pp 5-10.

A paper on the penthropic division, containing battalions to which organization the RAR adjusted to while in Australia at the time. When 1, 2, 3 and then 4 RAR Deployed overseas, they adopted the tropical battalion structure. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_187_dec_1964.pdf

ROSENZWEIG, Paul – In our neighbours’ soil our Anzacs sleep. 

In Sabretache, Volume LXII, Number 1 – March 2021, pp 24-33. Addresses the Australian war dead from the Malayan Emergency and Confrontation wars. Includes nominal rolls for both campaigns that include 1, 2, 3 and 4 RAR members.

ROBERTS, Lieutenant Colonel JB – Movement and Supply by Jungle River

In Australian Army Journal, No 138, November 1960. Refers to initial RAR operations in Malaya.

STRETTON, AB LTCOL – On active service in Malaya

In AAJ, No 165, February 1963, pp 10 – 20.

Online at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_165_feb_1963_0.pdf

Deals with anti – CT operations by 2 RAR from 1 Aug 62 on the THAI border in the states of Kedah and Perlis in conjunction with Malayan and Thai forces.

WALKER, General Sir Walter – How Borneo was won

In Australian Army Journal, No 244, September 1969. Covers the Borneo campaign in which 3 RAR and 4 RAR fought.

WALKER, Walter General Sir – How Borneo was won: the untold story of an Asian victory

In Army Journal, Vol 244, September 1969; pp 13-26.

Mentions 3 and  RAR in this campaign overview by the British commander at the time. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_244_sep_1969_0_1.pdf

WEICHONG, Ong – Between safe havens in cross-border insurgency: Malaysia, Thailand and the Second Emergency (1952–89)

Taylor Francis Online, 2020

Published online in Small wars and Insurgencies, Volume 31, Issue 6. Accessible at https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/09592318.2019.1698176?needAccess=true

 From a local insurgent movement in the Malayan Emergency (1948–60), the Communist Party of Malaya (CPM) transitioned into a cross-border one in the Second Emergency (1968–89). This article shows how the CPM insurgency transitioned from a local one in Peninsular Malaysia to a protracted cross border conflict with a safe haven in Southern Thailand. This article also addresses how Malaysia, the counterinsurgent state dealt with the unique set of challenges associated with a cross-border insurgency that was subject to the ebb and flow ‘good neighbourly’ relations with Thailand. Finally, this article examines the negotiation process and how the lessons learnt from the failure of the Baling Peace Talks in 1955 were translated into an enduring peace at Haadyai in 1989. RAR units operated in the border area 1960-1966 against this enemy, and from 1970 to 1989, served at Air Base Butterworth in a protective role.

WEICHONG, Ong and RAMAKRISHNA, Kumer – The Second Emergency (1968-1989): a reassessment of CPM’s armed revolution

RSIS Commentaries (2013)

ISBN: N/A

3-page article

Research article in Publication No 191 that addresses the Communist Terrorist threat, including that faced by RAR company groups tasked to protect RAAF assets and personnel at RAAF/RMAF Air Base Butterworth 1970-1989.

 

VIETNAM 1962-1975

 

ADAMSON, Colin – Letter in Despatches (ANZAC Day – another time, another place)

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 15, Spring 2001, pp 69-70.

RAR Veteran Major Adamson writes about Operation Toan Thang in October 1968 when he was OC A Coy 1 RAR.

Anonymous – A complex command: the role of the Commander, Australian Force Vietnam

In Journal of the Australian War Memorial, No 13 Oct 88, pp 19-30. Published by the Australian War Memorial, Canberra. ISSN 07296274. Includes maps, diagrams and photos and includes several RARs.

Anonymous – A dream turns sour

In Journal of the Australian War Memorial, No 11 Oct 87, pp 17-22. Published by the Australian War Memorial, Canberra. ISSN 07296274. Official war artists in Vietnam. Includes coloured images of the war and paintings. Clearly includes RAR groups.

Anonymous – Behind the scenes

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 74, Autumn 2016, April, pp 70-71.

A short history of the medical legacies of the Vietnam which features photographs of RAR patients and refers to the 2015 opening of the Reg Saunders Gallery.

Anonymous – Cultural influences: the Vietnam War and Australia

In Journal of the Australian War Memorial, No 15 Oct 89, pp 3-14. Published by the Australian War Memorial, Canberra. ISSN 07296274. Includes photos that depict RAR members.

 

Anonymous – Honours and Awards – a comparison of 6^th Bn AIF World War One vs 6 RAR Long Tan: a different view of the Long Tan myth

In Sabretache, Volume LI – Number 2 – June 2010, pp 43-48.

Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. Anonymous author ‘Missio’ places a contentious view about the number and nature of awards made regarding the Battle of Long Tan D Coy 6 RAR on 18 Aug 66 in Vietnam. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-2010s-volumes-li-to-lx/

 

Anonymous – Petersen and the Montagnards: an episode in the Vietnam War

 In Journal of the Australian War Memorial, No 1 Oct 82, pp 33-40. Published by the Australian War Memorial, Canberra. ISSN 07296274. An episode from the Vietnam War involving RAR officer CAPT Petersen who served in an unusual capacity with the Montagnard people employed to fight the North Vietnamese.

Anonymous – The ‘Coral’ gun

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 40, p7.

Short article on the loss temporarily of No 2 gun of 106 Field Battery during the Battle of Coral. Mortar Pl 1 RAR was right next door and also overrun; 1 RAR Anti-tank platoon were also in direct fire support.

Anonymous – Viet Cong oath of honour

In Australian Army Journal, No 236, Jan 1969, p66. The standard oath sworn in basic training by all Viet Cong against which the RAR battalions fought. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_236_jan_1969_0.pdf

ARNISON, Captain PM – Civic action in Vietnam 1965-66

In Australian Army Journal, No 220, September 1967, pp 3-7. Addresses supplementary efforts by the Australian forces in Vietnam early in its involvement in that war including those by 1 RAR which, a the time was under command the 173^rd Airborne Brigade (US). Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_220_sep_1967.pdf

ATKINSON, Major DK – Vietnam – the unwinnable war?

In Australian Army Journal, No 253, June 1970. All RAR served in Vietnam, experiences varying with respect to this perspective.

Australian Embassy Guard Platoon, Saigon – military units and formations established in 1972

Google-info

 This sub-unit existed during 1972-3 at the end of the Australian commitment to the Vietnam War and comprised about 50 soldiers during its existence. Most were RAR members. See https://en.google-info.org/57139365/1/australian-embassy-guard-platoon-saigon.html

Australian Embassy Guard Platoon, Saigon

Wikipedia

The last troops to serve in Vietnam was this sub-unit which was based on RAR members. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_Embassy_Guard_Platoon,_Saigon

 

Australian Government (Defence Honours & Awards Tribunal) – Inquiry into Unresolved Recognition Issues for the Battle of Long Tan

Department of Defence, Canberra, 2009

27 pages.

Official 2009 report on the ongoing saga of award claims for the Battle of Long Tan 1966 in Vietnam. Accessible at https://defence-honours-tribunal.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Long-Tan-Inquiry-Report.pdf

 

BARBER, BRW (Colonel) – Operation ‘Toan Thang’: 13^th to 19^th May, 1968

In the Journal of Royal Artillery, Vol 101, 1974, pp 29-33.

An account of the actions fought by 102^nd Field Battery in support of 1 RAR and 3 RAR during the battle of Coral and Balmoral.

BELL, Michael – Being at Long Tan

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 75, July 2016, April, pp 40-44.

Victor Simon, and indigenous Australian RAR man, discusses his service with 6 RAR including at Long Tan.

BLAKE, Tony – Operations from NDP Brigid

In Duty First, Summer 2023, pp 86-87.

An article 7 Section  3 Platoon A Company 7 RAR during its second tour of duty in Vietnam from Feb 70 to Mar 71. Accessible at https://www.dutyfirst.com.au/digital/Duty_First_Summer_2023/Duty_First_Summer_2023.html

BOURKE, 2^nd Lieutenant, J.R – Platoon organisation, rations and equipment

In Australian Army Journal, No 208, September 1966, pp 5-11.

Based on his service with 1 RAR in Vietnam, the author addresses these fundamental components of the RAR building block – the rifle platoon. Paper accessible at  https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_208_sep_1966.pdf

BREEN, Bob – The first to fight: marking the 50^th anniversary of the first Australian Army combat unit in Vietnam

In Wartime, Issue 72, Spring 2015. Published by the Australian War Memorial.

Reflections on 1 RAR’s first tour of duty in Vietnam as part of 173^rd US Airborne Brigade.

BREEN, Bob – Vietnam: the first to fight

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 72, Spring 2015, pp 58-63.

Short paper on 1 RAR in Vietnam, marking the fiftieth anniversary of 1 RAR’s deployment to Vietnam. Includes images of 1 RAR troops.

BRITT, Rebecca – Minidress adds a bright note

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 35, Winter 2006, pp 22-23.                     

This article addresses the donation of entertainer Sylvia Raye’s glamorous mini-dress worn when giving concerts in Vietnam. Many RAR troops will remember seeking temporary relief from the war through being lucky enough to attend such entertainment even in Nui Dat.

BROWN, J (Major) and CLARK, SB – The Royal Military College Duntroon

In Australian Army Journal,  No 194, July 1965, pp10-27.

Paper outlines the training of Duntroon cadets in 1965, approximately 20% of each class being posted to the RAR. This particular paper gives an idea o the office preparation of those who would be platoon and company commanders/2ICs during the Vietnam War. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_194_jul_1965.pdf

BURNESS, Peter – Award of the Distinguished Unit Citation to D Company 6^th Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment by the President of the United States of America

 In Sabretache, Volume XVI – Number 1 – April 1969, pp 51-58.

Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. Covers the DUC award made for the Battle of Long Tan and includes all of the citations for individual awards, including one for (then) CPL RBD Rutherford, MM who earned his MM for a different action on 25 Jul 66 according to this article. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-1970s-volumes-xiii-to-xx/

BURNS, Major PR – Chieu Hoi: the bloodless war

In Australian Army Journal, No 240, May 1969. Addresses the surrender program in Vietnam. All RAR battalions will have experienced it during their tours of duty.

CECIL, Mike – An armoured personnel carrier comes to rest at the Memorial

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 22, pp 22-23.

Describes the life of this particular AFV including refurbishments. For a time, this vehicle served with 5/7 RAR (Mechanised).

CAMPBELL, Emma – The soldier’s photographer

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 52, Winter 2012, pp 62-63.

Features Dave Gibbons and multiple images of RAR troops in the Vietnam war.

CECIL, Mike – Tank action in Vietnam

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 16, Summer 2001, pp 56-59.

A Centurion tank on display at the AWM featured in a battle on 15 Feb 70 when C Coy 8 RAR contacted the enemy and 2 Troop’s tanks went to their support.

CECIL, Michael – Tilting at tin cans

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 55, July 2011, pp 20-24.

This article is primarily about Australian armour in Vietnam and includes references to several RAR battalions in the context of the story.

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, Max – The Digger in Asia

Vol XXXIII Oct-Dec 1992 Number 4, Bibliography; 51 pages.

A date by date chronological list of events post-world war to 25 Apr 91, frequently listing RAR units. Previously published as Asian Battle Diary in 1968, 1969 and 1974.

CHAMBERLAIN, WM – The Digger in Asia – a Chronology of Australian and New Zealand Military Operations since the Second World War (Vietnam War)

In Sabretache, Volume XXXIII – Number 4 – October-December 1992, pp 27-28.

Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. Entire journal devoted to the one topic, covering 1945 to 1992. Vietnam War includes all nine original/single RAR. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-1990s-volumes-xxxi-to-xl/

CHERRIE, Stanley – A Huey Gunship’s Wild Duel

Leesburg VA (USA), 2009

ISBN/ISSN: TBA

Cherrie publishes an account on Pp 28-35 of the February 2009 edition of Vietnam magazine in which he flew a Huey gunship mission in support of A Coy 3 RAR on 1 Feb 68 at Ba Ria during the Tet Offensive. He later met up with the beneficiary of the strike, then-MAJ Hori Howard, OC A Coy 3 RAR.

CLARK, Chris – Crucial FSB role in mini-Tet                                     .

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 22, pp 30-31.

An overview of the action at FSB Coral in 1968 when part of it was temporarily over-run by NVA troops. 1 and 3 RAR feature in this article.

CLARK, Chris – Task Force air commander

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 39, July 2007, pp 28-31.

Article about Peter Raw’s colourful career culminating in his command of RAAF assets in Vietnam. The decision to send helicopters to support the battle of Long Tan in August 1966 is included.

CLARK, R. (Major) – The war in South Vietnam

In Australian Army Journal No 192, May 65, pp 27-30.

One of the first papers to be published in the AAJ, addresses how the VC operated and how the RAR battalions might best counter them. The author was from the AATTV at the time and had developed an understanding of both the ARVN forces and the VC. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_192_may_1965.pdf

CLEAVER, Brian & PHILLIPS, Peter – Reconciliation at least

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 28, pp 58-60.

Article on two determined Vietnam veterans – the authors – to fulfil a goal that brought peace to many. The enemy casualties at the Battles for Coral and Balmoral were numerous, and most were buried in B52 craters in the area at the time. Cleaver finally located those craters/makeshift graves and passed that information on to Vietnamese authorities. Phillips was a company commander at the time of the battles.

CLISSOLD, Barry – Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War: prime mover of the obedient partner

In Sabretache, Volume XXXI – Number 1 – January – March 1990, pp 12-17.

Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. Article outlines the basis for Australia committing to Vietnam. Refers to the first initial battalion (1 RAR). A good article that provides the basis for why all troops were deployed and gives context to RAR histories by battalion. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-1990s-volumes-xxxi-to-xl/

COULTHARD-CLARK, Chris – An Australian at Hamburger Hill

In Wartime, official journal of the Australian War Memorial, Issue 17, 2002, pp 42-44.

An article co-written with Max Kelly, an RAR member in the AATTV who took part in the US battle of Hamburger Hill 13-20 May 69 in the A Sau Valley, Vietnam. AWM reference is C 355.00994 W297

COULTHARD-CLARK, Chris – Tet turning point

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 20, pp 6-11.

Article on the 1968 Tet Offensive in Vietnam during which 2, 3 and 7 RAR battalions fought the enemy. Includes good maps and photographs. Article also available at https://www.awm.gov.au/wartime/20/tet-turning-point

COURTNEY, Robert CH – Military heraldry and technology: 105mm M2A2 Howitzer, Fire Support Base Coral, Bien Hoa Province Vietnam 1986

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 3, Spring 1998, p 64.

Article deals with the No 6 gun of 102 Field Battery temporarily overrun on the night 12-13 May 68 by the North Vietnamese. That battery was in support of 1 RAR and 3 RAR at the time and fought in a defensive battle involving the former that night.

CRASWELL, Penny – Long Tan action in paint

 In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 15, Spring 2001, pp 54-57.

Addresses Bruce Fletcher’s vivid painting of D Coy 6 RAR ‘s Battle of Long Tan. It also describes Fletcher’s times with other RAR battalions in Vietnam.

DADDIS, Gregory A – To build a dyke

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 92, Spring 2020, pp 18-23.

A general article on Vietnam and the UIS military role, with the first para referring to the RAR’s commitment as the basis of the Australian commitment to the ground war in Vietnam.

DETHRIDGE, Kate – Photographer soldier in Vietnam

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 86, Autumn 2019 (April), pp 6-7.

Article on the APC troop that fought in support of D Coy and other elements of 6 RAR at the Battle of Long Tan.

DEXTER, George E (Lieutenant Colonel US) – Uncle Ho wants you! A study of Viet Cong motivation

In Australian Army Journal, No 21, October 1967, pp 31-39.

A paper on the motivation of the local enemy against with all RARs fought in the Vietnam War.  Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_221_oct_1967_0_0.pdf

DRAYTON, Major Andrew – A re-evaluation of the role of the Australian Task Force in Vietnam

In Australian Defence Force Journal, No 133, Nov/Dec 1998. Reviews 1 ATF in Vietnam which was primarily made up of RAR battalions. 1 RAR’s time with 173^rd Airborne Brigade (US) is also mentioned. Accessible at https://defence.gov.au/adc/adfj/Documents/issue_133/133_1998_Nov_Dec.pdf

EDWARDS, Peter – Australia’s Vietnam War

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 10, Autumn 2000, pp 40-44

This article compare’s the US approach to the war with the Australian. Also includes images of RAR troops in action.

EDWARDS, Peter – Countdown to commitment: Australia’s decision to enter the Vietnam war in April 1965

In Journal of the Australian War Memorial, No 21, 1992. Covers the background to the deployment of 1 RAR as the first to serve in Vietnam.

EDWARDS, Peter – Recent books on the Vietnam War: a review article

In Journal of the Australian War Memorial, No 3, 1983.

A journal article which addresses a range of publications on Vietnam as known about in 1983.

EDWARDS, Peter – Some reflections on the Australia Government’s commitment to the Vietnam War

In Journal of the Australian War Memorial, No 20, 1992. Article on the basis from which the RARs were deployed to Vietnam.

EKINS, Ashley – Attack from within

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 24, pp 21-25.

Describes the events surrounding the ‘fragging’ of Lieutenant Robert Birse (RAA) in 10 December 1967 in Vietnam. 106 Battery was in Direct Support of 7 RAR and elements of both units were in occupation of a Fire Support Base during Operation Forrest at the time and experienced the tragic incident.

EKINS, Ashley – A very close thing indeed

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 55, July 2011, pp 34-38.

An article on the Battle of Long Tan, the most costly to both sides in terms of casualties in a single day of combat between Australian and enemy forces. Features Bruce Fletcher’s painting and a Roll of Honour of the battle.

EKINS, Ashley – Battle for the hearts and minds: the propaganda war in Vietnam

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 55, July 2011, pp 57-59.

Both sides competed for the civilian population, and indeed each others’ troops, through the use of leaflets, posters and other documents as well as the audio spectrum during the Vietnam War. All RAR troops will have seen and heard much of this material, much of which set out to demonise the enemy. a/ selection of material is included in this article.

EKINS, Ashley – Death by friendly fire

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 21, pp 36-39.

Describes the death of WO2 Jack Kirby, CSM D Coy 6 RAR. Provides examples of his leadership during his service and particularly at the Battle of Long Tan.

EKINS, Ashley – Death in the minefield

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 22, pp 24-29.

The tragic consequences of the theft and use of allied mines against Australians led to many of the casualties suffered by RAR battalions in Vietnam. Detailed maps and photographs.

EKINS, Ashley – Fighting to the finish: The Australian Army and the Vietnam War 1968-1974

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 58, Autumn 2012, pp 67-70.

A critical and candid analysis of the successes and failures of Australia’s involvement in Vietnam in a war that involved all RARs, including those raised specifically to maintain the operational tempo of one, then two, then three battalion-centred forces until scale back and withdrawal.

Ekins, Ashley – No known grave

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 23, pp 14-18.

Article on the six Australians recorded as ‘missing in action’ in Vietnam. Describes the circumstances under which these soldiers, which included RAR, and airmen were so categorised. Since this article was published, all have since been located and their remains repatriated to Australia.

EKINS, Ashley – To save a village

In Wartime, Australian War Memorial, Issue No. 75 (Winter 2016), pp 10-21. Story of enemy infiltration which challenged the Australian forces at Binh Ba to a ferocious battle on 6-8 Jun 69 involving 5 RAR and 6 RAR.

 EKINS, Ashley – They’ll come looking for you

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 82 Autumn 2018 (April), p 60-65.

Account of the battle of Coral in May 88 that included 1 RAR and 3 RAR and supporting arms and services. Maps, photos and a Roll of honour are included.

EKINS, Ashley – Unique memorial – the Long Tan cross

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 55, July 2011, pp 39-41.

An article on the chequered history of this cross placed at the site on the Battle of Long Tan by members of the second 6 RAR tour of duty in Vietnam.

EKINS, Ashley & SCHYVENS, Juliet – 1962-1972: First in last out

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 63, Winter 2013, pp 42-45.

About the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam, many of whom were RAR, several of whom feature in the paper.

EKINS, Ashley & STEWART, Elizabeth – Hueys, slicks, albatross and possum

 In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 61, Summer 2013, pp 54-57.

Article on the role of helicopters in the Vietnam War. Several RARs are mentioned in this article; with the helicopter becoming a support platform central to that war, and since.

EVANS, Ben – Behind the image of Australians in Vietnam, Operation Ulmarra, 1967

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 4, Summer 1998, pp 37-39.

Article identifies 7 RAR troops and describes the operation in the text, supported by maps.

FIELD, Chris – Employment of Australian helicopters in Vietnam: Strategic failure, operational pragmatism and tactical success

In Australian Defence Force Journal, Issue 161, Jul-Aug, 2003, pp 33-43.

This paper addresses how Australian helicopters were used in Vietnam. Its story is universally applicable to all RARs as their troop lift and support was significantly dependent upon the helicopters. 1 RAR and1st ATF are specifically mentioned to give context to several ground force points made. Accessible at https://defence.gov.au/adc/adfj/Documents/issue_161/161_2003_Jul_Aug.pdf

FORRESTER, Simon – Taking time to look

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 6, Winter 1999, pp 50-53.

Official war artist Ken McFadyen went on patrol with 2 RAR in Vietnam to take photographs. This paper describes his experiences and includes images.

FRENCH, R.B. (Lieutenant) – Tracking – a must in counter-guerrilla warfare

In Australian Army Journal,  No 205, June 1966, pp 22-29.

Paper of tracking skills considered necessary in Vietnam, following the author’s recent (then) training in tracking techniques he received in Malaysia and then put into effect at the Infantry Centre 1966 on his return. He addresses the employment of the traditional Anti-Tank platoon as Trackers in wars where the enemy had no armour, a foresight that was enacted for most RARs during the Vietnam War. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_205_jun_1966.pdf

GALE, Peter – Counting the cost

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 75, July 2016, April, pp 54-59.

Addresses the medical legacies of the Vietnam War, most of the casualties being RAR members, with the article featuring some of them. Focuses on the exposure to chemicals the consequences of which were largely unknown, uncontrolled, with the long-term effects still being revealed.

GARLAND, A.B. – Air Support at unit level

In Australian Army Journal, Issue 238, March 1969 pp 3-13.

Describes the type of air firepower support available in Vietnam, and how 7 RAR evolved procedures to use it at unit level in 1967-68. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_238_mar_1969.pdf

GARLAND, Lieutenant Colonel R.S.- Search and clear operations

In Australian Army Journal No 208, September 1966, pp 29-46.

This paper addresses these operations from a conceptual perspective and refers to 1 RAR’s application in particular in in South Vietnam. Paper accessible at  https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_208_sep_1966.pdf

GARLAND, Lieutenant Colonel A.B. – The first Viet Cong general offensive

In Australian Army Journal, No 240, May 1969, pp24-36. Covers the Tet Offensive and refers to 3 RAR and 7 RAR. Accessible at  https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_240_may_1969_0.pdf

GARLAND, Lieutenant Colonel A.B. – The second Viet Cong general offensive

In Australian Army Journal, No 241, June 1969, pp 11-22. Follows on from the The first Viet Cong general offensive in No 204.  Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_241_jun_1969_0.pdf

GARLAND, MC  R.S. (Lieutenant Colonel) – The concept of the new Infantryman

In Australian Army Journal, No 206, July 1966, pp 3-11.

Written early in the Vietnam War, this paper addresses the changed nature of combat between Australian soldiers, using 1 RAR’s experience in 1965-66 against the Viet Cong, across all elements of combat power. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_206_jul_1966.pdf

GARLAND, MC  RS (Lieutenant Colonel) – The conduct of counter-insurgency warfare

In Australian Army Journal, No 200, January 1966, pp 10-28.

One of the earliest papers on the fundamental nature of operations in Vietnam, to which 1 RAR has been the first battalion to be committed at the time. This paper went on to influence both operations and tactical doctrine for the rest of that war. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_200_jan_1966.pdf

GIBBONS, Dennis – Caught in action: a photographer’s view of the Vietnam War

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 2, April 1998, pp 61-64.

War correspondent Gibbons took many photos in the thick of action, giving them an immediacy and a real sense of the danger faced by Australian soldiers. Most are about RAR soldiers including a series of eight in a contact by 4 RAR in Feb 1969 at Long Binh.

GIST, David – Got a light?

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 55, July 2011, pp 54-46.

Inscriptions on the side of a cigarette lighter once owned by an RAR soldier offer insight into the views of the typical digger in the war in Vietnam. 

GIST, David – Seen it before

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 60, Spring 2012, pp 6-7.

This article addresses the proliferation of cameras and other recording devices in Vietnam, especially the Long Tan cross placed by 6 RAR in the memory of the D Coy 6 RAR-centric battle in Aug 66.

GLEN, Frank – ANZAC today: what does ANZAC mean to contemporary NZs?

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 14, Winter 2001, pp 10-13.

Compares New Zealanders’ service with Australians from Gallipoli to Vietnam where some of the RAR tours of duty were as ANZAC battalions.

GOWER, Steve – Forward Observer

In Wartime, Australian War Memorial, Issue No. 75 (Winter 2016), pp 32-39. Story of an Artillery Forward Observer’s (FO) role in Vietnam serving a vital fire support role; every RAR rifle company had an FO and party with them to direct fire required by the rifle company commander. Author served as an FO in Vietnam in 1966-67 primarily with 5 RAR and 6 RAR.

GRAHAM DSO, OBE, MC Brigadier SC – Observations on operations in Vietnam

In Australian Army Journal, No 235, December 1967. Mentions several RAR battalions which formed the bulk of the Australian ground commitment to Vietnam.

GRATION, Peter – On 1 ATF in Vietnam

In Journal of the Australian War Memorial, No 12, 1988. Article on the field HQ based at Nui Dat and which commanded all RARs deployed to Vietnam. All RAR battalions came under command HQ 1 ATF and formed the core of that formation.

GRATION, Peter – Reflections of 1 ATF Vietnam

In Journal of the Australian War Memorial, No 12 Oct 88, pp 45-46. Published by the Australian War Memorial, Canberra. ISSN 07296274. Short paper by a previous commander of the core fighting force in Vietnam which comprised 2 or 3 of the RARs, all of which served in Vietnam as part of 1 ATF after 1 RAR’s first tour under command 173^rd (US) Airborne Brigade.

GRIFFIN, AL, HALL, B and ROSS, AT – The Australian counterinsurgency campaign in the Vietnam war: the ambush battle

In Journal of Maps Volume 10, 2014, pp 61 – 64.

Paper addresses the ambush technique used extensively by all RAR units and others in Vietnam. Accessible through  http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/17445647.2013.870095

GWYN, Victoria – The other side of the lens

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 75, July 2016, April, pp 4-5.

Article on the D & E platoon of HQ company 1^st Australian Task Force which set out on 17 Jan 69 to patrol waterways in the Saigon River delta. Most of that platoon were RAR soldiers.

HALL, B – Danger Close: battle without context

In History Australia, Vol 17, 2020, pp 195 – 196

A paper which examines the phenomena of close quarter combat in Vietnam. Accessible at cost at http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/14490854.2020.1717355

HALL, Bob – Operation Wandering Souls

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 55, July 2011, pp 25 – 29.

The author of this article served with 8 RAR in Vietnam and has first-hand experience and knowledge with respect to the featured story of the ongoing search for the many missing in action from the Vietnam War.

HALL, RA and ROSS, A – Kinetics in counterinsurgency: some influences on soldier combat performance in the 1st Australian Task Force in the Vietnam War 

In Small Wars and Insurgencies, Volume 21, 2010, pp 498 – 518.

Paper addresses some of the soldier issues faced by RAR and other troops in Vietnam. Accessible through http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/09592318.2010.505481

HEATH, Lenore – From the Philippines to Long Tan

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 68, Spring 2014, pp 4-5.

Story of the family connections of Private Douglas Salveron of D Coy 6 RAR, KIA at Long Tan, showing his father to have served in the Philippines Navy in WW II. 

HORNER, David – A complex command: the role of the commander, Australian Force, Vietnam

In Journal of the Australian War Memorial, No 13, 1988. Article on the implications of commander of the Australian Force. Most commanders were ex-RAR and the bulk of the forces deployed were RAR battalions.

HORNER, David – Writing to the finish

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 58, Autumn 2012, pp 60-63.

An article that states it is the final chapter in the history of the wat in Vietnam; mentioning some RARs; seeking to set the record straight.

HUNTER, Claire – A Ferocious Fight: Battle of Binh Ba

Key Publishing Ltd (Britain at War), Stamford UK, 2019

ISSN: 1753-3090

Article in Britain at War, September 2019, pp 16-22. Colour and black and white images.

Addresses the Battle of Binh Ba. Mentions both 5 and 6 RAR.Over thirty-five years ago the CIA and the Pentagon invited Ted Serong, an Australian soldier, to advise them on the conduct of the war in Vietnam. This is Ted Serong’s story of that war. Serong grew to have influence at the highest levels of government in America and South Vietnam. Sponsored by the CIA, he turned a relatively minor assignment into the development of a program for the war against the North Vietnamese and the Viet Cong in particular, and for the world-wide struggle against Communism in general.

HOWARD, BW (Hori) AO, MC, ESM, MAJGEN (Retd) – The Battle for Ba Ria 1-2 Feb 68 (Part 1)

Big Sky Publishing, Newport, 2012

ISSN: 1447-5545

Part 1 (of 2) was published in the Australian Infantry Magazine (AIM) Oct 11 – Apr 12 on pp 76-87 at the request of the School of Infantry. Includes A Coy 3 RAR and D Coy 4 RAR. One of very few Australian urban terrain engagements of the Vietnam War.

HOWARD, BW (Hori) AO, MC, ESM, MAJGEN (Retd) – The Battle for Ba Ria 1-2 Feb 68 (Part 2)

Part 2 (of 2) was published in the AIM Apr 12 – Oct 12 on pp 72 – 84 at the request of the School of Infantry. Includes A Coy 3 RAR and D Coy 4 RAR. One of very few Australian urban terrain engagements of the Vietnam War. This part includes an interview by the Australian Military Historian Ian McNeill with the Commander of D445, the enemy opponent.

HUTCHINSON, Ian – The ‘Red Rats’ and Phuoc Tuy

In AAJ, No 227, April 1968 and also reprinted in AAJ, Vol V, No 1, Autumn 2008, pp 133-155. Mentions 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7 RAR from the establishment of 1^st Australian Task Force onwards to 1967. Addresses the geography, interaction of the Australian forces with US and ARVN forces, local government authorities, and operations against the enemy. The term ‘Red Rats’ was coined by the Vietnamese who had little to no concept of a kangaroo.

JAMIESON, Mark – A FO (Ack) in Vietnam 7 RAR FSB Coral 102 Fd Bty C/S 11A

Vol LVII, Dec 2016, Number 4; Bibliography; 12 pages.

An account of artillery support by 102 Field Battery to 7 RAR at Fire Support Base Coral in 1968.

JAMIESON, Mark- 365 and a Wakey

Self-published 2013

ISBN: Nil

Illustrated, maps, references; 179 pages.

 The story of Larry D’Arcy, Royal Australian Artillery, who served in Malay and Vietnam in support of several RARs  including 1 and 3 RAR in Vietnam which are mentioned in the story. Accessible at http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.1016.1901&rep=rep1&type=pdf

JAMIESON, Mark – Callsign 11 Alpha: a soldier’s perspective in Vietnam

In Oral History Australian Journal, No 3, 2016, pp 23-38. Story of John Hams, a Forward Observer Assistant (FO Ack) with 102 Field Battery, 12 Field Regiment in Vietnam Mar 68 to Feb 69 in support of 7 RAR which is mentioned in this article. Paper accessible at https://oralhistoryaustralia.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2016_journal_full.pdf

JAMIESON, Mark – Call sign 11 Alpha: An FO (Ack) in Vietnam

In Sabretache, Volume LVII (57) – Number 4 – December 2016, pp 35-42. Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra.

Story of John Harms, RAA who served as an FO (Ack) in Vietnam. Their prime task was to support the battalions; 1 and 7 RAR are mentioned in this excellent coverage of how the gunner FO parties operated to deliver that vital support for which every RAR veteran would express great appreciation. Accessible at https://www.mhsa.org.au/download/sabretache-vol-lvii-no-4-december-2016/?wpdmdl=2048&_wpdmkey=62035454ea776&refresh=62035454eb9181644385364

JAMIESON, Mark – Fire Support Patrol Base (FSPB) Coral remembered

In Sabretache, Volume LX (50) – Number 4 – December 2014, pp 17-31. Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra.

Covers the Battle for FSPB Coral over the period 12 May – 6 Jun 68. Includes 1, 2 and 3 RAR. Accessible at https://www.mhsa.org.au/download/sabretache-vol-lv-no-4-december-2014/?wpdmdl=2010&_wpdmkey=6203511b66977&refresh=6203511b67a031644384539

JANS, Brigadier Nick – Vietnam War Memoir

In Australian Army Journal, Vol VII, No 2, Winter, 2010, pp 173-179.

Author writes this piece in a manner whereby any RAR veteran of the Vietnam War can immediately identify with the nuances of the day to day experiences at the time. Does not mention any RAR, but it is clearly through the senses of the combat soldier that this work resonates. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2010_1.pdf

JOHNSON, Len – Operation Lavarack: Phuoc Tuy Province Vietnam 1969

In Australian Army Journal, Vol VII, No 2, Winter, 2010, pp 89-113.

Operation LAVARACK was an ambushing and reconnaissance-in-force operation conducted by 6 RAR-NZ in Area of Operations (AO) Vincent in Phuoc Tuy Province from 30 May to 1 July 1969. During thirty-two days of continuous patrolling and ambushing, 6RAR-NZ defeated in battle two main force regiments and a district company, hundreds of enemy bunkers, disrupted the Viet Cong administrative system by denying the enemy his vital lines of communication and supply, and irreparably damaged the military and political position of the Viet Cong. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2010_2.pdf

JORDENS, Ann-Mari – A dream turns sour: official war artists in Vietnam

In Journal of the Australian War Memorial, No 11, 1987. Article that discusses the realities faced by the war artists most of whose paintings features RAR troops.

JORDENS, Ann-Mari – Cultural influences: the Vietnam war and Australia

In Journal of the Australian War Memorial, No 15, 1989. Article to address the cultural background of the troops to serve in Vietnam and the nature of the two societies.

KEITH, D (Captain) – Junior leaders from Scheyville

In Australian Army Journal, No 204, May 1966, pp 3-11.

Paper outlines the training and other preparation of junior officers from the National Service intakes to supplement the officer production rate necessary for the Army during the Vietnam War. Many graduated to the RAR with all battalions benefitting from their service during that war, and for some, as long as their career in Army continued. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_204_may_1966.pdf

KELLY, Michael – For Christ’s sake, mate, we need you!

In Britain at War, Issue 189, January 2023, pp 3-40.

Feature article on Operation Overlord, fought in Vietnam in June 1971, involving 3 RAR and 4 RAR/NZ (ANZAC).

KELLY, Michael – Long Khanh: For Christ’s sake, mate, we need you

In Britain at War, Issue 189, January 2023, pp 30-40

Story of Operation Overlord, at Long Khanh, between US and Australian forces including 3 and 4 RAR against the enemy in June 1971.

 KELLY, Michael – The last post

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 90, Autumn 2020, p 72.

Short article on a section commander from 8 RAR killed in action as a result of a mine, during Operation Hammersley in Vietnam, February 1970.

KLEINIG, Simon – A Nasho’s service

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 75, July 2016, April, pp 47-52.

RAR soldier who describes his service including in Vietnam.

KUDRYCZ, Walter – Hot environment

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 35, Winter 2006, pp 28-30.

Focussed on Operation Bribie on 17 February 1967 in Vietnam and the use of Australian helicopters in what quickly became a major battle right on the edge of where the insertion occurred. That operation included 6 RAR.

MacFARLING, Wing Commander Ian – New Zealand and the Vietnam conflict

In Defence Force Journal, No 79, November/December 1989.

Addresses the New Zealand commitment to the Vietnam War, referring to the ANZAC battalions in which at least one rifle company was NZ. An NZ gun battery was maintained for most of the war, firing in support of all RARs.

MacGREGOR, MC A.H (Captain) – Engineer Operations in Vietnam

In AAJ No 219, August 1967, pp 3-17.

Author provides a vitally timed paper on engineer operations in direct to support to 1 RAR on its first tour of duty in Vietnam. This gave the Australian Army its first real look at enemy fortifications, tunnels, mines and boobytraps, and Australian methods to deal with them. 5 RAR is also mentioned. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_219_aug_1967.pdf

MAIZEY, SJ (Colonel) – G2 OPS V 1 Australian Task Force Vietnam 1967

In Duty First, Vol 2, No 8, 1999.

Article addresses the duties and experiences of the author, himself a member of the RAR at the time, during the Vietnam War in this role. Mentions the RARs in-country at the time.

MANERA, Brad – Recall of the Saigon Guard: The Last Slouch Hats in Vietnam

In Wartime (23): (2003).Illustrated, 19 pages. Story of the platoon tasked to guard the Australian Embassy in Saigon. This sub-unit was predominantly made up of RAR soldiers.

McAULAY, AHD (Warrant Officer) – Interpreters on operations with Infantry

In AAJ, No 226, March 1968, pp 48-54.

A paper of the role and interaction of Intelligence linguists within 1 RAR on its operations in Vietnam. On this tour there were only two for the entire battalion. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_226_mar_1968_1_0.pdf,

McAULAY, AHD (Corporal) – Language training before service in Vietnam

In AAJ, No 216, May 1967, pp 36-40.

A paper of the need for and conduct of linguist training for 1 RAR members as the battalion prepares for deployment on the first tour of duty in Vietnam. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_216_may_1967.pdf

McAULAY, Lex – Anzac and the Vietnam Digger

In Journal of the Australian War Memorial, No 16, 1990. This article looks at the predominantly RAR servicemen in Vietnam in the context of the Anzac legend.

McAULAY, Lex – Found and Lost: The Buried Secrets for Victory in Vietnam?

In Vietnam Magazine, October 2007, pp. 28-35. McAulay, a linguist who was posted to 1 RAR when it was under command U.S. 173d Airborne Brigade writes about the capture during Operation Crimp, in January 1966, of the files of the Communist headquarters for the area that included Saigon. He believes that if this information had been properly exploited, the Communist infrastructure in the Saigon area could have been so crippled that the Tet Offensive of 1968 would not have been possible.

McCAULAY, Lex – Myths of the Vietnam War

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 20, pp 12-15.

Author addresses eight of the more common myths of the Vietnam War, some of which were perpetuated by RAR troops writing home with tall tales or hearsay.

McDONAGH, Lieutenant Colonel JF – Civil Affairs in Phuoc Tuy Province, South Vietnam 1967/68

In Australian Army Journal, No 231, August 1968, pp 3-15.

Covers operations of the Civil Affairs function in support of 1^st ATF operations in Vietnam which at the time included 2 RAR and 7 RAR. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_231_aug_1968_0.pdf

McDONAGH, Lieutenant Colonel JF – Suoi Nghe – a refugee hamlet in Vietnam

In Australian Army Journal, No 232, September, 1968, pp 12-23.

Follow on article to Civil Affairs in Phuoc Tuy Province, South Vietnam 1967/68 (in AAJ 232, Aug 68) that addresses a specific operation in the 1^st ATF area. Refers to 2 RAR and 7 RAR and Operation Ballarat. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_232_sep_1968_0.pdf

McFARLANE, ID (Major) – Viet Cong Tactics

In AAJ, No 213, February 1967, pp 3-16.

A key early paper on the tactics used by the enemy when first engaged by 1 RAR on their first tour of duty of Vietnam. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_213_feb_1967.pdf

McKAY, Gary, MC – Battle on the Suoi Ca

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 35, Winter 2006, pp 18-21.

Author describes this battle in Vietnam on 6 August 1967. A Coy 7 RAR were the core Infantry force directly involved.

McKAY, Gary – The last battle

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 55, July 2011, pp 14-19.

The action at Nui Le in September 1971 came at a high cost for 4 RAR who had B and D companies heavily involved.  3RAR also played a supporting role. Article contains good maps and imagery.

McNEILL, Ian – Petersen and the Montagnards: an episode in the Vietnam war

In Journal of the Australian War Memorial, No 1,1982. Petersen was from the RAR and was serving in the AATTV at the time of his work with the Montagnards in Vietnam.

McNEILL, Ian – Vietnam 1967: Operation Bribie

In Wartime, Australian War Memorial, Issue No. 1, November 1967, pp 35-42. Story of the operation in Vietnam which, in the opinion of the author, was the closest to a major battlefield defeat for Australian troops on the Vietnam War. 6 RAR were involved.

McNEILL, Ian – Unravelling the riddles of Long Tan

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 55, July 2011, pp 42-47.

This article builds upon the author’s book on the Battle of Long Tan involving primarily D Coy 6 RAR, with fellow author Ashley Ekins form the AWM describing further research conducted long after the war.

McNEILL, Ian & EKINS, Ashley – The peak years

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 55, July 2011, p 48.

The final years of Australian forces’ commitment to the Vietnam War are summarised here and documented in a recent volume as part of the ongoing effort of the AWM to gather information on this, and other, wars. All RARs deployed, several twice to the Vietnam War.

McNEILL, IG (Major) – An outline of the Australian military involvement in Vietnam, July 1962 – December 1972

In Defence Force Journal, No 24, September/October 1980.

Outlines Australia’s experiences and operations from an Army perspective, mentioning all RAR battalions. Author served with the RAR there. Good executive summary. Accessible at https://defence.gov.au/adc/adfj/Documents/issue_24/24_1980_Sep_Oct.pdf

NEALS, Kerry – Dear soldier

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 26, pp42-44.

Students of a state school in Australia (Gowrie Park) held fond memories of 5 RAR Vietnam veterans. Class has children whose parents were on both sides of the war, and a novel approach is taken in the classroom on how to address that, being the learning about Vietnam generally.

NELMES, Michael – A Huey and its driver

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 15, Spring 2001, pp 50-53.

Story of Iroquois A2-1019, now on display in the AWM, and which flew many missions carrying RAR troops and in other support roles.

 

NICOL, JD – Morale of the Australian Infantry in South Vietnam, 1965-1972

In British Army Review, No 127 (Summer 2001): 37-48.

A paper that specifically addresses the varying states of morale of RAR battalions’ members while serving in the Vietnam War.

O’CONNELL, Garth – From the east and the west

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 75, July 2016, April, pp 6-7.

Paper on enemy weapons encountered in South Vietnam.

O’NEILL, Robert – Australia and the new world order by David Horner

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 55, July 2011, pp 63-66.

Writing an official history is a demanding task. In this article an eminent official explains why. O’Neill was the official historical for the Korean War series Australia in the Korean War 1950-1953 (two volumes) that included 1, 2 and 3 RAR.

O’NEILL, Robert – Knowing the Enemy

In Wartime, Australian War Memorial, Issue No. 75 (Winter 2016), pp 21-31. Story of the vital role of intelligence in the Vietnam War. Author was the 5 RAR Intelligence Officer in Phuoc Tuy, 1966-1967.

PHILLIPS, PR (Major) – A new approach to battle drills

In Australian Army Journal, No 213, February 1967, pp 35 – 38.

Author was in 3 RAR at the time and produced this paper early during the Vietnam War. He went on take part in a tour of duty during which he was awarded the MC. The paper proposed improvements in battle drills applied by the RARs at the time. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_213_feb_1967.pdf

PHILLIPS MC, PR (Major) – The camp of Tran Van Hoang

In Australian Army Journal, No 255, August 1970.

Recounted experience of the author who served as a company commander in 3 RAR at the time this paper was written. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_255_aug_1970.pdf

REBBECK, Amanda – Collection insights

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 75, July 2016, April, p 8.

Article and photographs of items gathered from the Long Tan battlefield which of course centred on D Coy 6 RAR’s major battle 18-19 Aug 66.

 

ROBERTS, Chris – A letter from Long Tan

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 46, April 2009, pp 52-55. 

Story behind the making of the 2022 film Danger Close. Features in the Vietnam War gallery at the AWM. D Coy 6 RAR personalities feature in this article.

 

ROSS, A and HALL, B – Shots per casualty: An indicator of combat efficiency for the first Australian Task force in South Vietnam

In Defense and Security Analysis, Vol 34, 2108, pp 410 – 423.

A paper on hit rates on the enemy by Australians in Vietnam, mainly RAR troops. Accessible at cost at http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/14751798.2018.1529080

 

SELBY, Jennifer – 5 Bravo ‘Firing now’

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 75, July 2016, April, p 66.

A rare recording of a main battle tank in Vietnam, firing in support of RAR troops. Gives some insight into tank support operations with infantry.

 

SHANNON, Greg OAM (LTCOL Retd) –The “Battle of Nui Le”

In Duty First, Spring 2023, pp 66-71.

An account of 4 RAR/NZ (AMZAC) in Operation Ivanhoe, particularly the major battle fought on 21 Sep 71. 3 RAR was also involved. Accessible at https://www.dutyfirst.com.au/digital/Duty_First_Spring_2023/Duty_First_Spring_2023.html

 

SMITH, Harry – Long Tan awards

In Sabretache, Volume LI – Number 3 – September 2010, pp 55-59.

Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. A brief history of BCOF with 3 RAR specifically mentioned. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-2010s-volumes-li-to-lx/

 

SHARP, PR (Major) – Battalion resupply Vietnam style

In Australian Army Journal, No 210, November 1966, pp 3 – 11.

Author was OC Administration Company 1 RAR during its first tour of duty. In this paper he describes 1 RAR resupply methods and lessons learnt. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_210_nov_1966.pdf

SMITH, EH, DSO (Colonel) – Command and control in battle

In Australian Army Journal, No 240, May 1969. Addresses operations in Vietnam which centred on the RAR battalions.

SMITH, Harry, MC – No time for fear

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 35, Winter 2006, pp 10-16.

18 August 2006 marked both the 40^th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan and Vietnam Veterans Day. Smith takes the reader step by step through the battle which was fought as an encounter battle against overwhelming odds between D Coy 6 RAR with support from other Australian forces, and the enemy.

STEWART, Elizabeth – A Gunner’s tale

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 43, pp 10-13.

One artilleryman’s account of the bravery of the men involved in the Battle for Fire Support Base Coral which came close to being overrun. 1 and 3 RAR feature in this article.

STEWART, Elizabeth – Bunker assault

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 29, pp 16-19.

A quilt made by the wife of a badly wounded RAR national serviceman as a tribute to all Vietnam veterans is illustrated, along with a depiction of a contact by A Coy 7 RAR on 21 May 70. It concentrates on two soldiers wounded in action and who then lost contact with each other until much later when they were re-united back in Australia.

STEWART, Elizabeth – Dogs of war

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 18, pp 34-37.

Story of RAR tracker dog Private Tiber, a black Labrador. Tracker dogs were not brought home from the Vietnam War due to quarantine regulations at the time.

STEWART, Elizabeth – Mine menace

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 25, pp 6-9.

Story of two Vietnam veterans who, despite losing limbs and eyesight, became an inspiration to others. IT is a story of amine incident which occurred on 21 Jul 69 involving A Coy 6 RAR.

STEWART, Elizabeth – One ‘Nasho’s war

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 41, January 2008, pp 20-23.

Subject of this article, Richard Barry, RAR viewed national service as a privilege.

STEWART, Elizabeth – Return to Vietnam

  In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 33, pp 56-58.

Vietnam veterans including RAR members visit former battlefields as a pilgrimage in moving and worthwhile experiences.

STEWART, Elizabeth – The EMU – getting the bloody job done

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 51, July 2010.

Article about an Australian (RAN)/US helicopter unit experiment carried out during the war in Vietnam. While it does not mention the machine gunners from B Coy 2 RAR were provided to and served with the EMU (Experimental Military Unit) Squadron in 1967-68, this article draws one’s attention another facet of the RAR’s wide impact on operations over time.

STEWART, Elizabeth – Tragedy at An Nhut

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 27, pp 38-41.

Story of a concealed mine involving C Coy 5 RAR in Vietnam on 14 Feb 67. Several OCS graduate officers were among those killed. Includes a map and photographs.

STUART, Simon, AO, DSC  – The Australian Army’s war in Vietnam – 50 years on

In Duty First, Winter 2023, pp 4-7.

Stuart was Chief of Army at the time this article was presented. It is a reflection on the Vietnam war focussing on the role of the nine RARs, all of which served there before some linking post-war as the Army size was reduced in accordance with Strategic guidance. Accessible at https://www.dutyfirst.com.au/digital/Duty_First_Winter_2023/Duty_First_Winter_2023.html

SUTTON MC, Major RF – Notes on company operations in Vietnam

In Australian Army Journal, No 262, March 1971. Author writes of company level operations at a time by which all nine RAR battalions had served in Vietnam. This article was heavily studied in officer training in the years to follow.

VAZENTRY, GR (SSGT) – Distinguished Unit Citation to D Company 6^th Bn., R.A.R

In Sabretache, Volume XI – Number 4 – April 1969, pp 100-101.

Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. First known journal article announcing that and a result of Australian Army Order (AAO) 36, D Coy 6 RAR had been awarded the US Distinguished Unit Citation. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-1960s-volumes-iii-to-xii/

VAZENTRY, GR (SSGT) – The regular infantry of the Australian Army

In Sabretache, Volume XI – Number 4 – April 1969, pp 104-107.

Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. Gives a brief overview of the creation of 1, 2 and 3 RAR from 65, 66 and 67 Bn, 34^th Infantry Brigade in October 1945 for service in BCOF. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-1960s-volumes-iii-to-xii/

VILLARD, Erik B – A closer look at US-Australian relations in the Vietnam War: Operation Toan Thang I and the defence of Fire Support Base Coral April-June 1968

In Australian Army Journal, Vol 1 No 1, 2003; pp 97-110.

Examines relationships during this period in particular, and cites 6 RAR in 1966 working with the US forces, and then 1 and 3 RAR during the 1968 Tet Offensive battles. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2003_1.pdf

WALKER, Graham – The Agent Orange story is not over

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 47, July 2009, pp 42-44.

Article on the medical problems suffered by Vietnam veterans who bond together to refute the Evatt Report on the effects of chemical agents on all Australian personnel in Vietnam.

WARR, Lieutenant Colonel JA – Cordon and search operations in Phuoc Tuy

In Australian Army Journal, No 222, November 1967.

Describes 5 RAR operations in particular. Accessible at https://www.5rar.asn.au/pdf/Cordon-and-Search-Operations-in-Phuoc-Tuy-Province.pdf where it was re-published by the 5 RAR Association.

WHITTAKER, James O – Problems in research in psychological warfare

In Australian Army Journal, Issue 238, March 1969 pp 20-29.

Addresses the problems with propaganda and other literature used in Vietnam and which all RAR troops will have seen and come into contact with. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_238_mar_1969.pdf

WILCOX, Craig – Life at the Dat

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 29, pp 16-19.

Article showing living conditions at Nui Dat. Time is unspecified but clearly after development of the position. Shows typical conditions experienced by all Australians including the RAR which spent more time out of the base than in it, on average.

WILLBANK, James H – Reconsidering the 1968 Tet Offensive

In Australian Army Journal, Vol V, No 1, Autumn 2008, pp 7-18.

A review of the main 1968 series of battles in Vietnam known as the Tet Offensive. 1 and 6 RAR were involved.

WRIGHT, Venessa – Photo becomes a memorial

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 58, Autumn 2012, pp 6-7.

Deals with the iconic photo form Vietnam of an approaching UH1H Iroquois about to pick up RAR troops exhausted and waiting wearily in the stifling heat and humidity of Vietnam.

PEACE KEEPING & PEACE MAKING OPERATIONS

(Somalia 1992-93, Rwanda 1994-95, Cambodia 1994-95, Papua New Guinea 1946 to 1975, East Timor 1999-2012, Bougainville 1994, The Solomon Islands 2000 -2013, all remaining deployments not covered by UN or above (Rhodesia, Uganda)

Anonymous – Building the Memorial’s collection

In Journal of the Australian War Memorial, No 23 Oct 93, p 55. Published by the Australian War Memorial, Canberra. ISSN 07296274. Mentions 1 RAR as this article outlines the creation of a peacekeeping section in the AWM.

AUSTRALIAN BATTALION VI (AUSBAT VI) – Operation Tangier/Citadel 2002

3 RAR Kapyong Khronicle, Sydney, 2002

ISBN: TBA

3 RAR battalion group tour of duty in East Timor full colour pictorial, full nominal roll.

BLAXLAND, John (MAJ) – On operations in East Timor

In Australian Army Journal, Issue 2000, pp 1-12.

This paper addresses the author’s experiences as the Brigade Intelligence Office(S2) on the HQ 3^rd Brigade HQ which commanded, among other units, 2 and 3 RAR from the initial deployment on 20 Sep 99 with 1 RAR remaining in Townsville at that time. Covers the period of 1999. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2000.pdf

BOU, Jean – Before Kibeho

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 88, Spring 2019, pp 16-21.

Article about the first Australian contingent to Rwanda, facing a difficult and uncertain situation and environment. 2/4 RAR were involved initially.

BREEN, Bob – Australian peacekeepers in Somalia

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 88, Spring 2019, pp 60-63.

Article on 1 RAR battalion group in Somalia and the limits to which peacekeeping can go/achieve.

BREEN, Bob – The Royal Australian Regiment in Rwanda, East Timor and the Solomon Islands

In Duty First: 60 years of the Royal Australian Regiment, 2008.

Published in this ‘-one-off’ edition of the Regimental publication effort made in conjunction with the Faircourt Media Group, Sydney, this paper examines the various RAR battalion deployments in these three theatres as at the time of publication. 

BREEN, Bob – The Royal Australian Regiment in Somalia 1993

In Duty First: 60 years of the Royal Australian Regiment, 2008.

Published in this ‘-one-off’ edition of the Regimental publication effort made in conjunction with the Faircourt Media Group, Sydney, this paper examines 1 RAR’s role in the deployment to Somalia 1993.

CALIGARI, DSC, AM John (Major General) – Operation Solace (Somalia 1993) and the lessons learned

In Australian Defence Forces Journal No 184, 2011, pp 15-19.

Addresses the engagement of 1 RAR group in Somalia with a focus on relationships with supporting arms. Accessible at https://defence.gov.au/adc/adfj/Documents/issue_184/184_2011_Mar_Apr.pdf

CHISNALL, GA (CAPT) – The Value Of Military Advisory Teams: Lessons From The Australian Experience In Sierra Leone

In Australian Army Journal, Vol 1 No 2, 2003; pp 106- 114

International Military Advisory Training Team mission in Sierra Leone (IMATT–SL) was raised to assist with the rebuilding the newly raised Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) in West Africa. Codenamed Operation Husky, the Australian commitment lasted for two years and consisted of an infantry captain (including the author ex – 2 RAR) and an infantry major deployed to act as a battalion and brigade adviser respectively. Each contingent deployed for a six-month tour of duty and, following two years of involvement, the Australian mission concluded in March 2003. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2003_2.pdf

Commonwealth monitoring force Southern Rhodesia (OP DAMON)

Anonymous

In Australian Peacekeeper, Summer 2021, pp 36-39.

All RAR supplied members of this operation. A three-month unarmed deployment assisted with the transition of power to the new nation of Zimbabwe. Veterans of this deployment were awarded the Rhodesia Medal.

CONNER, John – Bravery under fire

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 39, July 2007, pp 37-39.

Article on the awards made to Australian peacekeepers at the Kibeho massacre on 22 April 1995 in Rwanda. Several were 2 RAR members.

CONNER, John – Persuader for lasting peace

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 37, October 2006, pp 22-25.

Article on the UN operation in Cambodia led by Lieutenant General John Sanderson. RAR sub-units were employed in this deployment on force protection duties.

CULLINAN, Patrick, SC, OAM – Commonwealth Military Training Team Uganda (CMTTU)

In Duty First Volume 10, Number 9, Autumn 2014, pp 6-13. Published by the Royal Australian Regiment Association. This article covers the first deployment of a Training Team since the Vietnam War. Addresses the experiences of the CMTTU in Uganda over the four rotations sent and for which they were later awarded the AASM. 20 Australians served on CMTTU between 1982 and 1984, and all were detached from RAR battalions.

DETHRIDGE, Kate – A moment in conflict

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 88, Spring 2019, p7.

Article that features 3 RAR in East Timor.

EKINS, Ashley – Looking for trouble

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 90, Autumn 2020, pp 28-35.

Operation Hammersley in Vietnam resulted in penetration of the Viet Cong stronghold, but at a high cost to 8 RAR and others involved in the battle.

HODGES, Ian – Impressions of peacekeeping

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 41, January 2008, pp 24-37.

A new AWM exhibit commemorates the thousands of Australians including many RAR members who have served in a wide range of peacekeeping and peacemaking operations.

HURLEY, David AC, DSC (GEN Retd) – Somalia 30th Anniversary

In Duty First, Spring 2023, pp 28-29.

Author, who was CO 1 RAR at the time, writes of the Somalia deployment called Operation Solace from Dec 92 to May 93, based on a 1 RAR group. Accessible at https://www.dutyfirst.com.au/digital/Duty_First_Spring_2023/Duty_First_Spring_2023.html

HUTCHESON, John (LTCOL) – Helping A Friend: An Australian Military Commander’s Perspective on the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands

In Australian Army Journal, Vol II, Number 2, pp 46-55.

The Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI) was the first whole of government response to restoring law and order in a failed state in the South Pacific and included some RAR personnel. The success of the mission since July 2003 has led observers to comment that RAMSI should provide the template for future ‘permissive interventions’ in the South Pacific. The author commanded the third rotation of Combined Joint Task Force 635 (CJTF 635) that deployed to the Solomon Islands from March to August 2004. This article seeks, from a military commander’s perspective, to highlight some of the critical lessons that need to be learnt from the Solomon Islands operation in order to permit the Army to adapt and be ready for the next RAMSI-style mission. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2005_2.pdf

JORDAN, Paul – Witness to genocide: a personal account of the 1995 Kibeho massacre

In Australian Army Journal, Vol 1 No 1, 2003; pp 127-136.

In April 1995 members of the Australian Defence Force Medical Support Force, a component of the Australian Contingent of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Rwanda (UNAMIR) were deployed to the Kibeho displaced persons’ camp, protected by a platoon from 2/4 RAR. The camp had been surrounded by two battalions of Tutsi troops from the Rwandan Patriotic Army, which regarded it as a sanctuary for Hutu perpetrators of the 1994 genocide. In the ethnic slaughter that followed, the RPA killed some 4000 of the camp’s inhabitants. This is a medic’s personal account of what happened. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2003_1.pdf

KURING, Ian – Awards for distinguished service in Somalia

In Sabretache, Volume XXXIV – Number 4 – October-December 1993 pp 6-10.

Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. Provides all of the citations for awards made to the Somalia deployment. Most are 1 RAR personnel. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-1990s-volumes-xxxi-to-xl/

KURING, Ian – Somalia -1993

In Sabretache, Volume XXXIV – Number 4 – October-December 1993 pp 3-5.

Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. Addresses the 1992-93 deployment to Somalia and covers the 1 RAR Battalion Group effort. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-1990s-volumes-xxxi-to-xl/

LONDEY, Peter – 1993 Year of the Peacekeeper

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 24, pp 6-9.

Article on Australians in peacekeeping roles continuously for 56 years at the time of the article’s release. Several references to RAR people, including 1 RAR in Somalia as a whole battalion operation. Maps and photos.

LONDEY, Peter – Faces of Australian peacekeeping

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 16, Summer 2001, pp 33-35.

Stories of Australian peacekeepers across the 40+ UN missions supported. Includes RAR individuals.

LONDEY, Peter – UN Blue: 5/7 RAR in East Timor

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 10, Autumn 2000, pp 14-21.

A media post-operational report in which 5/7 RAR troops are interviewed and tell their story of early operations in East Timor.

MARTIN, Paul – Commonwealth monitoring forces Southern Rhodesia (OP DAMON)

In Australian Peacekeeper, Summer 2021, pp 36-39. Published by the Australian Peacekeeper’s Association, the paper outlines the deployment of the Australian contingent of the British-led force into Rhodesia in 1979-80 in which several RAR members were deployed, mainly direct from serving RARs at the time.

McDEVITT, Ben – Operation Helpem Fren: a personal perspective

In Australian Army Journal 2006, Volume III, No 2, Winter, pp 63-80. Author was a senior member of the operation which included elements of 1 and 2 RAR, including the latter’s HQ early in the deployments. An overview of Operation Anode, the ADF name for its contribution to this police-led multi-national mission.

McIntosh Pat, AM, CSC (BRIG Retd) – Kibeho massacre – Rwanda historic context

In Duty First, Winter 2023, pp 40-43.

An article about the UNAMIR II Deployment in 1995 to Rwanda which included A Coy of 2/4 (then 2) RAR, referring to the Kibeho massacre which occurred during that tour of duty. Author at the time was CO 2/4 RAR when deployed to command the Australian contingent, the deployment known as Operation Tamar. Accessible at https://www.dutyfirst.com.au/digital/Duty_First_Winter_2023/Duty_First_Winter_2023.html

O’HALLORAN, Kevin – Hands tied at Kibeho

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 88, Spring 2019, pp 22-3.

Article on the experiences of the 2/4 RAR personnel, and others, in Rwanda especially Kibeho.

PRATTEN, Garth – Reflections of Rwanda

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 27, pp 56-58.

Two veterans recall their experiences: Sergeant Mick Rice (RAR) with the 1st Australian contingent (ASC 1), the 2^nd United Nations Assistance Mission to Rwanda, and Captain Robyn Wilkin, a nursing officer with the latter’s medical component. Several other RAR personnel also deployed.

RICHARDSON, Tom – Touchdown in East Timor

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 88, Spring 2019, pp 8-14.

With Dili on fire Australian troops including 2 RAR and 3 RAR were part of the initial force addressed in this article.

SUTTON, David – Rwandan Tragedy

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 92 Spring 2020, pp 61-62.

Article on the deployment to Rwanda which included 2 and 2/4 RAR companies.

SUTTON, David – Unwilling Spectators

Britain at War, Lincolnshire, 2020

ISBN: 9771753309122

Article published in journal Britain at War, Issue 157/2020 pp 76-85 on the Australian experience at the Kibeho massacre at which a platoon of 2 RAR played a vital role in reducing the scale of casualties that might have otherwise been suffered. 2/4 RAR is also mentioned in the wider context of this article.

SQUIRES, Kelly and MATTEI, Tina – East Timor – the artist’s eye

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 10, Autumn 2000, pp 8-13.

Article including war artists’ depictions of troops on the ground in East Timor, most of whom were RAR.

WELLS, John – The bridge at Selai: Timor – 1 January 2000

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 10, Autumn 2000, pp 22-25.

Article of Wells who served with 108 Field Battery RAA, comprising D Coy 3 RAR during the early stages of Operation Stabilise in East Timor.

WING, Ian – Bridge of life and hope

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 17, Autumn 2002, pp 54-55.

Australian peacekeepers solve a local crisis in East Timor. Many were RAR. Photographs enable individual identification.

IRAQ 2003-09 and 2014–ongoing

Anonymous – Iraq in focus

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 26, pp 28-33.

A series of photographs taken by the 1^st Joint Public Affairs Unit in Iraq and the Persian Gulf. At least two images include 4 RAR personnel and are indicative of other RAR contributions to the Iraq War.

ARMSTRONG, Lieutenant Colonel Mark – Not hearts and minds: civil-military cooperation in OBG(W)–3

In Australian Army Journal, Vol VIII, No 1, Autumn, 2011, pp 63-74

The Australian Overwatch Battlegroup (West)-3 included about 515 personnel from 5 RAR. It provided operational overwatch to two Iraqi provinces in 2007. A small but important part of the battlegroup staff was a CIMIC (civil-military cooperation) team that supported the Commander with civil-military liaison and the planning of consent winning activities. This paper describes the CIMIC activity conducted to support battlegroup manoeuvre and identifies considerations for future tactical land commanders. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2011_1.pdf

CHAMBERLAIN, WM – The Digger in Asia – a Chronology of Australian and New Zealand Military Operations since the Second World War (Gulf War)

In Sabretache, Volume XXXIII – Number 4 – October-December 1992, pp 27-28.

Published by the Military Historical Society of Australia, Canberra. Entire journal devoted to the one topic, covering 1945 to 1992. Gulf War does not mention any RAR or individuals, but some RAR individuals were involved, primarily on exchange duties. Downloadable from https://www.mhsa.org.au/sabretache-1990s-volumes-xxxi-to-xl/

FIELDING, Marcus – Danger on the ground

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 53, January 2011.

Article on Australian assistance to the Afghanistan forces with mine clearing in 1989, based on RAR units supplemented by RAR Assault Pioneers on four-month tours to do so.

GREENSHIELDS, (Major) JM – Lessons of a contemporary combat team commander

In Australian Army Journal, Vol VI, Number 2, 2009, pp 41-53.

The author, an RAAC officer deployed with Overwatch Battle Group (West) – 2 in Iraq from Nov 06 to Jun 07in Al Muthana and Dhi QHar Provinces. OBG(W) – 2 included troops from 5/7 RAR. He provides a personal perspective of his role as the commander of a combat team in that time.  Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2009_2.pdf

Middle East conflicts: Australian experiences

Australian War Memorial, Canberra, 2017

ISBN: 9771328272343

Illustrated edited journal; 78 pages.

Some of edition of this Wartime magazine Issue 78 is devoted to RAR sub-units/units serving in Iraq.

MOLAN, J, AO (MAJGEN) – Iraq truisms: Five truisms for the ADF out of Iraq

In Australian Defence Force Journal, Issue 171, Jul-Aug, 2007, pp 8-17.

Molan, an RAR officer by background and having served in Iraq in a senior role of the Force Headquarters, provides insights about the war in Iraq including time in with SECDETs and several RAR battle groups served. Accessible at https://defence.gov.au/adc/adfj/Documents/issue_171/171_2006_Jul_Aug.pdf

NUGENT, Robert – Waving to strangers

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 42, pp 38-40.

Official cinematographer presents a collage of images form Iraq, also addressing his first meeting with Spt Coy 3 RAR soldiers on their way to serves as SECDET IX in Baghdad.

AFGHANISTAN 2006-2021

7 RAR – The Boar’s Grunt: the journal of 7^th Battalion the Royal Australian Regiment 2007

7 RAR, Darwin, 2007

ISBN: Nil

This is the first unit journal published by 7 RAR following the de-linking from 5 RAR on 3 December 2006. Includes a nominal roll at the time and includes coverage of service in Afghanistan and Operation Astute in the Pacific.42 pages. Accessible at https://straskye.tripod.com/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderfiles/7rar_journal.pdf

 

Afghanistan

Entire Wartime (Australian War Memorial), Issue No. 96 (Spring 2021). 72-page special edition devoted entirely to Australian operations in Afghanistan, including most RARs.

BLAXLAND, John – Twenty years in Afghanistan: what did Australia achieve and what did we learn?

Military History and Heritage Victoria

This online paper mentions the RTFs and MRTFs, most of which were RAR-heavy or contained RAR subunits if not, Some RARs are mentioned by name. Accessible at https://www.mhhv.org.au/twenty-years-in-afghanistan-what-did-australia-achieve-there-and-what-did-we-learn/

BLAXLAND, John – Twenty years in Afghanistan: what did Australia achieve there, and what did we learn?

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 96, Spring 2021, pp 10-16.

Article on Australia’s efforts in Afghanistan, and what was achieved. Refers to several RARs.

BOYLE, Stephanie – Recording from the front line

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 66, Autumn 2017, pp 64-65.

Former members of 2 RAR are interviewed two years after their deployment, but are not identified by name in this paper.

BRITT, Rebecca – Afghanistan: the Australian story

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 64, Spring 2013, pp 28-31.

Addresses the preparation of the new Afghanistan exhibition at the AWM, includes 3 RAR personnel and the Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicles in Uruzgan on 31 Aug 08.

CASEY, Shane – Hidden and deadly

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 64, Spring 2013, pp 32-37.

A paper on the Australian experience with Improvised Explosive Devices in Afghanistan. RAR troops feature in this paper.

CONNOLLY, Colonel PJ – Counterinsurgency in Uruzgan 2009

In Australian Army Journal, Vol VIII, No 2, Winter, 2011, pp 9-34.

Covers the Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force (MRTF-2 who replaced MRTF -1) in 2009. MRTF-2 included A Coy 1 RAR as Operational Mentoring and Liaison Team (OMLT-C) and A Coy 1 RAR as Combat Team Alpha (CT-A) respectively. This battle group handed over to Mentoring Task Force (MTF-1) in Feb 2010, MTF-1 based on 6 RAR. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2011_2.pdf

DEHNERT, Sergeant PA – Size matters: turning to small teams to succeed at counterinsurgency

In Australian Army Journal, Vol VII, No 3, Summer, 2010, pp 35-45.

Author addresses the small teams concept in warfighting including platoon housing operations in Afghanistan, based on his experiences with MTRF-1 which included his unit at the time – 7 RAR – in the period Oct 08 to Jun 09. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2010_3.pdf

FEGAN, Kahlil – Afghanistan – MTF-4: Sands of time

In Duty First, Summer 2023, pp 32-35.

An article on Mentoring Task Force 4 tour of duty in 2012. MTF-4 was based on 8/9 RAR. Accessible at https://www.dutyfirst.com.au/digital/Duty_First_Summer_2023/Duty_First_Summer_2023.html

FREWEN, John – Contested nation building: the challenge of countering insurgency in Afghanistan in 2007

In AAJ, Vol V, No 1, Autumn 2008, pp 19-37. A paper of Australian operations in Afghanistan with reference to the Reconstruction Task Forces (RTF), all of which had RAR sub-units and some commanded by an RAR HQ. Author served there in 2007, having previously commanded 2 RAR.

GAMAGE, Gary – Contact at DOAN – On patrol against the Taliban: the soldier’s experience

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 64, Spring 2013, pp 8-12.

A detailed account of a contact between infantry and the enemy. The actual RAR is not stated.

GRANT, Michael – Mad Monday

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 96, Spring 2021, pp 50-52.

Article on the capture of Objective Flambard, a demanding task for 1^st Commando Regiment in Afghanistan. 4 RAR (Cdo) is mentioned.

HAYES, (Major) Jason – Preparing our soldiers for operations within complex human terrain environments

In Australian Army Journal, Vol VI, Number 2, 2009, pp 103-116.

Author uses examples from his experiences in 1^st Reconstruction Task Force (1 RTF) in Afghanistan from Sep 06 to Apr 07 to address his topic. 6 RAR and 5/7 RAR troops served in 1 RTF. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2009_2.pdf

HEATH, Lenore – On commission in the MEAO

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 63, Winter 2013, pp 6-7.

A brief story of ADF operations in Afghanistan with photos of 3 RAR.

MASTERS, Chris – War stories from the MEAO

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 64, Spring 2013, pp 22-27.

Serving Afghanistan veterans speak to their experiences for the AWM’s Afghanistan section exhibition. No specific RAR is mentioned.

PEGRAM, Aaron – Gallantry in Afghanistan

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 61, Summer 2013, pp 4-5.

The third Victoria Cross for Australia to be awarded in Afghanistan went to a 6 RAR member, Corporal Dan Keaghran.

PROUD, Captain Matt – The COIN environment

In Australian Army Journal, Vol VIII, No 1, Autumn, 2011, pp 23-38.

Examines the key role that junior commanders and soldiers play in the execution of force concepts necessitated by modern counterinsurgency warfare. Discusses experiences from platoon teams operating as part of Combat Team A (CT-A) – platoons from A Coy 1 RAR of the Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force 2 (MRTF-2), in Afghanistan from June 2009 to February 2010. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2011_1.pdf

RICE, Captain Gareth – What did we learn from the war in Afghanistan?

In Australian Army Journal Vol 11, No 1, Winter edition, 2014, pp 6-20.

Covers the nature of mainstream operations in Afghanistan including COIN, and describes the RTF structures that were followed by the MRTFs, each of which were either based on RAR HQ or contained RAR sub-units. Gives prominence to IEDs with became the bane of both mounted and dismounted Infantry operations. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2014_1.pdf

SNOWDEN, Marshall – Picking the high fruit in the arid expanse

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 67, Winter 2014, pp 64-65.

A short paper on the difficulties associated with dealing with IEDs and the Taliban which faced all Australian troops including the RAR contingents. No specific RAR unit is mentioned, but all Afghanistan RAR veterans faced this threat.

STEWART, Elizabeth – Australia’s newest Victoria Cross

In Wartime (published by the Australian War Memorial), Issue 54, April 2011, pp 66-67. Covers the award of the VC to Ben Roberts-Smith in Afghanistan. Includes his 3 RAR background before the unit (SASR) in which he was serving at the time of the award.

Various authors – Afghanistan (Special edition of Wartime)

In Wartime, No 96, Spring 2021, Australian War Memorial, Canberra. Several papers addressing the war in Afghanistan some mentioning units/formations including RAR members.

WATSON, (Captain) Benjamin – Enhancing Platoon Groups: Adaption, diffusion and empowerment in land warfare

In Australian Army Journal, Vol VI, Number 2, 2009, pp 141 – 150

This article is about 7 Platoon, C Company 2 RAR which was part of Reconstruction Task Force – 3 who served in Afghanistan in the period Oct 07 to Apr 08. He identifies the unique ability a platoon group has to achieve success, and takes his experiences as a platoon group commander to show that doctrine and combined arms theory have a place in the modern complex battlespace. The article explains that the fundamental infantry platoon cannot be effective in Afghanistan without key enablers from all corps. It further details the importance of fostering relationships between corps to improve combat power and battlefield effectiveness. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2009_2.pdf

 

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)

PEDERSEN, Peter – Darwin: a platoon commander’s experience

In Australian Army Journal, No 316, September 1975. Author’s account while serving with 5/7RAR in Cycle Tracey humanitarian relief operations. 6 RAR followed5/7RAR as the core component of Field Force Group Darwin.

 

FUTURE

(All post-deployment material since unit last deployed to a declared war/operational deployment)

ASHLEY, WO1, David – Adaptive Campaigning and the Need to Empower our Junior Leaders to Deliver the ‘I’m an Australian Soldier’ Initiative: A Continuing Challenge for the Commander and the RSM

In Australian Army Journal, Vol VI, Number 3, 2009, pp 33-38.

Mentions 1 RAR in an example as he provides the senior soldier’s of the Army (at the time) perspective on the Adaptive Army: The complexity of the future battlespace will consistently require more and more from our junior leaders. The more is our junior leader’s ability to apply their leadership and skills across all Five Lines of Operation and to transition very quickly between them as required by Adaptive Campaigning. This means they must fully commit to prevailing in one line while thinking about the next. More so than ever we must be aware of the need to shape and develop our people. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2009_3.pdf

BICKELL, Colonel Craig – Plan Beersheba: the combined arms imperative behind the reorganization of the Army

In Australian Army Journal Vol X, No 4, Summer Edition, 2013, pp 36-52.

Outlines the effects on the combat brigades within which all RARs sat at the time (2013). Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2013_4.pdf

BREEN, Bob and McCauley, Greg – The world looking over their shoulders – Australian strategic corporals on operations in Somalia and East Timor

Land Warfare Studies Centre, Canberra, 2008

ISBN: 9780642296856

197 pages.

LWSC Working Paper No 314. This book looks closely at Australian corporals at the cutting edge of Australian peace enforcement operations in Somalia and East Timor at the end of the twentieth century. It describes and analyses their experiences seeking those that will shape military operations in the twenty-first century. Directly about predominantly RAR junior NCOs, with long-term ramifications for all future operations. Accessible at  https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/sp314theworldlookingovertheirshouldersbob_breen_greg_mccauley.pdf

CARROLL, Lieutenant Colonel Luke – Raising a female-centric Infantry battalion: do we have the nerve

In Australian Army Journal Vol 11, No 1, Winter edition, 2014, pp 34-56.

Addresses the issue of females in the Australian RAR (and other) battalions in the modern era, something only relatively adopted in the Regular Army despite international practice, especially in wartime. Addresses the Broderick Review into the subject, and the project guidance inherent in Pathways to Change. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2014_1.pdf

COLTON, Greg – Enhancing operational capability: making Infantry more deployable

In AAJ, Vol V, No 1, Autumn 2008, pp 51-56. This paper examines the role of Infantry at the time over the period Timor 1999 onwards where all RARs deployed in one form or another and recommends a range of process and deployment improvements. Author was serving in 3 RAR at the time.

CROSS, Major, Jack – The weight of the Australian Army’s cyber body armour

In Australian Army Journal 2020, Vol XVI, No 2, pp 49-61. This paper addresses the existing and developmental aspects of body armour worn by combat troops including those of the RAR. Valuable for comparing across past and current deployments and for projecting into the future. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/20780_Army-Journal-internal_WEB.pdf

DAVIES, Warrant Officer Class Two Kent – Who should drive in a motorised battalion?

In Australian Army Journal, Vol VII, No 2, Winter, 2010, pp 35- 44.

This paper discusses who should best drive the Protective Mobility Vehicles (PMV) in battalions Affects all RARs, both those serving in deployments where PMV have already been used, and into the future. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2010_2.pdf

Duty First (Journal resumed 2023)

Royal Australian Regiment Association, Adelaide, Autumn 2023

ISBN: Nil

Illustrated; 88 pages. Also digitally presented.

Re-invigorated/new publication. Contains article and reports of interest to and about the RAR battalions. This one has recent reports by  5/7, 8 and 9 RAR.  First edition in this new digital format is accessible at  https://www.dutyfirst.com.au/digital/Duty_First_Autumn_2023/Duty_First_Autumn_2023.h 

Duty First

RAR Foundation, Winter 2023

ISBN: Nil

Digital journal; also paper copies are produced.

Online revival of the premier journal of the Royal Australian Regiment. Second of such new-age sources. Accessible at  https://www.dutyfirst.com.au/digital/Duty_First_Winter_2023/Duty_First_Winter_2023.html?utm_source=sendinblue&utm_campaign=Duty_First_Winter_23&utm_medium=email#p=80

ELLIS, Dan – Senior soldier – the Company Sergeant Major

In Duty First, Summer 2023, pp 20-24.

An article of what make a good company sergeant major in the infantry battalion. Accessible at https://www.dutyfirst.com.au/digital/Duty_First_Summer_2023/Duty_First_Summer_2023.html

FIELD, Colonel Chris – Five challenges for Infantry: thinking about adaptation and change

In Australian Army Journal, Vol VII, No 2, Winter, 2010, pp 33-40.

This paper addresses immediate challenges for the future of Infantry in light of LAND 400 -Combined Arms Fighting System and other innovations driving Army in the early 21^st century while it including the RAR battalions were deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan and elsewhere. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2010_1.pdf

GILLESPIE, (Lieutenant General) KJ– The Adaptive Army Initiative

In Australian Army Journal, Vol VI, Number 3, 2009, pp 7-19.

Although RARs are not individually addressed in this vital paper, their parent 1st Division is. This paper is essential reading to understand the major change in Army in 2008 and how RARs among other units in the Army changed to a fundamentally different system of preparing for and deploying to war. Author, the Chief of Army says: The Australian Army’s success in force generation and preparation and the conduct of contemporary and future operations will be determined largely by its capacity to learn and adapt. Only through a continual cycle of reviewing and adapting in response to a changing environment will the Army retain its ability to fulfil its operational charter while also creating a culture that is capable of encouraging innovation and creativity. The ‘Adaptive Army’ initiative is more than a simple reorganisation. It is a cultural realignment that seeks to generate profound change in training, personnel management, knowledge management, learning cycles and, eventually, the Army’s culture. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2009_3.pdf

HAMMETT, J – We were soldiers once: the decline of the Royal Australian Infantry Corps?

In AAJ, Vol V, Number 1, pp 39-50. An assessment of the (under) use of Infantry primarily in Afghanistan and recommends improved use in future conflict. Accessible at https://www.abc.net.au/mediawatch/transcripts/0817_journal.pdf  

HUTCHISON, John (COL) – A Shield for a Hardened Army: The Infantry Mobility Vehicle and the Concept of a Motorised Battle Group

In Australian Army Journal, Vol 1 No 2, 2003; pp 95-102.

Author addresses the impacts of the introduction into service of the Bushmaster Infantry Mobility Vehicle in 2004 to introduce a protected motorised capability to the land force. The Bushmaster capability supports the Army’s need to possess increased infantry mobility as part of Manoeuvre Operations in the Littoral Environment (MOLE) concept. Infantry mobility is mechanised, motorised and airmobile in character, and it is unlikely that any motorised force will move on its own in the future. He postulates that motorised units will be task-organised with other force elements—including armour, cavalry, mechanised infantry, and armoured reconnaissance helicopters—operating as a Motorised Battle Group. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2003_2.pdf

Kapyong Kronicle 2014

3 RAR

Regimental journal, 140 pages long covering activity for 2014. Accessible at https://ppcli.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/KapyongKronicle2014.pdf

KILKULLEN, David (LTCOL) – Rethinking the basis of close quarter combat 

In Australian Army Journal, Vol 1 No 1, 2003; pp 29-40

Article about contemporary dismounted infantry tactics which argues that the Australian Army should reconsider some aspects of its approach to manoeuvre and suppression in the close battle. It does not argue for a particular solution, rather, it highlights some apparent problems with current doctrine and poses a challenge to innovate, and to debate the issues.  He uses UK experiences, and then his own in East Timor to help develop his argument. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2003_1.pdf

KRAUSE, (LTCOL) – Lest we forget – Combined arms assault in complex terrain

In Australian Army Journal, Vol 1 No 1, 2003; pp 41- 46.

An examination of Australian experiences post-WW II, and providing guidance for future operations given the in-service equipment and combined arms doctrine at the time of publication.  Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2003_1.pdf

LANGFORD, Ian (CAPT) – Suppression, Manoeuvre and the Modern Infantry Platoon

 In Australian Army Journal, Vol II, Number 2, pp 81-88. 

A futures paper on redefining the roles and capabilities of the Australian infantry if infantry soldiers are to remain a potent and effective force in the battlespace. Today, with the advent of precision weapons, advanced battlespace communications, smaller and more powerful combat teams and the use of combined arms, a commander has the means to ensure that manoeuvre can be supported by effective and accurate suppression. There is thus a requirement for the Australian infantry to reconsider its capability in a post-HNA environment, particularly in the area of organic suppression capabilities and in coordinating supporting fires in a joint environment. The author asserts that after a couple of centuries of extremely rapid technological change the world’s most sophisticated and adaptable instrument of war is still the infantryman. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2005_2.pdf

LIDDY, Lynda (CAPT) – The Strategic Corporal Some Requirements in Training and Education

In Australian Army Journal, Vol II, Number 2, pp 139-148.

This paper addresses the possible future needs in the preparation of the future soldier, in part based on experiences over the past 60 years. Cites a 5/7 RAR  incident in East Timor in this well-title paper, given that many of the ‘strategic corporals’ are RAR section commanders in the heat of battle. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2005_2.pdf

MORRISON AO, Lieutenant General David – Army after Afghanistan

In Australian Army Journal, Vol IX, No 2, Winter 2012, pp 7-14.

An address to the Sydney Institute in February 2012 where the Chief Army (Morrison) speaks on the Army’ future after Afghanistan (2021). Mentions the three brigades in which the RARs are positioned. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2012_2.pdf

Operation KUDU trench warfare training

Defence Australia.

YouTube video 47 secs.

Video shows 5 RAR instructors putting Ukrainian soldiers through trench warfare training in the UK as part of Operation Kudu. 

Accessible at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Lr35xOfj2s

ORR, Lieutenant Rob – The history of the soldier’s load

In Australian Army Journal, Vol VII, No 2, Winter, 2010, pp 67-88.

From the loads carried by the armies of antiquity to today’s forces, this article analyses soldier load carriage over two millennia. Historical misconceptions appearing in some military documents and literature regarding the context and weight of the soldier’s load are also discussed. The author looks at how, even with changes in logistic practices, technology and the very nature of warfare, the soldier is still a beast of burden and suggests that relying on improved load carriage logistical aides and changes to equipment may not be the answer to this age-old problem in the future. A subject dear to every RAR member’s heart.  Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2010_2.pdf

OWEN, William F – The universal infantry

In Australian Army Journal, Vol VII, No 3, Summer, 2010, pp 143-149.

Paper which proposes a universal infantry battalion model for the future. Applicable to all RARs.

Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2010_3.pdf

ROBISON, Private Cameron – Rat pack chat

In Australian Army Journal, Vol VII, No 2, Winter, 2010, pp 57-66.

Author was serving in 2 RAR, deployed with Alpha Company on Operation ASTUTE at the time of writing this paper which applies to all RAR and others. Like almost everyone who has ever eaten a combat ration pack, he has an opinion, an especially informed one given his qualifications as a fitness instructor. Discussions are drawn from his own knowledge and experience in fitness, a vital attribute for RAR soldiers. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2010_2.pdf

RYAN, Alan – Putting your young men in the mud: change, continuity and the Australian Infantry battalion

Land Warfare Studies Centre, Canberra, 2003

ISBN: 0642295956

57 pages.

LWSC Working Paper No 124. The paper discusses the implications of the transition from relatively unskilled mass industrial-age infantry to the information-age specialists who dominate the modern battlespace. Oddly, these changes have not been reflected in a fundamental reassessment of the role of the battalion in the Army’s order of battle. The paper also examines the key historical influences on the employment of the infantry battalion in the modern period, including the ongoing and relentless decentralisation of tactical formations, the ever-increasing precision and the lethal nature of weapon systems, and the exponential growth and availability of battlespace communications. Applicable to all RAR battalions, and refers to 1, 2 and 3 RAR in examples. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/wp124-putting_your_young_men_in_the_mud_alan_ryan.pdf

RYAN, Michael (LTCOL) – Preparing for Complexity: the Case for an Expeditionary Task Force in the Australian Army of 2020

In Australian Army Journal, Vol 1 No 2, 2003; pp 83-94.

This paper addresses the possible future roles for battalions and its companies in the context of 21^st century warfare following evolving trends, focusing on Task Force -sized force projections. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2003_2.pdf

SANDS, 2nd Lieutenant JB – The multi-purpose Infantry combat dog asset or liability?

In Australian Army Journal, No 316, September 1975. Addresses the use of dogs in war; most RARs deployed war dogs as trackers in Malaya and Vietnam, and may do so again in the future.

SCANLAN, Major Paul – Parachute capability still relevant to modern expeditionary operations?

In Australian Army Journal, Vol IX, No 3, Summer, 2012, pp 37-54.

Addresses the role of parachuting in future operations. Mentions 3 RAR in the discussion and uses examples of that unit’s training and capability. Accessible at  https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2012_3.pdf

SMITH, LTCOL Chris, DUUS, LTCOL Tony & WARD, LTCOL Simeon – Contemporary warfare, the utility of infantry, and implications for the Project Land 400 combined arms fighting system

In Australian Army Journal, Vol VII, No 2, Winter, 2010, pp 15-33.

This article examines the role of infantry in contemporary warfare and finds that a highly trained infantry capability is essential for contemporary warfare. Infantry must operate in concert with other arms and services, but at times will be required to operate independently from vehicles. The paper proposes a balanced force model based on a single type of infantry battalion and a single type of cavalry regiment or divided between more specialised reconnaissance cavalry and armoured personnel carrier regiments, with all forces designed to operate in combination with each other as well as independently. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_2010_2.pdf

STEVENSON, Robert C – Not-so friendly fire: An Australian taxonomy for fratricide

Land Warfare Studies Centre, Canberra, 2006

ISBN: 0 642 29638 3

65 pages.

LWSC Working Paper No 128. The paper contends that, based on Australia’s Vietnam experience, there are at least three different categories of fratricide. The first is accidental fratricide, which involves the active intent to kill the enemy but instead results in unforeseen and unintentional death or injury to friendly personnel. The second is military–industrial fratricide, which involves no enemy, but where the actions of friendly personnel result in death or injury to other friendly personnel. The third is calculated fratricide, which involves the active intent to kill the enemy or destroy their equipment or facilities but in a manner that consciously endangers friendly personnel. By seeing this problem as multidimensional, it is possible to demonstrate that, far from being an aberration, the infliction of fratricidal casualties by friendly fire is a constant and inevitable feature of military training and operations. 1 RAR is mentioned, and this issue affects all RARs. Accessible at https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/wp128-not-so_friendly_fire_robert_stevenson.pdf

Ukrainian recruits are trained in trench warfare

Ministry for Defence (UK)

YouTube video, 2 min 58 secs.

Video shows 5 RAR instructors putting Ukrainian soldiers through live firing training in the UK as part of Operation Kudu.  Accessible at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-ZIELeNyRM

Ukrainian soldiers conduct live firing progression

Defence Australia

YouTube video 2mins 17 secs.

Video shows 5 RAR instructors putting Ukrainian soldiers through live firing training in the UK as part of Operation Kudu.  Accessible at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Ujv_KWh8hs

WORSWICK, RJ (CAPT) – Direct Fire Support

In Australian Army Journal, Issue 1/99, 1999, pp 59-66.

Addresses the Direct Fire Support capabilities of (then) in -service Infantry Light Support Weapon (LSW) (5.56mm Minimi F89) and the 7.62mm M60 or MAG 58 General Service Machine Guns (GSMG). Cites various RAR unit results in machine gun matches conducted at the Australian Army Skill at Arms Meeting (AASAM) as a part of his evidence. Accessible at  https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/sites/default/files/aaj_1999.pdf