1969 |
Vietnam War Timeline |
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The McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II[ is a two-seat, twin-engined, all-weather, long-range supersonic fighter-bomber originally developed for the U.S. Navy by McDonnell Aircraft. Proving highly adaptable, it became a major part of the air wings of the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, and U.S. Air Force.[3] It was used extensively by all three of these services during the Vietnam War, serving as the principal air superiority fighter for both the Navy and Air Force, as well as being important in the ground-attack and reconnaissance roles by the close of U.S. involvement in the war. Phantom production ran from 1958 to 1981, with a total of 5,195 built.[This extensive run makes it the second most-produced Western jet fighter, behind the F-86 Sabre at just under 10,000 |
January - 1969
1 January - Commencement
1 ATF continued Operation TOAN THANG II in AO TOWNSVILLE and the 1 ATF TAOR. HQ 1 ATF (Main) remained at Base JULIA YS2281. The 1 ATF RRF conducted RIF operations in the DUC THANH AO astride LTL 2.
1 RAR redeployed to the area FSPB CHESTNUT . The helis of 9 Sqn RAAF brought forward
9 RAR to the area of DIGGERS REST and then extracted the Coys of 1 RAR from PZs in AO WONDAI.
CO 1 RAR issues orders for Op 'Tiger Balm' at FSPB JULIA YS 2281.
1850 hrs 5 Pl in contact with 2 VC. Nil Result.
A Sqn 3 Cav Regt located at FSPB JULIA YS2281.
9 RAR commence operations in AO WONDAI with minor contact. Contact: 1550H D Coy at YS 250860 with 2 En. Result: 1 VC KIA (BC), 1 VC WIA, 2 packs captured.
Digger’s Rest - YS 27-87 27 km NW of Nui Dat, 3 km SW of FSB
Cedar, 3 km NE of FSB Hawk, 16 km W of FSB Coolah and 8 km NE of QL-15. Author of Vietnam
Gunners wrote at pg 82 that it was built by 9 RAR beginning 1Jan69, as a complete,
state-of-the-art FSB, "A fortress of sandbags, bunds, culverts, barbed wire, [PSP]
gun platforms, [MG] posts and dug-in [CP]." 161 Bty RNZA (Hitching’s Bty
14Apr68- 18Mar69) firebase set here 31Dec68 (left section), and both sections 1-29Jan69.
When sent there 29 Sep-1Nov69, Andrew’s Bty found the site of old Digger’s rest
was under water and had to move it roughly 800 meters from the old position. Bien Hoa
Prov, III Corps.
Operation TOAN THANG II
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Formations/Units Involved:
1st Cavalry Division (USA); 1st Infantry Division (USA); 9th Infantry Division (USA); 25th
Infantry Division (USA); 3d Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (USA); 199th Infantry Brigade
(Light)(Separate)(USA); 11th Armored Cavalry (USA); 1st Australian Task Force; Royal Thai Forces |
Operation 'Goodwood' Continues from 13 December 1968
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Allied Units Involved: December 3, 1968 - January 1, 1969 (1 RAR); December 11, 1968- 13 January 1969 (4 RAR); January 1 - February 17, 1969 (9th RAR); Objective of Operation: recon in force Sources Used in Archive, AWM95, 1/4/136 - 1-31 January 1969, Annexes E-N (20.57Mb PDF file) Casualties: KIA AWM95, 7/1/101 Part 1 - 31 December 1968 - 4 January 1969, Duty Officer's log, Operation Goodwood (11Mb PDF file) AWM95, 7/1/101 Part 2 - 13-16 January 1969, Duty Officer's log, 1 RAR Operation Goodwood (12.02Mb PDF file) AWM95, 7/1/101 Part 3 - 17-20 January 1969, Duty Officer's log, 1 RAR Operation Goodwood (12.95Mb PDF file) AWM95, 7/1/101 Part 4 - 21-23 January 1969, Duty Officer's log, 1 RAR Operation Goodwood (10.41Mb PDF file) AWM95, 7/1/101 Part 5 - 24-27 January 1969, Duty Officer's log, 1 RAR Operation Goodwood (12.73Mb PDF file) |
Operation '
Tiger Balm'
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CTZ:
III TAO: Phuoc Tuy Province Start Date End Date 2/1/1969 4/1/1969 Allied Units Involved: 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment; 1st Australian Civil Affairs Unit Enemy Units Involved: 1 RAR, 2 Tp 1 Fd Sqn Objective of Operation: cordon and search operation Descriptive Narrative of Operation: 2 January: 1 RAR remained at FSPB CHESTNUT YS2280 and carried outRIF to the South without contact. A Coy conducted RIF operations in the DUC AO. Locations: 1 RAR (-) FSPB CHESTNUT YS2280( A Coy 1 ATF Base. 3 January. 1 RAR carried out Cordon and Search of XOM MI XOAN YS2573. The following were detained, suspccted VC PI Comd, 1 x VC guerilla, 2 draft dodgers, 2 x VC tax payers, 1 x deserter. Locations Bn HQ YS272654-A Coy 1 ATF Base; B Coy YS270667; C Coy YS267667 D Coy YS267672. 4 January: 1 RAR carried out a cordon and search of LANG PHOUCHOA Y52862 with the result 1 food agent, 2 food suppliers. 1 Intelligent agent, 1 Proganda Cadre Member, and 1 suspected VC detained. 2X Draft Dodgers were detained. Operation concluded. Location 1 RAR , 1 ATF Base. Sources Used in Archive: AWM95, 1/4/136 - 1-31 January 1969, Annexes E-N (20.57Mb PDF file) |
2 January. 2 Tp A Sqn 3 Cav Regt conduct Op LIGHTNING BOLT with A/1RAR vicinity DUC THANH YS YS4782. 2 Tp Nui Dat as Ready Reaction Force. 3 Tp(-) conduct RIF to the south of FSPB JULIA.
A Coy 1 RAR conduct a 'Road Runner' Op along Route 2.
C Sqn 1 Armd Regt. 1 Tp conducted RIP in conjunction with elements D Coy 1 RAR and 3 Tp (-) A Sqn 3 Cav Regt South of FSPB CHESTNUT YS2280. 3 Tp moved to FSPB BARBARA YS2294. 4 conducted RIF operations astride LTL 2 as part of the 1 ATF RRF. Locations: C Sqn HQ FSPB CHESTNUT YS2280; 1 Tp JULIA YS2281, 3 Tp FSPB BARBARA YS2294, 2 Tp and 4 Tp 1 ATF Base.
2 SAS Sqn has 8 LRRPs deployed. At 011530H at YS659615 a LRRP contacted 9 enemy in an old base camp with the result of 3 enemy KIA (BC) and 1 enemy wlA. At 011750H at YS652603 the same LRRP contacted 7 enemy resulting in 4 enemy KIA (BC). At 011805H at the same coordinates the LRRP waa attacked by an estimated 70 (+) enemy using 60mm mortars, MG, AW and SA. Results 1 Aust WIA, 1 NZ WIA. The LRRP was extracted 2 Jan 69.
3-1-69 .Huelin A.J. A/SubLt RANHFV(2) 26 RAN KIA Aircraft hit power lines near Saigon in bad weather.
5 January. At 1830H at YS327597 an Iroquois aircraft of 9 Sqn RAAF engaged 2 enemy and 2 sampans with the result 1 en KBA (BC), 1 en KBA (Poss) and 2 sampans destroyed.
C Sqn 1 Armd Regt. 1 Tp carried out RIP in the North of AO KILCOY area YS1785 with 1 Tp A Sqn 3 Cav Regt. 3 Tp moved to FSPB BARBARA YS2294 to assist in night defence. Locations 1 C Sqn (-) FSPB JULIA YS2201* 2 and 4 Tps 1 ATF Base; 3 Tp FSPB BARBARA YS2294.
A Sqn 3 Cav Regt. 1 Tp (-) with 1 Tp C Sqn 1 Armd Regt and elements of Def PI HQ 1 ATF, carried out RIF in AO KILCOY area YS1785. Recently occupied camps were found at YS165845 and YS183852 and a total of 15 structures and bunkers destroyed. 2 Sect 1 Tp remains in night ambush at YS166844. 3 Tp (-) carries out night ambush at YS227740. Locations: A Sqn (-) FSPB JULIA YS2281; 2 Tp 1 ATF Base; 3 Tp (-) YS227740; 2 Sect 1 Tp YS166844. At 060555H 6 Jan, the 3 Tp(-) ambush was sprung resulting in 1 x 35 ft junk sunk, 1 sampan sunk, 1 enemy KIA (BC), 2 enemy KIA (Poss).
8 January. A Sqn 3 Cav Regt. SHQ remained at FSPB JULIA YS2281. 1 Tp conducted RIF within AO KILCOY vicinity YS2479, YS2579 without contact. 3 Tp together with the HQ 1 ATF D and E PI conducted RIF in AO KNIGHTSBRIDGE. At 055H at YS277757 3 Tp contacted 5 enemy resulting in 1 Aust WIA, 1 enemy KIA (BC), 1 AK47 and documents captured. Sp Tp continued to provide route security and convoy escort on QL 15. 3 Sect 1 Tp occupied a night ambush position at YS216803. Locations: A Sqn (-) FSPB JULIA YS2201| 2 Tp and Sp Tp 1 ATF Base.
9 January. A Sqn 3 Cav Regt. 3 Sect 1 Tp abandoned night anbush position at YS2l6803 and returned to FSPB JULIA. SHQ, 1 Tp and 3 Tp plus 110. 1 ATP D and E PI conducted RIP operations in AO KHIGHTSBRIDGE vicinity YS2876, YS2976, YS2877. At 1750HI at YS265757 en element of 1 Tp struck a mine, thought to be a 105mm shell, resulting in 1 Aust WIA and light damage to the APC. 2 Tp provided route security and convoy escort on QL 15. Locations A Sqn (-) FSPB JULIA-YS2281, 2 Tp and Sp Tp 1 ATF Base.
1 ATF Op Order 3/69 ' |
Units Involved: D Coy 1 RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, 1 Fd Sqn. Reference: Vietnam L7014 , 6340, III 1:50,000 Enemy Units: No change Friendly Forces: No change Mission: To conduct land clearing ops in the vicinity of a number of PF/RF Posts in Phuoc Tuy Province. Execution: 1 RAR commenced land clearing operations in AO SEAFORTH YS2863 without contact. Locationsi 1 RAR (-) 1 ATF Base. D Coy (-) YS293624 Sources Used in Archive : AWM95, 1/4/136 - 1-31 January 1969, Annexes E-N (20.57Mb PDF file) |
11-1-69 Hurman K.R. Pte NZ43349 4RAR W2 RNZIR KBA Mine and GSW. while on Ops.
12 January. 2 Tp(-) A Sqn 3 Cav Regt insert SAS ptl into AO SHERMAN. 81 Section (APC) conclude support to 1 RAR and return to Nui Dat.
13 January. 4 RAR/NZ (ANZAC) (-) conclude Operations in AO Warragul and return to Nui Dat. V Coy located at "HORSESHOE HILL" YS4962.
1 RAR commenced operations in AO KILCOY with minor contact. At 1045H at YS249795 6 PI contacted 3 enemy carrying AK 47s. Enemy approached from East and were engaged with unknown results. Due to falling light a sweep will be conducted at first light. Locations; Bn HQ FSPB MARGARET YS2084, A Coy YS179856, B Coy YS245800, C Coy YS19183O, D Coy YS215786.
16 January. D Coy 4 RAR/NZ (ANZAC support land clearing operations in area YS4957.
17 January: 2 SAS Sqn has 5 LRRP's deployed.
Contact i At 1730H at YS312846 a LRRP engaged 3 enemy with result 3 eneny KIA (BC), The LRRP then came under fire from an estimated 5 eneny while withdrawing to an extraction LZ. During extraction a UH-HI aircraft of 9 Sqn RAAF received hits from AK47 groundfire. LFT supported the extraction. At 151030H at YS31O846 a LRRP contacted 3 enemy with result 1 en KIA (BC).
17-1-69 Harris R.A. T/Cpl 5410968 SAS 23 RAINF KIAFFF Entered LUP from wrong direction. Shot accidentally.
18 January. 83 Section (APC)
support 4 RAR in land clearing ops at YS 4957.
18-1-69 Malone P.A. T/cpl 215983 A3CAV 21 RAAC KIA APC c/s 9E hit mine 8km W of Thai Thien.
Operation
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CTZ. III Corp
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1 ATF Op Order 7/69 |
Units Involved: 1 Fd Sqn, one section A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, one section Def Pl HQ 1 ATF. Reference: AO ASQUITH Annex A Enemy Units: No change Friendly Forces: No change Mission: To conduct land clearing ops in the vicinity of a number of PF/RF Posts in Phuoc Tuy Province. Tasks: Complete land clearing tasks as arranged.Conduct direct liason with 1 RAR for protection of work area over hours of darkness, Conduct daily liason with Mil Post at YS237773 Sources Used in Archive: AWM95, 1/4/136 - 1-31 January 1969, Annexes E-N (20.57Mb PDF file) |
25 January - Peace negotiations begin in Paris.
27 January. 4 RAR/NZ (ANZAC) deploy to FSPB DYKE YS2780 by road and air to commence operations in AO Riverdale, centre of mass YS2681, with nil contact.1 RAR is to extract from AO TOWNSVIlLE on 27 JAN 69 by road and air to return to 1 ATF Base.
5 RAR Advance Party
departs Mascot for Vietnam.
29 January. Elm A Coy 5 RAR Advance Party moved on road runner ops XUYEN MOC YS6568 with A Coy 1 RAR
1 RAR. B Coy deployed by APC to area of PHU MY YS2377 to support land clearing operations. C Coy commenced RIF operations in AO MAGPIE centre of mass YS3964. Locations! 1 RAR (-) 1 ATF Base; B Coy YS236776), C Coy YS304646.
1 ATF Op Order 8/69 |
Units Involved: B Coy 1 RAR, 1 Fd Sqn, one section A Sqn 3 Cav Regt. Reference: AO GEORGE Enemy Units: No change Friendly Forces: No change Mission: To conduct land clearing ops in the vicinity of YS2573. Tasks: Complete land clearing tasks as arranged.Conduct direct liason with 1 RAR for protection of work area over hours of darkness, Conduct daily liason with Mil Post at YS237773 Sources Used in Archive: AWM95, 1/4/136 - 1-31 January 1969, Annexes E-N (20.57Mb PDF file) |
31 January. 10 Pl D Coy 4 RAR/NZ contact 5-10 enemy in bunker system at YS300830. 10 Pl engaged with AK47, RPG and claymores resulting in 2 Aust KIA and 2 Aust WIA. Enemy broke contact and withdrew west.
31-1-69 Ramsay J.S. Pte 1733037 4RAR 22 RAINF KIA RPG shrap.
31-1-69 Graham P. Pte 2787716 4RAR 22 RAINF KIA RPG shrap.
For a full summary of unit activities/contacts/incidents for the month of January see:
1 ATF Daily Reports and Daily Intelligence Reports(INTSUMS) for January
February - 1969
1 February. A Sqn 3 Cav Regt remains in loc FSPB JULIA YS2281. 2 Tp supporting Land Clearance ops. 3 Tp supporting 9 RAR ops in AO WONDAI. 81 Sect (APC) supporting 1 RAR. 82 Sect (APC) at FSPB DYKE.
2 February. 1RAR. B Coy ceased to support land clearing operations and returned to 1 ATF Base. D Coy deployed to AO GEORGE centre of mass YS2571 to support further land clearing operations. Locations: 1 RAR (-) 1 ATF Base; D Coy YS251717.
3 February - 5 RAR main body departs Sydney on HMAS Sydney.
4-2-69 Archer G.A Pte 2788583 9RAR D 22 RAIN F DOI In Japan from tent burns at Nui Dat.
8-2-69 McConachy M.R. LCpl 1201200 9RAR D/11 21 RAINF DOW From GSW wds earlier that day.
4 February.
C Sqn 1 Armd Regt. SHQ and 3 Tp conducted RIP in AO WONDAI west of QL 15. 1 Tp remained in support of W Coy 4 RAR. 2 Tp and 4 Tp remain in 1 ATF Base as part of TF reaction force. Locations: C Sqn (-) FSPB JULIA YS2201; 2 Tp and 4 Tp
1 ATF Base, 1 Tp YS321843.
A Sqn 3 Cav Regt. 1 Tp conducted RIF operations in AO WONDAI in support of 9 RAR. 2 Tp continued roadrunner and convoy escort tasks on QL 15, 3 Tp supported 1 RAR land clearing operations in AO GEORGE. Locations: A Sqn (-) FSPB JULIA YS2281, 2 Tp 1 ATF Base.
8 February. 4 RAR cease operations in
AO RIVERSDALE and commence operations in AO TIKI, centre of mass YS1886. FSPB DYKE 2780 abandoned. FSPB JANICE YS 1784 occupied.
9 February. A Sqn(-) 3 Cav Regt support the move of 52 Regt ARVN(-) from FSPB KATHLEEN YS2399 to FSPB ELIZABETH YS3594. 1 Tp supports the move of elements of 4 RAR from FSPB DYKE YS2780 to FSPB JANICE YS1784.
11-2-69 Byrne R.A. Pte 2786525 4RAR Sp 22 RAINF DOW At RGH Concord from mine on 31.08.68.
11 February. B Sqn 1 Armd Regt commence Ops in 1 ATF. 1 RAR remain at 1 ATF Base. 4 RAR continue operations in AO TIKI. 9 RAR continue operations in AO WONDAI.
Operation 'Korobal'
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Formations/Units. 9 RAR(One Coy), C Coy 4 RAR, 1 Tp B/C Sqn 1 Armd Regt, 1 Sect A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, in support 1 Fd Bty 12 Fd Regt, combat engr team 1 Fd Sqn, 1 H13 161 (Indep) Recce Sqn. |
15 February. B Sqn 1 Armd Regt (2 Trps) support 4 RAR in AO TIKI and 9 RAR in 1 ATF AO.
15 February. 1 RAR cease operations and depart Vietnam. 1 RAR relieved by 5 RAR. 1200 hrs - Main Body 5 RAR complete at Nui Dat.
16 February. 1 Troop B Sqn Tanks in heavy engagement with B Coy 4 RAR at YS213901. Result: 5 members of 1 Tp WIA, 3 en KIA. Total Result: 1 Aust KIA, 1 Aust DOW, 8 Aust WIA,1 Centurion damaged, 3 en KIA.
16-2-69 Petersen P.N. Pte. 1733375 4RAR 23 RAINF KIA GSW. In contact in bunker system 4km NE. of Tam Phuoc.
16-2-69 McGuire R.A. Pte 2787478 4RAR B/4 22 RAINF DOW On route to 1AFH from shrap wds earlier
16 February. TET Cease Fire declared.
Operation 'Federal'
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Formations/Units. 1 ATF, 4 RAR and 9 RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, B Sqdn 1st Armored Rgt, 161 Bty. |
17 February. 5 RAR at 1 ATF Base (NIU Dat).
18 February. Sioux Helicopter A1-639 from 161(Indep) Recce Flt takes severals hits from automatic SA fire and is forced to do a controlled landing after pilot is wounded. Pilot and observer not injured in crash. Both picked-up by RAAF WHI-D (Albatross). Area is engaged by light fire team. Aircraft is recovered.
21 February - 3 Sqn SAS main body arrives by air to replace 2 Sqn SAS who depart Vietnam having complete their
first tour.
2 Sqn SAS Tour Summary.
During their tour the 2 Sqn accounted for 151 VC with a further 22 possibles.
One Australian had been killed and seven wounded.
2 Sqn SAS Summary for February 1969:13 Recce Patrols, 2 contacts, 1 VC KIA(BC), 1 VC KIA(poss), 5 sightings - 19 enemy sighted, 71 days patrolling.
22 February - March 15. Communist forces end a Tet ceasefire, with
attacks on Saigon and 115 other cities. Attacks take place throughout Vietnam, killing 453
US soldiers in the first week, 336 in the second and 351 in the third.
23 February. 0305hrs. Nui Dat recieves Mortar fire. En attacks at BINH BA, PHU MY, BARIA (including hospital), HOA LONG and ARVN Outpost 427654. Task Force area stood to. 1 ATF reaction Coy deployed to engage en attacking BARIA.
23 February. 9 RAR continue ops in AO ARUNDA and AO DRACULA.
27 February. 1 ATF continued Operation 'Toan Thang III' in AO MAJURA and 1 ATF AO. HQ 1 ATF(main) remain at FSPB Kerry YT1313.
28 February - 1 RAR complete their second tour.
28 February. 3 Sqn SAS Summay of Activity for February 1969. Patrolling, 3 Recce Patrols, 4 sightings - 80 en sighted, 15 days patrolling.
For a full summary of unit activities/contacts/incidents for the month of February see:
AWM95, 1/4/140 - 1-28 February 1969, Annexes E-N (17.13Mb PDF file)
March - 1969
1 ATF continued Operation TOAN THANG III in AO MAJURA and the 1 ATF TAOR. HQ 1 ATF (Main) remains at FSPB KERRY YT1313,
Operation 'Quintus Thrust'1/3/1969- 8/3/1969
5 RAR Colour Patch |
CTZ. III Corp |
12-3-69 Manicola J.G. Pte 3793137 1ARU 22 RAINF DOD* 1 F DHOSP with cranial tumour 17.01.69 transfered /RGH Heidelberg 21.01.69.
Operation '
Federal / Overlander'
ANPRC 25 VHF Radio Set |
CTZ. III Corp |
18 March - US begins secret bombing of Cambodia.
20 March - HMAS Brisbane departs Sydney on first deployment to Vietnam.
24 March - FSB Betty - YT ?14-08 W of FSB Jillian, NW of Nui
Dat and SE of Bien Hoa. Precise location not known. 161 Bty, RNZA (Horsford’s Bty
18Mar69- 18Sep69) firebase set here 24-27Mar69. Probably Bien Hoa Prov, III Corps.
20 March - HMAS Brisbane departs Sydney on first deployment to Vietnam.
30 March - HMAS Brisbane relieves HMAS Perth at Subic Bay.
For a full summary of unit activities/contacts/incidents for the month of March see:
AWM95, 1/4/144 - 1-31 March 1969, Annexes E-N (20.2Mb PDF file)
April - 1969
HQ 1 ATF (Main) remains at FSPB KERRY YT1313, 4 RAR 1 ATF Base.
2 April. 9 RAR moved from AO REID to AO GOULBURN centre of mass YS3595 with the following results. At 0700 at YS3G0950 an APC of E Tp 2/11 ACR detonated a mine. 2 US VIA were dusted off and the APC is a suspected combat loss. At 16OOH at Y5352900 E Tp 2/11 ACR contacted approx 20 persons without result. Locations: Bn HQ FSPB WATTLE, A Coy YS32094 2; B Coy YS314944; C Coy YS329925; D Coy YS354906.
3 April. Continuing Operation TOAN THANG III 1 ATF vacated AO MAJURA. and moved to AO HUME centre of mass YS3397. AO MAJUKA reverted to control of 13 ARVN Biv with effect 031200H Apr 69. HQ 1 ATF (Main) moved to FSPB JILLIAN YT 3306.
6 April. 4 RAR (-) remains in 1 ATF Base. D Coy plus 2 Tp B Sqn 1 Armd Regt and 1 Tp A Sqn 3 Cav Regt deployed on a RIP in the BARIA area. Locations: 4 RAR (-) 1 ATF Base; D Coy (-) YS392636.
8 April. 3 SAS Sqn conduct Op 'Short Final'. Air deployment into AO THARWA, extraction by air. 9 Sqn RAAF tp provide air support.
4 RAR moved from 1 ATF Base to AO MARULAN centre of mas3 Y32984 and commenced operations without oontact. Locations: Bn HQ FSPB DYKE; B Coy HORSESHOE HILL YS4962; C Coy YS335863; D Coy YS298831; V Coy Y3311831.
5 RAR vacated AO MANUKA and returned to 1 ATF Base.
A Coy was placed op con 9 RAR with effect 081200H. Locations: 5 RAR(-) 1 ATF Base; A Coy YS324982.
9 April. 5 RAR. 5 RAR remained in 1 ATF Base. At 2147H at YS 407685 an ambush patrol contacted 2 to 4 enemy with unknown results. A Coy remained opcon to 9 RAR. At 1120H at YS332989 1 PI contacted 2 enemy resulting in 1 enemy KIA (BC) and 1xM-16, 1xM26 grenade, quanity of documents and 30,000 piastre were captured. A Coy returned to 1 ATP Base approximately 1500H. Locations: 5 RAR 1 ATF Base.
10 April - FSB Juanita - YS 22-77 24 km WNW of Nui Dat, 1 km W
of QL-15, 17 km SW of FSB Dampier and appx 40 km SE of Bien Hoa. Built beginning 11Apr69.
161 Bty, RNZA (Horsford’s Bty 18Mar69-18Sep69) firebase set here 11-16Apr69. On the
Bien Hoa-Phuoc Tuy Prov border, III Corps.
5 RAR(-) remained at 1 ATF(Base). B Coy deployed on a RIP to vicinity of YS3766. Locations: 5 RAR(-) 1 ATF Base; B Coy YS375661.
11 April. 5 RAR(-) remained in 1 ATF Base. B Coy continued on RIP operation to the South West of 1 ATF Base. At 20431 at YS393639 the night loc of B Coy came under RFG and SA fire resulting in 1 AUST KIA, 2 AUST WIA and 1 ARVN Interpreter WIA. En cas 1 KIA. Locations: 5 RAR(-) 1 ATF Base; B Coy YS393639.
11-4-69 Remeljej.A . Pte. 4719818 5RAR 21 RAINF KIA RPG shrap.
12 April. D Coy 5 RAR relieves B Coy in AO QUINTUS.
Operation 'Stafford' |
CTZ |
14 April. 3 SAS Sqn conduct Op 'Roundout' in AO GOSPERS. 9 Sqn RAAF support. C Coy 5 RAR relieves D Coy 5 RAR in AO QUINTUS.
15 April.
3 SAS Sqn conduct Op 'Overshoot' in AO PUTTY. 9 Sqn RAAF and A Sqn 3 Cav Regt in support.
18 April. All Coys 5 RAR in Loc NUI DAT except D Coy in Vung Tau.
Operation 'Surfside'
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CTZ:
III |
21-4-69 Petith T.G. AC A319010 2SQN 23 RAA F KBA GSW. Accidental.
21 April - First official RAAF "Bushranger" operational mission is
flown.
23 April. 9 RAR concludes ops in AO GLENELG and returns to 1 ATF Base.
25-4-69 Bond J.A . WO2 21977 AATTV 39 RAAC KIA At Lang Vei in Quang Tri.
26 April. 161 (Indep) Recce Sqn conduct Operation 'Nero' , the application of fire to the HAT DICH area to land clear suspected areas.
28 April - 1 May. 3 SAS Sqn conduct Op ' Bushwacker', ambush Ptl in AO Jindabyne.
US strength now at 543,400.
For a full summary of unit activities/contacts/incidents for the month of March see:
AWM95, 1/4/148 - 1-30 April 1969, Annex E-O (25.12Mb PDF file)
May - 1969
1 May. Commencement
1 ATF continued Operation TOAN THANG III. 4 RAR returns to 1 ATF Base from AO BAROSSA. 9 RAR continue Phase II Ops in Nui Dat.
B Sqn 1 Armd Regt. B Sqn (-) remained at 1 ATF Base. 2 Tp released from Op Con 4 RAR at 0112OOHI and joined a composite force consisting of elements B Sqn HQ, elments of A Sqn 3 Cav Regt and 1 ATF HQ Def PI for operations in AO TAHBILK centre of mass YS468O. 4 Tp released from Op Con 5 RAR and placed under comd 1 Fd Sqn with effect 010630H for Land Clearing operations area YS4357. Locations: B Sqn (-) 1 ATF Base, Sqn HQ (-), 2 Tp YS452858; 4 Tp YS 427570.
A Sqn 3 Cav Regt. A Sqn (-) remained in 1 ATF Base. 1 Sect 1 Tp replaced 1 Sect 2 Tp under Op Con 5 RAR. 2 Tp supported move of 4 RAR from AO BAROSSA back to 1 ATF Base. 1 Sect 3 Tp carried out convoy escort from 1 ATF Base to FSFB BRUISER YS6464 and return. Sp Tp (-) became Op Con to B Sqn 1 Armd Regt and commenced operations in AO TAHBILK. 2 Sect 2 Tp extracted LRRPs from areas YS2582, YS2676. 3 Sect 1 Tp became Op Con to 1 Fd Sqh for Land Clearing
Operation 'Beaver Dam VII'
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Units Involved:
1 Fd Sqn, one Tp B Squadron 1st Armored Regiment, 1 sec 1 ACV A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, 1 Pl 9 RAR. In gen spt 2/35 Arty (US |
Operation 'Mailed Fist'
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CTZ: III |
Operation 'Twickenham'
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CTZ.
III |
Operation 'Garryowen''
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5 May - 6 RAR main body departs for Vietnam on HMAS Sydney, this is their second tour. 4 RAR remained in the 1 ATF Base and conducted Base C Coy relieved B Coy of the defence of the HORSESHOE HILL YS4962. 4 RAR(-) 1 ATF Base; C Coy HORSESHOE HILL YS4962
Australian Forces(1 ATF) conduct a series of operations "to deny VC access from
the surrounding country side" including the notorious Long Hai Hills.
Long Hai Mountains Generally 20 km NE of Vung Tau and 15 km due S of Nui
Dat. A rugged mountain chain rising from the plain S of Ba Ria and Long Dien, and
bordering the coast of Phuoc Tuy Prov. Long Hai Airfield was on the coast at the SW edge
of this hill mass. Phuoc Tuy Prov, III Corps.
5 RAR ceased operations in AO COOGEE with effect 021600H and commenced move into AO ILLAWARRA Centre of Mass YS3268, At 0710H at YS708652 12 PI D Coy contacted 2 VC without result. Locations: 5 RAR (-) 1 ATF Base: B Coy Y3280651,
6-5-69 Gill M.W.T . Sgt(T/WO2). 14667 28 AATTV KIA At A-244 near Ben Het in Kontum Prov.
7 May. 4 RAR Phase 2 Ops 1ATF Base Nui Dat. Maintains Ready Reaction Force.
Operation 'Reynella'
|
CTZ:
III |
10 - 20 May. US and South Vietnamese troops fight for Ap Bia Mountain.
The ten-day battle is one of the fiercest of the war. After 56 Americans are killed and
420 are wounded, the troops capture the hill and kill 597 Vietnamese. The hill is recorded
in history as Hamburger Hill, and the actions there are widely criticized in the US. The
battle is one of the last major actions of its type in the war.
11 May. 4 RAR (-) remained in 1 ATF Base and conducted Base AO ptls. At l000H following a request from BLACKH0RSE Base Camp for assistance to follow up a contact in area of YS401993 W Coy (-) was deployed by air into the contact area. Contact was made with on estimated en coy at 1615H in vicinity of YS389977 resulting in 4 en KIA (BC). Locations: 4 RAR (-) 1 ATF Base; W Coy (-) YS390982.
Operation 'Roadside'
|
CTZ:
III |
3-5-69 Kerr.J.K. Tpr. 218508 19 B1AR RAAC KIA Tank ARN 169005 hit mine blowing out floor.
15 May. 4 RAR (-) remained in 1 ATF Base and carried out Bn
AO patrols. W Coy (-) and 3 PI V Coy deployed from NUI DAT at 150940H as part of 1 ATF ready reaction force to assist Sector elements re-establish control in DAT DO. 3 PI V Coy continued operations in AO SCORPION. Locations: 4 RAR (-) 1 ATF Base; V Coy (-), 3 PI V Coy YS488618, 3 PI W Coy YS756687. 9 RAR (-) deployed fron the area of AO ALDGATE to DA
DO to assist Sector elements reestablish control at 151030H. 9 RAR (-) and the ready reaction force cordoned off the village at 151600H trapping an estimate VC company. The majority of the VC wore confined to an area aprox 200 by 300 metres at vic YS487597 by a cordon comprised of Section elements. The Sector elements commenced a sweep of the inner cordon at 1151645H with
unknown results. 1 ATF troops are remaining in cordoning positions throughout the night. Cordon remains until 19 May 69.
16 May - RAAF bushranger Gunships assist in extracting an SAS 4 man
patrol, on a "hot extraction".
9 RAR together with the ready reaction force remained in cordon positions around DAT DO. B Coy conducted a sweep of the SE corner of tho village with negative contact. At YS491597 B Coy located two bunkers plus 20 x one man pits which were destroyed. 1 ATF troop3 will remain in cordon positions during the night 16-17 May. Locations: Bn HQ - FSPB THRUST - YS4954; A Coy (-) - YS505587; B Coy (-) -YS468587; C Coy (-) - YS507605; D Coy - YS480577.
17 May. 9 RAR together with the ready reaction force remained in cordon positions around DAT DO. At 1719411H D Coy observed lights flashing in the area of Y5487581. The area was engaged by M79. Movement of an assessed 2-3 Pls to the West of a patrol at YS469585 was engaged by artillery, mortars and elements of B Sqn 3 Cav Regt at 172317H. A sweep will be conducted after day light. Locations: Bn HQ FSPB THRUST YS4954; A Coy(-) YS505507; B Coy(-) YS470588, C Coy (-) YS5076013; D Coy(-) YS480577.
19 May - 6 RAR arrive Vung Tau and commence in-theatre training. 4 RAR main body depart for Australia on HMAS Sydney.
5 RAR continues ops in AO KANGAROO. 9 RAR moves from Dat Do and continued operations in AO ALDGATE with contact. Locations Bn HQ FSPB THRUST YS4954; A Coy(-) YS486535; B Coy(-) YS453574; C Coy HORSESHOE YS4961 ; D Coy YS480559.
4 RAR departs for Australia AO.W Coy deployed south of 1 ATF AO as Ready Reaction Force. Locations: 1 ATF Base; W Coy Y5399625. V Coy and W Coy placed under command 6 RAR
Operation 'Hunter'
|
CTZ |
27-5-69 O'Neill J.B. Cfn 39457 1DIVWKSP 20 RAEME DOI At 24EVAC L.B. after falling and hitting head on concrete floor .
28 May.
6 RAR commences work-up op LAVARACK in AO VINCENT centre of mass YS437797 by securing and clearing FSPB VIRGINIA YS437797 with assistance det 3 Sqn 1 Armd Regt.
29 May. AO FROG.
(292030H) At YS614804 and YS6H798, elements of B/3 Cav Regt and D & E Pl engaged an estimated 50 enemy moving from SOUTH to NORTH. The enemy broke contact and withdrew to the South and East. SPOOKY supported the friendly force. Results: eight enemy KIA (BC).
NUI DAT. (290610H) At YS433685, six 107 mm rockots impacted but three failed tc detonate. Thore was no damage or casualties.
30 May - 4 RAR arrive in Brisbane, Australia completing their first tour of Vietnam.
(301352H) AO FROG. At YS612725 2/B/3 Cav Regt supported by an LPT engaged an estimated 17 enemy moving NORTH WEST. Results; Five enemy KIA(BC), 12 KBA(poss), one RPG7, one RPG2,. one CHICOM 7.62 pistol and four RPG2 rounds captured.
Operation '
Lavarack'
|
CTZ. III |
Cumlative Totals for May 69
Enemy KIA(BC) - 55
KIA (POSS) - 2
KBA (BC) - 7
KBA (POSS) - 8
KBA Arty (BC) - Omitted
WIA - 24
Detainees - 62
For a full summary of unit activities/contacts/incidents for the month of May see:
AWM95, 1/4/152 - 1-31 May 1969, Annexes E-N (32.5Mb PDF file)
June - 1969
1 June - Commencement
1 ATF. 1 ATF continued Operation TOAN THANG III in the 1 ATF TAOR. HQ 1 ATF remained in the 1 ATF Base. B Sqn 1 Armd Regt. 1 Tp returned to 1 ATF Base with 5 RAR. Elements remain op con 6 RAR in AO VINCENT and 9 RAR in AO ALDGATE,
B Sqn 3 Car Regt, Elements with 5 RAR in AO ILLAWARRA returned to 1 ATF Base with 5 RAR. 2 Tp assisted with move of 5 RAR. Elements continued
in sp cf 9 RAR in AO ALDGATE.
5 June. Bombing recommences against North Vietnam, the first since November, 1968. An RAAF
Bushranger Gunship is forced down by ground fire with 1 crew member injured.
6 June. NUI DAT.
(a) (061525H) An unknown number of enemy rockets (NFl), impacted outside 1 ATF perimeter.
(b) (061655H) An unknown number of enemy rockets (NFl), impacted outsido 1 ATF perimeter.
(c) (061925H) An unknown number of enemy, fired an estimated nine rockets (NFl), in the area to the NORTH of 1 ATF perimeter. There wero no casualties or damage.
(d) (062032H) An unknown number of enemy, fired an estimated four rockets in tho area to the NORTH of 1 ATF perimeter. There were no casualties or damage.
Operation 'Hammer'
|
Binh Ba village situated some four miles North of the Australian Task Force HQs at Nui Dat ( |
Operation'
Tong'
|
CTZ |
FSB Duc Tanh - YS 45-78 A Fortified village On
Rte-2, app 2 km W of Ngai Giao, appx 9 km N of Nui Dat and 7 km W of FSB Longreach
(estimated location). 161 Bty, RNZA (Horsford’s Bty 18Mar69-18Sep69) firebase set
here 7-14 Jun 69. 161 Bty, RNZA, 108 Bty RAA, A Bty 2d/35th US Arty here in ‘67. Phuoc
Tuy Prov, III Corps.
8 - President Nixon announces the withdrawal of 25,000 combat troops from South
Vietnam. The withdrawal is completed by August.
10-6-69 Bancks L.R. WO2 19220 17CONST 53 RAE At Moorbank. NSW
15 June. 9 RAR ceases Ops and returns to 1 ATF Base. 6 RAR/NZ supported by 101 Fd Bty and elements of B 3qn 1 Armd Regt and B 3qn 3 Cav Regt continued RIP and ambush operations in AO VINCENT.
Operation 'Esso'
|
CTZ:
III |
17 June - An RAAF "Bushranger" Gunship accidently fires on elements
of A Coy 6 RAR causing 3 wounded.
17-6-69 Williams J.S. Pte. NZ41530 6RAR RNZIR KIA In contact. GSW to head and neck
24 June - General Hay, Commander Australian Forces Vietnam(COMAFV) writes to
the Task Force Commander, Brigadier Pearson, " I enclose a signal from the Sec Army
which I have just received. You can see the Australian reaction to our recent casualties
from mines...". Operations are ceased in that area.
In June 1969, the U.S. Navy anchored a mobile pontoon base in the middle of the Ca
Mau region's Cua Lon River. This operation, labelled Sea Float, was made difficult by
heavy Viet Cong opposition, strong river currents, and the distance to logistic support
facilities. Still, Sea Float denied the enemy a safe haven even in this isolated corner of
the delta. The allies further threatened the Communist "rear" area in September
when they set up patrols on the Ong Doc, a river bordering the dense and isolated U Minh
area. Staging from an advance tactical support base at the river's mouth, U.S. and
Vietnamese PBRs of Operation Breezy Cove repeatedly intercepted and destroyed enemy supply
parties crossing the waterway.
27 June. 9 RAR (-) remained in the 1 ATF Base conducting Base AO patrols and provided the Roady Reaction Company. Elms of C Coy deployed into AO GUDGEON on OP READBACK centre of mass YS5577 with 2/48 ARVN and conduct RIF operations.
27-6-69 Walsh B. Sgt(T/WO2) 214468 AATTV 29 RAINF KIA GSW to head at A-244 in contact at Ben Het in Kontum Prov.
Operation 'Matthew'
|
CTZ |
CumlativeTotals for Jun 69.
(1) Enemy KIA (BC) - 176,
KIA (Poss) - 16
,
KBA (BC) - 2, KBA (Poss) 3
KB Arty (BC) 1,
KB Arty (Poss) - Nil
WIA 20 ,
WIA (Poss) 1,
Detainees - 32 , PW - 16 , Hoi Chanh - Nil
Individual weapons captured/destroyed - 92.
Crew served weapons captured/destroyed - 12,
Tons of rice captured/destroyed - 2 tons.
VC and NVA Tacttics. " Grag the enemy by the belt"
"In conditions when the enemy is still superior to us in technicaI weapons, to assault strongly implies a great significance because it is a method by which we mingle with the enemy while fighting him, thus preventing him from making good use of his airforce, artillery and mechanized vehicles."
For a full summary of unit activities/contacts/incidents for the month of June see :AWM95, 1/4/156 - 1-30 June 1969, Annexes E-N (34.34Mb PDF file)
July 1969
1 July - Commencement
1 ATF continued Operation TOAN THANG III in the 1 ATF TAOR in AO ALDGATE. HQ 1 ATF remained in the 1 ATF Base.
B Sqn 1 Armd Regt, Elements remained op con 5 RAR in AO ALDGATE, and 9 RAR in AO TOM THUMB. Elements deployed in support 2/48 ARVN in AO GUDGEON.
B Sqn 3 Cav Regt. Elements continued phase 2 operations in AO SCORPION. . Elements remained op con 5 RAR In AO ALDGATE and
9 RAR in AO TOM THUMB. Route security and convoy escort continued.
5 RAR (-) supported by 105 Fd Bty, elements of B Sqn 1 Armd Regt and B Sqn 3 Cav Regt continued RIP ambush and pacification ops in AO's ALDGATE and BLOCK. B Coy training ops HORSESHOE HILL. C Coy continued RIF and ambush ops in AO DRIEKIKIR.
6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC). 6 RAR remained in tho 1 ATF Base, conduct Base AO patrols and provide the Ready Reaction Company.
9 RAR (-) continued RIP and ambush ops in AO TOM THUMB. Elements of C Coy continued RIP and ambush ops in conjunction with 2/48 ARVN Bn in AO GUDGEON.
3-7-69 O'Hanlon R.M. F Off O16657 2SQN 27 RAAF * At RGH Greenslopes. Qld.
3 July. 6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC). 6 RAR(-) remained in the 1 ATF Base, conducting Base AO patrols and providing Ready Reaction Company. A Coy and Sp Coy deployed into AO MOON centre of mass Y32377.
Operation 'Blockade' |
Allied Units Involved: B Sqn 1 Armd Regt, Combat Engr Team(1 Fd Sqn), one Tp B Sqn 3 Cav Regt, one Mortar Section 6 RAR, in spt 161Fd Bty, B 2/35 Bty(US) |
5 July . 6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC). 6 RAR(-) remained in the 1 ATF Base conducting Base AO patrols and providing Ready Reaction Company. A Coy and Sp Coy(-) continued operations in AO MOON. V Coy was deployed into AO MOON.
Operation 'Waiouru' |
Allied Units Involved: B Coy & V Coy 6 RAR, Combat Engr Team and one Splinter Team(1 Fd Sqn), 3 Tp B Sqn 1 Armd Regt, 2 Dusters 5/2 Arty(US), in DS 101 Fd Bty, spt 161(Indep) Recce Flt. In spt 9 Sqn RAAF, 3 CM-47s US Army Avn. |
9 July: 5 RAR continues Ops in AO ALDGATE, 6 RAR 1 ATF Base(provide Ready Reaction force), 9 RAR continues Ops in AO TOM THUMB, B Sqn 3 Cav Regt provide spt to 5 RAR and 9 RAR, B Sqn 1 Armd Regt provides spt 5 RAR, 9 RAR and 1 ATF Reaction Force,1 Fd Sqn conducts Land Clearing Ops with 5 RAR.
11-7-69 Frith D.C. Pte NZ573233 6RAR2 V4 RNZIR DOI Injury.
14 July : 5 RAR (-) completes ops in AO ALDGATE and BLOCK and returns to 1 ATF Base. One Coy conducts retraining 2/52 ARVN at HORSESHOE HILL YS4962.
Operation 'Mundingburra'
|
Allied Units Involved: 6 RAR, two Combat Engr Teams and two Splinter Team(1 Fd Sqn), one Tp B Sqn 1 Armd Regt, one section B Sqn 3 Cav Regt, 2 Dusters 5/2 Arty(US), in DS spt 161(Indep) Recce Flt. In spt 9 Sqn RAAF, 3 CM-47s US Army Avn. |
FSB Buffalo - YS 44-89 In the Courtenay rubber Plantation on the W
side of Rte-2, 7 km due W of FSB Flinders, 22 km due N of Nui Dat and 8 km ESE of FSB
Wattle. 161 Bty, RNZA (Horsford’s Bty 18Mar69-18Sep69) firebase set here 13-19Jul69 (one section). On 13Jul69, 161 fired its 1st "Chieu Hoi" mission using shells
packed with Chieu Hoi propaganda leaflets and safe conduct passes for the enemy. And
during Jul69, one of the Bty’s FO’s radioed a legendary sit-rep while the RAR
unit he was accompanying was in heavy battle: "Every time I put my fucking head up,
it gets fucking well shot at, over." On the Long Khan-Phuoc Tuy Prov border, III Corps.
15 July. 5 RAR and 105 Fd Bty to return to 1 ATF Base.
Operation 'Intruder'
|
CTZ |
Operation '
Ginger'
|
CTZ |
Operation '
Hat Dich'
|
CTZ |
17 July. HQ 1 ATF FWD deployed to FSPB Clare YS2083, 5 RAR(-) remains 1 ATF (one Coy at Horseshoe Hill), 3 Coy 6 RAR conducting RIF and ambush Ops in AO ROSSLEA, 9 RAR re- deploys to AO PORPHRY Operation Hat Dich, B Sqn 3 Cav Regt deploys and commences phase 2 Ops in Xuyen Moc District.
19 July. RAAF Bushranger and Dustoff aircraft support C Coy 9 RAR who are in
a heavy contact with enemy.
21 July. 5 RAR deployed in AO PANTHER on Op DISTANT TRUMPET supported by 1 sect 105 Fd Bty. One conpany remained in base providing the Ready Reaction Company.
Operation '
Distant Trumpet'
|
CTZ. III |
Photo Courtesy of : The Australian
|
WARNES, CATHERINE ANNE (1949-1969), entertainer, was born on 7 December 1949 at Arncliffe, Sydney, second of three children of George Alfred Warnes, an English-born motor mechanic, and his wife Nancy Starnes, née Buck, from Sydney. Cathy attended Athelstane Public and Arncliffe Girls' High schools. She showed an early interest in the performing arts and, while in primary school, began taking singing and dancing lessons. By the age of 12 Warnes was appearing on stage in local community and school concerts. Spotted by a talent scout, she was offered a permanent spot, dancing on television station TCN-9's programme 'Opportunity Knocks'. At 16 she won second prize for singing in the Starflight talent quest. This competition was conducted by another popular Channel 9 show, 'Bandstand', on which she became a regular performer. She began entertaining in clubs, even though she was under the legal age to enter these premises, and recorded advertising jingles for radio and television. Later she joined the 'pop' singer 'Col Joye' on several concert tours around Australia. Warnes used the stage name 'Cathy Wayne'. In the first half of 1967 she travelled with other entertainers to the Republic of Vietnam (South Vietnam) on a wartime concert tour sponsored by the Australian Forces Advisory Committee on Entertainment. Because she was not yet 18, it had been necessary for Bruce Webber, the organizer of the tour, to obtain the approval of her parents for her to take part. He recalled that she had 'leapt at the chance' to go to South Vietnam. Members of F.A.C.E. concert parties were not paid for their services but were given a daily living allowance and a security guarantee. In mid-1969 Warnes returned to South Vietnam as the lead singer in an Australian pop group, 'Sweethearts on Parade'. The tour was privately arranged by Ingrid Hart, a promoter and performer, and was not under the auspices of the Australian government. On 20 July that year at Da Nang, Warnes was on stage in a club for non-commissioned officers of the United States Marine Corps when a bullet, fired from outside the club, passed through the insect-screen of an open window and hit her in the chest, killing her. Her body was returned to Australia and cremated with Anglican rites. Sergeant J. W. Killen, U.S. Marines, was convicted of the unpremeditated murder of Warnes, allegedly while attempting to shoot his commanding officer, Major R. E. Simons, who had been in the audience. Nancy Warnes was reported as saying that she and her husband had not been in favour of their daughter's second trip to Vietnam but that 'she wanted to go—Cathy had a will of her own'. Her father told journalists that she had hoped to '''save a few dollars'' to help her singing career on return to Sydney'. Catherine Warnes was one of three Australian women killed in Vietnam during the war. The other two, Lee Makk and Margaret Moses, were welfare workers who died in an aeroplane crash in 1975. (Australian Dictionary of Biography) S. McHugh, Minefields and Miniskirts (Syd, 1993); Sydney Morning Herald, 23 July 1969; Australian, 18 Aug 1988; A4531, item 62/2/3/2 (National Archives of Australia). |
Operation 'Camden'
|
CTZ. III
|
29 July. 5 RAR two Coys at YS2981, one Coy at YS3283 - Bn HQ FSPB Polly YS3283 - one Coy at Horseshoe Hill, 6 RAR 3 Coys at AO ROSELEA YS4745 - one Coy at YS5456 - Bn HQ at FSPB THRUST, B Sqn 1 Armrd Regt at AO MICK YS4679, B Sqn 3 Cav Regt provides sections to 6 RAR.
31 July. 5 RAR. Completed deployment into AO PORPHRY (extended) for Land Clearing Operations. Under comd one tp B Sqn 1 Armd one tp and elements of sp tp B Sqn 3 Cav Regt and in direct support 501 Land Clearing Coy US Engrs. Supported by 105 Fd Bty.
6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC) (-). Continued RIF and ambush operations in AO R0SSLEA and WESTEND supported by 101 Fd Bty and elements of B Sqn 1 Armd Regt and B Sqn 3 Cav Regt. Two coys retumed to
1 ATF Base.
9 RAR. Completed RIF and ambush operations in AO PORPHRY and returned to i ATF Base Conducts base AO patrols and provides Ready Reaction Company.
Cumulative Totals for Jul 1969
Enemy KIA (BC) - 40.
KIA (POSS) - 7.
WIA - 13
Enemy WIA (POSS) - 4.
KBA (BC) - 2.
KBA (POSS) - 4.
KB Arty(3C) - 1.
KB Arty(POSS) - 2.
Detainees - 17 Hoi Chanh - Nil PW - 2
Individual weapons captured/destroyed - 48.
Crew served weapons captured/destroyed: - 2.
Tons of rice captured/destroyed - 3.18.
For a full summary of unit activities/contacts/incidents for the month of July see: AWM95, 1/4/160 - 1-31 July 1969, Annex E-N (34.97Mb PDF file)
August - 1969
1 August. Commencement
1 ATF continued Operation TOAN THANG III in 1 ATF TAOR and AO ROSSELEA. 1 ATF Liaison Team rema ins with Vietnamese Marine Brigade in RTAVF TAOR vic FSPB GREY.
(2) B Sqn 1 Armd Regt. Continued pacification operations in AO MICK centre of mass YS4779. One Tp op con 5 RAR for LCT protection in AO MINDY.
(3) B Sqn 3 Cav Regt. Provides one sect to 6 RAR and LCT in AO ROSSLEA. One Tp and elements of Sp Tp to 5 RAR and LCT for protection in AO MIINDY. One Tp conducted pacification operation in XUYEN HOC District. Elements of Sp Tp op con to B Sqn 1 Armd Regt in AO MICK. Route security and convoy escorts continue.
(4) Task Force Artillery. u H and I missions were fired during
the reporting period.
(5) .1. Fd Sqn. Continued land clearing operations in AO ROSSLEA.
(6) 5. RAR. Continued land clearing operations in AO MINDY, Under comd One Tp B Sqn 1 Armd Regt, One Tp and elements of Sp Tp,B Sqn 3 Cav Regt and in direct support 501 Engr Coy (LCT) (US). Supports by 105 Fd Bty.
(7) 6_RAR/NZ (AHZAC). Continued RIF and ambush operations in AO ROSSLEA and WEST END supported by 101 Fd Bty and elements of B Sqn 1 Armd Regt and B Sqn 3 Cav Regt.
(8) 9 RAR Provides Ready Reaction Coy.
2 August: 6 RAR Regimental Barber is to open 0830-1200 hrs , 1300 1700 hrs Sun - Sat, 1800 - 2000 hrs Tue and Fri(except Ops), Cost 30 MPC.
2 - 4 August. B Coy 9 RAR deployed to AO RUMBLE for recce Ops.(Op Thunder)
3 August. 9 RAR Deployed Ready Reaction Coy at YG384595 for engineer protection. One Coy continues on RIP and ambush operations in AO RUMBLE centre of mass YS4180.
5 - 7 August. C Coy 9 RAR deployed to AO Slap for recce Ops. (OP Thunder)
2-8-69 Hards E.W.G. Pte 515835 1ARU 22 RAIN F DOD* Died of illness at RGH Hollywood.
11-8-69 Smith B.F. Pte 3793566 5RAR2 B 21 RAINF DOW FFF At 1FDHOSP from GSW. Mistaken for VC and shot by section sentry.
12-8-69 Banfield D.J. Pte 6709107 5RAR 21 RAINF KIA Shrap to throat and GSW while being winched to Dust-Off in the Hat Dich
Operation '
Platypus '(1969 version)
|
CTZ: III Corp |
15 August. 6 RAR Deploy from AO ROSSLEA and AO WEST END to Nui Dat.
Operation '
Neppabunna'
|
CTZ |
17 - 26 August. A fierce battle breaks out in the Que Son Valley, 30 miles south of Da Nang. More than 60 Americans are killed in the fighting.
Operation 'Long Tan'
|
CTZ |
Operation 'Tekapo' |
CTZ |
21 August - RAAF No 9 Sqn helicopter A2-281 is damaged by ground fire supporting
5 RAR who had suffered 14 wounded in a heavy fire fight with enemy troops.
Morgan Gallup Poll finds 55% of Australians want our troops brought home from Vietnam.
Operation 'Burnham'
|
CTZ Casualties. |
30 August. 5RAR return to 1 ATF Base (Nui Dat).
Following Monthly Statistics Submitted for Period 1 Aug - 31 Aug 69.
a. Friendly KIA - 3.
b. Friendly W/IA - 83.
c. Contacts - 69.
d. Enemy KIA - 81. PW captured - 1.
f. Total VCI killed and captured - 10.
g. Total SA captured and destroyed - 40,
h. Total crewserved wpns captured and destroyed - 5.
For a full summary of unit activities/contacts/incidents for the month of August see: AWM95, 1/4/164 - 1-31 August 1969, Annex E-N (39.06Mb PDF file)
September - 1969
1 September - Commencement
(1) I ATF continued Operation TOAN THANG III in the 1 ATF TAOR. HQ 1 ATF remained in the 1 ATF Base.
(2) B Sqn 1 Armd Regt. Tk tps remained opcon 6 RAR in AO STUART and 9 RAR in AO BURR One tp remained with the 1 ATF Ready Reaction Force for recce operations vicinity YS4377; returned to 1 ATF Base at 1630 hours.
(3) B Sqn 3 Cav Regt. One tp remained opcon 6 RAR for LCT protection in AO STUART. One tp remained with the 1 ATF Ready Reaction Force for recce operations vicinity YS4377; returnod to 1 ATF Base at 1630 hours. Sects continued opcon 9 RAR and LCT in AO BURR.
(4) Task Force Artillery. No contact and 14 H and I missions were fired during the reporting period (1 Sept)
(5) 1, Fd Sqn. Continued barrier minefield clearance operations in South of Dat Do and land clearing oporations in AO BURR. Elements continued to support 6 RAR in AO STUART, 9 RAR in AO BURR and the 1ATF Ready Reaction Force vicinity YS4377.
(6) 5 RAR 1 ATF Base. One coy conducted recce operations with the 1 ATF Ready Reaction Force vicinity YS4377; returned to 1 ATF Base at 1630 hours. Bn HQ located 1 ATF Base.
(7) 6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC). Continued recce, ambush and LCT protection operations in AO STUART, supported by 101 Fd Bty, 60 Engr Coy (LCT)(US) and elements of B Sqn 1 Armdi Regt, B Sqn 3 Cav Regt and 1 Fd Sqn. One coy continued retraining 3/43 ARVN Bn on HORSESHOE HILL. Bn HQ Iocated FSPB DIGGERS REST YS271075. At YS274837, V Coy 6 RAR located a major on def posn comprising 67 bunkers, 130 fighting trenches, 27 trenched shelters, 12 kitchens and a lecture area. Cooking eqpt and 50 rounds 7.62mm linked were recovered. System destroyed by LCT.
(8) 9 RAR. Continued recce, ambush and LCT protection in AO BURR, supportod by 161 Fi Bty (NZ), B Sqn 1 Armd Regt, B Sqn 3 Cav Regt and 1 Fd Sqn. Bn HQ completed deploymont to FSPB WELLS Y565669l..
Operation '
Chieftain'
|
CTZ: III
|
4 September: The death of Ho Chi Minh, aged 79 years.
8 September. 1150 hrs 1 ATF advised that a Truce would exist from 072400H to 110100H
for funeral of Ho Chi Minn. Units of 2 FFV are not to initiate any major activity but 1 ATF ops as planned are to continue. All necessary measures are to bo taken to ensure the security of own troops. Arty is restricted to contacts, DPs and ilium. No offensive air is to be flown except in the event of a contact. The above msg was passed to all sub-unit.
10 September. 5 RAR. 1 ATF Blase. One coy supports 9 RAR operations in AO BURR. One coy remains on 1 ATF Ready Reaction Force standby. Bn HQ remains 1 ATF Base.
Operation '
Kingston'
|
CTZ: III |
15 September . HMAS Vendetta departs Sydney on Vietnam deployment.
9 RAR redeploys from AO BURR to 1 ATF Base NUI DAT. One
coy remains on 1 ATF Ready Reaction Force standby. Bn HQ located 1 ATF Base NUI DAT.
16 September. Further troop withdrawals of 6,000 announced by the US.
17 September. Rainfall. Overnight to 170800H 18 points. From 0800H to 1900H one point. Total 19 points.
Prevailing Winds. Wes tNorth West winds (5300 mils) at four knots.
20 September. 9 RAR. 1 ATF Base 0ne Pl deployed to opcon B Sqn 1 Armd Regt in AO SABOT. One Pl protected LCT security BINH BA. One coy remained on 1 ATF Ready Reaction Force standby. Bn HQ located 1 ATF Base.
21 September. Thirty-five B-52s drop more than one thousand tons of bombs on North
Vietnamese targets near the DMZ (demilitarized zone) between North and South Vietnam.
(251120H) At YS209826, an 18 ARVN Div convoy was ambushed on Route 15. An unknown number of 60mm mor rds, SA and AW fire from an unknown number of enemy was received. Friendlies returned AW fire and contact was broken at 1430H. At 1430H, 2/4Q ARVN reaction force flew in and contact was re-established at 1700H, with an estimated VC PI. Contact was broken at 2000H. Results: 50VC KBA, 1 PVV(HFl), 3 AK47 CIA, 3 ARVN KIA, 5 ARVN WIA, 1 ARVN MIA, 2 M16 missing, 8 vehicles destroyed, 4 vehicles moderately damaged.
(251200H) At YS197847, 316 RF Coy compound and MAT Team No 7 received SA, RPG and AW fire followed by an estimated VC Coy ground attack. Fire was returned with organic weapons, tactical air, LPT and ALOFT Support; contact was broken at 1400H. Results: 11 VC KIA (BC). 1 US advisor KIA, 1 US advisor WIA, 2 VN KIA, 5 VN WIA, 1 VN MIA. Most of these casualties occurred when elms of the coy moved out of the post to follow up the withdrawing enemy.
27-9-69 Fisher D.J.E. Pte 2787344 3SAS 23 RAINF KIA .BNR.Fell from chopper rope during hot extraction
28 September - HMAS Vendetta relieves HMAS Brisbane at Subic Bay.
Operation 'Backbone'
|
CTZ: III |
30 September. 6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC), Deployed with 101 Fd Bty from AO STUART to 1 ATF Base, NUI DAT. One coy remained on 1 ATF Ready Reaction Force standby. One coy continued combined operations with 3/52 ARVN Bn from HORSESHOE HILL. Bn HQ located 1 ATF Base.
9 RAR - Deployed from 1 ATF Base to AO STUART and commenced recce, ambush and LCT protection operations supported by 161 Fd Bty (NZ), 60 Engr Coy (LCT) (US) and elements of B Sqn 3 Cav Regt and 1 Fd Sqn. One coy continued recce operations vicinity YS6395. Bn HQ located FSPB DIGGERS REST YS271875.
Cumulative Totals for September
(1) Enemy KIA (BC) - 58.
KIA (Poss) - 15 . WIA - 7.
KBA (BC) - 9
(2) Detainees - 7 PW - 2
(3) Individual weapons captured/destroyed - 66
(4) Crew served weapons captured/destroyed - 2
(5) Tons of rice captured/destroyed - 1.07
(6) 107mm Rockets complete captured/destroyed - 2
For a full summary of unit activities/contacts/incidents for the month of September see : AWM95, 1/4/167 - 1-30 September 1969, Annex E-N (36.41Mb PDF file)
October - 1969
Commencement of October :
(1) 1 ATF continued Operation TOAN THANG III in the 1 ATF TAOR. HQ 1 ATF remained in the 1 ATF Base.
(2) B Sqn 1 Armdj Regt. Sqn HQ (-) plus two tps and supporting elements continued recce and ambush operations in AO SABOT. One tp remained at HORSESHOE: HILL. One tp remained on 1 ATF Ready Reaction Force standby.
(3) B SQn 3 Cay Regt. One tp remained op con 9 RAR for LCT protection in AO STUART. One tp plus one AMC sect remained op con 5 RAR in AO MAX. One sect plus one AMC sect continued op con B Sqn 1 Armd Regt in AO SABO. One sect plus one AMC sect continued op con coy 6 RAR in AO GUM. One tp remained on 1 ATF Ready Reaction Force standby.
(4) Task Force Artillery. Two contact and 23 H and I tasks fired during the reporting, period.
(5) 1 Fd Sgn. Elements continued to support 5 RAR in AO MAX, 9 RAR in AO STUART, B Sqn 1 Armd Regt in AO SABOT and coy 6 RAR in AO GUM. Road reconstruction continued near AN NHUT.
(6) 17 Const Sqn. Elements deployed with coy 6 RAR to AO GUM to commence land clearing operations.
(7) 5 RAR. Continued recce and ambush operations in AO MAX supported by 105 Fd Bty and elements of B Sqn 3 Cav Regt and 1 Fd Sqn. Bn HQ located FSPB BEN YS603764.
(8) 6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC). 1 ATF Base. One coy deployed to comnence land clearing operations in AO GUM, centre of mass YS2675. One coy continued to conduct combined operations with 3/52 ARVN Bn from HORSESHOE HILL.
Bn HQ located 1 ATFBase.
(9) 9 RAR. Continued recce, ambush and LCT protection operations in AO STUART, supported by 161 Fd Bty (NZ), 60 Engr Coy (LCT) (US) and elements of B Sqn 3 Cav Regt and 1 Fd Sqn. One coy concluded recce operations vicinity YS6395 and deployed to AO STUART. Bn HQ located FSPB DIGGERS REST YS271875.
2 October. The 'Beachcomber Club' on Back Beach
Rd is out of bounds to all ranks except when personally invited or accompanied by American Servicemen.
6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC.).. 1 ATF Base. One coy continued LCT protection operations in AO GUM. One coy deployed to vicinity YS6395 and commenced recce operations. One coy remained HORSSHOE HILL and conducted combined operations with 3/52 ARVN Bn. One coy remained on 1 ATF Ready Reaction Force standby. Bn HQ located 1 ATF Base.
2-10-69 Prior K.J. Pte 1734329 9RAR 22 RAINF KIA GSW to head in Bien Hoa Prov. while in ambush
3 October- 7 RAR and 106 Field battery are warned for active service in Vietnam.
4 October - Morgan Gallup Poll finds 58% of Australians believe the Vietnam War was a mistake.
6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC ). 1 ATF Base. One coy concluded LCT protection in AO GUM and returned to 1 ATF Basej. One coy concluded recce operation vicinity YS6395 end returned to 1 ATF Base. One coy remained HORSESHOE HILL and conducted combined operations with 3/52 ARVN Bn. One coy remained on 1 ATF Ready Reaction Force standby; Bn HQ located 1 ATF Base.
7 October. 6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC). 1 ATF Base. One coy continues combined operations with 3/52 ARNK Bn in DAT DO District. One coy remains on 1 ATF Ready Reaction Force standby. One coy plus supporting elements deploys to AO SABOT, centre of mass YS4581 to carry out recce and ambush operations Bn HQ remains 1 ATF Base.
8 October - Laos requests increased aid from the US to meet Communist aggression.
10 October. 6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC ). 1 ATF Base. One coy continued combined operations with 3/52 ARVN Bn in DAT DO District. One coy remained on 1 ATF Ready Reaction Standby. One coy returned to 1 ATF Base from operations
in AO SAiBOT with elements of B Sqn 1 Armd Regt, B Sqn 3 Cav Regt and 1 Fd Sqn.
Operation '
Ross' 6 RAR Unit Patch |
A. VIETNAM, Series LY014 Sheets 643 II and 6429 I 1:50 000. |
15 October- Massive war demonstrations in America.
5 RAR returns to 1 ATF from recce and ambush ops in AO MAX and AO JOHN. Bn HQ located at 1 ATF Base.
2400hrs. All Coys 5 RAR in Loc 1 ATF Base (Nui Dat)
Between February and October 1969 - Australian B Sqn Tanks have been involved in 39
separate operations.
16 October. (160630H). Vung Tau Air base received six 122mm rockets, three rounds impacting in the water causing no casualties or damage, two rounds impacting inside the air base causing no casualties or damage and one round impacting in the Alaska Barge Coy compound and US Navy compound hitting two living quarters. Suspected launch site was YS285557. Results: 1 US Navy KIA, A US Navy WIA, 1 VN Civilian KIA, 1 building, destroyed, 1 building heavily damaged.
20 October. 5 RAR remained in 1 ATF Base. One PI deployed for ambush task on Operation WOLF PACK with RSSZ. Provided coy for 1 ATF Ready Reaction Force. Bn HQ loc 1 ATF Base.
21 October. 5 RAR remained in 1 ATF Base, One Pl returned to 1 ATF Base
from task on Operation WOLF PACK with RSSZ. One coy deployed on ambush and recce ops in AO SABOT opcon to B Sqn 1 Armd Regt. Providedi one coy for 1 ATF Ready Reaction Force, Bn HQ loc 1 ATF Base.
22-10-69 Casey A.L. Tpr 218451 B3CAV RAAC 20 KIA APC (ARN134279) hit by 2 RPG's E. of the Light Green.
24 October. 5 RAR remained in 1 ATF Base. One coy returned to 1 ATF Base from ambuah and recce tasks in AO SABOT opcon to B Sqn 1 Armd Regt. Provides one coy for 1 ATF Ready Reaction Force. One coy plus one sect B Sqn 3 Cav Regt and one PI 5/2 AW Bn(Dusters) deployed to vic YS3062 on route security ops. Bn HQ remains 1 ATF Base.
26-10-69 Holloway J.W. Pte. 3794544 9RAR RAINF 22 KIA In Bien Hoa Province.
27-10-69 Binder B.G.F. Pte. 134994 9RAR RAINF 21 KIA Lightning struck claymore.
28 October. 5 RAR remained in 1 ATF Base. Provides one coy for 1 ATF Ready Reaction Force standby. One coy plus one sect B Sqn 3 Cav Regt and one Pl 5/2 AW Bn (Dusters) returned to 1 ATF Base from route security ops. Bn HQ remains 1 ATF Base.
30-10-69 O'Neill A.L. Cpl 36547 2SAS 36 RAIN F DOD RTA 11.09.68 from illness.
Operation '
Kings Cross'
|
CTZ:
III |
31 October - 1 November. Op 'Jack' - 9 RAR is to return to 1 ATF . FSPB Digger is to be destroyed.
October 1969, one year after the start of the SEALORDS campaign,
Communist military forces in the Mekong Delta were under heavy pressure. The successive
border interdiction barriers delayed and disrupted the enemy's resupply and troop
replacement from Cambodia. The raiding operations hit vulnerable base areas and the Sea
Float deployment put allied forces deep into what had been a Viet Cong sanctuary. In
addition, American and Vietnamese forces captured or destroyed over 500 tons of enemy
weapons, ammunition, food, medicines, and other supplies. Furthermore, 3,000 Communist
soldiers were killed and 300 were captured at a cost of 186 allied men killed and 1,451
wounded.
Cumlative Totals for Month Oct 69.
(1) KIA - 48 VC.
(2) PW - 1.
(3) Hoi Chanh - Nil.
(4) VCI - 7.
(5) Individual Weapons Captured - 110.
(6) Crew Served Weapons - 2.
(7) Rice captured - 2.35 Tons.
For a full summary of unit activities/contacts/incidents for the month of October see : AWM95, 1/4/170 - 1-31 October 1969, Annex E-N (45.56Mb PDF file)
November. - 1969
Massive anti-war demonstrations across the USA.
1 November. Operations Summary Beginning of November.
(1) 1 ATF commenced Operation TOAN THANG IV in the 1 ATF TAOR. HQ 1 TF remained in the 1 ATF Base.
(2) B Sqn 1 Armd Regt. Elements Sqn HQ plus one tp plus supporting elements continued recce and ambush ops in AO SABOT centre of mass YS4581. One tp remained in AO STUART op con to 9 RAR. One tp remained on HORSESHOE HILL.
(3) B Sqn 3 Cay Rorft. One sect plus AHC sect op con 6 RAR in AO LINTON. One tp plus one AHC sect op con 9 RAR in AO STUART. One sect plus one AMC sect op opcon to B Sqn 1 Armd Regt in AO SABOT. One tp remained on 1 ATF Ready Reaction Force Standby. Convoy escort continued.
(4) Task Force Artillery. 6 contact and 40 H and I missions were fired during the reporting period.
(5) 1 Fd Sqn. Elenents continued to support 5 RAR in AO GRACE and 6 RAR in AO LINTON/DAT DO District. Road- construction continued near AN NHUT. Elements continued minefield clearance vic YS5053.
(6) 17 Const Sqn. Road construction continues LONG DIEN - BARIA.
(7) 5 RAR. Conpleted deployment into AO GRACE centre of mass YS3082. Bn HQ loc FSPB CAPE YS30S2.
(8) 6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC). Bn HQ(-) continued ambush and recce ops in AO LINTON centre of mass YS6167, supported by 101 Fd Bty and elements of B Sqn 3 Cav Regt, 3 Sqn 1 Amd Regt and elements of 1 Fd Sqn. One coy continued ops with 3/52 ARVN Bn in DAT DO District. One coy prepares to takeover HORSESHOE HILL. One coy remains 1 ATF Base. Bn HQ loc FSPB DISCOVERY YS6O68.
(9) 9 RAR. Completed return to 1 ATF Base from recce and anbush ops in AO STUART. Provides one coy for 1 ATF Ready Reaction Force. Bn HQ located 1 ATF Base.
3 November. President
Nixon's Speech on "Vietnamisation"
9 RAR. remains in 1 ATF Base. Provides one coy for 1 ATF Ready Reaction Force. One coy deployed on recce op into vic YS3886. Bn HQ loc 1 ATF Base.
5 November. 9 RAR. Bn (-) remains in 1 ATF Base. One coy returns to 1 ATF Base from recce ops vic YS3684. One coy deploys on recce op vic YS3682. One coy deploys on reccc op vic YS4174.
5-11-69 Bink M. L/cpl 2275420 9RAR RAINF 25 KIA Mine while on LCT protection.
11 November. 9 RAR. Remains in 1 ATF Base. Provides one coy for 1 ATF Ready Reaction Force standby. Two coys continue recce op in vicinity YS3682, and YS4174. Bn HQ 1 ATF Base.
12-11-69 Lisle A. Spr 2791437 1FDSQN 22 RAE DOW At 1FDHOSP from wds received on 22.10.69
15 November - More than 250,000 protesters gather in Washington, D.C., in the largest
antiwar demonstration to occur during the Vietnam war..
17 November - 8 RAR Main Body depart Australia on HMAS Sydney.
18 November - 8 RAR Advance Party Depart Eagle farm - Brisbane - for Saigon.
20-11-69 Bermingham A.V. PteNZ43134 6RAR2 W2 RNZIR DOW In Aust. from wds on 12.08.69.
23-11-69 Convery R.T Lt 38627 9RAR B/6 22 RAIN F M/AUST Murdered by Pte Peter Allen with M26 grenade in tent at Nui Dat.
23-11-69 Troy K.J. WO2 22696 AATTV 45 RAIN F DOD At 3 SURG HOSP Binh Thuy from pneumonia.
24-11-69 Barrett J. T. Spr NZ209440 6RAR RNZE 26 KIA Claymore mine.
24-11-69 Rauhihi P. Sig NZ43648 6RAR2 V5 RNZIR DOW Shrap from Claymore.
28 November - 8 RAR arrive at Vung Tau and depart for Nui Dat. 9 RAR departs for Australia.
29 November. 8 RAR commence theatre training in 1 ATF area.
Cumulative Total of Enemy Losses For Month.
(1) KIA - 1 NVA 76 VC
(2) PW- 5
(3) Hoi Chanh - Nil
(4) VCI - Nil
(5) Individual Weapons - 48
(6) Crew Served Weapons - 1
(7) Rice Captured -7.80 tons.
For a full summary of unit activities/contacts/incidents for the month of November see : AWM95, 1/4/173 - 1-30 November 1969, Annex E-N (44Mb PDF file)
December - 1969
Commencement of December.
General
(1) 1 ATFcontinues Operation TOAN THANG IV in the 1 ATF TAOR. HQ 1 ATF remainedin the 1 ATF Base.
(2) B Sqn 1 Armd Regt. B Sqn(-) remained 1 ATF Base. One tp op con to Land Clearing Team in LONG GREEN. One tp remains in AO GRACE
op con to 5 RAR. One tp returned to 1 ATF Base from AO GRACE. Elements remain HORSESHOE HILL.
(3) B Sqn 3 Cav Regt. One tp plus two AMC Sect op con 6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC) in AO LINTON. One tp plus one AMC section con to 5 RAR in AO GRACE returned to 1 ATP Base. One sect op con to Land Clearing Team in
LONG GREEN. Convoy escort continues.
(4) Task Force Artillery.Nil contact and 49 H and I missions were fired during the reporting period.
(5) 1 Fd Sqn. moments continue to support 5 RAR in AO GRACE and 6 RAR in AO LINTON. Road construction continued near AN NHUT. Elements continue minefield clearance vicinity YS5058. Bridge const commenced in YS5056.
(6) 17 Const Sqn. Road construction continued LONG DIEN - BARIA. Continued land clearing in area of LONG GREEN vicinity YS5359.
(7) 5 RAR. Continues recce and ambush op3 in AO GRACE centre of mass YS5032, supported by 105 Fd 3ty and elements of B Sqn 1 Armd Regt, and 1 Fd Sqn. Bn HQ remain FSPB CAPE YS3082.
(8) 6 RAR/NZ Bn(-) moved from AO LINTON to AO GULLIVER centre of mass YS6788 and estb new FSPB PICTON YS6490. Elements remain in AO LINTON.
(9) 8 RAR Continues in theatre trg vic 1 ATF Base. Bn HQ 1 ATF Base.
(10) 4/5 ARVN continues retraining on HORSESHOE HILL with V Coy
6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC). One coy remains on Land Clearing Team protection.
Routine Order Part One. Order
243. CARRIAGE OF ALCOHOLIC LIQUOR OUTSIDE 1 ALSG AREA.
Due to the increasing number of incidents in the city of Vung Tau resulting in injury to Australian and New Zealand servicemen, the following is to apply with effect O8OO hrs 3 Dec 69.. Until further notice, members proceeding on leave into Vung Tau from 1 ALSG area are not to convey out of the 1 ALSG area or any other Free World establishment, bottles or cans of spirits for the purpose of consumption while on leave.
Contravention of this Routine Ordor will result in: a. Confiscation of liquor. b. Cancellation of leave. c. Appropriate disciplinary action.
Operation 'Marsden'
|
Freindly Forces: Main Unit: 6RAR /NZ (ANZAC) (The ANZAC Battalion comprising 6th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment and a component from the 1st Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment). |
3-12-69 Donald B.C. Capt. 29745 161FLT AAVN 29 KIA A/c A14-680 shot down from gnd fire Nth of Nui Dat while night flying trg.
3-12-69 Jellie A.D.. 2Lt 39510 161FLT AAVN 22 KIA A/c A14-680 shot down from gnd fire Nth of Nui Dat while night flying trg.
3-12-69 F itzpatrick B. F . Cpl A34167 2SQN 37 RAA F DOI Vehicle accident in Phan Rang.
8-12-69 Green J.G.Spr. 2791447 1FDSQN RAE 21 KIA APC c/s 23A hit mines 2km N of Thua Tich. Att. to 6RAR..
8-12-69 French V.A. Tpr. 1202185 B3CAV RAAC 19 KIA APC c/s 23A hit mines 2km N of Thua Tich.
1-8 December. 8 RAR conduct familiarization training at Nui Dat.
9 December - 9 RAR arrive home at Port Adelaide, Australia.
Operation '
Atherton'
|
|
11-12-69 Woolley I.A. LAC A118435 2SQN 21 RAA F DOI Vehicle accident in Phan Rang on 03.12.69
5 RAR (-) 1 ATF Base.
12 December - 8 RAR has first Operational Contact. 1 Pl A Coy engages enemy. 6 X 1 Pl
members are wounded by RPG.
15 December - President Nixon announces the withdrawal of a further 50,000 US troops by
April 1970.
One Coy 5 RAR deployed to NUI DIN area.
Operation '
Vintage Rally' |
CTZ |
14-12-69 VoyzeyD.J. Tpr. 2137680 B3CAV RAAC 22 KIA APC c/s 20B hit mine 1km W of Ngai Giao. APC overturned trapping the driver
20 December. 5 RAR Coy ops cease and return to 1 ATF Base.
22 December. One Coy 5 RAR deploys to vic YS3066 for recce and ambush ops.
23 December - Australian A Sqn Tanks replace B Sqn.
25 December - Christmas Truce.
15 December - President Nixon announces the withdrawal of a further 50,000 troops by April
1970.
18 December - US Congress forbids the introduction of ground troops to Laos and Thailand.
21 December - Thailand announces the withdrawal of its 12,000 troops for Vietnam. Filipino
troops have already departed. South Korea will continue to maintain its 50,000 force.
Operation '
Tangle' |
CTZ |
25-12-69 Evans T.A. Pte. 3794256 HQ1ATF RAINF 21 KIA Vehicle forced off road onto mine.
Operation '
Bondi I'
|
CTZ.
III |
28 December. 6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC). Bn (-) completed recce and ambush ops in AO GULLIVER centre of mass YS6788, supported by elements of B Sqn 3 Cav Regt, 101 Fd Bty and elements of 1 Fd Sqn and returned to 1 ATF Base.
8 RAR. Bn continues recce and ambush ops in AO ASHGROVE (extended) centre of mass YS3885. Bn HQ remains FSPB PEGGY YS4387.
30 December. 6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC) remains in 1 ATF Base. One coy remains
HORSESHOE HILL YS4962. One coy deployed into vic YS5369 on recce op.
Operation '
Bondi II'
|
CTZ |
31December - Nixon begins withdrawing troops from Vietnam. By the end of the year, US troops are down to 479,000. In 1969, 9,414 Americans are killed in Vietnam.
For a full summary of unit activities/contacts/incidents for the month of December see: AWM95, 1/4/176 - 1-31 December 1969, Annex E-N (45.71Mb PDF file)
The Royal Australian Regiment (RAR) is the parent regiment for regular infantry battalions of the Australian Army, making up the majority of the Royal Australian Infantry Corps.
Pluto Fire Missions - The Royal Australian Artillery’s nickname
of H & I (Harassment and Interdiction) fire missions.
Services Correctional Establishment Prison at Vung Tau run by the ANZAC
Forces.
The Hoa Long Dance - Hoa Long was a VC-controlled village just outside
1st ATF FSB Horseshoe. As a practical joke, newly arrived NZ and Australian replacements
were told to dress up in their best uniform and report to the base’s main gate for a
bus that would take them to the "Hoa Long Dance." Dutifully, many would show up
and mill about, waiting for a bus that never came!
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Last modified:
August 12, 2009