1969

Vietnam War Timeline

 

 

 

 


 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. 1 RAR redeployed to the area FSPB CHESTNUT.T 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.

width=

Operation TOAN THANG II

Ground Commander's Daily Situation Report (SITREP)
From 010001H to 012400H Jan 69


 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
Objective of Operation: security operation
General (1) 1 ATF continued Operation TOAN TRANG II in AO TOWNSVILlE, HQ 1 ATF (Main) remained at Base JULIA YS228
(a) C Sqn 1 Armd Regt continued to support 1 ATF Operations. Locations. C Sqn (-) JULIA YS22811 2 and 4 Tps 1 ATF Base.
(b) A Sqn 3 Cay Regt. 1 Tp secure LZs at FSPB Chestnut for the fly_in of 1 RAR. 2 Tp returned to 1 ATF Base being replaced by 3 Tp. Following a RF contact in area YS225795. at 312140H at YS227802 2 Sec 2 Tp engaged an estimated 3 enemy withdrawing East with unknown result. Location: A Sqn (-) JULIA YS2281 2 Tp 1 ATF Base.
(c) Task Force artillery continued to support 1 ATF Operations, 4 H and I missions were fired during the reporting pediod. One Section of 102 Fd Dty moved by air to FSPB CHESTNUT YS2200. 161Fd Bty Bty comphted the move to FSPB DIGGER'S REST YS2787. A base Camp at YS30881, was engaged by 102 Fd Bty with the result 5 bunkers destroyed, 5 bunkers exposed, 1 hut destroyed, 1 hut damaged, 1 tunnel entrance destroyed, 3 tunnel entrances exposed, 15 metres of trench destroyed, 40 metres of trench exposed and miscellaneous tables and oooking utensils destroyed. Location. 12 Fd Regt (-) 102 Fd Bty(-), FSPB CHESTNUT YS2280 104 Fd Bty FSPB WATTLE YS3691; 161Fd Bty FSPB DIGGER'S REST YS2787.
(d) 1 RAR concluded operations in AO WONDAI and moved by air to FSP CHESTNUT YS2280 for operations astride QL 15. At 1850H at YS 233600 5 Pl contacted 2 enemy without result. At YS234 800 4 Pl located 400 Lbs of salt. Locations . Bn HQ and C Coy FSPB CHESTNUT' YS2280; A Coy 1 ATF Base; B Coy YS233800, D Coy YS231803.
(e) 4 RAR continued Operations in AO WARRAGUL with minor contact. At 1645H at YS 326916 4 Pl contacted 1 enemy withresult 1 enemy KIA (BC) and 1 AK47 captured. At YS330902 7 Pl found a cache containing 2OX 81 mm mortar rounds. 20X57mm RR rounds; 40 grenades of unknown type. Locations: Bn HQ FSP WATTLE YS3691 , B Coy YS331917; C Coy YS333907; D Coy YS310906, W Coy YS365882, V Coy HORSESHOE HILL YS4962.
(f) 9 RAR commenced Operations in AO WONDA with minor contnct. At 1550H at YS250860 D Coy contacted an estimated 2 enemy with result 1 enemyKIA (BC), 1 enemyWIA (bloodtrnil) and 1 AK47 and 2 packs captured. LocotioN: Bn HQ FSPB DIGGER'S REST YS2787; A Coy YS273965; B Coy YS 219847; C Coy YS276870; D Coy YS247859.
(g) 2 AB Bde (ARVN continued Operstiona in AO MOOSE with out contact. Locations: HQ 2 AB Bde FSPB BARBARA YS2294:5 AB Bn FSPB KATHLEEN YS2399; 11 AB Bn YS235953.
(h) Air Support, Significant Airstrike at VC Base Camp YS 315819. 3 bunkers destoyed, 3 bunkers uncovered and 15 metres of trench detroyed.
Results: Friendly losses;nil En losses: 2 KIA ,1 WIA, 2xAK47s, 20x80mm mortar rounds, 40 grenades of unknown type, 40 lbs salt.

 

width=

Operation 'Goodwood'
1/1/1969 - 17/2/1969

Allied Units Involved: 9th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment;
Objective of Operation: recon in force
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
Sources Used in Archive
Preliminary Checklist Of United States Military Operations In Southeast Asia
5-1-69 Duroux J.M. Sgt 15230 9RAR 28 RAINF KIA
6-1-69 Nagle G. Pte 39565 9RAR 23 RAINF KIA Cmd detonated mine.
7-1-69 Graham A.W. Cpl 43528 9RAR B/5 22 RAINF DOW At 24EVACHOSP from GSW the previous day
18-1-69 Phillips R.A. Pte 4719545 9RAR A 21 RAINF DOW At 1FDHOSP VT after GSW on 10.01.69.
19-1-69 Sykes A. Pte. 55431 9RAR 25 RAINF KIA GSW during morning patrol
19-1-69 Cock J.R. Sgt 42564 9RAR 25 RAINF KIA
19-1-69 Smith P.C. Pte 2788912 9RAR 25 RAINF KIA GSW to head and neck in Phuoc Tuy.
19-1-69 Key R.M. Pte 39493 9RAR 21 RAINF KIA RPG.
19-1-69 Musicka H.R. T/Cpl 4717754 9RAR Sp 23 RAIN F KBA Mistaken for VC and shot.
20-1-69 Plane B. J. Pte 4719981 9RAR 21 RAINF KIA RPG.In Bien Hoa Prov.

 

width=

Operation ' Tiger Balm'
2/1/1969 - 4/1/1969

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
Sources Used in Archive
Preliminary Checklist Of United States Military Operations In Southeast Asia

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.
3-1-69 .Huelin A.J. A/SubLt RANHFV(2) 26 RAN KIA Aircraft hit power lines near Saigon in bad weather.

width=

1 ATF Op Order 3/69 '
Op 'Beaver Dam 1"
Issued 8 January 1969

Units Involved: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.
Sources Used in Archive: 1 ATF War Diaries AWM95-1-4- 135

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.
14 January. 81 Section (APC)1 RAR in AO KILCOY from within FSPB MARGARET YS 2084.

width=

1 ATF Op Order 4/69
Op 'Beaver Dam 2"
Issued 8 January 1969

Units Involved: C Sqn 1 Armd Regt, one Pl 4 RAR, one combat team1 Fd Sqn, 1 Tp A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, on call 1 H13 161 Recce Flt.
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: Deploy by road to AO ASQUITH and complete land clearing tasks as arranged.
Sources Used in Archive: 1 ATF War Diaries AWM95-1-4- 135

16 January. D Coy 4 RAR/NZ (ANZAC support land clearing operations in area YS4957.
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.

width=

Operation Name
Toan Thang II
16/1/1968- 16/2/1969


CTZ
III
TAO: Binh Duong, Gia Dinh, Hau Nghia, Long An, Long Khanh, Phuoc Long, and Tay Ninh Provinces
29 - FSB Jenny - YS 22-85 28 km NW of Nui Dat, 4 km E of QL-15, 4 km NE of FSB Archer, 8 km NW of FSB Dyke and 3 km W of FSB Hawk. 161 Bty, RNZA (Hitching’s Bty 14Apr68-18Mar69) firebase set here 29Jan17Feb69. Bien Hoa Prov, III Corps.

 

width=

Operation
'Toan Thang 1/69'
20/1/1969 - 23/1/1969

CTZ
TAO: AO 'HANNIBAL. Centre of mass YS 5861
'Allied Units Involved: W Coy 4th RAR/NZ (ANZAC) Battalion, elements 2/48 Bn (ARVN)
Objective of Operation
Descriptive Narrative of Operation:
Result: nil
Sources Used in Archive; 4 RAR Unit Diary January1969.

 

width=

1 ATF Op Order 6/69
Issued 23 January 1969

Units Involved: C Coy 4th RAR/NZ (ANZAC) Battalion.
Reference: 1 ATF AO's and Patrol Zones 1:25,000
Enemy Units: Briefing by GSO (Int)
Friendly Forces: No change
Mission: To defend and maintain the 'HORSESHOE HILL' (YS4962) defence locality.
Sources Used in Archive: 1 ATF War Diaries AWM95-1-4- 135

 

width=

1 ATF Op Order 7/69
Op 'Beaver Dam 4"
Issued 23 January 1969

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: 1 ATF War Diaries AWM95-1-4- 135

25 January - Peace negotiations begin in Paris.
27 January. 4 RAR/NZ (ANZAC) deploy to FSPB DYKE YS2780 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 commence phase II operations in Lond Le District.
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

width=

1 ATF Op Order 8/69
Op 'Beaver Dam 5"
Issued 29 January 1969

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: 1 ATF War Diaries AWM95-1-4- 135

31 January. 10/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.

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.
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.
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.
14 February. Op 'KOROBA' ( 1 ATF Ops Order 12/69) commences, supported by C Coy 4 RAR HORSESHOEHILL .

width=

Operation 'Korobal'
1 ATF Ops Order 12/69
14/2/1969 -


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.
Mission: To attack on a narrow front to secure ASAP the vital points of the vital towns(BARIA, LONG Dien or DAT DO)and subsequently clear the town of enemy.
Tasks: C Coy 4 RAR - (1) To assemble your Coy and support elements at HORSESHOE HILL YS 4962 by last light 14 Feb 69.
(2) Arrange with OC 4 RAR base area for a composite gp to secure HORSESHOE HILL in event of your deployment.
(3) Deploy from HORSESHOE HILL on orders from HQ 1 ATF (REAR).
Coy 9 RAR. (1) Deploy one Coy with sp elms to assy area north of BARIA by last light 14 Feb69.
(2) Coy to deploy on orders from HQ 1 ATF(rear).
ASSY Areas: (1) C Coy 4 RAR HORSESHOE HIL YS 4962.
(2) Coy 9 RAR in AO EFOGI.
14-2-69 Chant P.A. L/cpl 44265 9RAR 29 RAINF KIA GSW. In contact with bunker N. of Suoi Cau Moi.

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.

width=

Operation 'Federal'
(Operation Toan Tang III )
1 ATF Op Order 15/69
17/2/1969- 24 March 1969


Tpr Normie Rowe

Formations/Units. 1 ATF, 4 RAR and 9 RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, B Sqdn 1st Armored Rgt, 161 Bty.
Mission: 1 ATF is to deploy from AO TOWNSVILLE(Op GOODWOOD) to AO MAJURA to cover the eastern approaches to LONG DIEN - BEN HOA area commencing 17 Feb 69.
Execution: HQ 1 ATF(Main) with sp arms Op GOODWOOD, 9 RAR to deploy by road and air too AO MAJURA joining Atts above commencing AM 17 Feb 69. 4 RAR deploy to extensions AO MAJURA 18 Feb 69. 3/52 Inf Regt (ARVN) remains AOs MOOSE and WARRAGUL. TFMA deploys to FSPB KERRY vic YT1113.
17 February. (1) 1 ATF conclude Operation Toan Thang II and commence Operation Toan Tang III (see Op Federal above). 1 ATF (Main) closed at FSPB JULIA YS2281 and moved to FSPB KERRY YT1313 AO MAJURA. A Sqn 3 Cav Regt and B Sqn 1 Armd Regt (-) support the move and remain in Loc FSPB KERRY YT1313 and suppport 4 RAR in AO TIKI.
 (2) 9 RAR cease operations in AO WONDAI and commence ops in AO ARUNDA, centre of mass YT1215.
(3) 1/2 Inf (US) became in DS of 1 ATF at 170900H and continue operations in AO DRACULA, centre of mass YT1610.
 19 February. 4 RAR cease operations in AO TIKI and redeploy by road and air to AO BELCONNEN, centre of mass YT1408. FSPB BETTY YT1408 occupied.
FSB Kerry - YT 13-13 13 km ENE of Bien Hoa, 5 km ESE of FSB Kiama, 2 km N of QL-1 and 8 km W of FSB Andersen. Described  as "a spectacular position sitting on a major terrain feature with a marvelous view of the surrounding countryside." Overlooked converging routes to Saigon, a fact that led to long delays for fire mission clearance due to friendly congestion in the area. 161 Bty, RNZA (Hitching’s Bty 14Apr68-18Mar69) firebase set here 17Feb - 10Mar69. 12Feb69, HQ 1ATF, B Sqdn 1st Armored Rgt, A Sqdn 3 Cav Rgt, 9 RAR Bn HQ, and Support Coy were here. Bien Hoa Prov, III Corps.
Casualties:
7-3-69 Dawson P. Cpl. 38077 4RAR 24 RAINF KIA.
5-3-69 Scales G.J. Pte 4719367 9RAR B/6 22 RAIN F KBA Mistaken for VC and shot outside perimeter in Bien Hoa Prov.

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.

March - 1969

width=

Operation 'Quintus Thrust'1/3/1969- 9/3/1969

CTZ
III
TAO
Phuoc Tuy Province
Start Date End Date
1/3/1969- 9/3/1969
Allied Units Involved: 5th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Enemy Units Involved
Objective of Operation: reconnaissance in force operations
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
Sources Used in Archive
Preliminary Checklist Of United States Military Operations In Southeast Asia
5 - FSB Maria - YT 29-07 40 km NNW of Nui Dat, 3 km S of QL-1, 8 km E of FSB Evans and 12 km ESE of FSB Andersen. 161 Bty, RNZA (Hitching’s Bty 14Apr68-18Mar69) firebase set here 5-8Mar69 (right section). Long Khanh Prov, III Corps.
Casualties:
9-3-69 Walker B.G. . 2Lt. 5411605 5RAR 21 RAINF KIAFF ARVN opened fire after his Pl. Sgt tripped a mine.
9-3-69 Smith B.L. . Sgt. 42252 5RAR 29 RAINF KIA Mine at Phouc Hoa.
9-3-69 Gilbert G. G. . Cpl. 14900 5RAR 29 RAINF KIA Mine at Hoa Long.

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.

width=

Operation ' Federal / Overlander'
10/3/1969 - 17/4/1969


5 RAR Colour Patch

CTZ
TAO
Allied Units Involved: 5 RAR, 9 RAR
Enemy Units Involved
Allied Operational Strength Enemy Operational Strength Allied KIA
Allied WIA Allied MIA Enemy KIA
Enemy WIA
Objective of Operation: reconnaissance in force operation
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
Operation FEDERAL March 10 - April 2, 1969; Operation OVERLANDER April 2 - 8, 1969
Sources Used in Archive
Preliminary Checklist Of United States Military Operations In Southeast Asia
FSB Jillian - YT 33-06 Near intersection of Rtes 321 and 25 appx 5 km S of QL-1, 48 km ENE of Nui Dat, 15 km WNW of FSB Wattle, and 20 km NW of FSB Buffalo. 161 Bty, RNZA (Horsford’s Bty 18Mar69-18Sep69) firebase set here 27Mar-2Apr69.   While firing in support of US units here 29Mar69, the yanks radioed back a concise sit-rep for one 161 Bty mission that went: "three elephants KIA!" Long Khan Prov, III Corps.
Result: 15 VC KIA(BC), 5 VC KIA(poss), 18 VC WIA
4-4-69 Pike G. A. Pte. 218421 5RAR 26 RAINF KIA During contact in Long Khanh Province.
4-4-69 White J.M.T. Pte. 5715978 5RAR 21 RAINF KIA During contact in Long Khanh Province
7-4-69 Black T.R. Pte. 1734403 9RAR 21 RAINF KIA
7-4-69 George B. R. Pte. 2789508 9RAR 21 RAINF KIA GSW during sentry change over in ambush
11-4-69 Remeljej.A . Pte. 4719818 5RAR 21 RAINF KIA RPG shrap.
12-4-69 McPherson L.H . Pte. 5715701 9RAR 20 RAINF KIA GSW in contact E. of Tham Thien on route 15.

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.

April - 1969
8 April. 3 SAS Sqn conduct Op 'Short Final'. Air deployment into AO THARWA, extraction by air. 9 Sqn RAAF tp provide air support.
11 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.
14 April. 3 SAS Sqn conduct Op 'Roundout' in AO GOSPERS. 9 Sqn RAAF support.
15 April. 3 SAS Sqn conduct Op 'Overshoot' in AO PUTTY. 9 Sqn RAAF and A Sqn 3 Cav Regt in support.

width=

Operation 'Beaver Dam 6'
13/4/1969 - 19/4/1969

CTZ
TAO
Allied Units Involved: 5th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, Sect A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, 1 Fd Sqn. DS 1 Fd Regt.
Objective of Operation: Protection escort for land clearing operations in AO CAMDEN.
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
Sources Used in Archive
Preliminary Checklist Of United States Military Operations In Southeast Asia

width=

Operation 'Stafford'
17/4/1969 - 11/5/1969

CTZ
TAO
Allied Units Involved: 4th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, B Sqn 1 Armd Regt, Sect A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, 1 Fd Sqn. DS 104 Fd Bty.
Objective of Operation: Conduct Operations in AO BAROSSA.
Descriptive Narrative of Operation:
FSPB Virginia vicinity YS4379
Sources Used in Archive: AWM 1-4-147

18 April. All Coys 5 RAR in Loc NUI DAT except D Coy in Vung Tau

width=

Operation 'Surfside'
22 April - 23 April 1969


CTZ
III
TAO
Phuoc Tuy Province
Start Date End Date
22/4/1969 2/5/1969
Allied Units Involved: 5 RAR, 9 RAR, 161Fd Bty, 1 Fd Sqn, Sect A Sqn 3 Cav Regt,
Objective of Operation: Repair of Briges and Culverts to Route 23
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
FSB Mardi - YS 60-61 5 km N of the coast, 2 km S of Rte-23, 18 km ESE of Nui Dat and 11 km E of Dat Do. 161 Bty, RNZA (Horsford’s Bty 18Mar69- 18Sep69) firebase set here 16-23Apr69. Situated in a rice paddy with 3 rivers fringing its perimeter. Phuoc Tuy Prov, III Corps.

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.
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.

May  - 1969
1 May. 4 RAR returns to 1 ATF Base from AO BAROSSA. 9 RAR continue Phase II Ops in Nui Dat.

width=

Operation 'Beaver Dam VII'
1/5/1969




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
Objective of Operation: Conduct Land Clearance Ops in Sector A, to NE of Long Hai Hills, the LCOs in other sectors as programmed by OC 1 Fd Sqn in co-ord with HQ 1 ATF.
Descriptive Narrative of Operation:


 

width=

Operation 'Mailed Fist'
1/5/1969 - 31/5/1969


CTZ
TAO
Duc Thanh District
Start Date End Date
1/5/1969 31/5/1969
Allied Units Involved: B Squadron, 1st Armoured Regiment (Australian), Mortar Sect 4 RAR, 2xMortar Carriers A Sqn 3 Cav Regt. In gen spt 2/35 Arty (US).
Objective of Operation: Pacification and reconnaissance operations in Duc Thanh District
Descriptive Narrative of Operation: A pacification and recon sweep is conducted through Duc Than district with 2 Troop B SQN. They conduct 18 ambushes, are contacted 8 times and destroy 4 enemy bunker systems.
Sources Used in Archive: Unit History

 

width=

Operation 'Twickenham'
2/5/1969- 1/6/1969


CTZ
III
TAO
Phuoc Tuy Province
Start Date End Date
2/5/1969 1/6/1969
Allied Units Involved: 5th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, 1 Fd Sqn, B Sqn 1 Armd Regt, A Sqn 3 Cav Regt. In DS 161 Recce Sqn, 105 Fd Bty.
Objective of Operation: Reconnaissance in force operation Ops in AO ILLAWARRA
Descriptive Narrative of Operation:
Sources Used in Archive: AWM95-1-1-151.
FSPB SUSAN 105 Fd Bty situated at YS2864.
30-5-69 Drummond A. Pte 55537 5RAR2 27 RAIN F KBA F F F No.1 scout. No.2 slipped and fired 2 rds from M16 hitting the throat.

 

width=

Operation 'Garryowen''
3/5/1969- 6/5/1969



Units Involved: A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, one Engr Combat Team 1 Fd Sqn, one Mortar Section and one Platoon 4 RAR .
Objective of Operation: (1) Conduct RIF Ops in AO SCORPION. (2) Assist pacification of Xuyen Moc.
Descriptive Narrative of Operation:
Sources Used in Archive: AWM95-1-1-151

5 May - 6 RAR main body departs for Vietnam on HMAS Sydney, this is their second tour.
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.
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.

width=

Operation 'Reynella'
8/5/1969 - 15/6/1969



3 Cav Regt Colour Patch

CTZ
III
TAO
Phuoc Tuy Province
Start Date End Date
8/5/1969 15/6/1969
Units Involved: 9th Battlion, Royal Australian Regiment, 3 Combat Engr Teams 1 Fd Sqn, 1 Tp B Sqn 1 Armd Regt, one Tp A Sqn 3 Cav Regt. In DS 161 Recce Flt and 161Fd Bty.
Enemy Units Involved
Allied Operational Strength Enemy Operational Strength Allied KIA
Allied WIA Allied MIA Enemy KIA
Enemy WIA
Objective of Operation:Deny access into populated areas by VC from areas such as Long Hai Hills YS4455 and Long Green YS5054.
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
Sources Used in Archive: AWM95-1-4-151
FSB Thrust - YS 50-54 23 km NE of Vung Tau, on the S edge of Rte 326, 4 km S of Dat Do, 4 km NW of the coast and 15 km SSE of Nui Dat. Construction started 1 Mar69 and built as a model FSB on sand so dazzling the gunners formed permanent squints. 161 Bty, RNZA (Horsford’s Bty 18Mar69-18Sep69) firebase set here 11May-15Jun69. 9 RAR also here. Hit by 30 mortar rounds, 5Jun69, resulting in 1 9 RAR KIA and 9 WIA. 40’, sandbagged NOD tower built here was nicknamed "The Leaning Tower of Pisa." Phuoc Tuy Prov, III Corps.
11-5-69 Lee E.J. Lt. 235328 22 5RAR RAINF KIA GSW/RPG in contact in Nui Thi Vai's.
25-5-69 Reidy P.F. Pte. 3793403 21 9RAR RAINF KIA Mine. Died on route to 1FDHOSP.
28-5-69 Davies. R.E. Spr. 38530 24 1FDSQN RAE KIA GSW from ambush while att. to 9RAR
6-6-69 Brennan D.J. Cpl. 2184013 9RAR RAINF 22 KIA Frag from mortar attack on FSB Thrust.

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.

width=

Operation 'Roadside'
13/5/1969 - 22/5/1969

CTZ
III
TAO
Bien Hoa Province
Start Date End Date
13/5/1969 22/5/1969
Units Involved: 5th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, 1 Tp B Sqn 1 Armd Regt, A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, Combat Engr Team 1 Fd Sqn. In DS 161 recce Flt and 105 Fd Bty.
Objective of Operation: Reconnaissance in force operation in AO KANGAROO
Descriptive Narrative of Operation: Threat to Long Binh/Ben Hoa complex from VC/NVA ground and rocket attacks has increased to considerable levels.
Sources Used in Archive: AWM95-1-4-151

3-5-69 Kerr.J.K. Tpr. 218508 19 B1AR RAAC KIA Tank ARN 169005 hit mine blowing out floor.
16 May -  RAAF bushranger Gunships assist in extracting an SAS 4 man patrol, on a "hot extraction".

width=

Operation 'Agronomist''
16/5/1969 - 30/5/1969

Units Involved: 1 Rifle Pl 4 RAR, 3 TD15 Dozers 1 Fd Sqn, 1 Sect B Sqn 3 Cav Regt.
Objective of Operation: 1 Fd Sqn is to land clear an area to the WEST of Ap Suio Nghe YS4271 for agriculture development.
Sources Used in Archive: AWM95-1-4-151

 


19 May - 6 RAR arrive Vung Tau and 4 RAR main body depart for Australia on HMAS Sydney.

width=

Operation 'Hunter'
21/5/1969 - 26/5/1969


6 RAR Colour Patch

CTZ
TAO
Start Date End Date
30/5/1969 30/6/1969
Allied Units Involved: 1 Rifle Coy 6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Objective of Operation:6 RAR is to conduct ambush operations in the Phu My/Thai Tien AO MOON areas on Route 15 with 1 Rifle Coy.
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
Sources Used in Archive: AWM95-1-4-151

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 .

width=

Operation ' Lavarack'
30/5/1969 - 30/6/1969

CTZ
TAO
Start Date End Date
30/5/1969 30/6/1969
Units Involved: 6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, 4 Splinter Teams, 1 Fd Sqn, 1 Tp B Sqn 1 Armd Regt, 1 Sect B Sqn 3 Cav Regt. In DS 161 Recce Sqn, B Sqn 1 Armd Regt, 1 heli 9 Sqn RAAF.
Enemy: No known enemey forces in the area.
Objective of Operation: Ambush and reconnaissance in force operation in AO VINCENT.
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
Sources Used in Archive: AWM95-1-4-151
FSB Virginia.
5-6-69 James B. Pte. 1201882 6RAR RAINF 20 KIA GSW to head during ambush.
5-6-69 Gatenby J.R. Cpl. NZ38655 6RAR RNZIR KIA In contact. RPG to head.

30 May - 4 RAR arrive in Brisbane, Australia completing their first tour of Vietnam.

June  - 1969
5 - 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.

width=

Operation 'Hammer'
Battle Of Binh Ba
6 - 7 June 1969


 

View More Detail - Larger Map

Binh Ba village situated some four miles North of the Australian Task Force HQs at Nui Dat (10°33′22.2″N 107°13′22.5″E / 10.556167, 107.222917 (Nui Dat)) and on the western side just off Route 2 with a population of around one thousand, made up of mainly farmers and rubber plantation workers. The village houses were constructed of solid brick and tile. The village was well known to the Australians during the first tour and 5RAR stationed a rifle company and a mortar section within the village. This strategy proved to be a deterrent to the Viet Cong tax collectors and assassination squads taking control of the village. This however, was not to continue. In 1969 as the drain on the meagre resources of the Battalion proved to be too much and the village was left to the protection of Regional forces.
With preparation from helicopter gunships 9 Squadron RAAF D Company assaulted the village. The Centurion tanks were effective for close action; however against concealed enemy firing RPG 7's, 2 tanks sustained some external damage whilst one tank was penetrated. Within an hour, three of the four tanks from the initial assault were disabled with damage and crew casualties. The officer commanding D Company decided to move his force out of the village and move to western side of Binh Ba. With a fresh troop of tanks together with APC support, D Company conducted a second assault on the village. Infantry platoons led the assault. Each platoon had one tank and two Armored Personnel Carriers in close support.
A platoon made contact with the enemy immediately. The opposing force occupied the houses and was firing from the windows, doors and from any available cover. An Australian soldier was killed. Pte Wayne Teeling was shot through the neck as his team approached the first line of houses.
A tank fired one round of HE into the building occupied by the VC. The house exploded, and the clearing team assaulted immediately. Six enemy dead were found in the ruins. This type of action was typical all along D Company's assault line. It was made clear some time ago that the strength of the enemy force was far greater than two platoons. It was confirmed from captured documents that D Company was facing elements of the 1st Battalion, 33 NVA Regiment. Enemy weapons littered the battle ground. Some Australian soldiers used discarded AK-47's to conserve their own ammunition.
Elements of the 1st Battalion 33 NVA took up defensive positions within the village and fought to the death. Other groups discarded their uniforms and weapons and mingled with the pockets of civilians unable to escape the fighting. This added another dimension to the conduct of the battle, and the soldiers of D Company 5RAR exposed themselves to extreme danger trying to usher these groups to the rear of the battle zone. Other enemy groups tried to flee the village, or hide in the small air raid bunkers attached to every house. In one case, an enemy force as large as an infantry company attempted to enter the village to take part in the battle. In the latter case these forces were met by B Company, blocking the exit and entry routes outside Binh Ba. To fully clear the village, every bunker, house and any likely areas of concealment had to be searched.
On the second day, the clearing of the village continued. D Company, with a platoon from B Company did much the same as on day one although, contact with the enemy focused on small groups of NVA still holed up in the village.
The battle concluded on 8 June 1969. A large enemy force had been defeated by the Australian troops. One Australian soldier was killed and 8 were wounded; 91 VC and NVA soldiers were also killed. The battle for Binh Ba ranks as one of the major military victories by the Australian Task Force. Binh Ba Rubber Plantation - YS A French Rubber plantation straddling Rte-2 appx 6 km N of Nui Dat and 6 km S of Ngai Giao, NNE of Vung Tau. Phuoc Tuy Prov, III Corps.
6-6-69 Teeling W.E. Pte. 2790880 5RAR RAINF 21 KIA GSW during house clearing at Binh Ba.

 

width=

Operation' Tong'
7/6/1969- 8/6/1969

CTZ
TAO
Start Date End Date
7/6/1969 8/6/1969
Allied Units Involved: C Company - 5th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Enemy Units Involved
Allied Operational Strength Enemy Operational Strength Allied KIA
Allied WIA Allied MIA Enemy KIA
Enemy WIA
Objective of Operation: ready reaction against enemy force of unknown size reported to be in Hoa Long Village
Preliminary Checklist Of United States Military Operations In Southeast Asia

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

width=

Operation 'Esso'
15/6/1969 - 15/7/1969


5 RAR Colour Patch

CTZ
III
TAO
Phuoc Tuy Province
Start Date End Date
15/6/1969 15/7/1969
Allied Units Involved: 5th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Enemy Units Involved
Allied Operational Strength Enemy Operational Strength Allied KIA
Allied WIA Allied MIA Enemy KIA
Enemy WIA
Objective of Operation:reconnaissance in force and pacification operation
Sources Used in Archive: 5 RAR After Action Report R569/1/26 dated 6 Aug 69.
Result: 9 Aust KIA, 58 Aust WIA, 2 US WIA. Enemy 24 KIA(BC), 1 KIA(poss), 18 WIA(poss), 6 detainees.
Casualties
15-6-69 Jackson. P.J. Pte. 2789568 5RAR RAINF 21 KIA Mine SW of Dat Do...
15-6-69 Kennedy J.J. Cpl. 216304 5RAR RAINF 29 KIA Mine SW of Dat Do...
15-6-69 Turner T.C. Pte 4720253 5RAR2 D/12 21 RAINF DOW At 34 EVAC L.B. from mine wds that day at Dat Do.
16-6-69 Waring A.E.L. Pte. 5716163 5RAR RAINF 21 KIA RPG near Dat Do.
24-6-69 Dewar K.I. L/Cpl. 5715633 B3CAV RAAC 21 KIA APC c/s 22B hit mine 2kms West of FSB Thrust....
24-6-69 Young R.G. Tpr. 1733547 B3CAV RAAC 22 KIA APC c/s 22A hit mine 2kms West of FSB Thrust.
4-7-69 Pettit L.J. Pte. 217961 5RAR RAINF 21 KIA Mine..
5-7-69 Smith P.L. L/Cpl. 135494 5RAR RAINF 19 KIA GSW during night ambush..
5-7-69 Muller H.L. Pte2788085 5RAR2 C 22 RAINF DOW At 1FDHOSP from frag wds the previous day near Long Hai.

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
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.....
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.

width=

Operation 'Matthew'
29/6/1969 - 17/7/1969


CTZ
TAO
Start Date End Date
29/6/1969 17/7/1969
Allied Units Involved: 9th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Enemy Units Involved
Allied Operational Strength Enemy Operational Strength Allied KIA
Allied WIA Allied MIA Enemy KIA
Enemy WIA
Objective of Operation: reconnaissance in force operation
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
Sources Used in Archive
Preliminary Checklist Of United States Military Operations In Southeast Asia
FSB Flinders - YS 52-89 7 km due E of FSB Buffalo, 4 km N of Hill 869, 30 km NNE of Nui Dat and 18 km due N of FSB Longreach. Vietnam Gunners author notes that it was beset with "atrocious conditions’ in a small jungle clearing criss-crossed by tracked and wheeled vehicles that turned the ground into a foot deep, muddy quagmire. 161 Bty, RNZA (Horsford’s Bty 18Mar69-18Sep69) firebase set here 2-18Jul69 (right section), 13-19Jul69 (left section). Large FSB Built in a small jungle clearing. B Bty 2d/35th US Arty also here as were US Dusters. Phuoc Tuy Prov, III Corps.
30-6-69 Sorrensen G.D. Pte. 2790417 9RAR RAINF KIA GSW during contact in Long Khanh Prov.
 6-7-69 Abraham R.J. L/Cpl. 4719565 9RAR RAINF 22 KIA GSW during contact in Long Khanh Prov.
12-7-69 Adamczyk B.A.J. T/Cpl. 43326 9RAR RAINF 22 KIA RPG to chest during bunker contact.
12-7-69 Edwards B.P. Pte. 218041 9RAR RAINF 23 KIA GSW to head during bunker contact.



July 1969
3-7-69 O'Hanlon R.M. F Off O16657 2SQN 27 RAA F * At RGH Greenslopes. Qld.

width=

Operation 'Blockade'
5/7/1969 -

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)
Objective of Operation: Pacification operaiton in AO TRANSVERSE
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
Sources Used in Archive: AWM95-1-159

 

width=

Operation 'Waiouru'
5/7/1969 -

Allied Units Involved: 6 RAR, Combat Engr Team and one Splinter Team(1 Fd Sqn), one 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.
Objective of Operation: Block 274 Offensive action against Route 15in the Thai Thien - Phu My area.
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
Sources Used in Archive: AWM95-1-159
FSPB Nelson YS2575 from 5 Jul.

9 Jul: 5 RAR continues Ops in AO ALDGATE, 6 RAR 1 ATF Base(provide Ready Reaction force), 9 RAR continues Ops in AO TOMTHUMB, 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.

width=

Operation 'Mundingburra'
14 July 1969 - 15 Aug 1969

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.
Objective of Operation: Assist in the security of the population within Long Dien and Dat Do.
Sources Used in Archive: AWM95-1-159
FSPB Thrust YS4954
Casualties
19-7-69 Hines.P.A. Lt. 214348 6RAR RAINF 27 KIA Tripped mine in Long Hai's.
19-7-69 Loughman M. Pte 3794096 HQ1ALSG 21 RAIN F DOD At 24Evac L.B. from brain haemorrhage.
21-7-69 McDowell B.E. Pte5716295 6RAR2 A/3 21 RAINF WIA Mine tripped by Lt. Hines in Long Hai's.
23-7-69 Smith J. Spr 3794831 1FDSQN 21 RAE KIA Mine clearing in Long Hai's. Att. to 6RAR2...
23-7-69 Smillie R.G . Spr. 39281 1FDSQN RAE 19 KIA Mine clearing in Long Hai's. Att. to 6RAR2..
23-7-69 Radford J.W . Cpl. NZ539244 6RAR RNZIR KIA Mine at Ap Lo Gom on Rt 44.
29-7-69 Hollows T.N. Pte NZ43221 6RAR2 W2 RNZIR DOW From wds on 23.07.69
2-8-69 Turnbull M.J. Pte NZ42116 6RAR2 V4 RNZIR DOW Booby trap at Lang Phuoc Hai.
4-8-69 Hawthorne R.A. Pte NZ42742 6RAR2 W2 RNZIR DOW From wds on 23.07.69.
4-8-69 Hoare F.W. Cpl15705 6RAR2 Sp 29 RAINF DOW At 24EVACHOSP from mine wds the previous day

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.

width=

Operation 'Intruder'
16/7/1969 - 19/7/1969

CTZ
TAO
Start Date End Date
167/1969 19/7/1969
Allied Units Involved: 5 RAR Ready Reaction Force, 3/15 Coy Group, one Tp B Sqn 1 Armd Regt
Enemy Units Involved
Allied Operational Strength Enemy Operational Strength Allied KIA
Allied WIA Allied MIA Enemy KIA
Enemy WIA
Objective of Operation: To assist 3/15 Coy Group conduct RIF/Ambush Ops in the Baria area.
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
Sources Used in Archive:AWM95-1-159

 

width=

Operation ' Ginger'
17/7/1969 - 7/8/1969

CTZ
TAO
Start Date End Date
17/7/1969 7/8/1969
Allied Units Involved: B Squadron, 1st Armored Regiment (Australian)
Enemy Units Involved
Allied Operational Strength Enemy Operational Strength Allied KIA
Allied WIA Allied MIA Enemy KIA
Enemy WIA
Objective of Operation: Pacification operaiton in Duc Thanh District
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
Sources Used in Archive
Preliminary Checklist Of United States Military Operations In Southeast Asia

 

width=

Operation ' Hat Dich'
17/71969 - 31/7/1969

CTZ
TAO
Start Date End Date
17/71969 31/7/1969
Allied Units Involved: HQ 1 ATF FWD, 9th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, 1 Fd Sqn, 1 Fd Bty, B Sqn 3 Cav Regt, ARVN Marine Brigade, two dusters Arty(US).
Objective of Operation: reconnaissance in force operations
Sources Used in Archive:AWM95-1-159
FSPB Clare : YS2083 - 1 ATF FWD
FSB Dampier - YS 36-86 3 km SE of FSB Tasman, 6 km S of FSB Wattle, 8 km W of Rte-2 and 20 km NNW of Nui Dat. During Jun70 (after 14Jun), 161 Bty fired its biggest shoot of the war, during which 184 "serials" pounded the area around FSB Dampier. 161 Bty, RNZA (Horsford’s Bty 18Mar69-18Sep69) firebase set here 18-31Jul69 (right section), 19-31Jul69 (left section). Phuoc Tuy Prov, III Corps.
19-7-69 Kermode R.C. Pte. 1733818 9RAR RAINF 21 KIA In contact 5500m NE of FSB Dampier. Body recovered next day.
19-7-69 Needs J.D . Cpl. 55119 9RAR RAINF 22 KIA Mine tripped in Long Hai's.
24-7-69 Moore R. J. Cpl. 55119 9RAR RAINF 22 KIA Mine tripped in Long Hai's.

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.

Photo Courtesy of : The Australian
18 August 1988 - Special Edition

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).


width=

Operation 'Camden'
29 July - 31 July


161 Field Battery(NZ) Tac Sign


CTZ
TAO
Allied Units Involved: Two Rifle Coys 5 RAR, C Coy 9 RAR, 161 Fd Bty
Objective of Operation: Protection of 501 Engr Coy
Sources Used in Archive:AWM95-1-159
FSPB Cambrai YS3081 with 501 Engr Coy Base.
31-7-69 McMillan J.C . Pte. 3794377 5RAR RAINF 20 KIA GSW. In contact with bunker system in the Hat Dich.

 


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.

August - 1969
1 August. 9 RAR in loc 1 ATF Base - provide Ready Re-action Force.
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)
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

width=

Operation ' Platypus '(1969 version)
1/8/1969 - 14/8/1969

CTZ
TAO
Start Date End Date
1/8/1969 14/8/1969
Allied Units Involved: B Squadron, 1st Armored Regiment, Australian
Enemy Units Involved
Allied Operational Strength Enemy Operational Strength Allied KIA
Allied WIA Allied MIA Enemy KIA
Enemy WIA
Objective of Operation: interdiction of VC movement across Route 15
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
Sources Used in Archive

 

width=

Operation ' Neppabunna'
15/8/69 - 15/9/69


RAR


Royal Australian Engineers

CTZ
TAO
Start Date End Date
15/8/1969 15/9/1969
Allied Units Involved: 9th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Enemy Units Involved
Allied Operational Strength Enemy Operational Strength Allied KIA
Allied WIA Allied MIA Enemy KIA
Enemy WIA
Objective of Operation: pacification and reconnaissance in force in AO Umberatana(Dat Do area)
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
Sources Used in Archive: 9 RAR Op Order 19/69
Preliminary Checklist Of United States Military Operations In Southeast Asia
FSB Serle - YS 53-61 4 km E of FSB Horseshoe on Rte-23, 13 km ESE of Nui Dat. 161 Bty, RNZA (Horsford’s Bty 18Mar69-18Sep69) firebase set here 15-31Aug69. "A generously set out FSB, a factor that allowed the Bty to lay out a [3-hole] golf course,". Phuoc Tuy Prov, III Corps.
FSB Janet (Xuyen Moc) - YS 65-68 On Rte-23, 22 km due E of Nui Dat, 1 km S of FSB Wells, 7 km E of FSB Serle, 12 km ENE of Dat Do and situated at one end of the Xuyen Moc Airstrip. 161 Bty, RNZA (Horsford’s Bty 18Mar69- 18Sep69) firebase set here 24-31Aug69. Phuoc Tuy Prov, III Corps.
FSB Wells - YS 65-69 N of Xuyen Moc, 1 km N of FSB Janet, 23 km E of Nui Dat, 18 km NE of Dat Do and 13 km SE of FSB Wilton. 161 Bty, RNZA (Horsford’s Bty 18Mar69-18Sep69) firebase set here 31Aug- 10Sep69. Phuoc Tuy Prov, III Corps.
7-9-69 Rennie B. Pte312641 9RAR A/3 21 RAINF DOW At 24EVACHOSP from GSW to head earlier that day

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.

width=

Operation 'Long Tan'
17 - 18 August 1969

CTZ
TAO
Units Involved: 6RAR, one Tp B Sqn 3 Cav Regt.
Enemy Units Involved
Objective of Operation: To celebrate Long Tan Day by installing a cross and a ceremony at the site of the Battle of Long Tan.
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
Sources Used in Archive
LONG TAN, SOUTH VIETNAM. 1969-08-18. THE PIPERS' LAMENT FOR THE DEAD OF LONG TAN. A POIGNANT MOMENT AT THE COMMEMORATIVE SERVICE HELD ON THE SITE OF THE BATTLE OF LONG TAN, FOUGHT IN 1966 BY D COMPANY, 6TH BATTALION, THE ROYAL AUSTRALIAN REGIMENT (6 RAR). THE SERVICE HELD BY 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), WAS TO COMMEMORATE THE DEAD OF 6RAR AT LONG TAN AND FROM THE PRESENT TOUR OF 6RAR/NZ.

 

width=

Operation 'Tekapo'
20 - 28 August 1969

CTZ
TAO
Allied Units Involved: 6RAR, three splinter teams 1 Fd Sqn, one section 101 Fd Bty. In spt one Tp B Sqn 3 Cav Regt, one AHC 9 Sqn RAAF, CH47 Army Avn(US).
Objective of Operation: Conduct RIF and Ambushes in AOs, GATE PA, NGA PUHI, CLUDEN
Descriptive Narrative of Operation: 3 Coy Ops of three days each.
Sources Used in Archive: 1 ATF OPs 74/69
21-8-69 Brown R.H.. Spr NZ41700 6RAR RNZE KIA Mine

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.

width=

Operation 'Burnham'
29/8/69 -


CTZ
TAO
Allied Units Involved: 6RAR, three splinter teams 1 Fd Sqn, one section 101 Fd Bty, one Tp B Sqn 1 Armd Regt, one Tp B Sqn 3 Cav Regt in Spt . I DS 101 Fd Bty, 60 Engrs Coy(US), 161 Recce Flt. In Spt one AHC 9 Sqn RAAF, Army Avn(US).
Objective of Operation: To conduct Land Clearing Ops in AO STUART supported by recce and ambush ops.
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
Sources Used in Archive:1 ATF Ops Instr 75/69

30 August. 5RAR return to 1 ATF Base (Nui Dat).

September - 1969

width=

Operation ' Chieftain'
3/9/69 - 4/10/69


1 Armd Regt Colour Patch

CTZ
TAO
Duc Thanh
Start Date End Date
3/9/1969 4/10/1969
Allied Units Involved: B Squadron, 1st Armored Regiment (Australian)
Enemy WIA
Objective of Operation: Pacification of Duc Thanh district
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
Sources Used in Archive
Preliminary Checklist Of United States Military Operations In Southeast Asia

3-9-69 Kingston I.W. Pte 1734754 6RAR 20 RAINF KIA GSW in contact N.of FSB Diggers Rest.
4 September: The death of Ho Chi Minh, aged 79 years.

width=

Operation ' Kingston'
14/9/69 - 15/10/69

CTZ
III
TAO
Phuoc Tuy Province
Start Date End Date
14/9/1969 15/10/1969
Allied Units Involved: 5th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment(- D Coy) , 1 Fd Sqn, B Sqn 3 Cav Regt.In DS 105 Fd Bty, 161 (Indep) Recce Flt, Plant Tp 1 Fd Sqn, 131 Div Loc Bty
Enemy Forces:LF Bn D445
Objective of Operation: Reconnaissance and ambush operation in AO MAX YS6076
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
Sources Used in Archive: AWM 95-7-5-35

15 - HMAS Vendetta departs Sydney on Vietnam deployment.
16 September. Further troop withdrawals of 6,000 announced by the US.
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.
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.

October - 1969
2-10-69 Prior K.J. Pte 1734329 9RAR 22 RAINF KIA GSW to head in Bien Hoa Prov. while in ambush
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.
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.
8 October - Laos requests increased aid from the US to meet Communist aggression.

width=

Operation ' Ross'
13/10/69 -30/11/69

6 RAR Unit Patch

A. VIETNAM, Series LY014 Sheets 643 II and 6429 I 1:50 000.
B. 1 ATF Op Instr 88/69 (OP ROSS). Time zone used throughout this order: HOTEL.
1. Situation.
a. Enemy: D445 IF Bn, D440 LF BN, C23 (C70) Xuyem Moc LF Pl. Local guerilla groups.
b. Friendly Forces.
(1) D, Coy - Remains HORSESHOE. (2) 5 RAR. 1 ATF reaction force. (3) 9 RAR. Continue ops AO STUART.
c. Atts and Dets
(1) Under op con from 131200H elm plant Tp 1 Fd Sqn. (2) Under op con from 140700H elm HQ 1 Tp 1 Fd Sqn. (3) Under op con from 150700H ine sect AMCs B Sqn 3 Cav Regt. (4) Under op con from 151200H two ACV's. (5) Under op con from 17120OH one sect B Sqn 3 Cav Regt. (6) In DS - 101 Fd Bty 1 Fd Regt, one H13 161 (Indep) Recce Fit.
Mission : 6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC) Bn is to harass D445 Bn and other VC elements in AO LINTON.
FSPB Tasman established at YS631859
Sources Used in Archive: 1 ATF Op Instr 88/69
Casualties
 21-10-69 Hansen B.V. L/Cpl 218451 1FDSQN 20 RAE KIA Clearing booby trapped mine on Rt 326.
25-10-69 Duncuff A.L. Spr 5716228 1FDSQN RAE 21 KIA Clearing booby trap. Att. to 6RAR.
25-10-69 Hansen P.R Pte. 511317 6RAR RAINF 23 KIA Mine near Long Phuoc Hai.


15 October- Massive war demonstrations in America.
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.

width=

Operation ' Kings Cross'
31/10/69 - 12/12/69

CTZ
III
TAO
Phuoc Tuy Province
Start Date End Date
31/10/1969 12/12/1969
Allied Units Involved: 5th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, C Coy 9 RAR, one Tp B Sqn 1 Armd Regt, one Tp and one AMC Section B Sqn 3 Cav Regt, HQ 1 Fd Sqn (+ 4 Splinter Teams). In DS 105 Fd Bty, 161 (Indep) Recce Flt, 131 Div LOc Bty.
Objective of Operation: Reconnaissance and ambush operation in AO GRACE
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
Sources Used in Archive: Preliminary Checklist Of United States Military Operations In Southeast Asia
4-11-69 Linton M.P. Pte. 1734491 5RAR RAINF 22 KIA .
16-11-69 Suttor H.E. T/L/cpl 218006 5RAR RAINF 26 KIA GSW from sniper in the Hat Dich
25-10-69 Connors R.F. Pte218554 5RAR2 26 RAINF DOW At 3FDHOSP from frag wds on 28.08.69.
25-11-69 White M.P. LCpl 217191 5RAR2 B 20 RAINF DOW At 1FDHOSP V.T. from wds received on 01.11.69 in Bien Hoa
7-12-69 Cassano N.J. Pte. 5716427 5RAR RAINF 22 KIA In contact with bunkers in AO Grace..

22-10-69 Casey A.L. Tpr 218451 B3CAV RAAC 20 KIA APC (ARN134279) hit by 2 RPG's E. of the Light Green.
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.
30-10-69 O'Neill A.L. Cpl 36547 2SAS 36 RAIN F DOD RTA 11.09.68 from illness.
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.

November. - 1969
Massive anti-war demonstrations across the USA.
3 - President Nixon's Speech on "Vietnamisation"
5-11-69 Bink M. L/cpl 2275420 9RAR RAINF 25 KIA Mine while on LCT protection.
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 P. Allen with M26 grenade in tent at Nui Dat.
23-11-69 Troy K.J. WO2 22696 AATTV 45 RAIN F DOD At 3 SURGHOSP 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.
25 November- 8 RAR officially "take over" operational duties from 9 RAR.
28 November - 8 RAR arrive at Vung Tau and depart for Nui Dat. 9 RAR departs for Australia.

December  - 1969
Routine Order Part One. Order 243. CARRIAGE OF ALCOHOLIC LIQUOR OUTSIDE 1 ALSG AREA.
Due lo 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 ALSO 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.

width=

Operation 'Marsden'
1/12/69 - 28/12/69

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).
5 RAR continue ops in AO GRACE. 8 RAR loc Nui Dat.
Atts and Dets: In DS 101 Fd Bty, one H13 161 (Indep) Recce Flt, one sect B Sqn 3 Cav Regt.
Rem in sp: one sect AMC B Sqn 3 Cav Regt, HQ 1 Tp 1 Fd Sqn. In spt 290770H one tp B Sqn 3 Cav Regt less one sect, one sect AMC B Sqn 3 Cav Regt, Br Layer B Sqn 1 Armd Regt, 2 ACV's HQ 1 ATF, four mini teams 1 Fd Sqn, one ACV 547 Sig Sqn Det.
Mission: 6 RAR/NZ (ANZAC) Bn is to destroy en and en installations in AO GULLIVER
FSB Picton; 101 Fd Bty AO GULLIVER. FSB Marsden FSPB Lion, FSPB Castle
Sources Used in Archive:1 ATF Op Instr.

Casualties
 11-12-69 Buchan R. Pte. 55613 6RAR RAINF 22 KIA GSW while investigating bunker in Nui May .
18-12-69 Brown A.R.. Pte. 3794895 6RAR RAINF 21 KIA GSW in contact in Nui May Tao's
. 18-12-69 Stanford G.I. L/Cpl. 2790070 6RAR RAINF 22 KIA GSW during contact in Nui Tao's.
19-12-69 Marks-Chapman P.R. Lt 38801 6RAR2 A/3 25 RAINF DOW From GSW in Nui May Tao's the previous day.

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.

width=

Operation ' Atherton'
10/12/1969 10/1/1970


CTZ
TAO
Start Date End Date
10/12/1969 10/1/1970
Allied Units Involved: 8th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Enemy Units Involved
Allied Operational Strength Enemy Operational Strength Allied KIA
Allied WIA Allied MIA Enemy KIA
Enemy WIA
Objective of Operation: reconnaissance and ambush operation
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
Sources Used in Archive
Preliminary Checklist Of United States Military Operations In Southeast Asia
FSB Peggy - YS 43-83 On the N edge of the Cu Bi Rubber Plantation, 6 km NNW of Duc Tanh, 2 km W of Rte-2, 3 km SW of FSB Kylie and 16 km due N of Nui Dat. 161 Bty, RNZA (Andrew’s Bty 18Sep-6Sep70) firebase set here 11Dec69-10Jan70. Phuoc Tuy Prov, III Corps.
21-12-69 Gould E. G.Pte. 55890 8RAR RAINF 22 KIA GSW during assault on bunker system N.of FSB Peggy at YS390906.

11-12-69 Woolley I.A. LAC A118435 2SQN 21 RAA F DOI Vehicle accident in Phan Rang on 03.12.69
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.

width=

Operation ' Vintage Rally'
14/12/69 - 24/12/69

CTZ
III
TAO
Phuoc Tuy Province
Start Date End Date
14/12/1969 24/12/1969
Allied Units Involved: 5th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Enemy Units Involved
Allied Operational Strength Enemy Operational Strength Allied KIA
Allied WIA Allied MIA Enemy KIA
Enemy WIA
Objective of Operation: reconnaissance and ambush operations
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
Sources Used in Archive
Preliminary Checklist Of United States Military Operations In Southeast Asia

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
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.

width=

Operation ' Tangle'
22/12/69 - 24/12/69

CTZ
TAO
Duc Thanh District
Start Date End Date
22/12/1969 24/12/1969
Allied Units Involved: A Squadron, 1st Armored Regiment (Australian)
Enemy Units Involved
Allied Operational Strength Enemy Operational Strength Allied KIA
Allied WIA Allied MIA Enemy KIA
Enemy WIA
Objective of Operation: pacification of Duc Thanh District
Descriptive Narrative of Operation
Sources Used in Archive
Preliminary Checklist Of United States Military Operations In Southeast Asia

25-12-69 Evans T.A. Pte. 3794256 HQ1ATF RAINF 21 KIA Vehicle forced off road onto mine.

width=

Operation '