ISSUE 124
LCDR Stoker – An Example of Leadership An Expedition in Regime Change: Australia’s party to the Ralliement of New Caledonia during World War II Those They Left Behind The Forgotten Naval Men of Sydney Port Ash Update
Journal of the
3 President’s Message Contents
irst, a number of thanks. First, day conference in Canberra - I will be to our Friends and Sponsors. asking Eric to speak at ANI events on LCDR Stoker Their support is helping the future of the Royal Navy, a subject - An Example of Leadership 4 restoreF the ANI to a sound financial of considerable concern in the UK. footing. Next, as the President, to the We are looking at our programme An Expedition in Regime Change: Front page Councillors. I mention the efforts for 2007 seminars. I hope to organise Australia’s Party to the Raillement of photograph: of Geoff Lawes, whose work on the one on maritime surveillance and New Caledonia during WWII 8 website has been terrific, and Josh response, and one on naval warfare HMAS Sirius departs Watkin and Robert Wright, all of - I hope in conjunction with other HMAS Stirling’s whom have completed ADFA time organisations such as the Naval Those They Left Behind 17 Diamantina Wharf and returned to sea. Lastly thanks to Warfare Officers’ Association. Booz for her Freedom Of our office manager, Jean Davitt, who Allen Hamilton and the Australian Entry Ceremony on LCDR Frederick Ross, OAM RAN provides excellent value for money in National Centre for Ocean Resources Norfolk Island Feb 07 A life of distinguished Naval Service 20 her ANI services. and Security have indicated in principle 2006 was a good year. We held a their readiness to support a new number of successful social events, cycle of the Maritime Advancement Ancors Aweigh ADFA breakfasts and seminars. Australia Award. We will advertise this - A revitalised maritime research centre Headmark went from strength to later in the year and seek applications, commences operation 22 strength – the ANI owes Peter Jones, announcing the winner at Pacific 2008. the former chair, and all involved with With the approval of Council, I have the Journal’s renewal a very great deal. invited Mike Carlton, journalist and Australia’s Secret War Chapter II 25 We have a good long term model. radio personality and well known friend Our Vernon Parker Orator was of the Navy, to give the 2007 Vernon 2007 ‘King Hall’ Naval History AUSTAL’s John Rothwell. His speech Parker Oration. I hope for this event, Conference 29 and the following dinner were a great and the ANI annual dinner which success. Chris Skinner, our Maritime follows it, to be held in Canberra in Advancement Australia Award winner August. Port Ash Update 30 for 2006-07, continues his study of the What lies ahead for the long Collins class submarine project. We term? We will continue to expand ADM Sir Victor Alfred Trumper Smith, expect him to provide a presentation at membership, and build up resources, AC, KBE, CB, DSC, RAN 33 the Seapower 2008 conference. while expanding activities. I aim first to We have a number of events in train. reach a financial strength so we can pay The ANI will be closely associated a skilled, enthusiastic person to be our Visions from the Vault 43 with the July King-Hall Naval History events coordinator and general ‘make Conference, sponsoring the air travel things happen’ person, and second to Book Reviews 44 of Dr Eric Grove from the UK. Eric, keep up the pressure on like-minded well known to many of you, is always organisations to seek opportunities to good value. In addition to the single day work together and achieve critical mass. Style Notes for Contributors 47 conference in Sydney at the Maritime Museum - the ANI will assist with JAMES GOLDRICK sponsoring the reception and the two Winter 2007 ANI Events Program 48
Issue Number 124 ANI Online Guide 49 SPONSORS: JACOBS AUSTRALIA Printed by Everbest ATI KBR Printing Company AUSTAL LOPAC Australian Naval Institute Info 50 AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE CREDIT UNION P & O ISSN 1833-6531 BOOZ ALLEN & HAMILTON FRIEND RAYTHEON AUSTRALIA ANI Membership Application Form 51 EDS SAAB Design & DTP: Diane Bricknell [email protected] Journal of the Australian Naval Institute 4 LCDR Stoker – An Example of Leadership by Lieutenant D.A. Holland Leadership and heroism are not AE2 arriving at Portsmouth 17 Feb 1914 the same, but we have much (Courtesy Jeff Knaggs) to learn about the latter in understanding the process of leadership. General S.L.A. Marshall 1
he story of the first landings at Gallipoli by the 1st AIF on 25 TApril 1915 has earned a rightful place in Australia’s 20th century military history. English and Australian ratings and an when he successfully brought the AE2 Yet the achievements of the fledgling engaging and flamboyant personality in 13,000 miles to Australia including 9,000 Royal Australian Navy, and in particular her 28 year old Commanding Officer. miles under its own power.10 the exploits of the submarine AE2 on Lieutenant Commander Stoker.7 AE2’s first war time mission assisting that day, are less well known.2This is Stoker may have been lowest in the occupation of German New Guinea extraordinary since AE2 accomplished seniority of the six officers appointed was marred by the mysterious and one of the most daring submarine feats to captain the E class submarines at the tragic loss of AE1 off the Duke of York of the war, becoming the first allied time, but his leadership capabilities and Islands on 14 September 191411leaving vessel to penetrate the treacherous confident personality quickly won him a devastated crew of the AE2 to return Dardanelles Strait. respect from among his colleagues and alone to Australia.12Stoker’s personal This oversight can be partly crew.8 grief inevitably gave way to frustration explained by World War One censorship Stoker, an Irishman, was intensely as the months wore on and he sought and the view at the time that AE2’s proud of commanding an Australian to have the AE2 assist the Royal Navy in achievement was a minor part of submarine. An excellent writer, actor Europe.13 the overall naval effort.3The lack of and games player, he was popular In January 1915 AE2 served as the recognition for AE2’s heroic exploits everywhere: C.G. Brodie (Commander sole escort for a convoy of 17 transport continues with many contemporary of the E15 – author’s note) spoke for ships taking the second detachment Australian war historians choosing to the staff when he said that he was ‘the of AIF troops to the Middle East. The deal with later 20th century conflicts and very pattern of a forlorn hope leader. AE2 only reached the Mediterranean their influence on our national identity.4 Richard Compton-Hall9 before it was diverted to the Dardanelles This essay does not aim to fill in those campaign.14 gaps nor is it meant to be a biography of Stoker’s credentials as a submarine Stoker received orders to force a Henry Dacre Gordon Stoker who, by any commander -- previously commanded passage through the straits into the account, led had an extraordinary and E7 at Gibraltar -- were further enhanced Sea of Marmara and there try to block colourful life5: Rather, this essay looks at enemy traffic between the Bosphorus some of the events, circumstances and and the Dardanelles.15 It was extremely personality traits that defined Stoker’s dangerous. The 35 mile long Dardanelles capabilities as a leader. Strait was considered impenetrable because of its strong currents, narrow ORDERS ARE TO ‘RUN AMOK’ passages, strong fortification and density –THE INFLUENCE OF GOOD of mines targeting surface shipping. LEADERSHIP Despite the loss of several Allied Stoker was fortunate he commanded a vessels from the Turkish defences, new class of submarine. TheAE2 and its Stoker was determined that the AE2 sister vessel the AE1 were British built should be the first submarine of the E Class submarines, one of the most British Empire to successfully penetrate advanced class of submarine afloat at AE2 crew when Prisoners of War 22 Dec 1915 the Dardanelles. AE2 crewmember 6 the time. AE2 had a combined crew of (Courtesy John Skelton) Charles Suckling noted: Journal of the Australian Naval Institute Issue 124 5
AE2 crew – Stoker probably front centre (courtesy Peter Stoker) Ship’s Company
OFFICERS Lieutenant-Commander Henry Hugh Gordon Dacre Stoker DSO. RN Lieutenant Geoffrey Arthur Gordon Haggard DSC. RN Lieutenant John Pitt Cary [MID] RN
The difficulty of navigating a leadership capabilities that his crew was RATINGS submarine while submerged, through able to share in his confidence. Charles Chief Petty Officer Harold Abbott DSM. RN No. 8268 a straight whose narrow passages and Suckling explained: strong currents made it a difficult Our Captain then told us that he Chief Petty Officer Charles Vaughan (MID) RAN task even in a surface ship. Leut. honestly believed it possible to get Chief Engine Room Artificer 2nd Class Harry Burton Broomhead DSM. RN No. X278 Commander H G Stoker, the Captain through but if any man wished to leave Chief Stoker Charles Varcoe RN No. 8275 of A.E.2 was the only officer present the boat he was at liberty to do so, who thought the feat possible…It was not one man asked to be relieved….. Petty Officer Cecil Arthur Bray RAN No. 7296 a difficult business trying to persuade I would like to state now that Leut. Petty Officer Stephen John Gilbert RAN No. 8053 the Admiral or any of his Staff that it Com. Stoker was a man absolutely Engine Room Artificer Class I Peter Fawns RN No. 8285 was possible, and Leut Com. Stoker’s loved by his crew and there was not Leading Seaman Charles Holdernes RN No. 8270 application to be allowed to make the one of us who was not willing to go Leading Seaman George Henry Nash RAN (Ex-RFR) No. attempt was not favourably received.16 anywhere he cared to take us.20 8056 Leading Signalman Albert Norman Charles Thomson RN No. 8271 It was also a highly calculated risk. The willingness of a body of fighting Stoker knew that he had one of the men to follow their commanding Leading Stoker John Kerin RAN No. 7391 most modern submarines at hand and officer into dangerous territory in Able Seaman John Harrison Wheat RAN No. 7861 a well trained and close knit crew who order to complete their mission cannot Able Seaman Benjamin Talbot RAN (Ex-RN) No. 8221 had developed an intimate knowledge be underestimated as one of the key Able Seaman Alexander Charles Nichols RAN No. 7298 of their boat’s capabilities over the qualities of a successful leader. The Able Seaman Albert Edward Knaggs RAN (Ex-RFR} No. past two years. However Stoker would experienced crew of the AE2 recognised 7893 have also been aware that E11 and E14, the magnitude of their task and was Able Seaman William Thomas Cheater RAN No. 7999 which were also arriving on station at well aware of the fate of E15.21 In his Able Seaman Lionel Stanley Churcher RAN (Ex-RN) No. the Dardanelles during the same period, essay: ‘Leadership as an Art’, James L 7970 were more battle hardened as they had Stokesbury states that: Telegraphist William Wolseley Falconer RAN No. 1936 already completed numerous patrols The leader therefore not only has to Stoker James Cullen RAN No. 2826 in the dangerous North Sea and Baltic believe in his men, and have that Stoker Horace James Harding RAN No. 7216 region.17He later wrote: belief reciprocated; he has to be able Stoker William Brown Jenkins RAN No. 2080 If we got through other boats would be to inspire them to risk their lives for Stoker Charles George Suckling RAN No. 214X sent after us, but if we failed no other some greater end which they may only Stoker Thomas Henry Walker RN No. 8289 boats would be allowed to attempt very dimly perceive, and he has to Stoker Michael Williams RAN. No. 2305 it. And finally wishing us luck, (the have himself the courage to demand Stoker Thomas Wishart RN. No. 8277 Admiral) concluded: If you succeed that they do so. It is of course in this Engine Room Artificer 1st Class James Henry Gibson RN. there is no calculating the result it will particular that military leadership No. 8273 22 cause, and it may well be that you will differs from other kinds. Engine Room Artificer 2nd Class Stephen Thomas Bell have done more to finish the war than [MID]. RN No. 8272 any other act accomplished.18 Stoker’s willingness to take the Stoker Petty Officer Herbert Alexander Brown DSM RAN submarine to the limits of its (Ex-RN) No. 8096 Stoker was described as having ‘a grin all capability was due his understanding Stoker Petty Officer Henry James Elly Kinder Mentioned in over his face’ when he was told that AE2 of the capabilities of the technology a Despatch. RAN No. 7244 could ‘have a go’.19It was a measure of his combined with his confidence in the Journal of the Australian Naval Institute 6 LCDR Stoker – An Example of Leadership
Lieutenant Commander depended on him at this stage. It is wisdom of hindsight should not dilute HGD Stoker DSO due to his coolness that I am now our saluting the achievements of one (courtesy of the writing this account. Nobody knows of the 20th century’s greatest submarine West Australian what a terrible strain it is on the commanders. � Maritime nerves to undergo anything like this, Museum) especially the Captain, as all depends ‘Appointed in late 2004, LEUT Debra 24 AE2 at Cockatoo on him. Holland is about to complete her Reserve Island 1914 Entry Officers’ Course (REOC) as a Public Courtesy Naval Stoker’s later career in the theatre Relations Officer. She has a 22 year Heritage Centre indicates that he implicitly understood the authority of stage presence. He career in journalism, media liaison and would have been aware, perhaps writing and is currently employed as instinctively, but also through his the communications and events officer training that effective leaders convey at the Heritage Office, within the NSW confidence and assuredness through Department of Planning. Her interests their voice, their physical presence and overall demeanour.25 include flamenco dancing, fencing and theatrical swordplay and she is learning CONCLUSION to play the cello. This essay was initially Without ‘emotional submitted as part of her REOC Naval intelligence’, a person can have History requirement.’ the best training in the world, an incisive, analytical mind, and endless supply of smart ideas, but he still won’t make a great leader.26 Daniel Goleman
American psychologist and journalist AE2 launch in 1913 Daniel Golemen identifies ‘emotional Courtesy of Naval intelligence’ as a driver for effective Heritage Centre leadership. He cites personal competence, self awareness, self- Bibliography: management, social competence, social Taylor, R. University of Louisville and AE2 bow awareness and relationship management Rosenbach W.E. Gettysburg College (eds) underwater as key measures. In this regard, Stoker’s 2005 ‘Military Leadership: In Pursuit of -Mark Spencer Excellence’ Westview Press leadership can be linked to his high level Suckling, C. Personal papers held at the copyright professionalism and discipline of his of ‘emotional intelligence’. 27 Australian War Memorial AWM File 419/101/14 3DR6226 fellow officers and crew. There is still debate as to whether Chambers, I. ‘Lt Cdr Henry Stoker - an This sense of empathy and Stoker was overly rash in his Historic Journey: The AE2 and the Gallipoli Campaign’
London Project. attempts from the Turkish prison (pp271-272 Straws in the Wind.) Smith, T., 2000, ‘Up Periscope: Submarine 5 Stoker was in turn, a WW1 submarine 13 Stoker’s flamboyant character revealed itself when he bailed up the AE2 makes first contact’ Maritime commander, a prisoner-of-war and escapee, then Australian Defence Minister, Senator Pearce, seated behind the Archaeology Program, NSW Heritage a successful actor and theatre director, a Speaker’s chair in the House of Representatives and talked him into Office, Bulletin of the Australian Institute participant in the planning for D-Day and sending the AE2 back to Europe to support the Royal Navy’s other E for Maritime Archaeology (2000) 24: 9-20 finally, in the autumn of his life, the Irish class submarines. (pp76-77 Straws in the Wind). Kolay, S. ‘The sub that shaped Gallipoli’ national croquet champion! 14 The aim was to besiege Constantinople from the sea which would DIVER magazine - November 1999. Selçuk 6 TheAE2 was one of two new submarines effectively take Turkey out of the war and relieve pressure on the Kolay built by Vickers at Barrow-in-Furness for Russians. ‘Lt Cdr Henry Stoker -- an Historic Journey. the Royal Australian Navy. They were 15. Stoker’s orders were later changed to help provide support to the The AE2 and the Gallipoli Campaign’ by Dr larger, faster, better armed and with greater landings at Gallipoli. TheAE2 was now ordered to protect the fleet Ian Chambers
Journal of the Australian Naval Institute 8 An Expedition in Regime Change: Australia’s party to the Ralliement of New Caledonia during World War II LTCOL Nicholas Floyd
“In case of a conflict between two great powers in the Pacific, their respective positions with regard to naval forces could perhaps be completely dependent upon whether France puts her ports at the disposal of one or the other of the belligerents”. Kintomo Mushakoji, Japanese officer, 19241
« La France a perdu la bataille, mais la France n’a pas perdu la guerre » General Charles de Gaulle, proclamation, 20 June 19402 Australia’s eventual pursuit of its own international agenda can be seen in turn of the century.3 Actions Stations: Preface her dealings with this early wartime The French in New Caledonia Closed up aboard HMAS Adelaide, off France’s defeat in 1940 by the dilemma, and in the foreign policy were mistaken in viewing the taunts Noumea, September victorious advancing German armies decisions subsequent to the coup. and threats of a vocal minority 1940 precipitated the assumption of power This paper examines the role in Australia as the harbingers of by Marshal Pétain, the Great War hero of Australia as portent of the conflict. As Caledonian anticipation and French national figure. With the popular choice of government and of an Australian invasion waxed, transferral of the seat of government a glimmering hope of autonomy for and French resources to counter to Vichy, a relatively unknown yet the colony of New Caledonia, and the such action waned, the decline of passionate French general, Charles effects on the conduct of the War in the metropolitan France’s investment in de Gaulle, defied the call to cooperate Pacific brought about by this action. the colony incontrovertibly hampered with Germany, and appealed to all her development. Her penal colony French not under the ‘Nazi jackboot’ to Background continued to be a distasteful heritage continue the struggle. The French naval and military forces - even after transportation ceased - and Australia appears as a reluctant in New Caledonia were undoubtedly the uncertainty surrounding the fate yet resigned participant in the the enduring - and for the most part, of the New Hebrides (and thereby a ensuing drama that surrounded the the most publicly recognised - threat safe egress from the New Caledonian Free French Coup de Force in New to Australian sovereignty and her archipelago in time of invasion) caused Caledonia in September 1940. Though interests in the Pacific during the further doubt on Nouméa’s viability as little known - subject as it was to colonial period. Without such a a thriving colony. As British Imperial wartime censorship - this action was palpable, Damoclean presence, it is might eclipsed both French and not only a small, albeit important unlikely that British forces would have Russian power projection in the 1890s, step towards eventual victory for the been tolerated - even welcomed - in a fatalism of the impending loss of Allies, but it also marks one of the Australia until 1870, and the clamour France’s possessions discouraged Paris’ earliest opportunities Australia had for sizeable, unified and effective augmentation of her colonial defences, to exert its own diplomatic interests, defence forces that continued for the and New Caledonia was no exception. and not merely act as an agent of remainder of the 1800s would not have Even so, local military efforts to the British Empire. The inklings of reached such levels as they did by the optimise Nouméa’s abilities to repel Journal of the Australian Naval Institute Issue 124 9
attack remained strong until after the signing of the Entente Cordiale. As it turned out, British, Dominion and French alliance during the Great War extinguished any foreseeable chance of conflict, and the shared battlefields of the Dardanelles, Palestine and the Western Front secured the mutual amity of these Coral Sea neighbours, despite the short- lived resurgence of Australian expansionism during the cession of ex-German Pacific possessions after the Great War. But as this new chapter in the relationship between Australia and New Caledonia developed, Australian and interests; our Armies and our Navies disagreement with and deviation official welcome speech provides Memories: “With are the vigilant guardians of the peace, this the compliments of from British foreign policy towards insight into the depth of official peace of the Entente Cordiale, founded on a the Commissioned Japan gave her a greater impetus to friendship, which had obviously and Warrant Officers friendship and a reciprocal trust ...5 follow her own diplomatic agenda. progressed dramatically since before of HMAS Adelaide Growing suspicions of British inability the War, with Guyon employing terms However, with the demise of British - 15/9/40” to effectively counter a two-ocean such as “Brothers in arms”, and “dear and Australian power - globally threat - even with the development of neighbours”, and expressing admiration and regionally respectively - as the much-vaunted Singapore bastion - for: “... your Navy, its traditions of reductions enforced by the League finally galvanised Australian acceptance honour, valliance, [sic] courtesy and of Nations bit deep, the myth of of self-reliance and precipitated a genrosity, [sic] in time of war as in time invincibility of the British Empire renewed focus on New Caledonia. of peace”.4 went into serious decline. Australian Once again, the islands’ strategic With similar effusiveness, the - and French - suspicions of Japanese position to Australia was recognised, welcome of the Australian officers intentions grew, and the British and fears of occupation by both Japan to the Cercle Militaire in Nouméa Empire’s Singapore strategy attracted and Australia surfaced. by Lieutenant-Colonel Amalric, considerable criticism, particularly Commandant Supérieur des Troupes, from the Australian Army, and from A Prologue to War directly addressed their countries’ the Australian Chief of Naval Staff, The maintenance of cordial relations recent shared sacrifice: Rear Admiral Sir Percy Grant, who between Australia and New Caledonia [the] Sentiments of the French of the Pacific continually raised the spectre of Britain was now of mutual significance, and are particularly strong for their Australian having to face multiple aggressors on the conduct of official fleet visits such neighbours ... and especially; a sentiment two or more fronts.6 as that of the new Australian cruiser of admiration for the splendid Australian Australia’s investment in the HMAS Canberra to Nouméa over 11- Youth who had come to fight, and mix their development of Fortress Singapore 16 September 1931 were instrumental blood with ours on the battlefield: at Suez, had appealed to the proponents of in the maintenance of such relations. at the Dardanelles, in Artois, on the Somme. the forward defence theories; Hong A letter from Governor Guyon to Immortal glory to the Anzacs! Glory also Kong was intended to hold out to an the Ministre des Affaires Étrangères to the valiant Sydney, and the Australian aggressor (implicitly Japan) for long records the event, and contains squadron which put a tragic end to the enough, while the British Eastern transcripts of various speeches made odyssey of the Emden, and freed the [Pacific] Fleets assembled at Singapore, ready by both Caledonian officials, and islands’ populations of the menace of the to repel an amphibious invasion that raider! ... the British and French nations Australian Squadron Commander, would be limited by the distance of are united by a community of sentiments Commodore L.S. Holbrook. The its voyage from Japan. Singapore, Journal of the Australian Naval Institute 10 An Expedition in Regime Change: Australia’s party to the Ralliement of New Caledonia during World War II
French colonial and naval power d’outre-mer.10 In the Pacific, the overseas French territories of les Etablissements français d’Océanie (now French Polynesia), New Caledonia and the Anglo-French joint-administered “condominium” The ship’s company of HMAS Adelaide march in the New Hebrides, faced the through Noumea, September 1940. dilemma of choosing between the respective validities of Vichy and Free The officers and northern neighbour were France. Indo-China’s decision to retain sailors of HMAS Adelaide on parade themselves hampered by loyalty to the Pétainist Government with French troops her participation in the was swift and prudent - given nearby and onlookers, at Singapore strategy, and Japan’s predicted actions in the coming a ‘Prise d’Armes’ in also her vehement White months - but for the isolated island front of the Quartier- 8 Australia Policy. It was colonies, the choice was less clear. Générale, Noumea, September 1940. a shortfall not lost on the In New Caledonia, declaring French observers of the day: for Vichy was agonised over by the “It is evident that the recently installed yet already alienated In memory of shared previous sacrifice: Commonwealth [of Australia] Governor, Georges Pélicier. New Australia pays respects ‘Aux Morts’ [to the continues to live and evolve in the orbit of Caledonia was becoming more heavily dead] at the Great War Memorial, Noumea, the British Empire from a political viewpoint. reliant upon Japanese trade in nickel, September 1940. The unity of race within the Empire, and the and her links with Germany promised meanwhile, with its back to the loyalty of Australians to the Crown permits a valuable conduit with a market that 9 seemingly impenetrable wall of the no doubt of it.” was cut off from virtually all other British-held Malay Peninsula, fairly nickel sources for its critical armaments 11 bristled with guns, but outwards. How War Came to the Pacific industry. Japan herself was The folly of such assumptions would The redemption of New Caledonia by dependent upon this nickel source, and eventually be brought out, as Japanese de Gaulle’s Free France in September also for her iron. Since 1935, Japan had troops fairly breezed through Malaya, 1940 appears a somewhat insignificant sizeably increased her ore shipments and had access to the ports of Vichy side-issue within the frame of the first from New Caledonia, and by 1938 Cochin-China and Annam, which all tumultuous years of the Second World was importing 3,596,000 tonnes of had dramatic effects on reducing the War. Yet, as with the outcomes of each trade from New Caledonia, and in logistic considerations of invasion. of Britain’s scrambling attempts to win 1939 imported 24,000 tonnes of iron The reactions of the French South- over - or at least, to neutralise - French ore.12 Such trade benefits were neither East Asian colonies should not have overseas possessions prior to their matched nor guaranteed by the British, been a surprise, however, had attention being subsumed by the collaborationist through her Dominions. France’s been given to contemporary analyses Vichy government, the implications of continued policies of large trade tariffs such as that of the French strategist a Gaullist New Caledonia were indeed on trade with Australia and others Rear-Admiral Castex. He foresaw that important, albeit indirectly, to the ensured New Caledonia’s reliance upon France could not defend Indochina Allied war effort. As well, common metropolitan France,13 though the against the Japanese, and considered to all of the early Anglo-Free French uncertainty of Vichy shipping’s future that French interests in the Pacific were operations, the reactions of the local status with the Allies cast doubt on this so small as to warrant the disposal of French populace greatly influenced source. While imports from Australia New Caledonia and the New Hebrides both the action taken, and the eventual amounted to over five times that of to Australia or New Zealand, to whose outcome. Japan, French analysts had realised as mercy they were at anyway.7 For the After the fall of France on 22 June early as 1934 the importance of trade to time being, territorial speculation aside 1940, Britain and the fledgling Free Japan. They assessed that when Japan: however, Australian attempts to make French administration embarked on “... considers her interests at stake, the best of relations with her powerful a desperate bid to annex or neutralise whether or not she has previously Journal of the Australian Naval Institute Issue 124 11
been consulted, she will not hesitate the Caldoches, and in particular suitable pro-de Gaulle French official, to act and will do so - and this is to the broussards (the bushmen and and depose the Vichy administration, at be feared - abiding by her treaties or farmers of the Interior of the Grand the bequest of the Gaullist populace.23 not”.14 Japan had an option to ensure Terre) believed that, patriotic honour However, as part of the British Empire’s continued access to the minerals she aside, their aspirations for autonomy global naval coverage, the Australian required: a maintenance of friendly would be probably better served by Naval Station was obliged to carry out relations with New Caledonia, or the de Gaulle.18 In a vain attempt at such British Admiralty directives in occupation of the island. It is unclear compromise, the Governor opted this area of the Pacific. A conflict of to what extent Australia was mindful of secretly to condone allegiance to interest was emerging, and Australia’s Japanese investment in New Caledonia, Vichy, but tell the locals that the colony hesitation to act as an unquestioning and the importance placed upon was for Free France. This short-lived agent provocateur for Britain can continued access. The information attempt at fence-sitting was doomed plausibly be viewed as the beginnings was available, but the assessment may to fail, and the hapless Governor was or even the catalyst for increasing not have occurred that redeeming deposed on 28 August, and replaced by divergence between British and New Caledonia to Free France may the ageing local Army Commandant, Australian foreign policy and war aims, precipitate Japan’s entry into the War. Lieutenant Colonel Denis.19 as the War continued. Prior to the War, Australian There is dispute as to whether Meanwhile, by 21 July, the French expansionist designs on her Pacific Australia jumped or was pushed into in the New Hebrides had declared neighbours, whether real or imagined, her minor, yet pivotal role in New themselves for Free France, and by had been demonstrated in her Caledonia’s ralliement. Menzies’ doing so had provided both a moral prosecution of the campaign in and Government was cognisant of the precedent and a personage suitable annexation of German possessions issues related above. The then Minister to replace Pélicier. Following his during the Great War.15 Patriotic, yet for External Affairs, Sir John McEwen, leadership in the declaration of vaguely autonomous, the Caldoches asserts that he and his Department the New Hebrides for Free France, Aftermath: - the white inhabitants of New had battled with Cabinet’s inertia and Henri Sautot, the French resident Australia’s Prime Caledonia - and their colonial masters indecision to pre-emptively act against Commissioner of the New Hebrides Minister, Robert feared substitution of one colonial the pro-Vichy Government in Nouméa, had distinguished himself as a Menzies visits New Caledonia. power for another. As war threatened particularly in light of Japan’s actions in candidate for the task.24 20 Seen here in to engulf the Pacific, Australia would Indo-China. Australian misgivings over such discussions with become increasingly cognisant of the According to John Lawrey - a coup de force stemmed also from Henri Sautot, New strategic stepping-stones to its north. assistant to the Australian Government doubts surrounding the confusing Caledonia’s new Australia could not risk New Caledonia Representative in New Caledonia from reports as to the real balance of local Governor, and B.C. Ballard, Australia’s becoming a base for hostile forces: as December 1940 to 1943 - however, the opinion to such an action, by an Representative the entry of Japan into the War on the Australian Government was reluctant increasingly agitated population. The to New Caledonia Axis side became increasingly likely, to act against an outpost of Vichy British High Commissioner for the - May 1941. it was assumed this would precipitate France, which was by an Australian occupation.16 At the this stage an implicit same time, Australia was regarded as a ally of Germany and somehow kindred colonial entity, with thus Japan21. At the many lifestyle hardships considered same time, Australia shared between them that transcended was mindful of their ancestral rivalry.17 Contact Britain’s exhortations between the two was nevertheless to emasculate or discouraged by their European masters redeem all French - erstwhile and current. possessions on the Such were the factors facing the Gaullist’s behalf.22 Caledonians regarding the colony’s The Anglo-Free political future as they related to French plan was to Australia, and for Pélicier, the balance transfer - by overt favoured siding with Vichy. However, naval presence - a Journal of the Australian Naval Institute 12 An Expedition in Regime Change: Australia’s party to the Ralliement of New Caledonia during World War II
the most tense of the entire action, as confirmation could not be made that Commandant Denis had been deposed. With the guns of the town’s shore battery and those of Dumont d’Urville trained upon him, Showers decided he could not risk Norden further, transhipped Sautot to Adelaide, and steamed directly into the lion’s mouth.29 The battery’s garrison, having been ordered to fire by a panicked Denis, A 6-in coastal Western Pacific, Sir Harry Luke, made Nouméa harbour, providing moral and revolted, and ran up the flag of the artillery piece and only infrequent visits to Nouméa; implicit military support to Pélicier’s Cross of Lorraine. De Quievrecourt its personnel, Ouen until Australia’s decision to establish shaky authority. A transmission remained steadfast, despite being Toro emplacement. an official Representative to New from its commander, Toussainte de fully aware that Adelaide could easily Caledonia in B.C. Ballard, the benefit Quievrecourt, implies a secondary role overwhelm his ship. With typical of regular, lucid analyses of the local that reflects the continuing French French élan, and in the absence of situation was denied to both Britain fears of Australian annexation.27 direction by radio from mainland and Australia25 (the US had a consul On 16 September Sautot, having France whether to fight or surrender, in Nouméa, Harry MacVitty, but his agreed to the proposition - and having de Quievrecourt elected an even more potential as a source was overlooked). been officially recognised by de Gaulle risky course; to remain in Nouméa On the balance of presented as Governor-elect of New Caledonia as a sovereign Vichy ship in order to evidence, it is more probable that it - embarked for Nouméa. Broussard broker expatriation of Vichy supporters was as a result of pressure from Britain Gaullist sympathisers had assured to Indo-China.30 At 12.30 pm, when that Australia eventually accepted that they would be able to depose the the Gaullists finally consolidated their the task. As a contingency though, Governor by 19 September, and be position, Sautot was picked up by Captain Harry Showers - commander waiting to receive Sautot. In deference motor launch after a pre-arranged of HMAS Adelaide - had been already to Franco-Australian relations, Showers signal, and delivered to the crowds of directed to Vila, ostensibly to search embarked Sautot on the Norwegian now-Free French at the dock.31 for the German raider Orion before tanker Norden, and escorted ship Local reaction to Sautot’s eventual the decision was finally taken by and human cargo, ready to provide arrival was enthusiastic to the point Canberra.26 Adelaide had been chosen firepower if required, but technically of embarrassment. Australia’s role, as the only ship in the area capable not yet engaged as a party to the though appreciated to varying degrees of outgunning the Vichy French coup.28 by the community, was inasmuch sloop Dumont d’Urville, which since The first minutes of entry into overawed by the ralliement itself, and August 23 had been at anchor in Nouméa harbour were undoubtedly the general relief on all sides that it had been bloodless.32 Sautot, however, summarised his personal appreciation thus: “… to Captain Showers, to his officers and ratings of the cruiser Adelaide, without the support of One of two which the ralliement to General de 6-in coastal Gaulle no doubt would not have artillery pieces succeeded. Their professionalism at the Ouen Toro was equalled only by their human emplacement overlooking compassion, because they were Noumea harbour very judicious in avoiding a bloody and approaches. and futile struggle with the Vichy Journal of the Australian Naval Institute Issue 124 13
The Ralliement: A Who’s Who: Quievrecourt ideas of the local situation, de Gaulle S.M. Bruce: Australian High Commissioner to London was permitted refused to sanction direct official Sir Harry Luke: Governor of Fiji to sail as well, liaison between Sautot and the Menzies British High Commissioner for the Western Pacific under strict Government,37 and insisted that all Henri Sautot: French Resident Commissioner of the New Hebrides conditions, and decisions affecting New Caledonia’s Free French Governor of New Caledonia 20 Sep 40 - 1942 the fledgling military and economic preparedness R.D. Blandy: British Resident Commissioner of the New Hebrides Gaullist regime be staffed through his HQ. He was Georges Pélicier: Vichy French Governor of New Caledonia 1939-16 Sep 40 turned to the supported by British diplomatic prospect of officials who were concerned about B.C. Ballard: Solicitor Australian Representative to New Caledonia 1940-42 preparing for Australia’s inexperience in international war.34 dealings.38 Harry MacVitty: United States Consul to Nouméa The question of financial Captain Harry Showers: Commander HMAS Adelaide Aftermath accountability and reparation of Capitaine Toussainte de Quievrecourt: Commandant Dumont d’Urville Australia had Australia’s support to the colony Lieutenant-Colonel Denis: clearly acted concerned not only de Gaulle - Commandant colonial Troops, Nouméa - 16 Sep 1940 in the best which undoubtedly added weight Governor Nouméa 16 Sep - 20 Sep 1940 interests of the to his decision - but Australia also. Caledonians. Acting Prime Minister Fadden’s Many, including correspondence on the matter Sautot developed demonstrates Australia’s deft handling firm working of the issue, and debunks the allegation relationships of “diplomatic inexperience”.39 and friendship Nevertheless, fears of overt Australian as ties between influence precipitating bids for New the two countries Caledonian autonomy - or worse, consolidated.35 Australian annexation - still existed By 17 April in Free French HQ.40 Within a few 1941, Australia months, however, French opinions had conducted regarding the Allies’ plans for the Above: The recently modernised HMAS gunboat Dumont d’Urville and the a provisional assessment of New island, and regarding Australia became 33 Adelaide off AW coastal forts of Noumea”. Caledonia’s defence requirements, and largely academic when, on 6 December coast, 1939. Showers remained until 5 October, in December inserted an independent 1941, the United States was plunged in when the rumours of the Dumont rifle company to continue the to the war. Her massive involvement Below: HMAS d’Urville’s sister ship - the Amiral reconnaissance and train the locals. in New Caledonia would essentially Adelaide after Charner - arriving for a counter-coup It had recommended the immediate marginalise such relatively petty modernisation in 1939, alongside were finally quashed, and the pro- construction of three air bases and squabbles. at Finger Pier, Vichy citizens were aboard the steamer development of other infrastructure, New Caledonia’s role became Woolloomooloo Bay. Pierre Loti bound for Saigon. De and although preliminary survey of the pivotal as the war in the Pacific sites was under way, bureaucratic progressed. It acted as a ferry-pilot inertia and misunderstanding staging base from mainland United somewhat hampered direct, swift States, and in March 1942 it became action.36 home to the American-Caledonian Australia advocated a (sic. Americal) Division, which direct liaison with Sautot’s under the leadership of General A.M. administration, but a Free French Patch formed the backbone for many fear of irrevocably losing control subsequent US offensive operations of the colony, exacerbated by in the South Pacific.41 Sautot records de Gaulle’s centralist methods, a translated statement by Admiral stifled this burgeoning autonomy. Nimitz, Commander-in-Chief Pacific Despite having only the vaguest Ocean Areas and Commander-in- Journal of the Australian Naval Institute 14 An Expedition in Regime Change: Australia’s party to the Ralliement of New Caledonia during World War II
Chief Pacific Fleet, on the importance have precipitated overt Japanese Sea has from its conception to WWII of New Caledonia: action, is understandable. Additionally, elicited emotive sentiment. From her “After the early success of the overcoming the difficulties of Annexation in 1853 to its Ralliement Japanese in the South Pacific, New undertaking such a detailed activity in 1940, New Caledonia’s presence Caledonia became a stronghold - when both British Foreign Office remained an undeniable influence where the Americans regrouped and the Free French Government upon Australia. And, on reflection, their forces and from where refused to condone direct liaison New Caledonia’s geo-strategic the main offensives against the between Australia and New Caledonia, significance to Australia’s north-eastern Solomons and Philippines were in an attempt to discourage ideas approaches and her recurrent role launched.”42 of independence of policy from in Australian regional foreign policy either - should be acknowledged as a remain unchanged even today. � Nouméa also served as the significant step in Australia’s foreign headquarters for Admiral Ghormley, policy maturity. then Admiral Halsey, as successive While playing a small part in the Commanders-in-Chief Pacific Fleet, actual decision, the availability of South Pacific Area. From 1942 to the HMAS Adelaide and her presence end of the war, especially for the Battles during the coup de force undoubtedly of Guadalcanal, Santa Cruz and Savo ensured its success. The actions of Is., Nouméa’s port and her airbases Captain Showers and his men during - started by the Australians and and after the ralliement were both recently completed by the US - were courageous and astute. The political critical for the back-loading of crippled impasses and difficulties experienced ships, aircraft and men, and as a in the ensuing months were no legacy reinforcement and resupply node.43 By of Showers, nor the Australian Army 1944 – 1945, Nouméa was the second advisers and project teams who Lieutenant Colonel Nick Floyd was biggest Pacific naval port (in tonnage) reconnoitred and remodelled New commissioned into the Royal Australian after San Francisco.44 Caledonia’s defences. Australia’s novice Artillery in December 1989 from Royal status in international relations may Conclusion have not helped a rapprochement Military College, Duntroon, and has Given the importance of the availability between Canberra and de Gaulle’s since served in a variety of regimental of New Caledonia to the Allies’ government in exile, but it appears and staff appointments in Australia prosecution of the remainder of the to have been more a function of and on operations. He is currently war, it can be argued that the ralliement Free French officials’ intractable Deputy Director Strategy – Army in in New Caledonia was the most suspicion that led to negative opinion important of all of the French colonies. of Australian involvement in New Future Land Warfare Branch, Army Had New Caledonia remained Vichy Caledonia. The Cross of Lorraine Headquarters. by the time Japan had entered the may indeed have been a hard cross to war, its potential role as forward base bear,45 but the strategic dividends for Lieutenant Colonel Floyd has for Japanese operations would have the Allies in securing New Caledonia undoubtedly changed the course, and for the remainder of the War were undergraduate and post-graduate possibly the outcome of the Pacific undoubtedly worth the ‘passion’. degrees in History, and an interest War. As Australian perceptions of New across the humanities and the sciences Australian involvement in Caledonia continue to evolve, ebb and - including his qualification as a French providing the Caledonians with a surge, it is worthwhile then to consider linguist. He also holds a Masters in Free French government should the effect of this relationship on the not be understated. The Australian evolution of Australia as a nation. Defence Studies Management from government’s dilemma of desire From origins of enmity transitioning University of Canberra. to stabilise the condition in New through distaste and intimidation, Caledonia, countered by its reluctance to alliance and finally to redemption, to interlope when interference may Australia’s neighbour across the Coral Journal of the Australian Naval Institute Issue 124 15
Bibliography 1940’ in Journal of Pacific History Volume X, les populations des Îles de la menace du Corsaire! ... les nations Primary Sources - Unpublished Part 3 1975 britanniques et françaises sont unies par une communauté de Documents Salmon, M. ‘Noumea ‘40: Australian sentiments et d’intérêts; nos armées et nos marines sont les gardiens Archives Diplomatiques, Quai d’Orsay, Gunboat Diplomacy, Kidglove Style’ in vigilants de la paix, de cette paix que l’Entente Cordiale, fondée sur Paris: Pacific Islands Monthly January 1981 une amitié et une confiance réciproque … » ibid, p. 13. Asie-Oceanie/Australie ‘30-’40, 26 - Army- Stevens, D. ‘“Send for a Naval Officer”: 6 McCarthy, J.M. Australia and Imperial Defence 1918-39: A Study Navy 11/31-12/39 HMAS Adelaide at Noumea in 1940’ in D. in Air and Sea Power, University of Queensland Press, 1976, pp Letter: M. J. Guyon Stevens (ed.), The Royal Australian Navy in 44-63; Grey, JeffreyA Military History of Australia, Cambridge to Ministère des Colonies, Département World War II, Allen & Unwin, Sydney 2005 University Press, Cambridge, 1990, pp 127-130. d’Affaires Politique, Paris 1931 Dec Secondary Sources – Books 7 10 Aldrich, R. France and the South Pacific since Rear-Admiral Castex, Théories Stratégiques in Pelleraray, Océanie Asie-Oceanie/Australie ‘30-’40, 22 - For. Pol 1940, Macmillan, Hong Kong 1993 Française No. 123, January-February 1931, quoted in Aldrich, The - Gen 4/30-11/34 Aldrich, R. The French Presence in the South French Presence in the South Pacific 1842-1940, p 268. Letter: M. Fernand Pacific 1842-1940, Macmillan, Hong Kong 8 McCarthy, loc cit; Grey, loc cit. Pila, French Ambassador, Japan to Ministère 1990 9 des Affaires Etrangères, Calvocoressi, P. & Wint, G. Total War, « … Il est évident que le Commonwealth [of Australia] continuera Paris 1934 May 22 Penguin Books Ltd, Middlesex England 1986 à évoluer dans l’orbite de l’Empire Britannique au point de vue Dornoy, M. Politics in New Caledonia, politique. L’unité de race de l’Empire et le loyalisme des Australiens National Archives of Australia (Victoria): Sydney University Press, Adelaide 1984 à la Couronne ne permettent pas d’en douter... » Letter: M. Fernand B6121/3, 99E(II) Grey, J. A Military History of Australia, Pila, French Ambassador, Japan to Ministère des Affaires Etrangères, Letter: Commanding Officer French Sloop Cambridge University Press, Cambridge Paris, 1934, May 22 in Asie-Océanie /Australie ‘30-’40, 22 - For. Pol Dumont d’Urville to British Consul, 20 1990 - Gen 4/30-11/34, ff186-188. September 1940 Lawrey, J. The Cross of Lorraine in the 10 Calvocoressi, P. & Wint, G. Total War, Penguin Books Ltd, B6121/3, 99E(II) South Pacific: Australia and the Free French Middlesex, 1986, pp 128-132. G.H. Gill, Royal Australian Navy 1939- Résumé of Discussion: 22 September 1940 Movement 1940-42, ANU Printing Service, 42, Australian War Memorial, Canberra, 1957, p 169. See also ‘Cable, B6121/3, 99E(II) Canberra 1982 Luke to Secretary of State for the Colonies, 9 August 1940’, in Hudson Letter: British Consul to Commanding McCarthy, J.M. Australia and Imperial & Stokes (eds), Documents on Australian Foreign Policy (DAFP) vol 4, OfficerHMAS Adelaide, 22 September 1940 Defence 1918-39: A Study in Air and Sea AGPS, Canberra, 1980, pp. 77-8. B6121/3, 99E(II) Power, University of Queensland Press 1976 11 Letter: Henri Sautot to British Consul, 21 Thompson, V. & Adloff, R.The French Robson, F.R.G.S., R.W., The Pacific Islands Year Book - 1942 Fourth September 1940 Pacific Islands: French Polynesia and New (Wartime) Edition Pacific Publications, Sydney 1942 p372; Burchett, B6121/3, 99E(II) Caledonia University of California Press, W.G. Pacific Treasure Island: New Caledonia - Voyage through its Letter: Capitaine de Frêgate Dumont London 1971 land and Wealth. The Story of its People and Past, F.W. Cheshire, d’Urville à Monsieur le Consul de Grande Selected Photographs. Australia’s War at Sea Melbourne 1942 p 208; Lawrey, J. ‘A catch on the boundary - Bretagne en Nouvelle Caledonie, le 20 1939 to 1945: Profile No 5 – Revised Edition, Australia and the Free French Movement in 1940’ in Journal of Pacific septembre 1940 Topmill Pty Ltd, Marrickville NSW 1998. History, Volume X, Part 3, 1975, p 74. 12 B6121/3, 99E(II) Robson, R.W. op cit, p 372; Burchett, W.G. op cit, p 208; Lawrey, J. Endnotes Form of letter suggested by Commanding ‘A catch on the boundary - Australia and the Free French Movement 1 OfficerHMAS Adelaide to British Consul Mushakoji, K. dated 4 December 1924, in in 1940’ in Journal of Pacific History, Volume X, Part 3, 1975, p 74. and Governor Sautot, addressed to AD, Asie-Océanie/Australie ‘18-’40 3 - Îles 13 Robson, R.W. op cit, pp 372-375; Thompson, V. & Adloff, R., Commanding Officer French SloopDumont d’Océanie 1, quoted in Aldrich, The French The French Pacific Islands: French Polynesia and New Caledonia, d’Urville 21 September 1940 Presence in the South Pacific 1842-1940, University of California Press, London 1971 p 269; Lawrey, J. ‘A catch Macmillan, Hong Kong, 1990, p. 282. on the boundary’, p 66; Sautot, H. op cit, p 11. Sea Power Centre – Australia, Canberra, 2 “France has lost the battle, but France has 14 ACT Océanie Française No. 135, March-April 1934, quoted in Aldrich, not lost the War”: de Gaulle, Gen C. quoted Directorate of Strategic and Historical The French Presence in the South Pacific 1842-1940, p 263. in Grandeur et Décadence du Gaullisme Studies 15 Selected photographs dans le Pacifique, F.W. Cheshire, Melbourne, Aldrich, R. France and the South Pacific since 1940, Macmillan, Primary Sources - Published Documents 1949, p10. Hong Kong, 1993 p XX. 3 16 Clark, C.M.H. Select Documents in It is asserted by a number of authors Burchett, W.G. op cit, pp 216-218; Gill, G.H. op cit, p 250. Australian History 1851-1900, Angus and including Clark, that calls for a unified 17 Burchett, W.G. op cit, p 222. Robertson, Sydney 1962 Australian defence force such as the Edwards 18 Hudson & Stokes (eds), Documents on report (see Clark, C.M.H. Select Documents Gill, G.H. op cit, p 263; Sautot, H. op cit, p 88; Lawrey, J. Cross of Australian Foreign Policy vol 4, AGPS, in Australian History 1851-1900, Angus Lorraine in the South Pacific, p 9. Canberra 1980 and Robertson, Sydney, 1962, pp 463-467) 19 Burchett, W.G. op cit, pp 196, 204; Sautot, H. op cit, p 34; Lawrey, J. Primary Sources - Published Accounts & contributed towards Federation. Cross of Lorraine in the South Pacificpp 27-31. References 4 Guyon, M. J. to Ministre des Colonies, 20 Burchett, W. Pacific Treasure Island: New Salmon, M. ‘Nouméa ‘40: Australian Gunboat Diplomacy, Direction des Affaires Politique 3e Bureau, Caledonia - Voyage through its land and Kidglove Style’ in Pacific Islands Monthlyp 59. Lawrey disputes Paris, ‘Visite du Croiseur australien Wealth. The Story of its People and Past, McEwen’s recollections. He cites evidence that on 8 Sep, the Dept «Canberra»’, p 10, dated 12 December 1931, F.W. Cheshire, Melbourne 1942 of External Affairs transmitted a signal to its London Liaison Officer, in AD, Asie-Océanie/ Australie ‘30-’4026 Robson F.R.G.S., R.W. The Pacific Islands noting “at the moment position in New Caledonia is satisfactory - Army-Navy 11/31-12/39. Year Book - 1942 Fourth (Wartime) Edition from our point of view, and to stage a de Gaulle revolution on lines 5 Pacific Publications, Sydney 1942 « Des sentiments tout particuliers animent indicated is just playing into the hands of the Japanese without Sautot, H. Grandeur et Décadence du les Français du Pacifique pour leurs voisins benefiting Allied cause” (AA, CRS 2937 item: New Caledonia, quoted Gaullisme dans le Pacifique F.W. Cheshire, d’Australie... et toujours vivace... un sentiment in ‘A catch on the boundary’, p 78). Melbourne 1949 d’admiration pour la splendide Jeunesse 21 Gill, H.G. op cit, p 263; Lawrey, J. ‘A catch on the boundary’, p Secondary Sources - Articles & Journals Australienne qui est venue combattre et 74. Australian Government views are also contained in ‘Cable, Daly, H. ‘L’opportune assistance de mêler son sang au nôtre sur les Champs de Commonwealth to Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs, 11 l’Australie’ in Bulletin Scientifique de la bataille: Suez, aux Dardanelles, en Artois, ème August 1940’, in DAFP, pp. 83-3 Société d’Etudes Historiques No 113 4 sur la Somme. Gloire immortelle aux 22 Trimestre 1997 Anzacs! Gloire aussi au vaillant Sydney Dept of External Affairs AA A981, item: New Caledonia 1B Lawrey, J. ‘A Catch on the Boundary: de l’escadre australienne qui mit une fin part V, in Lawrey, J. Cross of Lorraine in the South Pacific, pp 71-71; Australia and the Free French Movement in tragique à l’odyssée de l’Emden, et libéra Lawrey, J. The Cross of Lorraine in the South Pacific, p 22; Gill, H.G. Journal of the Australian Naval Institute 16 An Expedition in Regime Change: Australia’s party to the Ralliement of New Caledonia during World War II op cit, p 251. Department of Navy to Secretary PM’s Dumont d’Urville et les forts terrestres de Nouméa » Sautot, H. op cit, 23 Department, 13 September, 1940’ in DAFP, pp 178,179. Burchett, W.G. op cit, p 206. Lawrey (‘A pp. 161-2. 34 catch on the boundary’, pp 76-77) cites PRO Burchett, W.G. op cit, p 214; Gill, G.H. op cit, p 266; Sautot, H. op 29 FO371/24329/6278 as providing evidence Sautot, H. op cit, p 44; Gill, H.G. op cit, cit, pp 54, 66-67. that the Australian High Commissioner p 265. See also Salmon, M. op cit, p 59, 35 Aldrich, R. France and the South Pacific since 1940, pp 15-16; to London, S.M. Bruce suggested on 9 and Burchett, W.G. op cit, pp 211 & 216, Lawrey, J. ‘A catch on the boundary’, p 82. August that de Gaulle take control of the latter reflecting the wartime censorship 36 New Caledonia: while AA,CRS A816, that could not allow mention of Adelaide’s Thompson V. & Adloff, R.op cit, p 269; Lawrey, J. Cross of item 19/311/74 records the British High participation, yet hints at local French Lorraine in the South Pacific, pp 55-57, 66, 91; Aldrich, R. France and Commissioner for the Western Pacific, Sir approval of Australian involvement in the the South Pacific since 1940, p 16. Harry Luke’s suggestion that de Gaulle use colony. 37 Lawrey, J. Cross of Lorraine in the South Pacific, p 61. a French warship with French officials to 30 ‘Letter, CO Dumont d’Urville to British 38 achieve the same. Ibid, p 62. Consul, 20 September 1940’, and then 24 39 Aldrich, R. France and the South Pacific ‘Résumé of Discussion, 22 September 1940’, ‘ AA816 Department of Defence Co-ordination (1939-42) since 1940, p 2; Sautot, H. op cit, pp 21-29, in National Archives of Australia (Victoria) 19/311/10’, in Lawrey, J. Cross of Lorraine in the South Pacific, p 68. 38. (NAA (VIC)):MP1587 1, 99E(II). Lawrey, J. 40 ‘Minutes of the French Union Assembly, Jan 20 1950 “G.F.R” New 25 ‘A catch on the boundary’, pp 80-81; Lawrey, Gill, H.G. op cit, p 253; Lawrey, J. ‘A catch Caledonia and the War’ quoted in Thompson, V. & Adloff, R.op cit, J. Cross of Lorraine in the South Pacific, p 46. on the boundary’, p 75. p 269. 31 26 Burchett, W.G. op cit, p 212; Sautot, H. op 41 ‘Cable, Secretary of State for Dominion Aldrich, R. France and the South Pacific since 1940, p 17; Lawrey, cit, pp 44-46. Affairs to UK High Commissioner in J. Cross of Lorraine in the South Pacific, pp 83, 93-94; Daly, H. ‘Les 32 Australia, 31 August 1940’ in DAFP, pp. 125- Thompson, V. & Adloff, R.op cit, p Américaines en Nouvelle Calédonie No 17, 10973 SEHNC’, passim 6. Gill, H.G. op cit, p 263; Aldrich, R. France 268. Lawrey (Cross of Lorraine in the South quoted in Dornoy, M. op cit, p 34. and the South Pacific since 1940, pp 3, 7. Pacific, p 16) describes how the ralliement 42 « Après les succès japonais du début dans le Pacifique sud, la 27 itself mostly passed the Kanaks by, much less Burchett, W.G. op cit, p 202; ‘Report from Nouvelle-calédonie constitue un bastion où se regroupent toutes Australia’s involvement in it. Commandant Toussainte de Quievrecourt, le forces américaines et d’où partirent les grandes offensives sur les 33 27 August 1940, Suva, Fiji, SWA quoted « .... au Captain Showers, à ses officiers et Salomons et les Philippines » Sautot, H. op cit, pp 17-18. in Dornoy, M. Politics in New Caledonia, aux marins du Croiseur Adélaïde sans l’appui 43 Lawrey, J. Cross of Lorraine in the South Pacific, pp 115-121. Sydney University Press, Adelaide, 1984 p 31. desquels le ralliement au Général de Gaulle 44 28 n’aurait sans doute pas réussi. Leur maîtrise Sautot, H. op cit, p 17. Gill, H.G. op cit, pp 264, 265; Sautot, n’eut d’égal que leur souci d’humanité car 45 H. op cit, p 39. De Gaulle’s terms for the Churchill, W. A Prime Minister on Prime Ministers (Attr.) ils ont vraiment tout fait pour éviter une transfer are conveyed in ‘Message, Secretary lutte sanglante et inutile avec l’aviso vichyste
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Journal of the Australian Naval Institute Issue 124 17 Those They Left Behind The Forgotten Naval Men of Sydney BRANy Mark Fleming History he History of Australia as Ta modern nation is forever entwined with the men of the Royal Navy. The Royal Navy helped found, feed, protect and govern the infant colony. Most of these men went home or off to other stations and duties. But some did not. Many through accident or disease died on active duty and were buried in and around Sydney, in the RN and RAN sections of Rookwood Necropolis, but more rest outside the official naval plots. As their ships moved to other duties and they faded from the minds of the local population, the graves of these men were left untended and forgotten, until now. Who is responsible for these William Ward Harvey RN – Camperdown NSW scattered graves? It seems that no one really knows. Certainly my enquires of the Royal Navy drew a blank and famous HMS Beagle. While serving the Commonwealth War Graves in Australian waters three Senior Commission is responsible for graves Officers were to pass away; Captain 1 of those killed from the First World James Everard Home , Senior Officer War but not sailors from the 1800’s. A of the Australian Division of the East project is currently underway to locate Indies Squadron in 1853, and two and catalogue the graves. It is then Commodores Commanding the 2 hoped that moves to at least stop any Australia Station: Rochford Maguire 3 further decay can be made and perhaps in 1857 and James Goodenough the more notable monuments could be in 1875. The graves of both Home Connor, Crossey restored and maintained. To place this and Rochford are in need of repair, the most forgotten. At the very least & Day Grave burden upon the RAN in these times of especially that of Captain Home. Forby’s grave is not one that we need to HMS Brisk 1867 tight fiscal policy would be unrealistic watch over as the NSW National Parks - Rookwood and unfair, so who then should pay The earliest known locatable RN and Wildlife Service care for it. the bill? In the meantime the graves burial in Australia reaches back in crumble and decay. time to the voyage of Lieutenant James While there would have been naval It is outside the author’s abilities Cook with the internment of Forby deaths between Sutherland’s and that to catalogue all the naval deaths and Sutherland on the 1st of May 1770 at of three men from the HMS Bathurst locate the grave sites. To date there Kurnell. His grave or the approximate in 1822, locations for them have not, to are the graves of over 200 men in the location of it is marked by a stone date, been uncovered. Three seamen: project’s database. Among them are marker and flagpole. It is interesting to William Anderson, Thomas Robinson men from the Australian Division of wonder how many of those who live, and James McMurty died on 18 August the East Indies Station (forerunner of work or drive through the Sutherland 1822 and were buried in the old the Australian Station), the Australian Shire knows after whom it was named. Devonshire Street Burial Ground. They Station and NSW Naval Brigade; also Perhaps Sutherland is the best known were removed to Bunnerong (now men from visiting ships such as the of “those they left behind”, but also Botany Cemetery) when Devonshire Journal of the Australian Naval Institute 18 Those They Left Behind The Forgotten Naval Men of Sydney
Street was redeveloped for Central his shipmates.” Bleksley Railway Station. Their headstone was just another sailor transcribed between 1969-1970 reads but today we look back (sic) “William Anderson, Thomas and the association with Robinson and James McMurty Seamn the Beagle and Darwin of HM Sloop “Bathurst”, drowned by the means something. upsetting of a boat on the 18th August Bleksley would have 1822. Stone erected by a Lieut, of the known Charles Darwin 4 “Bathurst” who was upset with them.” at least by sight if nothing else, and he was 5 Lieutenant Phillip Parker King on a voyage the results (son of Captain Philip Gidley King, RN, of which would shake Governor NSW 28 Sept 1800 to 12 man’s beliefs. Aug 1806) was in the Bathurst at this Camperdown time and one wonders if ‘a lieut” was Cemetery has many King, and if it was he that was ‘upset’ memorials of naval with them? This headstone was lost interest. It is the resting when Bunnerong was redeveloped in place of those drowned Captain Sir the 1970s. in 1857 when the immigrant vessel RN is still in reasonable condition James Everard One of the aspects of naval life Dunbar ran into South Head and but the inscription is hard to read. Home many of us forget is the young age sank. The RAN for many years held While Camperdown Cemetery is a HMS Calliope– of the midshipmen and ships’ boys. ceremonies in remembrance of this rich source of naval graves, it also has Camperdown The youngest recorded death is of event. There are many headstones been redeveloped. The park in which NSW Midshipman Rowland Mainwaring’ where a faint naval crown or fouled it sits was once the entire cemetery. –another grave removed from anchor can be made out but that is Now all that remains is the section Devonshire Street to Bunnerong and all; wind and rain has worn much enclosed by the walls around of St lost –… “Mr Rowland Mainwaring, of the sandstone away as one of the Stephen’s Anglican Church. Some of Midshipman, son of Capt. photos which accompanies this the headstones displaced have been Herbert Allen MAINWARING R.N., died on board article shows. Captain James Everard relocated around the inside of the walls. Edwards RN H.M. Ship “Warspite” in Sydney Cove Home, Commanding Officer ofHMS These are hard to get at and caution – Camperdown NSW 6 7 27th October 1826 aged 15 years.” I Callilope and Senior Officer of the should be cannot help but wonder what became Australian Division of the East Indies exercised of the ships’ boys who must have died Station (forerunner to the Australia in the 8 on station, and why no record survives Station) died on 1 Nov 1853 and cemetery as of any of them. was buried at Camperdown. Home’s there many The redevelopment of Bunnerong grave is very worn and the inscription discarded Cemetery robbed us of some very hard to read. Unfortunately syringes. interesting headstones; among them Home’s grave is in a tomb style and Once access that of “William BUTTS, Capt of the the inscriptions on this type of grave to the burial Forecastle of H.M. Ship “Conway” died tend to weather badly. Commodore records for 4th July 1838, aged 43 years” Butts Rochford McGuire is named upon this location shares his grave with James Ayling the memorial to the crew of HMS are obtained “seaman died 5th October 1838 aged Challenger. The inscription indicates its naval links 25 years.” In 1841 HMS Beagle under that he died on the Australia Station can be fully the command of Captain Fitzroy but it is unclear exactly where he died explored. called at Sydney with Charles Darwin and is buried. Further research on this aboard. They left behind William“ is continuing – it would appear the BLEKSLEY, seaman on H.M. Ship marker has been moved. “BEAGLE”, died 22 June 1841 aged 28 The very heavily carved and ornate years 1 month & 15 days. Erected by headstone of William Ward Harvey Journal of the Australian Naval Institute Issue 124 19
Rookwood Necropolis has official RN and RAN sections. These are well maintained but have suffered from mindless vandalism at times, as can be seen from the repairs done to the headstones. Many more graves of naval interest lay outside these official enclosures. Among the more interesting and oldest graves at Rookwood are those of three sailors from HMS Brisk: John Connor - Carpenters Crew; James Crossey - Gun Room Servant, and Michael Day - Ordinary Seaman. These are all in the old Catholic Section. The sandstone headstone has worn with time and the Above: Garret Cotter inscription is all but lost. As Catholics such as George Blair, who died 3 July d 12 May 1896 were in the minority in the RN at this 1919, and who is remembered upon a Aged 26 –HMS Orlando time, it is interesting to note that care headstone on a family plot as follows: was taken to bury them according to “Son of Henry & Jessie Blair. Former of their faith. Naval Bridging Train & late of Aust. Men from other ships rest in Flying Corps. A.I.F. (An ANZAC)”. A Rookwood, such as Edward Sadler much later grave from 1976 is that of and George Hatton from the NSW Peter Noonan who died 12 Jan 1976 at Naval Brigade and a very interesting 95 years of age; his headstone records grave erected by the Naval Brigade he served with both the RN and 1st AIF. for Mary Anne Murray “Wife of W. A. If you are aware of any old naval Murray. Died at the Paddington Rifle graves, the author would very much Range. Erected by Volunteer & Naval appreciate any information you have, Brigade to mark the esteem in which she especially if the grave is endangered by was held by them” The story behind its age, location or vandalism. Should this is still to be discovered. Another you wish to know more about the Naval Brigade grave, this time in the Forgotten Naval Men of Sydney the old RN section, is that of E R Connor, author is happy to share his research (Endnotes) 1 which especially mentions his service with you. He can be contacted by email Captain Sir James Everard Home C.B. F.R.S. (1798-1853) - 2nd Baronet Home of with the China Contingent. Ships on
unclear, but he may have spent time intercepted a dhow off Aden carrying in the infamous German prisoner three drugged European girls bound for of war camp at Colditz. In any case, Zanzibar. No doubt thankful for their after the war he became a chef at the rescue, the girls were flown back home. Cliffs Hotel, Blackpool. Sarah was a Later, Fred successfully completed the singer with the well respected Hallé Principal Warfare Officer course and Orchestra. A second son, Michael specialised in anti-submarine warfare. George was born in 1947. At four, Fred first came to Australia as Fred’s mother passed away and an exchange officer in 1979. He cut n Wednesday 7 February with their father unable to cope, the an imposing figure and was always 2007 Fred Ross was in Sydney two boys were sent to Dr Barnados impeccably groomed. Exuding an surrounded by friends and family Childrens Home in Stony Hill Road, affable air of style, confidence and as he was farewelled after 47 years Blackpool. absolute professionalism, he made distinguished service in two navies. Life in Barnado’s was harsh with himself right at home. His first ship, The following week he was to begin strict discipline, but it gave Fred a HMAS Yarra, was trialling the new his retirement with his beloved fiancée good start in the world. At the age of Mulloka sonar, and Fred became an Jane in the beautiful countryside of seven he began naval cadet training expert on the system. He went on to New Zealand’s South Island. He died at Barnardo’s Parkstone Sea Training postings at the AIO Team Trainer at suddenly and painlessly on Saturday School and subsequently joined HMAS Watson, and later to HMAS night, in the company of good friends HMS Ganges as a boy seaman. He Perth. Always happy to pass on his and with Jane at his side. Fred was one adapted readily to life in the Royal knowledge to the less-experienced, RAN officer who had never needed a Navy, experiencing active service on Fred had already become well known nickname. One simply had to mention a Ton class minesweeper during the for his unique capacity for instruction, ‘Fred’ and everyone not only knew who Indonesian Confrontation. Fred later guidance and mentoring. In October was being referred to, but also had their became a submariner, serving as the 1983 he switched uniforms and joined own story to tell. Chief of an SSBN. After receiving his the RAN. Fred had applied to transfer Frederick John Ross was born on 22 commission in the mid-1970s, he spent soon after starting his time in Yarra, July 1946 in Blackpool, Lancashire, the time in both Iran and Oman. Fred’s and later said that the lack of prejudice first son of Fred Ross senior and Sarah career was never dull. While acting the RAN displayed towards ex-lower Buckley. Fred’s father’s background is as CO of an Omani patrol craft he deck officers greatly influenced his decision. Fred subsequently ranged far and wide with positions in the ASW School and RAN Surface Warfare School at Watson, Fleet/Maritime Headquarters, the ADF Warfare Centre at Williamtown, the Deployable Joint Force Headquarters (Land) and the Amphibious and Afloat Support FEG. He retired from the PNF in July 2001 while on the staff of the Commander Australian Amphibious Forces, and immediately began a Continuous Full Time Service contract as a member of the RANR. For the next five years he acted as the lead coalition planner in the Deployable Joint Journal of the Australian Naval Institute Issue 124 21
Force Headquarters (Maritime) and always knew that in Fred they had 158, overseeing maritime operations regularly deployed on both exercises on a trustworthy sounding board. Fred in the northern Persian Gulf. Fred’s operations. also made his mark on Allied and previous Gulf experience and his wide Fred was the consummate warfare Coalition forces in other ways. His understanding of the customs of the planner and his hard won experience self-confidence, robust sense of participants meant that he remained a saved lives. In 2002-03, for example, humour and inexhaustible supply of key team member. In addition to acting he was the Plans Officer on the RAN stories, made him a natural networker. as liaison officer with the Kuwaiti Navy, Task Group Commander’s staff during This greatly enhanced his value as he was responsible for facilitating Operations SLIPPER, BASTILLE and a staff officer although on occasion combined security operations FALCONER. During the pre-war providing a challenge for the more employing Kuwaiti, Iraqi and Coalition planning, Fred championed the need strait-laced. The daily operations forces. During that deployment, while for the conduct of regular riverine brief to the combined staff in the Gulf onboard the cruiser, USS Philippine patrols along the Khawr Abd Allah would always begin with one of Fred’s Sea, Fred and his many friends waterway between Kuwait and Iraq. jokes. It was a valuable morale booster celebrated his 60th and last birthday. He was adamant that the waterway for the RAN-USN audience, but at In all things Fred was energetic, must be kept under constant scrutiny. times required a red card from the and if asked to do something he would At a planning meeting onboard the CTG before the punch line could be get on and do it without further ado. aircraft carrier USS Constellation, the delivered. Never one to sit still for very long, he need for patrols was questioned by a Fred’s flamboyance likewise made was planning his most recent operation senior USN admiral. Fred stunned the him a legend in the Australian Army, right up to the moment of his untimely assembled gathering by recounting his for whom he was their favourite sailor. passing. His plans to move to New own experiences of riverine operations His well coiffed mane, anchored firmly Zealand with his fiancée Jane were well during Confrontation forty years on his weathered bollard, was the first advanced. Fred’s memorial service was before. In particular he recalled an feature many troops would see as they held at the Garden Island Naval Chapel incident when a sailor standing next hit the beach at Sabina Point, in the on 16 February, and it was clear to all to him had been shot because river Shoalwater Bay training area. He soon from Jane’s moving tribute that a true security had not been maintained. became known as the ‘Mayor of Sabina love story had been tragically cut short. Backed up by Fred’s maturity and Point’. During one well-remembered Fred had always been extremely wealth of knowledge, that was good amphibious exercise Fred was called proud to be a member of the RAN enough for the admiral and riverine upon to provide a briefing to a large and he held the traditions and ethos patrols were made part of the Coalition assembly of Army officers. The quality of the Service in the highest regard. plan. During the first days of the Iraq and enthusiasm of Fred’s briefing was He will long be remembered for a War these patrols captured a suicide undiminished by his appearance in contribution to the Navy and the boat and discovered weapons caches, pirate dress (complete with beard, broader ADF that was both full of observation posts and mines on the eye patch and parrot). The shocked character and of outstanding value. He river and surrounds. Throughout brigadier in charge was later reported is survived by his fiancée, Jane Maupin this hectic and critical period, Fred to have been warming up for a serious Yates, his brother, Michael, and his was OIC of the forward command rocket before being swayed by the three children, Marina, Cameron and team embarked in the patrol boat strongly positive response of the Sophia. � USS Chinook. Fred excelled in this audience. By Dr David Stevens type of front-line role, and it clearly Fred’s distinguished naval service demonstrated the trust in which he was was recognised in the 2004 Australia Many of Fred’s former colleagues have held by the command. Day Honour’s List with the award of Fred’s great strength (and perhaps the Medal of the Order of Australia. helped to write this short obituary. I weakness) was that he always carried He remained a willing volunteer and a am particularly thankful to CDRE Brian his heart on his sleeve. His willingness thorough naval professional right to the Robertson, CDRE Peter Jones and CMDR to engage in a heated discussion could end of his career. In July 2006 he was Lachlan King. at times exasperate his co-workers, again operationally deployed, this time but it allowed for complex plans serving on the staff of the Australian to be refined and his commanders commander of Coalition Task Force Journal of the Australian Naval Institute 22 ANCORS Aweigh! A revitalised maritime research centre commences operation. BY LEE CORDNER
On 1 March 2007 the Australian by the University of Wollongong in National Centre for Ocean Resources early 2006 confirmed the need for and Security (ANCORS) replaces the high quality maritime knowledge Centre for Maritime Policy (CMP). services in Australia and the region. Many Australian Naval Institute Decision makers in public and members will be aware of CMP’s long private sector organisations require and close association with the Royal authoritative advice on and forward- Australian Navy (RAN). Established in looking research into increasingly 1994 at the University of Wollongong, complex maritime matters. While a with Commodore (later Professor) Sam small number of academic institutes Bateman at the helm, CMP became a in Europe and North America seek to national and regional intellectual centre offer comprehensive, multi-disciplinary for maritime matters. Professor Martin maritime academic services there is Tsamenyi succeeded as Director in July a capability gap in the Indian Ocean 1999 and CMP moved into the Faculty and western Pacific Rim. ANCORS is of Law. Professor Bateman continues intended to fill the gap and meet this his involvement as a Professorial emerging demand, as an Australian Fellow. Over more than a decade the national centre of excellence, with Centre has built a strong reputation a capacity to serve the region and for research and advisory services. beyond. Priority is given to the Of particular note also has been the western Pacific, Indian and Southern Some of the ANCORS delivery of education and training Ocean areas in order to provide enforcement; international fisheries team are (from left services to the RAN and other national comprehensive maritime knowledge law and policy; and the delimitation to right): Quentin and regional organisations. However services to regional countries, agencies of maritime boundaries. Capacity Hanich, Lee Cordner, the world has moved on. and clients, while recognising that the building capabilities include the Mary Ann Palmer, nature of the maritime agenda requires provision of education and training Clive Schofield, Why Change? a global as well as a regional approach. in maritime security and strategy, Professor Martin Tsamenyi - Director Global events and economic international fisheries law and policy, ANCORS, Robin development in recent years have What’s New? maritime boundary delimitation, Warner, Chris dictated an increased emphasis Within the University of Wollongong regulation of shipping, ecosystem Rahman, Myree on security and natural resource a new Oceans and Transnational based management and multiple use Mitchell and Greg management. World communications, Security Research Strength has management of marine resources. Rose. including transportation, have rapidly been formed comprising ANCORS ANCORS has developed a expanded and pressures on natural and the recently created Centre for research agenda with three broad and resources have increased. Nowhere Transnational Crime Prevention. interrelated programmes designed to has this been more profoundly evident ANCORS places increased emphasis encompass contemporary and future than in the maritime sphere where on oceans governance, maritime maritime matters. The three research international, national, commercial and security and marine resource programmes are: non-government interests frequently management and together the centres converge demanding a heightened offer complementary capabilities of 1. Oceans Law and Governance, need for effective mechanisms to particular relevance to national and 2. Maritime Strategy and Security, and facilitate interaction, cooperation, international security. 3. Marine Resources, Industry and security and sustainable management ANCORS offers core strengths Environment. of marine resources, protection of the important to Navy leaders and policy maritime environment and use of the makers: oceans governance, law and ANCORS is guided by an Advisory sea. policy; maritime strategy and maritime Board with members being prominent A survey of key clients conducted security law including regulation and persons drawn from government, Journal of the Australian Naval Institute Issue 124 23
marine industry and the community. option of completing a Masters degree The Board is chaired by Vice Admiral part-time. David Shackleton AO, former Chief of The Centre has long enjoyed a close Navy. Rear Admiral Russ Crane CSM, relationship with the Sea Power Centre RAN, Deputy Chief of Navy has been – Australia and this will continue appointed as a member. The Board along with Navy short course and will help ensure the Centre remains international course arrangements well connected to the maritime with Defence. ANCORS expanded community and conducts research capabilities means that improved and offers educational programmes research and advisory services will Lee Cordner that have direct relevance to real world be available to assist Navy and other requirements. Defence clients. Lee Cordner is a Principal Research ANCORS core academic staff has Fellow at the Australian National been increased and the list of fellows Concluding Remarks Centre for Ocean Resources and Security and associates is being reviewed and Oceans governance and maritime (ANCORS). He joined the RAN as a Junior expanded where warranted. This security are becoming increasingly Recruit and served at sea and ashore will enable a broader range of more important and complex. ANCORS responsive research, education and provides an exciting development in for over 30 years. He commanded advisory services to be offered. the intellectual capability available to HMA Ships Betano, Bass, Sydney and assist those with maritime interests Adelaide. He was a member of the Ongoing Programmes in Australia and the region. The Tomorrow’s Navy Team and in 1999 The Centre has recently entered University of Wollongong’s relationship became the inaugural Director General into a new multi-year contract to with the RAN and regional Navies is deliver Navy single-service education long and beneficial, and one that will Navy Strategic Policy and Futures in to Command and Staff College be enhanced with the launch of the the re-vamped Navy Headquarters. students. This arrangement will ensure revitalised research centre. For more He resigned from full-time naval continuation of the much enjoyed information about ANCORS see service in 2001 and was appointed law of the sea and maritime strategy
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3875-AUSTAL Headmark Ad PRESS.in1 1 27/2/07 1:50:43 PM Issue 124 25 Australia’s Secret War Australia’sChapter II Secret War by Hal G.P. Colebatch
In April, 1942, that is to say at a period the crew. He also gave details of a fight “I served as a seaman in the corvette of extreme danger for Australia, with between RAN sailors and watersiders HMAS Townsville on her return in Singapore fallen, Timor occupied save at Newcastle. January, 1943, from her station in for the area held by the Australian “The strikes were severe enough, Darwin ... On the east coast in 1943 guerrillas, and the situation in New a “war crime”, without the pilfering and early 1944 Townsville and other Guinea desperate, the Melbourne of presents from home to the men at corvettes escorted convoys which Argus published a cartoon of two the front, also Comforts Fund gear, often came under submarine attack. watersiders lounging beside a dockside Salvation Army goods etc. ... Many ships were lost, many men died warehouse as soldiers loaded a ship, “All Australian [servicemen were] ... others can imagine the shock of one remarking: “Grand boys, aren’t aware of the above, including in reaching harbour to read: “Wharfies on they - not only do they fight for us, but particular Australian servicemen Strike Again.” they do our bit as well!” serving overseas. Many servicemen “What amazed me was that the [list Mr Ashley W. Coleman (No. overseas were not aware (at the time) of] men’s lives lost was printed once T31059) served first in the Army of why a particular shipment did not and then forgotten. The “Wharfies Still with the 6th Garrison Battalion from arrive on time, or for six or eight weeks on Strike” and so on went on and on, November, 1941, and then enlisted in later. Unfortunately some would not be week after week. Coal-miners let all the Navy (No. H2281) in September, lucky enough to see anything arrive. know they were not forgotten, and hit 1942. He served in the south-west “The Labor Government of the the headlines frequently enough. Pacific area inHMAS Townsville, a time proved its unworthiness to handle “While we, as a crew, in that Bathurst-class corvette-minesweeper, a wartime crisis of this nature, so, as particular time - 1943 to early 1944 as an Able Seaman. Mr Coleman gave usual, it became a matter of too little, - did not suffer from hunger or Captions: HMAS a detailed account of the front-line too late. Americans would quickly lack of other supplies, we could not Castlemaine, services going short of food and other take the initiative, march in and load understand a country at war being held now on display supplies from Australia because of their own ships. There were threats to ransom by the few. in Melbourne waterfront strikes. A major Australian of Australian servicemen following “You would hear remarks like: – Townsville was a warship out of food was forced to go America’s lead, but these did not go far “They’ll be back at work soon.” similar Bathurst- class corvette “fishing” with depth-charges to feed enough to solve the problem. “”What makes you say that?”
Journal of the Australian Naval Institute 26 Australia’s Secret War –Chapter Secret II War “”You can’t pilfer cargo if you’re not handling any.” “1944 saw HMAS Townsville performing her patrol, convoy duties and other tasks in New Guinea, New Britain and the Halmahera area. Problems began to arise ... delays from supply ships with food rations and other equipment, which we naturally presumed were caused by waterfront strikes at home in Australia. When supplies arrived there would always be one or two on the ship who would complain that their parcels or presents were interfered with or did not arrive at all. “On one occasion on returning from Moratai to Hollandia, we were practically all out of food. Weeks before we had left on that trip (we had no luck “fishing” with depth-charges). A partial shot We fully expected a supply-ship to be and a Leading Hand filed past slowly supplies, including ammunition, to of the side of discharged in harbour, but no. instead enquiring “Any complaints?” I really the ships replacing them because the HMAS Katoomba disembarking boats we received a signal to fuel and proceed believe we were all meant to complain supply situation was so bad. They had in WWII on patrol duty for seven days on the so some action could be taken. Crew then to proceed back to Australia with outer perimeter of the area. members turned back to their plates empty guns and magazines, through “The crew were somewhat stunned, after the First Lieutenant had gone on, waters in which the enemy was still but were reassured it was a good and I noticed my “scran oppo.”, Able active. Mr Coleman said that this had cause, for submarines had attacked Seaman Terry Randall, peering at my in fact happened in his experience the harbour with torpedoes the night plate, a grin starting to form on his more than once. The Officer said before we arrived ... face. “What’s wrong?” I asked. “Why, or that on one occasion, in a major “One day before arrival back in how, did you get a larger portion than Australian warship which had been de- Hollandia, the crew were informed us?” he answered. I glanced down at my ammunitioned, he was on watch on a there would be a lunch-time “dinner” and there on one side was a passage back to Australia when he saw inspection, for members to air any maggot. Another “meal” I missed on. a Japanese torpedo-boat. All he could complaints they might have regarding “Army and Air Force personnel to was pretend that he had not seen it their food or lack of it. Sure enough, must surely have suffered as much as, and hope it would be scared off by the off-duty members of the crew were or more so, than those on Naval ships warship’s appearance. If he betrayed seated, a plate before them, with a one- ...1 that he had seen it, or taken any evasive square-inch piece of very thinly-sliced This account of shortages links action without firing on it, the enemy meat stuck in the middle - this is the with another matter. I have made it a would have realised that the Australian whole truth! - the meat was no thicker general policy not to quote unnamed ship was helpless and at its mercy. than the normal thinly-sliced ham we sources here. However one such, a I mentioned to Mr Coleman see in shopping markets. Alongside the former Naval Reserve Officer with a that one of the naval novels by J. E. plate was half a small scone. This was distinguished record and later a very MacDonnell (the Coxswain Petty our main meal for the day. prominent businessman, who asked Officer in the corvetteHMAS “We sat there “at attention” till the that his name not be given, said that Townsville, later a commissioned First Lieutenant and Coxswain Petty Australian warships leaving combat Officer, and Australia’s most successful Officer J. E. MacDonnell (later the areas in New Guinea and the Islands and best-known Naval novelist), there well-known author of naval stories) had to turn over their unexpended was a scene in a pub in which off-duty Journal of the Australian Naval Institute Issue 124 27
sailors were attacked by Communist using hundreds of rounds of small arms Sir Charles continued: dock-workers, and asked him if he ammo and stores were running low. “Another incident which also involved the Katoomba knew of any incidents on which this “You can imagine what we would resulted from the installation by our Army engineers of might be based. He replied: have done to the wharfies had we a system which could supply water efficiently to ships at “I contacted an old shipmate and been given the chance - the Japs Torakina. Large quantities of water had previously not been we both agreed that this did happen would have been second priority. It readily available to ships at this port. in a waterside hotel in Newcastle. We would be interesting to know what the “Our Engineers knew of the problems which ships did not tie up alongside in Newcastle government did about these strikes as experienced without such an installation, although there was much, and only did on this occasion on we were not the only ones to be put in a abundant water of suitable quality available. Previously ships account of the strike ... situation like that.”4 that needed to replenish their water had had to sail a long way “It was Townsville’s crew, or part of Sir Charles Court, AK, KCMG, to the nearest port with the required facilities. it. I was not in the hotel at the time. I OBE, served in the infantry in “The Captain of theKatoomba was delighted to see the can remember though the locals were the islands, rising from Private to water replenishment installation and planned accordingly for not allowed in by the strikers, who Lieutenant-Colonel (later Colonel). As the return to Australia, only to be advised by the crew that were making nasty remarks, until one Minister for Industrial Development they objected to the changes of plan. It transpired that their of Townsville’s crew called then “a load and later Premier of Western Australia objection was that would lose access to the American PX store of gutless bastards.” Then they were in the 1960s and 1970s he was largely at the port where water was normally replenished - there was attacked by the strikers who did not responsible for the development of so such store in Bougainville at that time. get it all their own way. I believe the WA’s massive iron-ore industries and “One does not need a very vivid imagination to know why sailor Jim Brodie,2 a large man with is generally acknowledged to be one they wanted to have access to a PX store. a heavy punch, inspired the sailors ... of Australia’s greatest architects of “It seems beyond belief, but our captain then had to agree MacDonnell was our Coxswain at the development. Interviewed in July, 2001, to sail to the other port though he was able at Torakina to take time, respected by all who knew him ... he said strikes on Australian wharves on all the water he needed for the journey back to Australia. It was ironic that later Newcastle was had been a “constant background” to The agreement reached was that the crew would have a day at shelled from the sea by a submarine.”3 everything the troops did. the other location to do their shopping and then they would Mr A. L. (“Chubby”) Rose, (No. In 1945 he had been aboard the resume their journey back to Australia. This involved an extra 5 WX5328) a former staff-sergeant in “A” troop-carrier Katoomba when the 500 miles of unnecessary steaming. � Company, 2/28 Battalion, supplied the firemen went on strike during a storm following account of Australian soldiers and refused to tend the furnaces. The Hal G.P. Colebatch has an MA running out of ammunition in battle ship drifted helplessly before the storm in History/Politics and a PhD because of a wharf strike: for several days and might have sunk. in Political Science and is “On the afternoon of 21 October, The Master, Captain Snowball (who the the author of several books 1943, two of our companies were cut present writer met as Captain of the off at a small flat-topped hill named Kanimbla post-war), took disciplinary as well as many articles in Katika in New Guinea. As Company action, and got the firemen working The Australian, Quadrant, Quartermaster Sergeant of “A” again. When the ship eventually The American Spectator etc. company I had taken a small party of reached Torakina in Bougainville His book Blair’s Britain was men from Scarlet Beach to resupply the an order was received from the chosen as a Book of the Year lads. We were escorted by an armed Government that the disciplinary party with Owen Guns. action be rescinded. Sir Charles in the London Spectator. His latest book is Steadfast Knight: a “On our way back we were commented: life of Sir Hal Colebatch (Fremantle Arts Centre Press, WA). This ambushed by the Japs and one of our “Obviously the crew had got is an extract from his unpublished book Australia’s Secret War. NCOs was killed. We returned to the a message back to their union in hill and had to stay that night. The Japs Australia and without consulting (Endnotes) 1 attacked several times. My brother was the Captain about the incident and Letter, 26 May, 1996. 2 shot in the mouth but was able to walk the circumstances, which were quite One of MacDonnell’s fictional heroes is named Jim Brady, also a large man with a heavy punch. 3 back with us next day. We had orders serious, the instruction was given by Letter, 20 June, 1996. 4 Letter, 2 June, 2001. to go easy with the ammo that we had the Government. I know the Captain 5 as the wharfies at Sydney were refusing was very unhappy but there was Interviews, July, 2001, and Letter, 8 August, 2001. to load any on the ships. The lads were nothing he could do about it.” Journal of the Australian Naval Institute
Issue 124 29
‘Naval Networks: The Dominance of Communications in Maritime Operations’
The 2007 ‘King-Hall’ Naval History Conference
‘Communications dominate war; broadly considered, they communications in war and peace. communications and intelligence taken are the most important single element in strategy, political or Maritime historians and strategists from the ancient world through to the military.’ have long been conscious of the 21st century. Gathered together, these fundamental links between oceanic papers will offer new insights into the - Captain A.T. Mahan, USN, 1900. communications, naval strength future face of maritime strategy, the and national achievement. In today’s changing nature of global connections, ‘The object of naval warfare is the control of communications, globalised economy the importance of and the continuing nexus between and not, as in land warfare, the conquest of territory.’ such links is magnified but not always communications and command at sea. - Sir Julian Corbett, 1911. appreciated by policy makers and outside analysts. Practitioners of sea Format of presentations ‘Sea communication has opened up the whole world, and has power have likewise been aware that Presentations at the conference are played the greatest of all parts in spreading both knowledge developments in strategy and tactics expected to last 30-40 minutes followed and civilisation.’ are closely related to the prevailing by time for questions. A draft of the state of communications technology. paper must be provided in electronic - Captain W.H.C.S. Thring, CBE, RAN, 1928. But although navies are routinely form at least one week prior to the he fifth biennial ‘King-Hall’ Navy History Conference at the forefront of the revolution in event. To be eligible for publication will be held in Canberra on 26-27 July 2007. The information management, seamless final papers must be submitted by conferenceT will be organised by the Sea Power Centre interoperability remains an elusive September 2007. – Australia with assistance from the School of Humanities goal, and the extent to which force and Social Sciences, University of New South Wales at networking may have changed Publication the Australian Defence Force Academy. The King-Hall traditional naval roles remains unclear. Selected papers will be published in a Conference has become a significant event in the national By examining how the different collected volume. The format will be and international sea power communities for its wide-ranging elements of maritime communications similar to previous productions of the discussion of topical naval historical and maritime strategic have evolved and why perceptions have Sea Power Centre-Australia including: issues. The conference is open to the public, and previous changed, this conference will use the The Face of Naval Battle (Allen & events have attracted a wide range of naval historians, past, not only as a subject of interest Unwin, 2003); The Navy and the Nation academics and retired and serving military personnel, as well in itself, but as a guide to the future (Allen & Unwin, 2005); and Sea Power as interested lay people from Australia and overseas. conduct of planning and operations. Ashore and in the Air (forthcoming).
Theme Program More information The broad theme of the 2007 conference is ‘The Dominance Various distinguished speakers from For more information, contact Dr of Communications in Maritime Operations’. Its aim is to Australia and overseas will appear at David Stevens: analyse the influence of communications on the application the conference. The final program is Tel: +61 2 61276503 of sea power in the broadest possible sense. The content expected to cover the shifting demands Fax: +61 2 61276519 will thus deal with both information and transport, and facing both national and combined e-mail: [email protected] encompass issues ranging from the strategic importance of international sea power, together with sea lines of communication through to the tactical use of case studies of command, control,
Journal of the Australian Naval Institute 30
SHIPHANDLINGPortBy CMDR Mal Ash Wise OAM, Update RAN, with LCDR Steve McCracken RANCORNER
I have taken over the helm of this and seeing for themselves the effects so “corner” from CDRE Griggs and my aim well documented in print (in BR 45). is to provide a brief article for each This makes Port Ash a unique training edition of Headmark. I hope that they facility and an invaluable addition will not all be my own as there are to electronic simulators that cannot many differing views on shiphandling provide all the visual clues that are so vital to the aspiring shiphandler. and we all have very different Port Ash is the realisation of a experiences which are of interest and dream by Captain Clifford Beazley value to others. I encourage readers MNI to try and better convey the to submit articles to me via e-mail or principles of shiphandling that he has post for inclusion in this section of the learnt over nearly thirty years as a pilot. The facility (one of only five in the journal. To get the ball rolling I thought world), brings together his passions it would be valuable, given current for seafaring and model making. The developments, to provide an update shiphandling instruction is conducted on the Australian Ship Handling Centre by experienced personnel, all (“Port Ash”) at Raymond Terrace. Port professionals in their field of expertise, who have been or are Master Mariners, Ash was first introduced to readers in Pilots or Tug Masters. This wealth of an earlier version of the Journal by then experience, coupled with the ability of CAPT Griggs, and the “manned model” the models to accurately demonstrate facility has matured significantly over all the necessary principles of the past five years. Here is the current shiphandling, helps to make Port Top: The full Ash the excellent resource that it has complement - two under-keel clearances (UKC). Many state of affairs: CMDR Mal Wise become. tugs assist MV transit markers on the banks assist in In brief, Port Ash consists of two Triton (very similar measuring your progress and fixing to HMAS Sirius) to or the Mariner, shiphandling is 1/25th scale models of merchant your position. Electric outboard depart the wharf their bread and butter. It is an art ships (Handymax and Panamax size) (courtesy Capt C. motors can be used to generate Fthat takes much practice. In time, when supported by up to six scale model Beazley, Port Ash) currents of up to about two (scale) you think you have mastered the art, remote control tugs. The vessels are of knots. something happens to remind you that substantial size and when in full swing Bottom: The new At the scale, everything happens (as yet unnamed) there is still more to learn. It can be accommodate a pilot, helmsman, two five times faster than in real life (the ship - 3 screws and a somewhat daunting prospect; One tug-masters and a facilitator. There is 3 rudders - an FFH square root of the scale). This takes person trying to orchestrate everything also room for additional observers if Captain’s Dream. some getting used to but certainly correctly, to move thousands of tonnes required. In combination with scale (courtesy MR J. makes you think more quickly. The around without damaging anything or remote control tugs, the models can Jarvie, J and J Jarvie challenge here is the wind, as five kts anyone, to place the ship exactly where be used for all aspects of harbour Pty Ltd) of real wind represents 25 kts of scale it has to go. This is where the mariner manoeuvring. The models have wind. The great advantage however is appreciates Port Ash. bow and stern thrusters, a working that a berthing evolution that would At the Australian Shiphandling anchor and suitable connection take 1 hour in a ship, takes 12 minutes Centre, “Port Ash”, the art points for the tugs. Activities can in the model and so a great deal of of shiphandling is theorised, be recorded for future reference ship handling can be achieved in a day. demonstrated and experienced all in and all communications (except to Whilst at Port Ash, there is almost 1/25th scale models. It is these models the helmsman) are via radio which no end to what can be demonstrated into which you climb, to hone your enhances realism. The models are from a shiphandling perspective. skills. Now in operation for over five yrs operated on a purpose built dam with Principles such as bank effect, pivot the models allow students the freedom carefully graded depths to produce point and shallow water effect are of learning by experience, trying by feel shallow water effects and realistic easily demonstrated. Berthings and Journal of the Australian Naval Institute Issue 124 31
unberthings, with and without tugs, in Ash for four weeks per year. These HMAS Ballarat undertook three days still water or in currents can all be done five-day blocks were allocated to of training at Port Ash with the focus realistically. the Major Fleet Unit Commanding on two groups. The first, consisting In 2003, as a result of a number of Officer Designate Courses (two per of the Executive Officer and Warfare shiphandling related incidents in the year) and the Long and Advanced Officers, focused on berthing and Fleet, Commander Australian Naval Navigation courses (one each per tug work. The second, consisting of Systems Command (CANSC) directed year). While the effects of this Officers of the Watch and trainees, Training Authority – Maritime training are difficult to measure, the focused on manoeuvring, anchoring Warfare (TA-MW) and the Master feedback from participants has been and hydrodynamic effects such as Attendant (MA) to conduct a review unanimously positive. The introduction interaction and shallow water effect. of RAN shiphandling training, and of Port Ash into the RAN’s training HMAS Sydney utilised the facility the shiphandling facilities available curriculum recognises the excellence week after HMAS Ballarat and HMAS in Australia. As a result of this of the training provided at the facility. Success has also used it. In addition review, Port Ash was identified as The exposure gained will hopefully to the excellent shiphandling skills it the most suitable facility to address arm all Seaman Officers with greater develops, Port Ash is most enjoyable the shiphandling training needs knowledge and improved skills for their and provides motivational training for of the RAN at the time. The key careers as shiphandlers. young Seaman Officers. advantages of the facility are that it Currently, Port Ash is To date, the drawback with Port provides realistic training in a safe and predominantly used to provide training Ash for the RAN has been the lack of controlled environment at reasonable to MFU Navigators, Executive Officers a model that more closely simulates cost (particularly when compared to and Commanding Officers. It does, the behaviour of a warship. The the cost of shiphandling incidents). however, provide excellent training two existing models are both large It is also relatively close to Sydney for Officers of the Watch who are merchant ships with single, right hand and therefore easily accessible. This expected to handle ships for various turning, fixed-pitch propellers. The resulted in the identification of funding evolutions with only limited exposure smaller of the two is a scale model by CANSC to support the use of Port to practical shiphandling. Late in 2006, of HMAS Sirius with the larger one
Port Ash - The Chart (courtesy Capt C. Beazley, Port Ash)
Journal of the Australian Naval Institute 32 SHIPHANDLINGPort Ash Update CORNER being a scale model of a much larger for realistic twin screw shiphandling LCDR Steve McCracken RAN PWO N+ PANAMAX vessel. This however is for RAN Bridge Teams at all levels of NO HMAS BALLARAT about to change. In 2006 the Navy, experience is at hand. Keep an eye out (Soon to be N1 Navigation Faculty through TA-MW approved funding in Navy News for photos of the launch HMAS WATSON) to support the production of a model and availability of the vessel for training that would more closely represent the in the very near future. FFH and warships in general. Now In shiphandling, the old adage that well underway, she is scheduled for “nothing beats the real thing” remains launch in April or May. With finer true, but when the consequences of lines, the vessel has a “plug and play” things going wrong are so great, the methodology with options for up to 3 benefit of 1/25th-scale model and the screws and up to three rudders. This associated time-savings make Port Ash should allow close simulation of the an outstanding training facility. Only FFH, HMAS Success, the LPA and the two hours drive north of Sydney, Port future Air Warfare Destroyer. While Ash is readily available to any Sydney scale controllable pitch propellers will based unit, and the launch of the not be fitted (maybe a challenge for Navy’s latest [model] warship, due in DSTO?) the opportunity to practice May 2007, will add a further dimension twin screw ship handling of a vessel of realism to the training. There with a similar block coefficient and does however remain much secrecy power to weight ratio to a warship will surrounding her name… greatly improve the fidelity of RAN For more on Port Ash visit their training at Port Ash. The opportunity website at
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Journal of the Australian Naval Institute Issue 124 33 ADM Sir Victor Alfred Trumper Smith, ac, kbe, cb, dsc, ran By Tom Lewis
Victor Smith as a ften described as the “father teach knots and splices and sometimes Lieutenant of the Fleet Air Arm”, Admiral to give a talk on Navy life. Later Smith SirO Victor Smith had a lengthy and sought further information on the Navy, distinguished career in the Royal this leading to inquiries being made Australian Navy, and an exciting about passing the entrance exam for time too: he was shot down twice the RAN College at Jervis Bay. After a and sunk twice and carried out year of coaching, he took the exam, and many a hair-raising attack on his passed, joining the intake of 1927. country’s enemies. Eventually known His memories of the College are in conversation throughout the mixed. He thought the education force as “VAT Smith”, he went into was excellent, but disliked the system aviation at a time when its future of ‘fagging’ for other cadets – which was unclear, but his commitment to basically meant the first year students the new technology was unswerving acting as servants for the third years, and rewarded when he was chosen and the second years acting as servants to play a key role in planning a new for the fourth years. Senior cadets of having become a Cadet-Captain. direction for the RAN after WWII. could beat more junior cadets, too. But The newly graduated midshipmen He oversaw many changes within Smith’s overall time was happy, and were each posted, for more learning, the Navy, not least of which was he was impressed by the officers and to one of the ships of the fleet. They the acquisition of aircraft carriers masters, in particular Commander were now given a more realistic role: and the transition from propeller to Fogarty Fegen, the Executive Officer. being placed in charge of a cutter, jet aircraft. One of the first RAN (Fegen won a posthumous VC in WWII, participating in a signal drill, or engaging members to be promoted to full commanding the coincidentally named as an assistant in the firing of the ship’s Admiral, he was well known for his Jervis Bay, taking on the far-superior weapons systems. Smith was posted dedication to those serving with him Admiral Scheer in sole defence of a to the cruiser HMAS Canberra. The and for his abilities as a great “man- convoy.) Apart from being a very ship visited Tasmania, Suva in Fiji, New manager” through his 49 years in pleasant personality who entertained Zealand and many Australian ports uniform. groups of cadets to his wife’s afternoon during his time on board. His personal Victor Alfred Trumper Smith was teas, Fegen also coached Smith in rugby. report of this time described him as ‘…of born on 9 May 1913 in Chatswood, a In his last year at the College, the the stolid, slow type, whose personal suburb of Sydney.1 By his own account, Jervis Bay site was closed down and the bearing and appearance, although he had a happy childhood. His parents – training of officers moved toHMAS not yet up to standard, has improved Class photo of 1927 (VAT Smith is right George and Una Smith2 - were ‘middle- Cerberus on the Mornington Peninsula. considerably in the ship’. of rear row) class’ as he later described it, and his Australia was father worked for a pastoral company all going through his life. ‘VAT Smith’ was a keen member the time of the of the local Cub pack; a member of a Depression, and church choir for four years, and a player cost-cutting of both tennis and rugby. Although drove the Victor Trumper, a famous cricketer of closure. VAT the age, was an uncle VAT Smith did not Smith graduated shine at this game.3 The young boy also satisfactorily learned the piano, and strangely enough at the end of this translated to playing the bass drum 1930, and was in a Cub drum and fife band. presented Smith’s interest in the navy was with a silver probably sparked, as he recalled it, cigarette case in by a Lieutenant Commander who recognition of occasionally visited the Cub pack to the achievement Journal of the Australian Naval Institute 34 ADM Sir Victor Alfred Trumper Smith, ac, kbe, cb, dsc, ran
In May 1932 the five midshipmen left of the 1927 entry – the others having had to leave the Service because of Defence cuts – travelled on the liner Oranto to the Mediterranean to join HMS London, the flagship of the RN’s first cruiser squadron. This was a wider and more useful experience of Navy life, and it was while attached to London that Smith managed to undertake a two week air course on board the carrier HMS Glorious. The experience ‘awakened an interest in me towards the Fleet Air Arm’ as he put it, and although soon embarked on board a destroyer for more courses, he began to look at aircraft and ships in a new light.4 In and ranged through navigation to radio day6 war was declared - and instead of At an audience, August 1933 he sat his Sub-Lieutenant’s operation – and later radar – and even the course and the planned return to along with his wife, seamanship board, and passing it, left bomb aiming, all depending on the type Australia he found himself posted to with Pope Paul VI the midshipman’s white tabs behind. of aircraft. Upon successful completion the carrier HMS Ark Royal. The ship Further training followed at the Smith was posted to HMS Glorious, the was soon at sea in the South Atlantic Royal Naval College at Greenwich in carrier which had awakened his interest participating in the search for the Graf a variety of academic subjects. Smith in flying. Flying was conducted mainly Spee – the search ending in that ship’s played Rugby with enthusiasm, and in the Swordfish biplane, which Smith scuttling after the Battle of the River while finding learning French rather seems to have held in some affection Plate. frustrating, enjoyed the training, – he observed that it could have ‘several Back in Britain 821 Squadron, the impressive buildings and time cylinders’ of its engine shot out and still taking Smith with it, moved to Naval off exploring London. (Indeed be under power. (The model’s successful Air Station Hatston in the Orkneys Greenwich is the home of architectural attack on the Italian fleet at Taranto in and undertook anti-submarine patrols. masterpieces by Inigo Jones; Sir November 1940 certainly advertised Information was soon acquired that the Christopher Wren, and Sir James the new possibilities of carrier-based German battlecruiser Scharnhorst and Thornhill.) He remembered later aircraft.) Smith was a busy officer: as an accompanying force of ships were being somewhat poor, with expensive well as several ship duties he was also moving south down the Norwegian uniforms and a sword having to be ‘Fleet water polo officer’, and spent coast. 821 Squadron was ordered to the purchased from his pay. some time ashore pursuing the sport. attack. Six long range Swordfish were A gunnery course followed, and Although these were happy times, deployed under Smith’s command and then Smith returned to Australia to Smith later remembered there was some after a flight across the North Sea found join HMAS Canberra once again, this considerable uneasiness, discussed their target. They carried out torpedo time in a more exalted position as ‘Sub’ by many, about the deteriorating attacks but no hits were recorded, of the Gunroom – the senior officer international situation from 1937 although two of the aircraft were lost. of the midshipmen’s mess. In early onwards. Smith later recorded it as ‘a frightening 1936 he joined HMAS Australia in the In August 1939 Smith was posted off experience.…you are in some respects a Mediterranean and soon was promoted Glorious to undertake a meteorological sitting duck’ when moving into torpedo to lieutenant. His interest in aviation course - a fortunate appointment, as aiming range and unable to change was soon resumed with successful the carrier was sunk early in the war in course because you were also in the application to undertake an Observer’s controversial circumstances, and with ships’ gun range.7 One of his personal course. This was to be held in Britain, heavy loss of life.5 However by the time reports of the time noted ‘He has and commenced in 1937 for seven he reached Britain in early September plenty of fighting spirit…’ and this was months of flying at RAF Lee-on-Solent. the embryonic conflict was changing confirmed a while later when – along The duties of an observer were manifold, matters rapidly – he arrived on the with the senior pilot – he was awarded Journal of the Australian Naval Institute Issue 124 35
a Mention in Despatches for ‘bravery Australia and transferred to the RAN. when attacking German Battle Cruiser He was a Member of Parliament from ‘Scharnhorst’.8 1955 to 1972; Minister for Air for four In August 1940, after a successful years, and sometimes Acting Minister application to join a fighter squadron, for the Navy. His maiden speech in Smith was transferred to 807 Squadron Parliament stressed the importance of near Winchester. After a time in HMS naval aviation. Throughout his career Pegasus, the Squadron embarked with he kept in touch with VAT, and watched the two seater fighter Fairey Fulmars on the thoughtful forward thinking that board HMS Furious. They proceeded developed on Ark Royal transform him to Gibraltar, where they transferred to into ‘the expert in airpower in the RAN Ark Royal. Smith recorded that it was in the 1950s and 1960s, and certainly an around this time he contracted malaria, inspiration to the Naval Board to spend which he endured for several years. money on a Fleet Air Arm’.11 In May 1941 Smith’s aircraft attacked A month later Smith was shot a flight of enemy bombers and was down a second time, this time after severely damaged in the process. The he and pilot Lieutenant Commander aircraft had to be ditched and Smith Sholto-Douglas were again attacking and pilot Lieutenant Nigel Hallett enemy bombers. Once more the pair spent some time in the water. Hallett were rescued. In November Smith was badly shocked by the crash and was on board Ark Royal when it was began to lose heart, saying he did not torpedoed. Smith recorded that ‘there in the duel with Kormoran; Singapore Top: Vat Smith in think he could go on for much longer.9 was nothing dramatic about leaving the had fallen, HMAS Perth had been lost 1972 at the RANC Smith rallied him and some time later Ark, a destroyer came along side and in the Battle of the Java Sea, and HMAS 12 Bottom: Vat Smith they were picked up by the destroyer getting aboard was no problem’. At Yarra shortly afterwards. Yet here were cartoon reads: Cossack. Smith later noted that the the end of the year he was awarded a plentiful supplies; no blackout, and an ‘Don’t worry Dear destroyer’s sailors mistook them for Distinguished Service Cross for service attitude of ‘business as usual’. - by the time we get Italians owing to their suntans, leading in 807 Squadron; the citation reading Posted to HMAS Australia, but there it’ll be second to a few moments of potential hostility. ‘…for outstanding zeal, patience and from there attached to the cruiser USS to none!’ Hallett later maintained that Smith had cheerfulness and for setting an example Chicago as liaison officer, Smith found saved his life – typically Smith did not of wholehearted devotion to duty’.13 much to interest him in the way the mention this aspect of the crash in his Once back in Britain with the rest of Americans did business. He was then later biography. the Ark Royal survivors, VAT Smith was sent to be observer for Canberra’s This episode was probably enough invited to become the senior observer aircraft and experienced the attack excitement for Smith for a while, for of the reformed 825 Squadron, which on Sydney Harbour by three Japanese he does not mention in his biography he had to decline as Australia House midget submarines at the end of the hunt for the German battleship had passed along instructions for him to May, with the submarines torpedoing Bismarck which was taking place at the return to Australia. Smith noted later HMAS Kuttabul, killing 21 sailors and end of May 1941. He went to sea as part that 13 out of that Squadron’s 18 aircrew generally causing a night of mayhem of the hunt on board Ark Royal, but later were killed shortly afterwards in an and mistakes. Canberra, anchored in noted that the weather was too rough for attack on Scharnhorst, Gneisenau and darkness, was not a target. the fighter squadrons to operate.10 Peter Prinz Eugen. Canberra was then deployed to Howson, later an Australian Federal Arriving back in Australia in the Pacific and was soon in action, Minister, who served with him at the February 1942, Smith recorded surprise culminating in the Battle of Savo Island. time, is of the opinion that this incident at the conditions and attitudes he found This action saw units of the American caused VAT to realise the importance at home. 1941 and the beginnings of and Australian navies surprised at night of an air component for the RAN at 1942 had been a bad year for Australia by a Japanese squadron. American a time when very few others shared – the attacks on Pearl Harbor had radar-equipped ‘picket’ ships did not those views. Howson, an RNVR pilot brought Japan into the war and the war see the oncoming enemy, and the attack from 1940 until 1946, later emigrated to closer; HMAS Sydney had been sunk was both a complete surprise and a Journal of the Australian Naval Institute 36 ADM Sir Victor Alfred Trumper Smith, ac, kbe, cb, dsc, ran
total victory for the Japanese. Smith’s an Atlantic convoy escort and many and resulted in the formation of an air ship was annihilated; as one account patrols were deployed from her deck planning staff for Navy Office under the put it: ‘In only two minutes, Canberra in search of U-boats. Early 1944 saw direction of a Captain. Smith formed without firing a shot, had been reduced her deployed on the run to Murmansk. the fourth member of this office together to a burning hulk’.14 Although not Flying conditions were extremely taxing with officers with Engineering and sinking immediately, the cruiser was a with ice often forming on the flight Supply backgrounds. This was a time total loss. It was Smith’s second sinking deck, and indeed on the ship’s railings. of much infighting between the RAAF but he was reticent about in his later The ship’s company saw little of land ice and the Navy as to which should operate autobiographical account, saying he had however: they were not even allowed to various elements of any maritime ‘nothing to add to the many accounts disembark for exercise at Murmansk.18 aviation. However, VAT Smith was a which have been written’.15 Nevertheless the aircraft were involved crucial linchpin: one of his personal On 14 September 1942 Smith in sinking two U-boats and shooting reports noted that ‘…he had a happy was appointed to HMAS Assault in down six enemy aircraft.19 VAT Smith knack of persuading the R.A.A.F. and Port Stephens on the central coast of was noted during this time as being an R.A.N to give help freely and willingly’.22 NSW. This newly commissioned shore effective communicator: ‘…the door of In late 1947 Smith became Air Staff establishment was where beach landing his office, which he hardly ever left, was Officer on the staff of the Naval Liaison techniques were taught – specifically the always open and he ensured aircrew were Officer in London and in December was ‘commando training’ of 120 sailors who kept fully up to date…’20 His personal promoted to Commander. He carried were being readied for covert assault report suggested that he was a ‘…most out work with the Diplomatic (Red techniques in jungle warfare. Smith was zealous, conscientious and capable air Cross) Conference in Geneva which not involved with the highly rigorous staff officer. Most loyal and intrepid, he drew special comment in his personal training; he later commented that he had is always a strong influence…’ report as being of note to the Australian a ‘rather idyllic existence’ there instead, Early in 1944 Smith was sent to Ambassador in Paris. involved in the administrative side of the work on the plan for D-Day, Operation The commissioning of the aircraft establishment.16 Overlord, and the air components of the carrier HMAS Sydney took place in From here he travelled to Britain landings. He moved ashore into France 1948, and a son – Michael - was born to become part of the ship’s company once the huge amphibious assault to the Smith family in the following for HMAS Shropshire, the replacement had been made and planned Channel year. On 9 January 1950 VAT Smith cruiser for Canberra. Lieutenant shipping protection. In September he joined her as Executive Officer. A little Bryan Castles, later to become an RAN moved back to Britain to begin studies while later the Carrier Air Group was Admiral himself, met Smith for the first for shore facilities required in Australia landed on board, and the officers all met time during this appointment, and was for the move to the Pacific of RN units. Smith over an informal drink. Later struck by his ‘search for knowledge’. The Normandy appointment was that day he introduced the entire 35 This was shown in his willingness to also an opportunity for which Smith members of the Group to the Captain, always listen to others and learn from recorded he was always thankful - the ‘…virtually name an rank perfect’ - an their experiences. Castles later further opportunity to meet, court and marry impressive feat of memory that showed commented that: ‘Al’s understanding of Miss Nanette Suzanne Harrison, an ex- what a man-manager he really was.23 and dedication to his fellow officers and WAAF member who was now working However, his personal report of the time men and to the RAN was an outstanding in a solicitor’s office. Upon hearing of an noted his lack of experience in the role; feature, the like of which I never imminent posting to Australia the two an interesting contrast to the report experienced again my service career’.17 were married at five days notice. of 18 months later, which commented Smith’s appointment to Shropshire In November 1944 Smith returned that he had performed ‘…the onerous was short-lived. The removal of her to Australia via a two-day flight aboard and difficult duties of an Executive aircraft facilities meant there was an Air Force Lancaster.21 He was asked Officer of an aircraft carrier with no requirement for an Observer. A to begin plans for a two-carrier force complete success….a thoroughly good request to join the aircraft carrier HMS for Australia after the war. In late 1945 seaman with high personal, moral and Tracker was successful, and as an Acting he was despatched to Britain to fill gaps professional standards’.24 Lieutenant Commander, Smith joined in the draft plan. He was able to meet The ship sailed to Britain in the her on 21 July 1943 as Operations up with his new wife once more. The middle of the year to embark two Officer. The carrier’s main role was as planning in Britain took over a year additional squadrons and in September Journal of the Australian Naval Institute Issue 124 37
1951 proceeded to Korea as part of the United Kingdom. Although Lady Smith two ton power plant almost broke loose United Nations operations there in the remarks that VAT Smith would never and the Naval Airmen risked their lives war against North Korea and its backers. have used the Australian universal in lashing it to the bulkhead… a number Three squadrons were embarked on the greeting in this way, Price relates: of fires broke out caused by sea water carrier, which Smith records made her “I generally spoke to him if I getting into the electrical equipment and somewhat crowded. ‘Lofty’ Watson, a encountered him on his forays we heard the pipe - FIRE - FIRE - FIRE sailor on board, remembers: throughout the ship. Some days he - time and time again.… The Executive VAT Smith, the best Commander replied ‘G’day Chief’, another time it Officer, Commander ‘Vat’ … worked under whom I ever shipped…. ran just would be ‘G’day Price’, and on rare for 36 hours without a break, directing about everything, except things to do occasions a grunt. I gauged his degree damage control, fire and working with flight deck operations...being vitally of stress by his reply. I had great parties.28 interested in the condition of the ship admiration for him.”27 Smith may well have done the and anything to do with seamanlike While in Korea the aircraft carrier ship another service. He apparently operations. He was not a Commander managed to survive Typhoon Ruth, mentioned to Captain Harries that who wandered about with a telescope more than just a normal storm. Alan some of Sydney’s bow plating had been under his arm looking important (the Zammit, on board at the time, recalled damaged in 1950 by steaming directly normal role of a RN ship’s commander). that the ship had been ordered to into heavy seas while deployed off the He never yelled at crew members, leave harbour along with all other United Kingdom. Harries consequently just suggested things should be done large warships to try to ride out the took the sea very fine off the starboard THIS way, and get on with it. His Daily oncoming storm: It was a night of terror. bow.29 Orders always were, to me, based on …Once clear of the sheltered harbour, Upon return to Australia the ship’s commonsense... the 19500 ton aircraft carrier began to company - together with those of He later compared Smith’s roll like a pig in mud, in a brown sea Tobruk and Murchison - were accorded management abilities on board Sydney with torrential rain beating down on a march through Sydney, with Smith with later experiences: the crew working on the flight deck….By leading the parade.30 On 25 April 1952 ...when I was in the commissioning late afternoon the typhoon was getting Smith was appointed to Albatross II crew for the loan carrier Vengeance I worse. To prevent damage, speed was – in the western suburbs of Sydney - to soon realised it WASN’T the Sydney, reduced to two knots…At this time the prepare it to be a naval air station; the and some further years later when I wind was circulating in an anti clockwise establishment soon becoming HMAS was Chief Radio Electrician in the movement at about 130 kilometres. Nirimba. The CO commented on commissioning crew for the new carrier Visibility was down to the length of the Smith’s performance later: ‘…entirely Melbourne and did 3 years on her, I ship. The air was filled with spray and to my satisfaction. This officer has knew for sure that having VAT for a foam and the sea was almost totally considerable knowledge, ability, power ship’s Commander had been a white, vaguely resembling steep hills or of application and capacity for getting privilege.25 houses covered with soap suds. At about things done’.31 Smith went on to Bryan Castles, who had served with 1700 hours (5 PM), the ‘Skimmer’, a fast become Executive Officer ofNirimba Smith in 1942, was teamed up with him 16 foot motor boat also known as the until 21 July 1953. This period saw the again in Sydney. He later recalled: ‘Jolly Boat’, which was stowed just below transition of Nirimba from ex-airfield, This posting was the opportunity flight deck level, 36 feet above the water hostel and combined RAAF/RAN to experience ‘Al’ at his best (and) his line, was washed over the side by a wave establishment to an Aircraft Repair Yard ability to bring this ship to its peak close on 45 foot high. This was followed and its commissioning in April 1953 – a of efficiency and at the same time 45 minutes later by a fork lift truck also very busy period and one that would create a very happy ship’s company…. going over the side from the flight deck. have seen Smith in the thick of things.32 He had the extraordinary know-how An hour later, our starboard 36 foot Indeed, he was more than happy to take and outstanding ability to achieve his Cutter, stowed inboard on the weather an active role. responsibility.26 deck was smashed to pieces by a huge Colin Price, then the Chief Instructor Colin Price agreed. Then on board wave… at the School of Aircraft Maintenance, as part of the aircraft maintenance Down below, in the machinery remembered a Gannet aircraft33 which teams, Price had known Smith from spaces the stokers were working in up was the centre of some attention as time they had served together in the to one foot of sea water. In the Hangar, a its pilot had retracted its wheels while Journal of the Australian Naval Institute 38 ADM Sir Victor Alfred Trumper Smith, ac, kbe, cb, dsc, ran
readying it for a take-off. Price had end of the year, singling her out as a Commander in the RAN, remembers VAT decided to hoist the aircraft up with a highly efficient ship. The same year Smith as ‘…a gentleman and a scholar crane and get a tracked salvage platform saw the birth of Smith’s third son Piers. – admired by all who served under him, underneath it when VAT Smith arrived The Captain transferred toHMAS and the rest of others near him!’44 in a car. He got out and walked across Queenborough on 10 April 1956, and The RAN College returned to Jervis and suggested that Price try lowering that ship too won the same Cup at Bay in this period, having been moved the undercarriage with the hand pump the end of the year, with Smith later to HMAS Cerberus in 1930 as a result instead. This worked, and as Price later commenting it was ‘very good fortune’.39 of the Depression. The buildings of the recorded, Smith ‘…walked back to his It was ‘very satisfying’ in the next establishment were being used as a series car with a triumphant grin on his face’.34 appointment to return to HMAS of profitable hotels, and there was some At the end of the year, on 6 December, Albatross, Smith recorded, as he had resentment towards the Navy’s return the Smiths’ second son – Mark – was so much to do with the planning of from those employed there. However, by born.35 Nowra as the base for RN aircraft 12 the end of 1957 the move was complete, With promotion to Captain, the years earlier.40 The feelings Smith with Smith noting it was ‘a happy day for next appointment was as Director had for this part of NSW were made me personally when the College returned of Air Warfare Organisation and stronger over the next three years, as to Jervis Bay’.45 Training. A decision was being made he was invited frequently to open many 1960 saw Smith enrolled in the at this time to cut the two proposed and various functions. Some of this Imperial Defence College in the United carrier air groups to one, and to make concerned heated local politics: the local Kingdom for the one year ‘staff course’. a number of modifications to the new Shoalhaven Council had been recently He noted that mixing with other naval carrier Melbourne before she was dismissed by the NSW Government, officers from many nations made for a commissioned into the RAN: the flight and Smith was performing functions ‘course of excellent value’. But even more deck was to be angled; a mirror landing that once were the province of local satisfying was to return to sea in 1961 system was to be fitted as well as a steam councillors. However, he and his wife in command of HMAS Melbourne, the catapult and internal modifications. were popular figures in the area, and the aircraft carrier. Although he had only 18 Vengeance was loaned to the RAN in the Navy was warmly embraced by the local months in command, the short time was interim, and Melbourne commissioned population.41 tempered by the knowledge he was to in 1955. It appears that the angled flight Smith went to some trouble to be promoted to Rear Admiral. Overseas deck was Smith’s proposal: he wrote a improve morale within the base. voyages to Hong Kong and Japan were a paper which pointed out the savings to Gardening was undertaken by all of challenging part of the appointment, with be made with the much lower crash rate the staff, on Friday afternoon after Smith noting that: ‘If anyone wants the an angled deck would bring. The Chief lunch. A goldfish pond was built, and testing experience of remaining on full of Naval Staff was enthusiastic, and the VAT offered fish from the wardroom’s alert throughout the entire night, then proposal was approved.36 pond to stock it - the four donated taking an aircraft carrier at night through On appointment to HMAS were subsequently named Victor, the Shimonoseki Strait is worth trying’.46 Quadrant, Smith was now Captain (F) Alfred, Trumper and Smith.42 A visit Those who served under him on board of the First Frigate Squadron, otherwise in 1959 by Rear Admiral DH Harries were complimentary about his operations known in the Navy as FOX 1. Taking up drew the deserved comment that the with the ship: ‘…according to many the post on 28 June 1955, he confessed establishment was ‘a shining example aircrew who served with him, ‘Captain later to some trepidation at leaving the of the Service at its best’. Another Smith , and only one or two others, world of aviation after sixteen years and view of ‘VAT’ during this time is one operated Melbourne as an aircraft carrier taking up ship-handling, anti-submarine remembered by Commissioner of as often as he could’‘.47 warfare and so on after such a long NSW Fire Brigades ID MacDougall, On 6 July 1962 Smith was appointed as break. This was borne out in criticism AC: ‘…as Captain, NAS Nowra, he Second Naval Member of the Australian contained in one of his reports, with took the time to counsel a brash young Naval Board and Chief of Personnel. He comments noting ‘My only concern is Acting Sub Lieutenant (me) on some was awarded the CBE the following year. his poor showing at ship handling…He aspect of my performance. The entirely The naval brief noted: tends to take unnecessary risks’.37 deserved kick was delivered in private …he is reported as being a successful Nevertheless, Quadrant was awarded and gently. I never forgot his wise words staff officer, an above average leader the Duke of Gloucester Cup38 at the and kindness’.43 Bruce Ziegler, later a and an able, intrepid observer….(an) Journal of the Australian Naval Institute Issue 124 39
exceptionally strong sense of duty and the same service’ as these two unique departments, attractive conditions for an all volunteer Defence attributes of leadership, determination, naval efforts in this difficult war. In Force, development of a uniform code of discipline and review integrity and reliability.48 1969 he was made a KBE - a knight of defence treaties with our neighbours and arrangements for 10 February 1964 saw the collision commander in the Most Excellent Order shared bases in Australia. These changes would not have been of Melbourne and Voyager, the biggest of the British Empire, and knighted by possible if there had not been complete confidence and trust peacetime loss of life the RAN has the Governor General.49 between the Prime Minister and the defence ministers on one ever suffered. 82 men were killed, While on Smith’s staff during hand and the chairman of the Chief of Staff Committee on the and careers wrecked in the ensuing this period, Bryan Castles was in a other….He was a great leader of the Defence Force and a great inquiries. Smith was not involved with position ‘…to witness him at the top servant of the Australian people.53 the investigations, but the incident left level’. He remembers that Smith was Back at home the 1972 Tange Report saw some changes to an indelible memory in the mind of all a ‘good listener’; possessed the ability the way the Defence forces were structured, and eventually the Australian naval personnel. to quietly probe for information that end to the Vietnam war. Sir Arthur Tange was a formidable In 1965 VAT Smith was involved he needed from any useful source, and public servant, and Smith may have been no match for in a reshuffle of the Board positions, communicated well. During social him.54 The Tange Report led to major changes to the Defence with the result that he became Fourth occasions, however, Smith often felt Organisation, including the dis-establishment of the separate Naval Member, and in charge of Supply not too enamoured of the occasion, and Service departments and what some perceived as a weakening – in those days conducted through after necessary formalities would quietly of the position of senior military officers vis-a-vis their civilian the separate civilian directorates of disappear, with instructions to his Staff counterparts. Naval and Air Stores, Victualling and Captain to ‘carry on’.50 On 2 December 1974 VAT Smith opened the Naval Armament Supply. Smith amalgamated On 23 November 1970 Smith Aviation Museum, as it was then called, at the Naval Air them to a degree after some study into relinquished command of the Navy Station, HMAS Albatross, near Nowra.55 In 1975 Smith had organisations that came under one to Rear Admiral Peek, and became another honour to add to his knighthood – he was made a Director General of Supply. Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Companion in the Military Division of the first list of the new In 1966, on 30 January, Smith was Committee and full Admiral. After Order of Australia, with the post-nominal of AC. appointed Flag Officer Commanding 43 years he was no longer concerned Upon his retirement on 23 November 1975 Admiral Her Majesty’s Australian Fleet. He directly with the Navy but rather Sir Victor Smith ended 49 years of service with the Royal was able to go to sea once more, and the armed forces as a whole, as the Australian Navy. He was the first graduate of the RAN College was soon exercising with an American equivalent of what later would be to achieve the rank of full Admiral, and his 49 years of service carrier group off the NSW coast. This called ‘CDF’ – or Chief of the Defence were unequalled by any other naval member. The accolades was followed by deployment north Force. The new appointment saw on his retirement were impressive: The Minister for Defence, to Singapore and other ports for much negotiation with overseas forces the Honourable Jim Killen, summed up many people’s feelings exercise. Early in the following year and governments, in particular those when he said that ‘All who had the privilege of working with Smith was made Second Naval Member of Britain and the United States. Rear you greatly admire and respect you’. The former Prime and Deputy Chief of Naval Staff, with Admiral Neil McDonald noted that VAT Minister, Gough Whitlam, later noted: ‘We knew Admiral an announcement being made in Smith: ‘…realised that the politicians had Smith well. He was a very decent person, competent and November of that year that he would to be kept on side…(he) played straight shrewd…’56 serve for three years from April 1968 as down the line and did his best for those In his retirement the Admiral became patron of the ACT Vice Admiral and First Naval Member. under him’.51 As an aside, the Smiths Rugby Union League, continuing an association with the sport Several matters were pressing during had an interesting aspect of one trip he had retained since boyhood.57 He played tennis into his Smith’s term. The first was the ongoing to Europe: they had a private audience 70’s.58 He was chairman of the ACT Birthright Movement, Vietnam war to which Australia was with the Pope, then Paul VI, when which supported fatherless families. In 1986, on 5 October, committed. Smith decided to visit visiting Rome with the then-Minister for the 75th Anniversary of the formation of the RAN, he opened Vietnam personally and was able to view Defence, Lance Barnard.52 the Naval Historical Society’s Museum in Building 31 of the the work of the Naval Helicopter Flight The Prime Minister of much of that Garden Island establishment in Sydney.59 – an unusual role for naval personnel time, Gough Whitlam, later noted: In 1992, after much persuasion, VAT Smith penned a short but one they fulfilled to the maxim of Sir Victor had the administrative version of his life - A Few Memories of Sir Victor Smith. In their motto:’Get the bloody job done’. responsibility for the armed forces of its foreword, General Sir Peter Gration, AC, OBE, Chief of He also visited the Clearance Diving Australia and Papua New Guinea the Defence Force, summed up the author: ‘…a man of rare Teams on operation there and later throughout three years of exceptional distinction and ability, modest and underspoken, yet with a commented that he felt ‘proud to be in changes – amalgamation of commanding presence and manner, a warm personality and a Journal of the Australian Naval Institute 40 ADM Sir Victor Alfred Trumper Smith, ac, kbe, cb, dsc, ran
of research he has conducted on some a Royal Australian Naval Artificer 1941-1961.’ December 1995. (In the keen sense of humour’. author’s possession.) (24) 28 He suffered a ‘long and traumatic of the leaders of the RAN. Zammit, Alan. ‘HMAS Sydney’. http://www.kmike.com/oz/kr/ chapter28.htm illness’ in the later years of his life.60 As 29 The Australian Naval Aviation Museum.Flying Stations. NSW: Allen Endnotes and Unwin, 1998. (93) 30 a result, he died on 10 July 1998, aged 1 Biographical detail in this chapter is Jones, Colin. Wings and the Navy. NSW: Kangaroo Press, 1997. (94) 31 61 largely drawn from Sir Victor Smith’s own A Few Memories of Sir Victor Smith. (47) 85. Accolades followed in quantity, 32 autobiography: Smith, Sir Victor. A Few Royal Australian Navy. ‘Welcome Aboard HMAS Nirimba’. 1979. and they all mentioned the sterling Memories of Sir Victor Smith. Canberra: Historical Collection, RAN College. 33 qualities of VAT Smith. Vice Admiral Australian Naval Institute, 1992. Dr Sam Bateman, a retired Commodore of the RAN, advises 2 Dadswell, Commodore ‘Toz’, AM, RANEM. however that the aircraft was: ‘…more probably a Firefly. Gannets did DB Chalmers, then Chief of the Navy, ‘From Midshipman to Admiral in a flying not arrive in Australia until with the Melbourne in 1956. Although noted that ‘Sir Victor personified the forty-nine years’. Australia’s Navy 1991-92. conceivably one might have been shipped out earlier for training Canberra: Government Publishing Service, purposes, I don’t think they were even in operational service in the RN true meaning of honour, integrity and 1991. (69-74) in 1953’. Conversation with the author. July 2002. 3 34 virtue, the three traits that continue to Letter from Lady Smith to the author. 20 Price, Colin C. RAN member. Manuscript: ‘A Tiffy’s Odyssey: being March 2003. the recollections of a Royal Australian Naval Artificer 1941-1961.’ be instilled in the men and women of the 4 A Few Memories of Sir Victor Smith. (19) December 1995. (In the author’s possession.) (26) 5 35 62 Glorious and her two attendant destroyers Conversation with Lady Smith. May 2002. 36 Royal Australian Navy’. Rear Admiral were sunk very quickly by two German The Australian Naval Aviation Museum.Flying Stations. NSW: warships in 1940 off Norway. The carrier Allen and Unwin, 1998. (111) WJ Rourke commented: ‘He always set 37 did not have one aircraft flying in the normal Royal Australian Navy. Personal Reports of Victor Alfred Smith. very high standards, for himself first, precautionary Combat Air Patrol, and the Navy Records, Canberra. 38 and for others’.63 And Commander three ships were surprised and quickly Robert Purves advises that the Cup was named after Prince Henry, overwhelmed, with the majority of their ships’ Duke of Gloucester, third son of George V, who was Governor-General PD Jones, RAN, then writing from the companies lost - testimony to the Glorious’s 1945-47. 39 Captain’s contemptuous opinion for naval A Few Memories of Sir Victor Smith. (48) frigate HMAS Melbourne, suggested: 40 aviation. John Winton’s Carrier Glorious A Few Memories of Sir Victor Smith. (48) 41 ‘…he simply represents an illustration provides an excellent study into this tragedy. The Australian Naval Aviation Museum.Flying Stations. NSW: Allen 6 Letter from Lady Smith to the author. 11 and Unwin, 1998. (134) of the finest leader and friend that any 42 June 2002. The Australian Naval Aviation Museum.Flying Stations. NSW: Allen person may encounter and cherish…. 7 A Few Memories of Sir Victor Smith. (31) and Unwin, 1998. (135) 43 8 Royal Australian Navy. Personal Reports of MacDougall ID, AC, Commissioner of NSW Fire Brigades. Letter to his legend survives as a model for Victor Alfred Smith. Navy Records, Canberra. Lady Smith. 20 July 1998. (Courtesy Lady Smith) 9 44 all who wish to strive for integrity, Winton, John. Obituary of Admiral Sir Ziegler, Bruce M, Commander RAN (Rtd.) Letter to the author. 28 Victor Smith. The Daily Telegraph. (British February 2002. 45 professional excellence and above all, an newspaper) 30 July 1998. (Article was not A Few Memories of Sir Victor Smith. (52) 46 64 by-lined, but was noted as being the work of A Few Memories of Sir Victor Smith. (53) accomplished life’. 47 naval historian John Winton’s in a letter to The Australian Naval Aviation Museum.Flying Stations. NSW: On 12 May 2002, a memorial plaque Lady Smith from Captain Edmund ‘Splash’ Allen and Unwin, 1998. (153) 48 to him was dedicated in the chapel Carver, which was forwarded to the author by National Archives of Australia. Series: A1945/29. Item: 133/1/39. Lady Smith.) ‘Honours: Military Division – Birthday List, 1962’. (via Lady Smith) 49 of HMAS Creswell, in Jervis Bay, and 10 Noye, Larry. ‘The Father of the RAN’s Fleet Photograph of granting of knighthood ceremony, in the possession Air Arm’. The Canberra Times. 24 September of Lady Smith. a poster encapsulating his life was 50 1989. (19) Castles, Bryan J, Rear Admiral, CBE, RAN (Rtd.) Letter to the author. displayed within the RAN College’s 11 Interview with Peter Howson. 10 January 10 October 2001. 51 2002. McDonald, Neil, Rear- Admiral, RAN (Rtd.) Letter to the author. Historical Collection. It includes some 12 A Few Memories of Sir Victor Smith. (34) November 2001. 52 13 Royal Australian Navy. Personal Reports of Lady Smith, note to author, May 2002. of VAT Smith’s most-loved quotations, 53 Victor Alfred Smith. Navy Records, Canberra. Whitlam, The Honourable EG, AC, QC. Letter to Lady Smith. 21 and some of them give a little more 14 Payne, Alan. HMAS Canberra. NSW: December 1998. (Courtesy Lady Smith) 54 insight into one of Australia’s most Naval Historical Society of Australia, 1991. Discussions with a former senior flag officer of the RAN. However, (93) according to Lady Smith, she has been told that her husband was one of sterling naval leaders: 15 A Few Memories of Sir Victor Smith. (37) the few people not intimidated by Tange. Letter to the author. March 16 Jones, Ted. RAN veteran and later author. 2003. ‘Second to None’ – as he was 55 Letter to the author. 11 June 2001. Plaque commemorating opening, Australian Museum of Flight. affectionately known 17 Castles, Rear Admiral Bryan J, CBE, RAN October 2002. 56 (Rtd.) Letter to the author. 10 October 2001. Coulthard-Clark, Chris. ‘A leader in times of war and peace’. The ‘There should be loyalty up and 18 Lady Smith to the author. 11 June 2002. Australian. 29 July 1998. (10) 57 loyalty down’ 19 Winton, John. Obituary of Admiral Sir Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly. Extract from Victor Smith. The Daily Telegraph. Hansard: ‘Death of Admiral Sir Victor Smith’. (1324) (Courtesy Lady ‘Things should be shipshape at 20 Winton, John. Obituary of Admiral Sir Smith) 58 all times’ Victor Smith. The Daily Telegraph. Coulthard-Clark, Chris. ‘A leader in times of war and peace’. The 21 Lady Smith to the author. Letter. June 2002. Australian. 29 July 1998. (10) 59 ‘Manners maketh the Man’ 22 Royal Australian Navy. Personal Reports of The Naval Historical Society of Australia Inc. ‘30 Years On’. NSW: Victor Alfred Smith. Navy Records, Canberra. Drawquick, 2002. (18) ‘Punctuality is the Quality of 60 23 The Australian Naval Aviation Museum. Smith, Lady. (Admiral Sir Victor Smith’s wife.) Letter to the author. Kings’ and Flying Stations. NSW: Allen and Unwin, 7 October 2001. 61 1998. (79) Coulthard-Clark, Chris. ‘A leader in times of war and peace’. The several verses from Kipling’s 24 Royal Australian Navy. Personal Reports of Australian. 29 July 1998. (10) 65 62 poem ‘If’ � Victor Alfred Smith. Navy Records, Canberra. Chalmers, Vice Admiral DB, Chief of the Navy. Letter to Lady Smith. 25 Watson, ‘Lofty’. Sailor 1946-58, and later 15 July 1998. (Courtesy Lady Smith) 63 author. Letter to the author. 14 August, 2001. Rourke, Rear Admiral WJ , RAN. (Rtd.) Letter to Lady Smith. 13 July 26 Castles, Rear Admiral Bryan J, CBE, RAN 1998. (Courtesy Lady Smith) Tom Lewis is the editor of Headmark. 64 (Rtd.) Letter to the author. 10 October 2001. Jones, Commander PD, RAN. HMAS Melbourne. Letter to Lady 27 Price, Colin C. RAN member. Manuscript: Smith. 17 July 1998. (Courtesy Lady Smith) This is one (abbreviated) of ten chapters 65 ‘A Tiffy’s Odyssey: being the recollections of Poster of Sir Victor Alfred Trumper Smith, courtesy of Lady Smith. Journal of the Australian Naval Institute Issue 124 41
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n 1 June 1918 a Sopwith Camel Zeppelin L43 in May 1917. During had returned overhead both Sydney from the light cruiser HMAS her next refit Dumaresq arranged for and Melbourne had their aircraft in the OSydney destroyed a German fixed- Sydney to receive a rotating flying- air. Melbourne’s Camel lost sight of her wing aircraft in combat, the first time off platform. Successful trials were quarry, but Sharwood caught up with that a ship-launched aircraft had carried out in December 1917, with his and sent it into a ‘spinning nose- achieved such a feat. The Camel’s pilot, the Camel becoming airborne after dive’. While following it down he was Lieutenant A.C. Sharwood, RAF, was a 14 feet run. Dumaresq pushed for ‘bounced’ by another enemy aircraft, awarded a Mention-in-Despatches, a permanent aircraft and by June which he engaged until his guns but some credit must also go to the 1918 four ships in Sydney’s Squadron jammed. Sharwood broke off the action foresight of Sydney’s commanding (including HMAS Melbourne) each and with Sydney now over 70 miles officer, Captain J.S. Dumaresq, RN. had a machine. Sharwood’s victory away ditched near a British destroyer. Dumaresq, who was born in Australia, came during an anti-minelaying sweep Sharwood returned to Sydney and later had long advocated the use of into the Heligoland Bight by elements became the Senior Naval Flying Officer aircraft from light cruisers to counter of the Grand Fleet. Three German of the Cruiser Squadron. This photo is German aerial reconnaissance; a case seaplanes passed over the cruisers and one of a series taken on board Sydney a strengthened when Sydney was forced dropped several bombs on the main month after the action. � to fight an inconclusive duel with the body astern. By the time the enemy
Journal of the Australian Naval Institute 44 Book Reviews
some startling counter-claims. The first the strategic analysis. And so we read of is that the failure of the Anzac units to the story of Private Edgar Adams, who seize the far side of the peninsula eight disappeared in a battle but whose note, kilometres away did not matter too inserted into a bottle and recovered much. WWI was full of such variants on from the sea, advised that he was a an original plan, and good generalship prisoner of war. But Adams was never and intelligence work reacted well to the seen again, either in POW records held situation at hand. by the Turks, or in battlefield recovery Second, the claims that the old later. Or the author explains briefly but argument of “being landed in the wrong interestingly how wound records were place” does not matter – anywhere often hurried and inaccurate, or indeed, along a varied strip of land in that area the note that explains that a soldier satisfied the situation. Williams also died “of disease” often did not explain quite rightly points out the considerable that it was the sort of disease that “no success of the Gallipoli landings one wants to appear on their medical The Battle of Anzac Ridge – a nighttime attack against modern record”. artillery and quick firing weapons – and Altogether this results in a by Peter Williams contrasts it with the miserable catalogue qualitative, careful, and comprehensive Australian Military History of even WWII amphibious assaults by revision of the WWI landings. Well much more experienced and better illustrated with what looks like several Publications, 221 pp., $45.00 trained forces. The combined Aussie score of photographs, diagrams, and and Kiwi force did very well indeed maps, the author has used these usefully The thoroughly researched publication for “enthusiastic amateurs”. The author to complement the text. This process of The Battle of Anzac Ridgemay do outlines just how well the combined works to a degree that what is a fairly more than any other book to convince Allied force did against a very capable complicated strategic and tactical you that the whole concept of Gallipoli, Turkish enemy – a fact that is often situation is clearly understood by the usually viewed as a defeat for Australia, overlooked, perhaps in the search for reader. One tends to find in many was in fact a victory, at least as far as its scapegoats for the eventual defeat. The publications that the pen-picture is first day went. writer gives credit to both sides, and so difficult to understand that whole It’s an interesting concept. What concludes the Anzacs did indeed “stand sections of explanation are skipped. The would we get if we asked a multitude of like regulars”. Battle of Anzac Ridge therefore is doubly Australians to describe Gallipoli in one He concludes his thesis by welcome in this regard. or two words? Would it be “defeat”, or demonstrating that the requirement of Although this works looks like the “a mess”, or similar phrases. I suspect it the Anzacs was to make a feint which product of university research, the prose would be so. The image has been shaped would draw down Turkish forces upon reads more freely than the dry products by films such as Peter Weir’s 1981 themselves – forces which critically one often finds emanating from production Gallipoli, and the TV series could not be used elsewhere. Of course, academic halls. 1915. In this image, our plucky, tough if the Allied forces could improve on The author, the dustjacket tells us, is boys struggle ashore, to get shelled to their situation, their ruse might develop working on a PhD thesis researching the bits by Johnny Turk. There they sit for into something more profitable. Kokoda campaign. If that investigation several months, unsupported by the Williams shows – through twelve manages to bring the same level of perfidious British, making fruitless chapters – the detail and the analysis scholarly research to what might be attacks until the gallant Aussies (and to prove his claims. He arrives credibly also thought a foregone conclusion, their Kiwi pals) go home. And despite all to the conclusion that in all of the then Australian military history is in for of this sacrifice, it has been said by some requirements laid down for the Anzacs another revision as we have here. What works that Gallipoli had no influence on they succeeded. Therefore this initial a welcome work that will be too – as is the course of the war. stage of the Gallipoli campaign was a this worthy production. That is the popular image. Author victory, and should be regarded as such. Peter Williams has taken the first day of The work contains a quantity of Tom Lewis is the author of four military the Gallipoli campaign and advanced social observations which lift it beyond history books. Journal of the Australian Naval Institute Issue 124 45
its principal focus is to find the guilty many years the Services now have party and bring him to justice; in the their own Military Rehabilitation and case of the two Royal Commissioners Compensation Act, albeit not entirely this was at times an unedifying process. adequate but nevertheless a major Oversighting this process is the political advance on conditions of service for establishment with all the colours of a Defence Force personnel. political rainbow. In many ways the Voyager Royal Tom Frame in his comprehensive Commissions were watershed national overview of both the Royal inquiries, with the underlying motive Commissions has brought all the to do the best for those involved. This detail of these inquiries into focus with did not always happen but within the commendable clarity. Overriding the political establishment there was an infighting to which these inquiries gave empathy for those that serve the nation rise is the tragic loss of 82 lives, the at sea. survivors’ trauma, and the impact on With today’s Navy as active as ever and The Cruel Legacy: families with perhaps as many as one involved in operations throughout the The HMAS Voyager Tragedy thousand being affected either directly Indo-Pacific basin it is inevitable that or indirectly. Those seeking retribution accidents and mishaps even occasioning or blame of sorts for this tragedy loss of life, as we have seen, will continue by Tom Frame at times overlooked the hurt being to occur, with the inevitable scrutiny experienced by these people who stood from the political establishment and the ISBN 1-74114-421-3, published by by their men. Headline after headline press. Allen and Unwin, 2005 RRP $29.95 that followed the collision for many For those appointed to operational For someone of my generation to be years only added to their grief. commands or senior administrative invited to review this book is a particular In the book Frame sets out very clearly positions Tom Frame’s book is essential challenge as I knew personally most the inter-reaction between all the players reading. For naval officers generally of the players – I was on Admiral whether individuals such as Captain it is an excellent read and because Harrington’s personal staff in the Robertson (C.O. HMAS Melbourne) it draws together information and Melbourne in 1960-61 and was Duncan and politicians or institutions such opinions from many sources to provide Stevens’ navigator in HMAS Quickmatch as the Naval Board and the Ministry. a comprehensive insight into the whole when that ship recommissioned in Much is revealing. Moreover it flows tragic affair. Williamstown in 1955. And in addition on to the present day when perceived I knew well many of those who lost deficiencies, particularly in high profile Reviewed by CDRE Harold Adams, RAN their lives in the Voyager, including the operations as well as aspects of personal (Retd) three midshipmen who had been under administration, quickly become subject training with me in HMAS Swan in to Senate inquiries. 1962. While we will never know precisely what The tragedy of theMelbourne-Voyager happened on Voyager’s bridge on that collision resulted in the charting of fateful evening because the entire bridge new waters not only for the Navy, but crew lost heir lives in the collision. There also for the legal profession and the were a number of positive outcomes. political establishment. For the Navy One in particular was the establishment the purpose of any inquiry, even today, of an RANR Legal Reserve panel which is to ascertain what went wrong so that has enabled Navy to draw on some of corrections in procedure or material the finest minds in the legal profession deficiencies can be implemented. And when required. Also the question of where negligence on the part of any is compensation was seen to be clearly considered a contributing factor this can inadequate as subsequent events be tested in a court of law, namely by showed: that inadequacy was reinforced court martial. For the legal profession by the later Blackhawk disaster. After Journal of the Australian Naval Institute 46 Book Reviews
devoted to command, control and editions was, as with a great deal that computers and Friedman has some emerged from the former Soviet Union important things to say in his foreword in the 1990s, inaccurate. The fact is, on the subject of network centric warfare however, that for all Friedman’s care to (NCW) and what lies ahead. He has never emphasise that his book is based on open been an enthusiast for stealth, having source, unclassified information and probably coined the aphorism that ‘the that detailed performance estimates are computer will always get through’ and ‘typical’ rather than exact, his guesses are in his introduction repeats his strictures often much more accurate than others’ to the effect that increases in computing estimates. What is not wholly apparent power will allow progressively greater from the text is the fact that Friedman has discrimination of weak signals, thus personally devoted great time and energy discounting much very expensive effort to sorting out the Russian wheat from the to reduce emissions and signatures. considerable chaff that has accompanied Norman Friedman The To be fair, Friedman is also the first to it. After more than a decade, a much Naval Institute Guide acknowledge that some attention to clearer understanding has now emerged stealth and signature reduction pays of the areas in which Soviet technology to World Naval Weapon substantial dividends – the question is really was in the lead and where it was Systems Fifth Edition how much is good enough and at what not. point resources should be devoted to Another shift in balance in World other elements of fighting efficiency. Naval Weapon Systems over the last 2005, Annapolis, MD, United States He also makes some shrewd comments two decades is of significance with, Naval Institute about the likely counters to NCW, hardly surprising, both China and 912 pp., 864 photographs, 49 most notably the increased potential of India taking up more space than before drawings, index, decoy techniques in an environment in – a phenomenon equally apparent at ISBN 1-557500-262-5 which the actual numbers of projectiles contemporary international defence available to combatants will diminish as industrial expositions. It is likely to Norman Friedman first published his the expected accuracy and lethality of continue. Guide to World Naval Weapon Systems individual rounds increase. The book is nicely produced with in 1989. The first edition immediately The book is accessible, being divided a clear, albeit understandably small established itself as a uniquely first according to major command, typeface and a good layout. Its text is well authoritative and accessible reference to control, communication and sensor supported by photographs, with many a complex subject. Unlike many naval categories and then by major warfare contributions from the same collective analysts, Norman Friedman possesses areas, with subdivisions within each of amateur enthusiasts who support the an understanding of technology derived according to the country of origin. The work of Jane’s Fighting Ships and Combat from his academic work, culminating opening sections include an introduction Fleets – more than one Australian among in a PhD in physics from Columbia to maritime warfare and the relationship them. University, which he matches with an between technology and operational World Naval Weapon Systems is, at ability to explain concepts and techniques concepts that is useful in its own right, $US 250, not cheap, but nevertheless to the unscientific. A reader who takes while there are also explanations of worth the funding for professionals and the time to work through the Guide will fundamental terms, system designations certainly something which should be in find that they have been exposed to a and national terminologies. It should the bookshelf of every naval analyst (a primer on naval operational concepts, as come as no surprise that the key to self powered, fully portable, read only, well as current and emerging maritime acronyms and abbreviations takes up random access database has certain technology. twelve pages. advantages over on-line systems). The size of the book has increased The new edition also contains much Furthermore, its appearance only every since that first edition, although not more information on Russian weapons four or five years also constitutes a cycle markedly since the second of 1991/92. and sensors than its predecessors. that allows the $250 to be spread over a More significantly, its balance has Friedman acknowledges that much of reasonable period. Recommended. changed as additional space has been the material that appeared in previous Review by James Goldrick. Journal of the Australian Naval Institute Issue 124 47 Thinking of Making a Contribution? Style Notes for Headmark
In general, please present your work Adkin, Mark. Goose Green. London: Moodie. At the end of the article, please supply full honours with the minimum of formatting. Leo Cooper, 1992. - Lieutenant Commander Bill Crabbe, CSC, RAN - unless Paragraphs: don’t indent, and Adler, Bill (Ed.) Letters from Vietnam. you would prefer not to use them. Then please supply a leave left justified. Separate paragraphs New York: EP Dutton and Co., 1967. paragraph on yourself, to a maximum of 50 words, including by one line. Single spacing only. Use one Articles use quotation marks around any qualifications you would like listed, and any interesting space only after stops and colons. their title, which is not in italics. biographical aspects. If possible please supply a colour or Conventions: use numbers for If citing web sites please use the greyscale head and shoulders e-photo of yourself for use 10 and above, words below. Ship names convention: alongside the article title. use italics in title case; prefixes such as Australian Associated Press. “Army Illustrations: do not embed graphs or figures in HMAS in capitals and italics. Book and admits mistakes in SAS investigation”. your text without sending a separate file as well. If supplying Journal titles use italics. 17 February, 2004.
Spanish F100 Class Air Warfare Destroyer Alvaro De Bazan visits Sydney (March 07) Journal of the Australian Naval Institute 48 Australian Naval Institute 2007 Winter Events Program
Event Date Location Comments/Contact 1 day seminar 24 July Australian National Point of contact: ‘Naval Networks: Maritime Museum, Dr David Stevens The Dominance of Sydney 02.6127 6503 Communications in Maritime Operations’
2007 26-27 July ADFA Point of contact: “King Hall” Canberra Dr David Stevens Naval History Conference 02.6127 6503 (same theme as above) [email protected] For more details of ANI events please visit the ANI website: www.navalinstitute.com.au
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Journal of the Australian Naval Institute Issue 124 49 ANI On-line: A guide to the new website.
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Journal of the Australian Naval Institute 50 Australian Naval Institute
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Journal of the Australian Naval Institute HMAS KANIMBLA’s Sea King helicopter conducts vertical replenishments with HMAS SUCCESS. The flightdeck marshaller directs the helicopter as the 05 January 2007 flightdeck team bring out the next load for transportation Dec 06 HMAS Toowoomba leaves for the Persian Gulf