Duty First

Duty FirstVOLUME 10, NUMBER 17 WINTER 2019

70TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE REGIMENT

1 RAR SEPTIMUS PROMOTED!

BAGHDAD FIGHTING SCHOOL

SACRED, RESPECTED AND PRECIOUS THE LAYING UP OF 1 RARS COLOURS

ROYAL AUSTRALIAN REGIMENT CORPORATIONwww.rarcorporation.com Winter 2019 1 Duty First

2 Winter 2019 www.rarcorporation.com NATIONAL PATRON: General Sir Phillip Harvey Bennett AC, KBE, DSO Duty First

CO-NATIONAL PATRON: Winter 2019 Lieutenant General (Ret’d) AC

BRANCH CONTACTS: National President: Michael Von Berg, MC Secretary: LTCOL E.A. (Ted) Chitham MC, OAM Mail Centre, Gallipoli Barracks Enoggera QLD 4051 (07) 3332 5371 [email protected] www.rarcorporation.com Duty First www.rar.org.au

NEW SOUTH WALES President: Brigadier Paul O’Sullivan AM, MBE(Ret’d) 31/17 Powell St Killara NSW 2071 Produced by the NSW Branch of the 0418611703 Secretary: Michael Shave Royal Australian Regiment Association for 111 Clarke Rd Hornsby NSW 2077 the Royal Australian Regiment (02) 94876908 Corporation and all State Branches [email protected] Members from the 1st QUEENSLAND Cover image: President: Kel Ryan Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment 0418 759 120 unload sandbags for residents of Townsville [email protected] to assist them in preparing for the rising Secretary: Greg Decker flood waters Enoggera Mail Centre Gallipoli Barracks, Enoggera, Qld 4051 0411 746 4251 [email protected]

SOUTH AUSTRALIA President: Michael von Berg MC PO Box 122 Fullarton SA 5063 0411 870 055 [email protected] Inside this issue Secretary: Bob Whinnen RAR Association (SA) Inc Club Rooms, MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION 4 13 Beatty Ave Linden Park SA 5065 HEAD OF CORPS ROYAL AUSTRALIAN INFANTRY AND REGIMENTAL 6 [email protected] COLONEL OF THE ROYAL AUSTRALIAN REGIMENT - MESSAGE ON THE 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE REGIMENT VICTORIA President: Allan Tonkin THE SEVENTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ROYAL 8 197 Gillespie Rd, Kings Park VIC 3021 AUSTRALIAN REGIMENT 1948-2018 (03) 9366 1153 President and Interim Secretary: Doug Bishop SPEECH - HIS EXCELLENCY GENERAL THE HONOURABLE 16 PO Box 94, Greensborough, VIC, 3088. SIR AK MC (RETD), GOVERNOR-GENERAL OF THE 0437 653 577 COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA [email protected] 1 RAR SEPTIMUS PROMOTED! 18

WESTERN AUSTRALIA BAGHDAD FIGHTING SCHOOL 20 RAR Assn. WA Branch, PO Box 3152, YOKINE WA 6060 (08) 9349 0826 SACRED, RESPECTED AND PRECIOUS THE LAYING UP OF 1 RARS COLOURS 22 [email protected] President: Mr Peter Heeney. Home Phone (08) 93418288 Mobile 0417559973 Vice President: Mr Derek Parsons, please contact through the Secretary Secretary: Ed & Linda Maskiell, 9 Wakehurst Place, KELMSCOTT. WA 6111 Ph/Fax: 08 9495 4559 [email protected] Treasurer: In transition NSW BRANCH MEMBERSHIP ACT Brian Stannard, President: Stephen Dunn AM (Ret’d) CONTACTS: The Treasurer, (02) 6161 7590 RAR Association NSW Branch [email protected] 93 Torrance Cr, Quakers Hill, NSW, 2763 Vice President: Bob Sayce EDITOR (02) 9837 4196 (02) 6286 1719 Bob Weir [email protected] [email protected] 2/46 Wilga Street, Corrimal, NSW 2518 Secretary: John Robbins 0408 639 168 ADVERTISING Steve Moxey 16 Woodgate Street, Farrer ACT 2607 [email protected] (02) 62901948, 0414483729 [email protected] [email protected] DEPUTY EDITOR CREATIVE Chris Allen Sarah Abrahams NORTHERN TERRITORY [email protected] [email protected] President: Major J J Roncevich PO Box 40934 Casuarina NT 0810 0421 605 326 www.rarcorporation.com Winter 2019 3 [email protected] Duty First

ROYAL AUSTRALIAN REGIMENT ASSOCIATION (NSW BRANCH) INC.

APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP / SUBSCRIBER / RENEWAL / NOTIFY CHANGE OF ADDRESS

Current members or subscribers are asked to notify the Secretary of any change of address - you may use this form. Remember that returned mail is an additional charge to your Branch, therefore your timely notification of any change of address will be appreciated. NSW Applicants only please send to:

The Treasurer RAR Association (NSW Branch) Inc. 93 Torrance Crescent QUAKERS HILL NSW 2763

I wish to:

Join the Association Renew my membership

Advise change of address Become a subscriber for the “Duty First” magazine

Serving and ex-serving members of the RAR are invited to apply for membership of the Association. Please note operational service is not a pre-requisite for membership. Subscribers for the Duty First Magazine only, do not need to have served in the Regiment.

Surname Given names (preferred name)

Street Town / Suburb

State Postcode Telephone (H) (W)

Email Regimental Number Date of Birth

RAR Battalion(s) served with? When Location(s)

(Required only if not previously supplied after computerisation of Service history records commenced in 2001. Separate page may be attached to list Service history and any other personal information that you may wish recorded. Service details are optional in case of “Duty First” subscribers).

I agree to abide by the Rules of the Royal Australian Regiment Association.

Signature of Applicant: ...... Date: ......

I enclose payment to the RAR Association (NSW Branch) as follows (please tick etc): Annual $15.00 for 1 year or $50.00 for 4 years ($40.00) for 4 years for original Life Members). To avoid postal costs, receipts will not be sent, however, Association mail labels show the year that membership renewal is due. For membership enquiries (NSW Branch only) email Brian Stannard (Treasurer NSW Branch) at [email protected]

PLEASE NOTE THE ADDRESSES FOR STATE BRANCHES ARE SHOWN ON PAGE 1 OF DUTY FIRST.

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HEAD OF CORPS ROYAL AUSTRALIAN INFANTRY AND REGIMENTAL COLONEL OF THE ROYAL AUSTRALIAN REGIMENT - MESSAGE ON THE 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE REGIMENT

By JASON BLAIN, DSC, CSC, Brigadier, Regimental Colonel, November 2018

As I write this message commemorating the 70th anniversary of the formation of the Royal Australian Regiment and recognise the men and women who have served the Regiment, and through it the Nation, it is important to acknowledge that members of our Regiment are today serving on operations in places like Afghanistan and Iraq. These men and women, the current custodians of our Regimental values, continue that proud history of service and sacrifice displayed by the thousands of Australians who have worn the Skippy badge in both war and peace. We wish them every success in their mission and that they return home safely.

The history of the Royal Australian Major appointments at every level, to don the Skippy badge with pride of all it Regiment is not just one of remarkable culminating in being appointed RSM of the represents, and knowing full well what it events and actions, represented by the Army from 2011 to 2015. These are only a may cost. Honours on our Regimental Colours, but is few examples of the thousands of soldiers As the Regimental Colonel, I take this founded on the remarkable people who and officers who through their service in the opportunity on behalf of all the men and have served in the Sections, Platoons, Royal Australian Regiment, be it either long women who serve in the Royal Australian Companys and Battalions that make up our or short, have forged the reputation and Regiment to thank those who have paved Regimental family. People like Lieutenant respect the Regiment enjoys today. Colonel Charlie Green, from Swan Creek in the path that we walk today. You have built New South Wales, who by the age of 30 On the 70th anniversary of the Regiment the reputation that we strive to uphold and had commanded three Infantry Battalions we pause to remember those who have demonstrate each day. A reputation of spanning two wars and would be killed served and especially those who have lost quiet professionalism, compassion, while commanding 3 RAR in Korea their lives in their service, be it on the courage and skill at arms. A reputation following the battle at Chong Ju. People battlefield, in barracks, or during training. founded in both word and deed of always like Corporal ‘Buddy’ Lea, a South Sea And while we reflect and honour the past, placing ‘Duty First’. Islander born and raised in Rockhampton we also look to the future. A future that Queensland, who on the 18th August 1966 promises so much for our Regiment. One would be shot three times while leading his where the Battalions have increased Rifle Section in D Company 6 RAR at the firepower, mobility and protection with battle of Long Tan in Vietnam. Or people modern vehicles and equipment. A future like Warrant Officer Dave Ashley, born in where the men and women who serve in Bradford, England, who enlisted in the the Regiment continue to be our Army’s Army in 1979 and during his 37 years of experts in dismounted close combat, and a service would hold Regimental Sergeant future where young Australians will continue

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THE SEVENTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ROYAL AUSTRALIAN REGIMENT 1948-2018

“As a nation we are re-assured that A brief History of the Regiment environment of the South-West Pacific, but their jungle green uniforms were soon when the next call to duty comes— The Royal Australian Regiment (RAR) had replaced by khaki uniforms for their service its beginnings in 1945 when Australia as it inevitably will—the Regiment in Japan. Their weapons were those they agreed to provide a brigade of soldiers for had used to fight the Japanese in the will be there, ready and willing to the British Commonwealth Occupation tropical environment of the South-West Force (BCOF) in Japan. The 34th Infantry lead the way.” His Excellency Pacific and included the bolt-action .303in Brigade was raised at Morotai during General the Honourable Sir Peter Short Magazine Lee-Enfield (SMLE) Rifle, October 1945 with most volunteers coming the .303in BREN light machine gun (LMG), Cosgrove AK MC (Retd) from the Australian infantry divisions serving and the 9mm Owen Machine Carbine. The in the South West Pacific area. The battalion organisation was based on a organisation of the brigade was based on headquarters, four rifle companies, a the 65th, 66th and 67th Battalions and they support company and an administration were the first infantry battalions raised for company and was compatible with the full time service with the in British infantry battalion organisation. peacetime. The infantrymen retained the weapons and equipment they had used for The 34th Brigade arrived in Japan during fighting the Japanese in the tropical February 1946 and was allotted to the

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the unofficial title of 4 RAR. In 1960 the RAR Depot became a wing of the Infantry Centre at Ingleburn. Today it is Depot Company RAR at the School of Infantry Singleton. Airborne Platoon RAR was formed on 23 October 1951 at RAAF Base Williamtown NSW. Its role was to support the development and demonstration of parachute techniques and infantry related capability. In 1974 it was absorbed into the Parachute Training School. Although the Malayan Emergency commenced in 1948 it wasn’t until mid-1955 that the Australian Government was able to provide an infantry battalion to support British and Malay operations in Malaya. From October 1955 to July 1960, 2 RAR followed in turn by 3 RAR and 1 RAR carried out counter insurgency operations against Communist guerrilla fighters in the jungle and mountain country of Malaya. Although the Malayan Emergency was formally ended in mid- largely rural area around the atomic bomb Prior to 1952 the initial training of infantry 1960, counter-guerrilla search operations devastated city of Hiroshima. As part of soldiers to prepare them for service in the continued along the Malay-Thai border into BCOF the 34th Brigade’s presence RAR was carried out in Australia by 1 and 2 the 1960s. Australian infantry operations in provided security which allowed the RAR. In January 1952 the need for these Malaya revived jungle-tropical warfare post-war reconstruction of Japan to take two battalions to prepare for operational training in the Australian Army, including the place; while their tasks included ceremonial service in Korea led to the RAR Depot reactivation of the Jungle Training Centre at duties and disarming the Japanese military. being raised at Ingleburn. Its task was to Canungra in south-east Queensland. British On 23rd November 1948 the three carry out infantry training for soldiers jungle green uniforms and load carrying battalions were redesignated and became allocated to the RAR and it soon received equipment were used in Malaya and the the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Battalions of the Australian Regiment (AR). 1 AR and 2 AR returned to Australia during December 1948, with 1 AR based at Ingleburn NSW and 2 AR at Puckapunyal VIC. On 10 March 1949, the prefix ‘Royal’ was granted by His Majesty King George VI and the Australian Regiment became the Royal Australian Regiment. The distinctive RAR badge with the motto ‘Duty First’ was created in 1949, but not issued as a hat badge until 1954. During the period September 1950 to July 1953 all three battalions of the RAR served on combat operations in the Korean War as part of the United Nations force formed to fight against the invasion of South Korea by Communist forces from North Korea and China. Major battles involving members of the RAR included: The Battles of Yongju and Chongju in October 1950; the Battle of Kapyong, 23-25 April 1951; the Battle of Maryang San (Hill 317) in October 1951; and the defence of The Hook adjacent to the Samichon River in July 1953. During the period July 1953 to March 1956 all three battalions of the RAR had turns at participating in defensive operations to maintain security along the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ).

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the Army through the implementation of a selective National Service Scheme. By mid-1968 the RAR had been expanded to include nine battalions and an independent rifle company which supported training at Battle Wing of the Jungle Training Centre at Canungra QLD. New barracks to house and provide facilities for the RAR battalions were constructed at Townsville QLD; Enoggera QLD and Holsworthy NSW. During the period 1964-66, 3 RAR and then 4 RAR carried out combat operations on the Malay Peninsula and in Borneo to counter Indonesian Confrontation to the formation of Malaysia. From May 1965 to December 1971 all nine battalions of the RAR served in South Vietnam and carried out combat operations against Viet Cong guerrillas and units of the North Vietnamese Army. Initially 1 RAR served with the 173rd Airborne Brigade (US Army) and then from mid-1966 the RAR battalions served on operations in Vietnam with the 1st Australian Task Force from its base at Nui Dat in Phuoc Tuy Province. Major battles involving soldiers of the RAR in South Vietnam included: The Battle of Long Tan, 18 August 1966; the Battles of fire support Bases Coral and Balmoral in May-June 1968; the Battle of Binh Ba in June 1969; and operations carried out in the enemy base areas in the Long Hai Hills, the Nui May Tao Hills, the Nui Dinh and Nui Thi Vai Hills and the Hat Dich Zone. Prior to Vietnam Australian infantrymen were regarded purely as foot mobile infantry – this concept was modified in Vietnam through the employment of helicopters and British .303in Jungle Carbine replaced the groups which were twice the strength of armoured personnel carriers to support SMLE rifle. the previous battalion structure. To infantry operations. Infantry firepower was enhance firepower, mobility and enhanced through the acquisition of 40mm communications, new weapons, vehicles grenade launchers, 66mm rockets and the “The history of the Royal Australian and equipment came into service. The M18A1 Claymore mine. Regiment is not just one of infantryman received a new helmet, jungle remarkable events and actions, green uniforms, personal load carrying equipment and new weapons. The “Inherent in membership of the represented by the Honours on our replacement of .303in small arms Regiment is that it demands Regimental Colours, but is founded ammunition with 7.62mm ammunition leadership, teamwork and a on the remarkable people who resulted in the bolt action SMLE rifle being camaraderie that goes beyond the replaced by the gas operated semi- have served in the Sections, ordinary.” His Excellency General Platoons, Companys and automatic L1A1 self-loading rifle (SLR) and the BREN LMG and Vickers MMG being the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove Battalions that make up our replaced by the M60 general purpose AK MC (Retd) Regimental family.” Brigadier Jason machine gun (GPMG). Training exercises Blain, DSC, CSC, Head of Corps proved that the Pentropic organisation was Royal Australian Infantry difficult to employ and at the end of 1964 it The end of Australian participation in the was abandoned and the Army reverted to Vietnam War and National Service in 1972 the previous tropical warfare organisation. led to a dramatic reduction in the size of During the early 1960s the Australian Army the Army and in 1973 the nine battalions of reorganised and re-equipped and this had At the beginning of 1964 the RAR the RAR were reduced to six with the a major effect on the battalions of the RAR. consisted of three battalions, with two in linking of 2/4 RAR, 5/7 RAR and 8/9 RAR. The British based battalion and brigade Australia and one in Malaya. To meet The withdrawal of 6 RAR from Singapore in organisations were replaced by the security threats and instability in South- 1974 meant that for the first time since its American inspired Pentropic organisation East Asia and to Australia’s north, the inception there were no battalions of the based on independent infantry battle Government decided to expand the size of RAR on service overseas, although

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individual rifle companies from the RAR and 2/4 RAR. In the mid-1980s a small During January-May 1993, 1 RAR carried continued to be deployed to Malaysia to arms replacement project saw the Army out peace support operations in Somalia; provide security for the air base at move from 7.62mm to 5.56mm ammunition this was the first overseas operational Butterworth. and the selection of the F88 assault rifle deployment of a battalion of the RAR since the end of the Vietnam War. In May-July In the post-Vietnam era the Australian Army and F89 light support weapon to replace 1993 a platoon from 2/4 RAR carried out was given the task of defending continental the 7.62mm SLR, 5.56mm M16 rifle and security tasks during elections in Australia against enemy attack. It was soon 7.62mm GPMG at infantry platoon level. Cambodia. In 1994-95 a rifle company from found that standard infantry battalions However, the 7.62mm GPMG was retained 2/4 RAR followed by a rifle company from 2 moving on foot lacked mobility in the in the battalion to provide long range RAR provided security for the Australian wide-open spaces of outback and rural sustained fire. From the 1990s and into the medical contingent in Rwanda. In February Australia. From the late 1970s a variety of 21st century, high-tech radio 1995, 2/4 RAR delinked to become 2 RAR concepts were trialled to provide the communications equipment, night vision battalions with improved mobility and and 4 RAR. In 1997, 8/9 RAR was removed equipment and camouflage uniforms from the order of battle and 4 RAR specialist capabilities. This resulted in two (replacing jungle green uniforms) were light infantry battalions (1 RAR and 2/4 commenced its conversion from an infantry introduced into service. RAR), two motorised infantry battalions (6 battalion to become a commando battalion. RAR and 8/9 RAR), a parachute battalion By early 1999 5/7 RAR had relocated from (3 RAR) and a mechanised battalion (5/7 Holsworthy to Darwin. “Being part of the Regiment is to RAR). From 1979 the need to have a From September 1999 to the present, the combat ready, fully manned and equipped lead in battle, in duty, in service.” battalions of the RAR have been heavily infantry battalion ready for immediate His Excellency General the involved in peace and security operations in operational deployment overseas was met Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK East Timor. Concurrently from 2001 to by having one of the light infantry battalions MC (Retd) 2010, the Battalions of the RAR were in Townsville ready for rapid deployment at heavily involved in security operations in any time; this task rotated between 1 RAR Iraq and peace operations in the Solomon Islands, while also contributing to domestic humanitarian and relief and disaster response operations (QLD floods and Tropical cyclones).

In 2006 the RAR commenced its commitment to operations in Afghanistan as part of the Australian Reconstruction Task Force efforts in Uruzgan Province. The mission evolved to a mentoring role supporting the Afghan Security Forces. From 2008 to 2013 each of the RAR Battalions led Mentoring Task Force rotations of Battlegroup size in Uruzgan Province, these rotations were characterised by the complexities of The smallest high speed oven combined arms operations, developing indigenous capacity and defeating a cunning enemy in some of the fiercest with the biggest performance fighting the Regiment has seen since its operations in Vietnam. These deployments saw the further evolution of personal and The eikon® e2s is the first choice for anyone who wants to prepare fresh, hot food on demand where space section weapons and equipment including combat body armour, long-range rifles and is at a premium. It offers the smallest unit with the biggest results to add value to all kitchen operations. The improved night vision and communications high speed oven is user friendly, versatile and provides consistent levels of performance to continually exceed equipment. expectations. The eikon® e2s is the ideal way to cook, toast, grill, bake and regenerate a wide range of fresh or frozen foods, such as sandwiches, pastries and pizzas, fish, vegetables and meat. This flexibility supports “This Regiment, born in the earliest business growth by allowing rapid menu changes and additional food offerings from one small unit. months of an uneasy and fragile peace has served Australia with great honour and continues today to stand in the front rank of the Call us on 1800 023 953 or email us Find out how Moffat equipment can benefit your business. nation’s guardians.” His Excellency VIC/TAS/SA [email protected] | NSW [email protected] General the Honourable Sir Peter QLD [email protected] | WA [email protected]. Cosgrove AK MC (Retd)

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Today the Battalions continue to provide the protection, mobility and firepower The Australian War Memorial’s Roll of the basis of the security elements capabilities of its three full-time service Honour panels record that during the supporting training and advisory operations combat brigades. As a result, in 2018 each period 1948-2018, 684 members of the in Afghanistan and the training operations of the brigades has a mechanised battalion RAR have been killed in action. in Iraq. On operations the Battalions of the and a motorised battalion, with 2 RAR The 70th Birthday Celebrations RAR continued to enhance the Australian (Amphibious} under command of HQ 1st Infantry reputation as fierce close Division. Currently the seven battalions of “While we reflect and honour the past, we combatants and compassionate the RAR are developing their recently also look to the future. A future that humanitarians promises so much for our Regiment. One allocated specialist capabilities: 1 RAR where the Battalions have increased A review of the infantry battalion structure (Motorised); 2 RAR (Amphibious); 3 RAR firepower, mobility and protection with carried out in the first decade of the 21st (Mechanised); 5 RAR (Motorised); 6 RAR modern vehicles and equipment. A future Century has seen the number of rifle (Mechanised); 7 RAR (Mechanised); and where the men and women who serve in companies in each battalion reduced from 8/9 RAR (Motorised). the Regiment continue to be our Army’s four to three. In December 2006 5/7 RAR experts in dismounted close combat, and a delinked to become 5 RAR and 7 RAR, “We renew the vow that the future where young Australians will with both battalions retaining the sacrifices of those who have continue to don the Skippy badge with mechanised capability. In October 2007 8/9 served are never forgotten and pride of all it represents, and knowing full RAR was restored to the order of battle. In never taken for granted.” His well what it may cost.” Brigadier Jason June 2009, the Establishment Table of 4 Blain, DSC, CSC, Head of Corps Royal RAR (Commando) was utilised to raise the Excellency General the Honourable Australian Infantry 2nd Commando Regiment. This was due to Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd) the Government forbidding an increase to The celebrations comprised a dinner held manning in Army. 4 RAR remains on the Since the creation of the RAR in 1948 its on the night of 22 November and a parade Order of Battle. In 2011 the parachute role members have lived up to its regimental of all the Colours of the Regiment, was removed from 3 RAR and became a motto of ‘Duty First’ and served with great resplendent with the newly emblazoned Special Forces responsibility. In 2011, 2 pride and honour as Australian Infantrymen Battle Honours. The Royal Guard was RAR was given the task of developing an in a wide range of operational settings provided by the 8th/9th Battalion and the amphibious land capability for the Army in while gaining wide recognition for their band of the Royal Military College and conjunction with the Navy. In 2016 the courage, tenacity, initiative, adaptability, pipes and drums of the 8th/9th Battalion Army decided to standardise and enhance reliability, and professional skills. supplemented with pipers from other

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Battalions of the Regiment provided the and Jim Connolly along with the Colours. The Last Post ceremony was very music. The Parade was reviewed by the incumbent, Major General Mark Kelly. Our moving as always. Corporal Kevin Cooper Governor General of Australia, His previous Governor General Major General from 2 RAR, who was killed in action on 26 Excellency General the Honourable Sir Michael Jeffrey was also “on parade”. It July 1953 during the Battle of Samichon, Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd), who was Korea, was honoured. Corporal Connor’s accompanied to the parade by Lady was good to see “Zeke” Mundine looking father attended the ceremony and his Cosgrove. so well. He has been appointed Army’s tribute was read by Corporal Billy inaugural Indigenous Elder of the Year. The Chief of Defence Force General Angus McLoughlin-Wilden from the Second Campbell and the Chief of Army Lieutenant The parade was followed by the Last Post Battalion. ceremony. The COs and RSMs of the General were present as were the Finally, the military spectators and official Battalions of the Regiment lined the sides three previous Colonels Commandant, guests were invited to join Major General Major Generals Clunies-Ross, Hori Howard of the Pool of Remembrance along with the Kelly for an informal reception in the Reg Saunders Room of the AWM. Once again, the noise level indicated that many old friends were meeting for the first time in some years and it was obvious that everyone enjoyed the occasion. The whole event was well managed and a credit to the organisers, particularly Brigadier Simon Gould and his team and of course the Colonel Commandant. It was fitting recognition of the Regiment which has served our nation so well for the last 70 years. “As the Regimental Colonel, I take this opportunity on behalf of all the men and women who serve in the Royal Australian Regiment to thank those who have paved the path that we walk today. You have built the reputation that we strive to uphold and demonstrate each day. A reputation of quiet professionalism, compassion, courage and skill at arms. A reputation founded in both word and deed of always placing ‘Duty First’.” Brigadier Jason Blain, DSC, CSC, Head of Corps Royal Australian Infantry

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SPEECH His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd), Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia

Royal Australian Regiment 70th Anniversary Parade, Friday, 23 November 2018

I acknowledge the traditional owners of the land on which we meet, the Ngunnawal People and pay my respects to their elders, past and present, emerging leaders and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders gathered here today.

• Major General the Honourable Michael …the Royal Australian Regiment has In disaster relief, open hearts, strong arms, Jeffery (Retd), (former Governor-General) formed the core of that force. endless compassion. and Mrs Marlena Jeffery [PAUSE] This presence, this commitment to serve, is • General (Chief of the Let me address specifically those on the hallmark of all those who have and who Defence Force) parade and watching who proudly wear the continue to serve in your ranks. • Lieutenant General Richard Burr (Chief insignia of the RAR. And today especially, we take pride in the of Army) As members of the Regiment, your service achievements, sacrifices, friendships and • Major General Mark Kelly (Retd) (Colonel is emblematic of what it is to be a soldier in valour that define the Regiment. Commandant, Royal Australian Australian Defence Force: Regiment) We renew the vow that the sacrifices of • ‘To seek out and close with the enemy, those who have served are never forgotten • Senator David Smith (Senator for ACT) to kill or capture him, to seize and hold ground, and to repel attack by day or night, and never taken for granted. • The Honorable Dr Mike Kelly (Member regardless of season, weather or terrain’. for Eden-Monaro, NSW) That is both the present privilege and the You know this motto well and you know eternal burden of those men and women of • Senior Defence leaders this is what it takes be part of the RAR. the RAR. • Current and former members of the It is uncompromising, it is demanding. And as a nation we are re-assured that Royal Australian Regiment It requires a special part of the Australia when the next call to duty comes— as it • Distinguished guests character, the best we have. inevitably will—the Regiment will be there, • Ladies and gentlemen ready and willing to lead the way. Inherent in membership of the Regiment is How appropriate it is that we celebrate this that it demands leadership, teamwork and From the first members of the Regiment, most significant event here in Australia’s a camaraderie that goes beyond the originals like Peter Scott who is with us capital, on this avenue, before this ordinary. today, to the newest graduates from Memorial, which for so many Australians is Being part of the Regiment is to lead in Duntroon receiving their lanyards today— a spiritual heart of our modern nation. battle, in duty, in service. Australians are indebted to the men and For this occasion and this institution—its [PAUSE] women of the Royal Australian Regiment. history, its legacy and its contemporary relevance to the Army and to Australia, — From its origins as part of the British This Regiment, born in the earliest months should resonate with the whole community. Commonwealth Occupation Force, to of an uneasy and fragile peace has served missions in Korea, Malaya, Borneo, Australia with great honour and continues For 70 years… Vietnam, Somalia, East Timor, Solomon today to stand in the front rank of the • when our nation sent our men and Islands, Iraq and Afghanistan, the Regiment nation’s guardians. women into harm’s way on foreign soil. has always been there.

• when military force—full, complete and Leading in battle, leading in the restoration confronting—has been required; of peace. Duty First!

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Minimum spend $200. Not in conjunction with other offers. Valid until 31 May 2019.

2,3,4 Bedroom Self Contained Cottages Catering for all Occasions

Experience life amongst Australian native wildlife while staying at our waterfront holiday cottages at Sussex Inlet on the South Coast NSW, offering you and your family the finest of Shoalhaven’s fishing, prawning, boating, swimming, surf beaches, sailing and water skiing or just simply the opportunity to enjoy the peace and restful tranquility of a unique 2 acres of unspoiled waterfront environment.

166 River Road Sussex Inlet, South Coast NSW 2540 Phone: 02 4441 2046 or 0412 446 247

www.gohireaboat.com.au www.amarooresortsussex.com.au

www.rarcorporation.com Winter 2019 17 Duty First

1 RAR SEPTIMUS PROMOTED! It is a rare event to be promoted to the most important leadership role in the Infantry Corps on your birthday. And yet, this was the case for the now Corporal Septimus Quintus, promoted on his 10th birthday, in front of the Battalion, its Veterans and the Townsville community. Awarded his Crossed Rifles in 2017, Seppie’s exemplary performance of duty, and magnificent performance on his promotion courses, merited his elevation to the appointment of Infantry Section Commander. ‘I have been particularly pleased with CPL Septimus’ performance over the last two years. I think he has considerable potential to outrank all of his forebears, potentially reaching SGT and WO2 in due course. His career should continue to be carefully managed, with the best of his peers’ noted CO 1 RAR, LTCOL Ben McLennan following Seppie’s promotion. Seppie’s response to his CO’s assessment? He grunted in true pugnacious form.

18 Winter 2019 www.rarcorporation.com Duty First

Thinking about a holiday?

Discounted holiday accommodation is available for min 2 day or up to 1 week stay at Army Amenities Fund owned facilities. Each location offers a different experience. Army members and other eligible persons are welcome to book direct through the property managers – details on the website.

For more information go to http://www.armyholidays.com.au and select Accommodation

Coogee Beach Sydney 2 x 2 Bed Apartments

Attractions: • Walk to Coogee Beach and shops • Close to Sydney CBD • Outdoor swimming pool & BBQ

Goolwa South Australia 3 x 3 Bed Holiday Homes

Attractions: • Situated between the Murray River and a surf beach • Next to golf course with membership included • Hindmarsh Island and Victor Harbour nearby

Docklands Melbourne 1 x 3 Bed Apartment 1 x 2 Bed Apartment Attractions: • Within Melbourne’s South Bank Precinct • Short walk to CBD & sporting events • Shops and restaurants • Gardens, Gym and outdoor swimming pool www.rarcorporation.com Winter 2019 19 Duty First

BAGHDAD FIGHTING SCHOOL Task Group Taji-7, together with the Baghdad Fighting School, trained more than 1400 Iraqi Army soldiers from 41st Brigade over a 10 Australian Army soldier Corporal Eamon Baldwin of Task Group Taji-7 helps an Iraqi Army week period at the Taji Military Complex in soldier adjust his sights during a shooting competition at Taji Military Complex, Iraq. Iraq. It was the second Iraqi Army Brigade the Task Group had trained during its six month rotation and the last full training package it delivered before being replaced by Task Group Taji-8 in December 2018. The Iraqi soldiers were trained in essential soldier skills including weapons handling, marksmanship, combat first aid, urban and rural operations, combat leadership and explosive hazard awareness before completing a series of realistic exercise scenarios to test their new skills. The training program also wrapped up with a shooting competition between the best shooters of the Brigade. Task Group Taji is a combined Australian-New Zealand training unit of around 400 personnel and is in Iraq to train elements of the Iraqi Security Forces to ensure they are well postured to secure and stabilise areas cleared A soldier takes cover during a culminating activity for the Iraqi Army’s 41st Brigade at Taji of Daesh Military Complex, Iraq.

20 Winter 2019 www.rarcorporation.com Duty First

An Australian Army soldier observes a culminating activity for the Iraqi Army’s 41st Brigade at An explosion simulating a breaching charge goes off Taji Military Complex, Iraq. during a culminating activity for the Iraqi Army’s 41st Brigade at Taji Military Complex, Iraq.

Australian Army soldier Corporal Andrew Casey of Task Group Taji-7 keeps score during a shooting competition at Taji Military Complex, Iraq.

www.rarcorporation.com Winter 2019 21 Duty First

SACRED, RESPECTED AND PRECIOUS THE LAYING UP OF 1 RARS COLOURS

By Lieutenant Colonel Ben McLennan, Former Commanding Officer 1 RAR

‘The soldiers should make it an article of faith never to abandon their standard. It should be sacred to them; it should be respected; and every type of ceremony should be used to make it respected and precious.’ So said Field Marshall Maurice Comte de Saxe in his 1732 ‘Reveries.’ Almost 300 years later, 30 years after being granted, and 6 months after being replaced, the Old Colours of the 1st Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment, were retired, during a poignant, sunset ceremony overlooking The Old Colours will be displayed in a In a touching tribute, LTCOL John Salter, Townsville, Magnetic Island and the Coral tailor-made cabinet, donated by the Army MC, Veteran of the Battle of Coral, former Sea. History Unit, so that the Battalion’s Commanding Officer 1 RAR, and the CO The Battalion, its Veterans and the members, families, Veterans and Townsville who received the Old Colours from the Townsville community gathered to honour community can continue to hold them Governor General in 1988, was accorded the Old Colours, under which over 15,000 sacred, respected and precious, in young Australians served, before handing perpetuity. Indeed, over 15,000 people visit the honour of being the last person to them over to the Army Museum of North the magnificent Army Museum of North handle the Colours before they were laid Queensland. Queensland annually. up.

22 Winter 2019 www.rarcorporation.com