Newsletter 111998 May 1998

With the Signals in Japan 1949

P. Trost

[That which follows is not about life at Duntroon, but it country. This was the time of the Sergeant Gombo' affair. does throw a light on an era that played a critical part in honing Our concerns were not alleviated by noticing that our taxi the training given at the RMC and in adding some elements driver had an enormous .45 automatic tucked into his hip that could not be taught in that institution. Under experienced pocket. But then we noticed that gun toting seemed to be a commanding officers and senior NCOs, most members of five way of life with the locals. RMC Classes developed and matured in a regimental setting After one of us made a tremendous fuss about the that no longer exists. Life revolved around their units and their layout of his bedroom and the lack of a mosquito net, we soldiers with more than enough attractions outside of the unit headed for the bar to see what we could get for the $US10 that guard-house to leaven the usual routine. This article was a government starved of US dollars allowed us to take out of written for the author's RMC Class but could be of interest to a Australia. Anyway, it would have bought less than four wider readership. Ed.] drinks, soft or hard! Fortunately, some of us met an Australian businessman with a very healthy expense account. He After 33 days of post-graduation leave, we five brand introduced us to Old Parr Scotch whiskey and took us out on new members of the Royal Australian of Signals were the town - and how! I recall four clubs and the largest dance sent to the School of Signals at Balcombe, Victoria for our hall in the world (?). This tour lasted just long enough for us to Corps training. Balcombe was a war-time camp made of return and book out of our rooms at the hotel next morning. various sized galvanized iron huts set on the side of a slope amid Our Classmate never did get the chance to test the efficacy of sand and some bitumen. However, it was not too far from his mosquito net. by bus and train and was close to the Mt Martha beach. At the School we were told all about super heterodyne The memory of the final leg to Iwakuni is non existent - we just died. However we were pretty fit by the time we receivers, line repeaters and amplifiers and other things arrived at the BCOF Signals Regiment next morning. technical. Incidentally, it seems that one of us was determined to be the About mid-March 1949 we were given a few days first of our Class to set foot in Japan. He was certainly first out leave and packed off to the transit camp at Marrickville - of the plane, but the ground staff had not finished putting the meeting classmates from other Corps who were also British steps up to the door. It is an academic question as to whether it Commonwealth Occupation Force (BCOF) bound. The was his foot or some other part of his body that had first method then in vogue at Marrickville of combining all the contact with the soil of Japan. 'shots' that we had to receive into one needle had an immediate and disastrous effect on some of our members - I must record two sights that I have never forgotten - instantaneous passing out! they helped me understand something of the Japanese After that, and with nine others, we were packed into a mentality of a certain level of workers at that time. The first is Lancastrian - a converted Lancaster bomber piloted by two ex- of the Kure fire station and the ramshackle engine emerging RAAF types, and operated by the then Qantas Empire Airways from the building on its way to fight a blaze. One fireman had in conjunction with British Overseas Airways Corporation. the task of cranking the hand siren to warn all of their The use of the word 'converted' should not be taken too approach. He was applying himself lustily to this task when literally. There were seven bucket seats on each side of the the engine reached the gutter and stalled. The driver could not fuselage, 504 gallons of fuel under the floor (so no smoking), a restart it so, with some helpers from the station, he began to switch on the forward bulkhead that said 'hot' and 'cold' (our work on it under the bonnet. What of our siren friend? Well, cabin temperature control) and a table on which was a coffee he had obviously been told that his job was to wind the handle urn and a pile of sandwiches (our in-flight service). The first and mind his own business. So, while the mechanics were at leg, to Darwin, was overnight and something went wrong with work, there he was, cranking the siren. The second concerns the heating and the coffee urn. Whoever was in the front seat the ancient tramline that joined Hiro and Kure. Here was woke up with his feet frozen in spilt coffee. evidenced some early Japanese quality control. An employee We must have taken to the air after our breakfast at the had been given the task of walking along the track to check RAAF Mess, because I think that we arrived in Manila in late that any buckling was not too serious. To assist him, his afternoon and were taken to the elite Manila Hotel. I superiors had given him a metal rod. At either end of the rod remember the sign about depositing your guns with the was a shorter piece of metal at right angles to the main piece. cashier! There was also a sign warning guests that the wearing The distance between the tips of these two short extensions of spiked shoes was prohibited (If you can't shoot them, you can't kick them either?). The most omlnous sign however, was I Sergeant Gombo had been in the Philippines and he applied to a huge banner at the airport that said, Aussies, ~OLLare ermgrate to Australia. The 'White Australia' policy then in vogue led to welcome here even though we are not welco~ne in your him being denied entry and his case attracted much publicity. Lefr - on arrival at Itvakuni ai@eld in April 1949 and about to take theirfirst look at Japan. R.WO. (Roy)Pugh (RAE). K.J. (Ken)Hill and P. (Par) Trost.

Right - the author on duty as Signals Regi~izentOrderly OfJicer with loaded revolver as carried after Retreat.

was obviously the correct distance between the two rails - Mention of WLKS reminds me that not only did we because every ten or so paces he inserted the tips into the accommodate the radio station OC. but also the C of E Padre - tracks. However, when there was a mismatch, 1 saw him bend a wonderful man by the name of Laing. He had a regular 07 15 the long piece over his knee and then check again. If it now spot on WLKS - live to air. Frequently, however. he would fitted, with a nod of and an, Ah so, he proceeded to the next still be chatting to others of us in the bathroom minutes after check point - his job satisfactorily done! 0700. We delighted in tuning in at 0715 to see if he made it or not. He always did, although we would often hear heavy Back at the unit we were given the equivalent of troop breathing getting louder and louder as he sprinted into the commander jobs. Three of us would be on shift as Duty studio during his introduction. Signals Officers, while the other two would be employed in the One final recollection. It may well be that Lieutenant automatic telephone exchange or with one of the maintenance K.J. (Ken) Hill (1948) was the first in the Class to fire a shot in troops. We found that our Diggers were War of 1939-45 types, anger! As Duty Officer one night, he was alerted to there being usually much older than ourselves. I ttunk that I grew a intruders in the area. One broke from the buildings and started moustache to try to make myself look a little older! However, to dash across the parade ground. Ken grabbed a ,303 rifle we played a lot of sport with them, among other things, and a good feeling of mutual respect was soon established. The unit from one of the guard, called on the intruder (a Japanese) to halt and, when he was ignored, loosed off a round. Fortunately esprit de corps was really good and lasts to the present day - he missed! noticeably at reunions - irrespective of rank. A great perk that On 3 October 1949, we left Kure by Army Engineer was soon introduced was a tour in Tokyo with the Ebisu workboat and crossed the Inland Sea to Iwakuni once again - detachment. Here I met some of our Classmates with the Duty Company of 67 Aust Inf Bn. Weekends down at Kawana were accompanied by Noritake dinner sets, Samurai swords, aluminium trunks from the Ginza, ornaments, trays, even a a wonderful lurk as was the entrek into the Yokohama PX. Being a two-pip lieutenant helped sometimes, as even carved room screen and many other mementoes of our time in Macarthur's Honor Guard at the Dai Itchi building would Japan. We were bound for the School of Military Engineering at Casula for a concentrated couple of month's work on maths respectfully turn out for a youthful two-star . So a PX could be easy. I had less luck at a hostel dance however, when and the sciences before going to University the following year. I could not persuade a tough US Army sergeant that in our All in all, our time in Japan was a wonderful introduction to Regimental life and certainly one not easily Army, one did not wear a tie with a safari jacket. Out I went. forgotten. We were fortunate in having a wonderful CO. Back in Kure, duty in the Signals Centre had its Lieutenant Colonel S.J.(Sid) Greville, and being involved in moments. Saturday nights were always critical. All the worthwhile, practical activities as well as having the Australian sports results would be telexed through for WKLS opportunity to explore a foreign country whose people and (BCOF's radio station) and local publication. Interruption cultures were so different from our own. came in the form of jamming from the area of North Korea (even then) or from power failures. In the latter case we had to dial a certain extension and say, denkii sunda - start LIP George. The Japanese minder of the auxiliary power plant never seemed to have received the same instruction as we did, Having entered the RMC in 1946, Major t? Trost graduated in so frustrating minutes would pass before the message finally 1948 into the Royal Australian Corps of Signals. He has got through. contributed to earlier editions of the Newsletter. Of Cars and Other Things

N.R. Bergin

[From time to time members of various RMC Classes would have served him well on the largest parade, he in a burst of nostalgia, or allowing a thought or two about their announced to the packed audience, Bed check - Duntroon - place in history or just for fun, write of their time as staff now! As the doors swung to, a significant number of the cadets. Some are seduced into doing so by an energetic class audience jumped to their feet and rushed up the aisles. Drivers mate. Such a one was N.J. (Norm) Thomson (1956) who, in were racing to their cars for the start of the second Grand Prix. January 1987 as Associate Professor and Dean of the Faculty With Don leading in his trusty VW, the performance of Economics & Commerce at the Adelaide University, put value of the cars was well tested along the short and narrow together an Unofficial History of the Duntroon Class of 1953- course back to Duntroon. There was no room for two-way 56. What follows is one of a number of stories in that History traffic or the faint-hearted under the track rules that night. We and appears by kind permission of the author and Norm's hastily parked our cars at the rear of the Gymnasium and raced widow, Mrs Rosemary Thomson. Ed.] down to BEER Block. At that time, I occupied a singularly inconspicuous room immediately next to the flag pole and For many of the Class, the last six months of 1956 overlooking the parade ground. As we came around the ushered in a period of glorious, albeit shortlived, mobility. Cadets' Mess, Major L.R. (Reg) Williams, who had been Numerous interstate and local sorties had brought to the RMC directed to conduct the bed check, was standing reluctantly at a fascinatingly representative collection of motor vehicles of the flag pole facing the Cadets' Mess. As a number of us sped The Fifties. At the close of many weekends, the return of towards him, Reg turned to look over Duntroon Gardens. For colleagues with their newly-acquired cars usually incited some minutes he was completely absorbed in the darkened intense discussions and enthusiastic demonstrations of the scene before him and, by the time he started the bed check, we relative merits of each vehicle in such discreet locations as the were 'standing to' at our doors in appropriate night attire and rear of ACK and BEER Blocks! with beds 'tossed'. The Commanding Officer's charade having By late August, some 38 members of our Class of 60 been played out, several of us returned in time to see the staff cadets had cached their cars in some of the most unlikely closing minutes of the film. To this day, I regret that I have not places in the immediate environs of Duntroon. At various seen the film right though. It may be a sign from the past, but times, the dense shrubbery on the slopes of Russell concealed a my 20-year old daughter recently bought the sound track of the diverse and expensive array of these prized machines. There is film on CD. The music? It's still the greatest! no need to relate the well known details of the growing confidence and complacency that accompanied our new-found freedom. Nor is it necessary to relate the story of that evening of dark infamy in the annals of the Corps of Staff Cadets when Colonel N.R. Bergin entered the RMC on 14 February 1953 the Commanding Officer, Colonel F.G. (Frank) Hassett (1938) and graduated on 11 December 1956 into the Royal Australian cried, enough and we 'voluntarily' incarcerated our cars in the Corps of Signals. His $rial posting was to the UN massive War Memorial hanger on the scenic banks of the Headquarters in New York as Special Adviser to the Assistant Molonglo. Infamy indeed! I am sure that many will recall Secretary-General for Peacekeeping. He resigned on 30 how activities such as walking and regimental cycling had March 1987 and is currently the convener of the South become but bad memories of a less affluent time. One of our Australian Branch of the Society. colleagues even had to get used to the idea, once again, of wallung between classes!! After some weeks of frustration and social deprivation, Class representations to the Commanding Officer at least succeeded in gaining a short time in the 'mausoleum' on one Profile of the Students at the Saturday morning to conduct essential maintenance on our RMC rapidly deteriorating vehicles. The adjutant, Captain K.J. (Peggy) O'Neill (1947). was despatched to oversee this activity Current strength (25 May 1998) and shortly after his arrival heads under bonnets and many CSC mechanical-type sounds were soon to be heard. The stage was First Class set for the first of two short, but classic, Grand Prix events in Second Class 1956, the memories of which still provide me with much Third Class amusement. Specialist Service Officer FAC In accordance with established regulation, we were Fiji permitted to reclaim our cars two weeks before Graduation. New Zealand We could now keep them openly on the College grounds. All Papua New Guinea the challenge and excitement of illicit ownership now seemed Philippines lost. But excitement was still to be found. At that time, Bill RAAF Haley and the Comets were screening at the (old) Civic Theatre Singapore in that very popular film, Rock Around the Clock. It was a Thailand must. A number of us ventured into Civic on a night which ADFA Graduates had been declared a 'closed camp'. We were not very far into ADFA Transfers the film when the double doors at the rear of the theatre were Married suddenly flung open, revealing in silhouette that harbinger of Females timely tidings, D.C. (Don) Fenwick (1956). In a voice which Cadets with previous military experience Stage Two Redevelopment of RMC Duntroon

[In recent years the Newsletter has reported, somewhat throughout the College. The Transport Section now has the fitfully, on the physical changes that have been made to the benefit of covered parking and vehicle servicing bays. RMC. Those accounts began with Newsletter 2/1993 which gave a brief outline in the Commandant's Report of Stage 1 - RMC Headquarters Building (Patterson Hall). A new the refurbishment of cadet accommodation. Newsletter 1/1994 headquarters building was completed and occupied in late briefly described the proposed Stage 2 Redevelopment while 1995. The building is located prominently at the head of Staff Newsletters 1/1996, 2/1996 & 1/1997 dealt in some detail with Cadet Avenue, the new entrance road to the College, and Duntroon House. This treatment has left the need for a more allows for supervision of Training and Support Unit facilities complete description of what is the most comprehensive and the Logistics Complex. The building houses the development project since 1936. The article below, which was Commandant and his staff, headquarters staff officers and prepared by RMC staff, substantially meets that need. Ed.] administrative elements of the Support Unit. The building is of two levels and, given its siting at the head of Staff Cadet Avenue, provides an elevated and commanding setting.

Introduction Military Instruction Block Refurbishment. With the The Stage Two Redevelopment of the R M C Duntroon relocation of the Headquarters, the Military Instruction (MI) sought to enhance its facilities by the provision of purpose- Block became available for use by instructional elements of the designed command, support and logistic facilities. This Corps of Staff Cadets (CSC) who were previously located in redevelopment was the second of three stages. The first stage the old Physics Building. This necessitated a major provided essential support facilities and officer accommodation refurbishment of office accommodation. CSC staff occupied as a consequence of the restructure of the MI Block in mid-1996. The immediate benefit was that officer training, in particular the creation of the Australian CSC staff were no longer displaced from the instructional and Defence Force Academy and the closure of the Officer Cadet support facilities. School, Portsea. The third stage, which is tentatively Officers' Mess (Duntroon House) Refurbishment. The programmed for the year 2000, will complete the Officers' Mess underwent major refurbishment during 1995 implementation of the Duntroon Master Plan. and 1996. Works included: The facilities at Duntroon at the beginning of this a. a new dining room together with kitchen and support rooms, redevelopment included some buildings dating from the b. new toilets, acquisition of the property by the Commonwealth in I91 0 - the c. new accommodation wing, remainder being constructed either as temporary or as d. refurbishment of the existing first floor accommodation, permanent facilities at various times since then. The facilities e. provision of support rooms, such as laundry, stores replaced, upgraded or refurbished under this redevelopment and offices, and were either too small for current use, dysfunctional, beyond f. car parking plus associated landscaping and paving. economic life or posed an occupational health & safety hazard. The new building, linked to and integrated with the existing Stage Two of the redevelopment of the RMC began in building, was of a design sympathetic to the historically 1994 and primarily concluded in late 1997. It occurred under significant house. All refurbishments were closely monitored by the direction of the Director General Army Works, and Works both the National Capital Planning Authority and the Australian Australia in conjunction with the RMC. Heritage Commission. Immediate benefits have included increased accommodation The Proposed Capability of the Redevelopment. The proposal and a dining room which is now able to hold regimental dinners was essentially one of re-investment designed to redress and other such occasions that are important in a training functional and operational deficiencies. The proposed facilities institution such as the RMC. replaced or improved existing buildings but did not alter their general capabilities or roles. Therefore development Ovals Upgrade/Sports Pavilion. During 1996 and 1997 the encompassed those works, identified within the RMC Master playing fields of the RMC have undergone major resurfacing Plan, that were necessary to provide the College with a modem and remedial drainage works. Previously, increasing overland working and training environment which met contemporary water runoff had resulted in the degradation of the playing standards and expectations. The redevelopment of Duntroon has surfaces. Additionally, the water reticulation system did not maximised the use of facilities which have residual life, heritage meet irrigation requirements. A new sports pavilion and two value and are functionally located. new change rooms were also constructed, which has resulted in better facilities for both spectators and players. The new playing fields should be ready for competition by winter 1998. Redevelopment Outcomes It is also proposed to name each field individually. Logistics Complex. A new logistics complex was built and College Main Entrance. The main college entrance now is the became fully operational in late 1995. The logistic complex intersection of Morshead Drive and Staff Cadet Avenue houses: (roundabout). The previous main entrance, Jubilee Avenue, a. the Q Store, was closed early in 1997 with the badges from the Badge b. the ACT Workshop Platoon, Gates relocated to the front of the new Headquarters building. c. the Transport Section, The entrance comprises three large brick walls detailing the d. the Grounds Maintenance Platoon, and College's name, location and the Rising Sun badge. The new e. Catering HQ and Ration Store. entrance has significantly improved traffic flow to and from the This complex was a significant improvement given that College and its prominence is in keeping with the College's the above were previously housed in sub-standard buildings standing in the community. From above the Molongo River looking north east with the new main entrance off Morshead Drive in the foreground and Patterson Hall overlooking it from the centre. In the upper lefi corner the new roof line of Duntroon House can just be seen below the Parade Ground and the Bridges Library.

From over the Swimming Pool looking souti7 west with the Other Ranks' barracks in the foreground. Immediately above Patterson Hall is a block of relatively new married quarters. To their upper right are the twin rows ofpoplars that are now one of the few signs extant ofthe old Badge Gates entrance. Above the poplars can be seen the recently reconstructed Morshead Drive between and the airport.

he- -1 The Gun Gates entrance at the rear of the College, on Medical Unit - Duntroon, some modifications to the RMC Fairbairn Avenue, has recently been refurbished to mirror, in Fitness Centre (Gymnasium) and audio visual improvements to part, that of the main entrance. Those works were not the lecture facilities at Badcoe Hall. conducted under the Stage Two Redevelopment, but on the initiative of the Regional Estate Centre Canberra (formerly CE- ACT) in conjunction with the College. Stage Three Redevelopment The Stage Three Redevelopment is tentatively programmed Clothing Store Refurbishment. Ln 1993, under the to begin in the year 2000 and will complete the implementation Commercial Support Programme, the RMC Clothing Store of the Duntroon Master Plan. became the Canberra Army Clothing Store with the Projects likely to be considered include: responsibility of serving all Army members in the ACT a. the construction of a new recreation facility, Region, excluding those at the Australian Defence Force b. a new community centre, Academy. This additional responsibility necessitated, under c. a major refurbishment of other rank accommodation, Stage Two Redevelopment, major refurbishments to the d. a major refurbishment of some cadet accommodation, existing store. Works included revamping of the Tailor's and e. construction of a multi-purpose assembly hall, Ceremonial areas, improvements to other ablution areas and f. construction of a new Sergeants' Mess, heating, expansion of the serving points and works to the g. construction of a new swimming pool, and facade of the building. The Clothing Store refurbishment was h. construction of a purpose-built facility for the housing of completed in 1997. adventurous training stores. War Memorial Shed Removal. The War Memorial Shed was removed in late 1997. Prior to the erection of the new logistics Other Developments complex the shed housed the Q Store. The slab was retained and used as the basis for a landscaped car park which now Aside from Stages Two and Three, the Regional Estate occupies the site. The car park can take 120 cars and is of Centre - Canberra, in conjunction with the College, continues particular benefit during those major ceremonial activities to to be active through a concise planned maintenance and minor which the public are invited, e.g. Trooping the Colour and new works plan. In the ensuing months a significant Beating the Retreat. development will be that of having a uniform system of signs throughout the Duntroon area. The signs will be coloured Other Works. Also included in the redevelopment were the specifically to differentiate between heritage and non-heritage installation of a hydrotherapy pool at the Canberra Area areas.

From above the Molongo River looking north with Morshead Drive in the foreground. The new logistics complex now covers, on the right, what was the old MTpark, gun lines and RAEME Workshops. Alumni Au.thors

In an initiative first noted under Council Column in Pedersen, Peter A. (1974) Military biography Newsletter 1/1996, Branches were asked to canvass those Pemberton, Gregory James (1976) Military histories, Members who are published authors to donate a signed copy of military analyses & their work(s) to the Bridges Library in which there will be a articles special section for Alumni who are in this category. In Pugsley, Christopher (1969) Military hstories Newsletter 1/1997 the search for potential donors was Robinson, Godfrey M. (1929) Autobiography broadened to include non-graduate ex-members of the RMC Rowe, John Seymour (1957) Military history, and ex-members of the WRAAC OCS, the OCS Portsea and reference works & the OTU Scheyville. The Librarian of Bridges Library has novel developed a listing of known authors but is keen to ensure that Rowell, Fairbairn (19 14) Autobiography it is as complete as is practicable. To this end the names Solomon, G. D. (1940) Memoirs already known to her are shown below. She would be grateful for any others and asks that their names be forwarded to her or Stevenson, Eric (1 978) Military analysis to the National Secretary of the Society. Stretton, Alan Bishop (1943) Military history & military analyses Austin, Maurice (1938) Military histories & Sunderland, Ray (1 953) Military analyses & articles article Badman, Peter Richard (1957) Military histories Sutton, Ralph (1942) Military history Breen, Robert (Bob) J. (1973) Militaly histories & Thompson, Alan G. (1960) Military analyses article Veron, Donald Norwood (1928) Novel (under the name Cheeseman, Graeme L. (1968) Papers & articles on John Norwood) Australia's defence Wackett, Lawrence James (1 915) Autobiography Church, John (1948) Military history Clark, Lawrence G. (1947) Autobiography Coates, Henry John (1955) Military analysis & articles Coulthard-Clark, Chris (1972) Military histories, Obituary biographies & articles Cubis, Richmond M. (1946) Military history Since the publication of the last Newsletter we have learned Dupont, Alan A. (1971) Military analyses of the deaths of the following: Garland, Alfred Barrett (1953) Articles 31 Oct 1997 Major General I.R. Campbell (1922) Gibson, Thomas Alexander (1948) Military histories, novels 18 Nov 1997 Colonel W.J. Finlayson (1941) & articles 6 Jan 1998 Major J.F. Newton (1951) Gordon, Ian Campbell (1973) Military history 16 Jan 1998 Major J.G. Taylor * Hall, Robert Anthony (1968) Military histories, 28 Jan 1998 Major General R.A. Hay (1939) military analyses & 28 Jan 1998 Reverend D.G.H. Johnson ** articles 31 Jan 1998 Brigadier R.J. Barham (1927) Hancock, Sir Valston E. (1928) Military history 3 Feb 1998 Captain J.O. Spicer (1942) Harding, Ross (1948) Family history 19 Feb 1998 Major J.B. Godwin*** Hopkins, Ronald N.L (1917) Military history 19 Mar 1998 Brigadier S.T.G. Coleman (1937) Homer, David M. (1 969) Military histonies, 29 Mar 1998 Brigadier H.G. Bates (1938) military analyses & 8 May 1998 Lieutenant Colonel D.D. Patterson (1942) biographies * As Garrison Engineer RMC, he supervised the construction Johnson, Carl Archall (1984) Article of the Anzac Memorial Chapel of St Paul during 1964-66. Kyngdon, Courtney William (1932) Article Lee, Joseph Edward (1914) Military histories ** An ex-AIF soldier of the War of 1939-45 and Regular Army Lindsay, Neville (1955) Military histories Anglican Chaplain at the RMC 1961-67, during which time Lockhart. Greg Lance (1 967) Military histories he was one of those instrumental in the fund raising and the McKay, Greg (OTU) Articles building of the Anzac Memorial Chapel at the RMC. McKenzie, Ian Ross ( 1944) Article *** Officer Commanding Headquarter Company at the RMC McNeill, Ian Graham (1954) Military histories & 1963-75 and recently a member of the Duntroon Society articles Council as Proxy for the North Queensland Branch. McNicoll, Ronald R. (1926) Military histories Mench, Paul Anthony (1964) Military analyses & articles Millar, T.B. ( 1944) Military histories, military analyses & Corrections articles The following errors appeared in Newsletter 2/1997: Molan, Andrew James (1971) Articles Mordike, John L. (1966) Military analyses p. 12. Shorts. O'Brien, Michael P. J.(1968) Military history Fifth item, sixth line. The date should be 6 December O'Neill, Robert John (1958) Military histories, 1996. military analyses & Sixth item, first line. It was not the Chemistry Laboratory military biography that was moved in 1960, but the Physics Laboratory. This, That and the Other

Major General Hopkins presenting THE plaque to the Super~ntenderztoj the USMA and the Cadet b'lrst Captazn at West Point on 4 September 1952. From the left: Cornnzandant of Cadets Brigadier General John H. Michaelius, Brigadier Molloy, Cadet First Captain Robert E. Barton, Major General R.N.L. Hopkins, Major General FA. Irving, Lieutenant Colonels McAdie (obscured), Ochiltree & Lynch. Unhappily, a recent search did not find the plaque.

USMA Visit graduates in the USA accompanied Major General Hopkins for Under Shorts in Newsletter 1/1997 mention was made the visit and the ceremony. They were Brigadier A.D. Molloy of Major General Frederick A. Irving being the oldest living (1930) and Lieutenant Colonels J.K. Lynch (1939), T.F.B. graduate of the United States Military Academy (USMA) McAdie (1940) and J.G. Ochiltree (1939) during the time from 22 January 1995 to 12 September 1995 when he died nine days after his lOlst birthday. Major Edinburgh Tattoo General Irving is especially remembered as one of only three From time to time in these Newsletters references have officers in the history of the USMA to have served as both been made to the Duntroon Castle in Argylshire - the most Commandant of Cadets and as Superintendent. Those two recent of these being an article by Professor R.J. O'Neill positions roughly equate in the RMC respectively to the earlier (1958) in Newsletter 211997. He mentions in that article his posting of CO Corps of Staff Cadets and to the Commandant. meeting with Lieutenant Colonel & Mrs Malcolm of Poltalloch Not so well known is the fact that he was the who were the owners of the castle when he visited it in 1962. Superintendent of the USMA in 1952 when it celebrated the Colonel George Malcolm then, as he had done at other times, 150th anniversary of its establishment. The link with the RMC expressed a great interest in the RMC Duntroon. in this activity is that Major General R.N.L. Hopkins (1917), Another of Colonel Malcolm's many interests came then the RMC Commandant, visited West Point in from his talent as an impressario of the military specatacle on August/September 1952 with the primary object of marking the grand scale which was well used in arranging tattoos and that anniversary. The visit was prompted by an earnest desire festivals. Indeed, he was the originator of the Edinburgh on the part of the RMC and rhe Australian Arnzy as a whole to Tattoo which he first produced in 1949 as a military display honour the Sesquicentenary of the USMA at West Point. TO under searchlights on the Edinburgh Castle esplanade during this end a plaque was designed embodying the CSC badge, in the International Festival of that year. He also staged the 1950 bronze, enlarged to a size of 2ft by 2ft and mounted on a shield and 1951 tattoos and established the tradition followed to this of polished Australian woods. day. After some days studying the organisation, methods of He had issued an invitation for any RMC graduate to instruction and the standards achieved at the USMA, Major visit his castle but, sadly, he died suddenly on 20 May 1976. General Hopkins, on 4 September 1952, participated in a The present owner and Chief of Clan Malcolm is his son, Mr ceremony to present the plaque before a parade of the full Robin Malcolm, who does not continue his father's interest in complement of the Cadet Corps. All of the available RMC the RMC. As It Once Was

80 Years Ago - April 1918 a A temporary building has been dedicated for use as a chapel On Sunday, 13 April was held the first real concert of the by Church of England and Protestant denominations. All term. The orchestra continues to improve and will soon be denominations at the College now have the use of a building the best in Canberra. reserved solely for worship. The proposed master plan for the development of the Royal RMC Routine Orders by Lieutenant G.H. Capes OIC Admin: Military College has been completed and examined by the C. Morcom, Pantryman, Cadets' Mess to be labourer from National Capital Development Commission which has in 1/4/18. principle accepted the major proposals. [see also p. 41 Ink bottles are to be returned to the Quartermaster's Store as soon as they are emptied. 20 Years Ago - April 1978 A carnival in aid of a special appeal made by Her Excellency A group of 38 school principals visited the RMC during 5-7 Lady Helen Munro Ferguson for Red Cross funds, will be April followed on 20 April, by the visit of Rear Admiral held on the Sports Ground on Saturday, 27 April. Amedume, Chief of Naval Staff, Ghana.

40 Years Ago -April 1958 On 25 April a detachment of cadets paraded at the as part of the Composite Service and During the installation of linoleum floor covering to the Catafalque Party. floor of the RMC Sgts' Mess, several rolls belonging to Regans Floor Services Pty Ltd were left in the Mess to be Notice in Routine Orders Part I of 6 April. Approval has been called for. The linoleum cannot now be traced. Anyone given for the Commandant's Quarters to be named 'Bridges having any information ..... House'.

Following its initial meeting in May 1986, the Somerset & East Sussex sub-branch of the Society held an extraordinary meeting on 2 November 1997 at the Rose & Crown, Fletching, East Sussex. With Colonels T.G. Brennan (1930) & R.R. Harding (1948)and their wives, a 100% attendance was again achieved. Shorts

Under this heading in Newsletter 111996 it was noted that who could properly proclaim their part in bringing about the Elder of the Society since 11 June 1994 was Major that event. Among them were the RMC Garrison Engineer General I.R. Campbell (1922). Since his death on and commander of the construction team, Lieutenant J.G. 31 October 1997 the Elder has been Colonel A.L. Nyman Taylor and the three RMC Chaplains, D.G.H. Johnson, (1928) who was born on 23 June 1906. J.M. Hoare and F.P. McMaster. It was they who brought the long gestation period to a close. The trials and The Class that graduated from the Officer Cadet School, tribulations suffered by them from February 1964 to April Portsea in June 1968 held a reunion at Duntroon to mark 1966 during the building of the Chapel is said to be a story the 30th anniversary of that event. Included in the in itself. Chaplain Johnson had served as a soldier in the associated activities were watching the Trooping of the 2/13 Australian Infantry Battalion in the Middle East and Colour on 6 June 1998 and viewing their personal files New Guinea. Following his discharge from the AIF in now held in the RMC Archives. 1945 he undertook theological training, was ordained in 1950 and became a parish priest. On joining the Regular The Duntroon Society Award at the Graduation on Army as a chaplain in 1962 he was posted to the RMC 9 December 1997 was presented to Corporal B.A. Pronk where he remained until August 1967. On 28 January who graduated into the Royal Australian Infantry. He is 1998 he died in Canberra. His memorial service was held currently posted to 2nd Battalion The Royal Australian on 2 February in the Chapel that he had helped to establish. Regiment. Major J.G. Taylor, MBE retired to Mooloolaba, Queensland When the Anzac Memorial Chapel of St Paul was officially where, in an uncanny co-incidence, he died on 16 January 1998, opened at Duntroon on 30 April 1966, there were many just 12 days earlier than his Anzac Chapel collaborator.

During the construction of the Anzac Memorial Chapel an unnamed RAE sapper in early 1966 is offered advice secular from Lieutenant Taylor and ecclesiastical from Chaplain Johnson. In his role as Co-ordinator of Duntroon Guides. Brigadier R.J. (John)Moyle (1956) escorted about the RMC a visitor from New Zealand, Judge J.P. (John) Gatley (1956). John Moyle in the oficial uniform is here scanning his personal CSC records in the RMC Museum. As CO CSC Lieutenant Colonel Moyle was responsible, in 1977, for reintroducing the prized 'tiger stripe' blazer as an issued item of the staff cadets' dress.

This column in Newsletter 211997 included the snippet that On 6 September 1995 the Commandant of the RMC issued Major William J. Regan had become the oldest living a press release to explain the revised policy relating to the graduate of the United States Military Academy (USMA) involvement of the RMC in community sporting on 21 May 1996. He died a month later on 23 June 1996 competitions (Newsletter 211995). In effect the RMC and his place was taken by Colonel Albert Riani who was withdrew from such competitions from the conclusion of born on 29 July 1897. the 1995 Winter Sporting Season. That policy has been reviewed and the RMC has, in the main, re-entered civilian Consequent on the Royal Education sporting competitions. Corps Public Relations recently becoming the Australian Army Public Affairs Service, its badge joined the other Corps badges affixed to the wall in front of Patterson Hall on 26 September 1997. The unveiling was done in a joint ceremony by the Director Army Public Affairs and the Commandant RMC.

The guided tour organisation has been founded as an adjunct to the ACT Branch of the Duntroon Society and Brigadier R.J. Moyle (1956) is its co-ordinator. A number of tour guides assisted in the Duntroon House Open Day on 5 October 1997. A gold coin donation is requested from tour participants with the proceeds going to the ACT Branch. The point of contact for prospective tour groups is the Staff Officer to the Commandant. NSW Branch Raceday, 9 June 1997

Too many cooks?? From the left: PJ. (Peter) Cook (1944),Joan Cook & E.L. (Leo) Cook (1933).

In the Kingston Town Room, standing from the left: J.G. (Garth)Hughes (1956),C.F: (CllfS) Dodds (1956), Joan Wilson, Lieutenant Commander D.R. Wilson & Patsy Dodds. Sitting: Margaret Hughes. Reunion at Swan Hill, 27-29 March 1998

Ready for the barbecue in the courtyard of the Murray Downs Station Homestead. From the left: Roty Willett, D. (Don) Willett (19431, Lyla Cross and, in the background with an unsoldierly lean, N.R. (Neville)Bergin (1956) who put it all together: Pau I-"

In thirsfy anticipation of the opening. From the left: G.A. (Geofl Fry (1955), J. M. (John) Church (1948), Margaret Bennett, P. H. (Phillip)Bennett (1948), Nola Church, Jean Mannett. D.J. (David)Mannett (1948).

Warm Autumn sunshine greeted 46 Members and various attractions in the region or just relaxing in the company partners on arrival in Swan Hill in late March to participate in of good friends. Accommodation was arranged at the Swan the third biennial reunion activities organised by the South Hill Resort Motor Inn and, on Saturday evening, the Members Australia Branch. The weekend of relaxed activities attracted and their partners had exclusive use of the elegant convention couples from far and wide, with eight from the ACT Branch, room at the Motor Inn for a three-course dinner. The party three from NSW, seven from Victoria and five from South wined, dined and talked in to the late hours. Australia. Fifteen strong and dedicated souls presented themselves On Friday evening, friendships were renewed in an at the Murray Downs Golf and Country Club early on Sunday atmosphere of relaxed informality as groups sampled the local morning for a round of golf on this most attractive restaurants and bistros of Swan Hill. Following a leisurely championship-rated course. During Sunday, the Duntrooners start on Saturday morning, the party gathered at the Murray departed Swan Hill, some heading home while others took the Downs Homestead for a tour of this historically interesting opportunity to spend a few extra days touring. pastoral mansion and its spacious gardens and animal park. It was unanimously agreed that the weekend had been The tour was followed by an enjoyable luncheon barbeque held most enjoyable and that the biennial reunions should continue. in the sunny, enclosed courtyard of the homestead. Options for the next reunion, in the year 2000, were discussed Saturday afternoon was spent either exploring the and foundations for initial plans laid. Branch Reports

Australian Capital Territory South Australia Since the demise of Fred's Tree (Newsletter 2/1994) the The 1997 Graduation Luncheon was held in the location of the Branch's Autumn Luncheon has been ever Officers' Mess Keswick Barracks on Tuesday, 2 December changing. For this occasion a large number were treated, for 1997 with 22 Members present. This function has been held most of them, to their first meal in the new dining room of the on the Tuesday before Graduation to accommodate Members refurbished and enlarged Officers' Mess (Newsletter 1/1997). who may be attending the ceremony in Canberra. Members A number of visitors attended including Miss Moreen Dee now feel that this arrangement is no longer necessary, but that (WRAAC 15/66) who was the Staff Captain 'A' at the RMC it would be symbolically appropriate to hold that function on during 1967-68. Mrs J.M. (June) Healy (WRAAC 9/60), the day of graduation. wearing one of her other hats as President of the ACT Branch The Branch round of the Annual Postal Golf Competion of the War Widows Guild, had as her guests the National was played at the Royal Adelaide Golf Club on Thursday, 13 President of the War Widows Guild, Mrs Eileen Watt and the November 1997. Although the Team did not win, two of our Deputy President of the ACT Branch, Mrs Ruth Winstanley. Members achieved high scores in the Individual and Four Ball segments.

New South Wales The annual luncheon was held at the Officers' Mess, Victoria Barracks as usual on the RMC Graduation Day, Officer Training Unit Tuesday, 9 December 1997. The attendance was 55 and the Association Report crowd included most of the old faces which it is always a pleasure to see. More of the younger faces would be very The national film premiere of The Scheyville Experience welcome at this function, where there is always an excellent was held on Friday, 24 October 1997 in the Bardon Conference meal, choice wines and good fellowship that disregards age Centre in Brisbane. Over 200 attended including more than 100 differences. OTU graduates. This is an official Army film under the The day was also the occasion of the biennial General Heritage Series produced by Lieutenant Colonel Don Keyes Meeting, held immediately before lunch. Major General K.W. (OTU 4/69). (Kevin) Latchford (1946) stood down as NSW Branch Ms Pam Allen, NSW Minister for the Environment, Convener, and the meeting expressed its appreciation for his officially opened the newly declared Scheyville National Park three successive terms in office. Mr R.W.O. (Roy) Pugh on 19 October 1997. Brigadier I.A. Geddes (1942), his wife (1948) was elected Convener and Lieutenant Colonel R.D. and six OTU graduates attended. Threats of Scheyville (Ron) Hamlyn (1957) was re-elected as Branch becoming a prison, an airport or a housing estate have now Secretary/Treasurer, having accepted nomination on the been thwarted by the area being declared a National Park. understanding that he proposed to stand down in December At the RMC on 30 October 1997, Brigadier Geddes 1998. Colonel S.J.(Stan) Maisey (1951) and Mr G.P. (Carl) officially opened the Training Wing building which is named Carleton (1 956) were re-elected as Committee members. in his honour. The OTU's most distinguished graduate, the Dr B.A. (Bruce) Andrews (1942) who, since 1986 Honorable Tim Fischer (OTU 3/66) also attended. has been the NSW Branch Co-ordinator for the Annual Postal The OTU Association now has a secretariat to assist the Golf Competition, would like to relinquish the task and hopes National Chairman. Mr Bruce Thorpe (OTU 3/66). another Member will be prepared to take his place on the National Secretariat: Louise Middleton Match Committee. He also hopes that more golfers will offer C/- OTU Association National Office themselves to be players in the team or in the reserves. P.O. Box 7584 Cloisters Square The next meeting of the Executive Council will be at Duntoon on 4 September 1998. Members with comments, W.A. 6850 questions or suggestions for the meeting should telephone Roy Telephone: (08) 9481 4830 Pugh on (02) 4384 9633 or Lieutenant Colonel Ron Hamlyn on Fax: (08) 948 1 3908 (02) 9387 2158 in good time before that date.

Queensland On 9 October 1997 Members of the Society were guests Coming Events of the Commander at a VIP Day at Enoggera. This was followed by the Annual General Meeting at which N.S.W. Branch the present Committee was elected 'unopposed'. Monday, 8 June 1998 (Queen's Birthday Weekend). This year the black tie dinner was held at the Victoria The annual buffet and race day at the AJC's Randwick Race- Barracks Officers' Mess on 15 October 1997. The then course. A.C.T. Members who are interested in attending Commandant of the RMC, Brigadier P.J. Cosgrove (1965) was should contact Brigadier J.G. (Garth) Hughes on (02) 6286 the guest speaker and he provided some interesting and 2688. informative insights into development at the 'Clink'. On Friday, 24 October 1997 eleven Members played in Queensland Branch the Annual Postal Golf Competition at the Royal Queensland Saturday, 13 June 1998. An evening at Silk's Restaurant. Golf Club. There were some (but regretably not many) TBA. Black tie Dinner (mixed) with guest speaker. excellent scores. Friday, 23 October 1998. Annual Postal Golf day at the The cocktail party at the Victoria Barracks Officers' Royal Queensland Golf Club. Mess drew an attendance of 30 Members and friends. TBA. Enoggera visit and AGM. South Australia Branch Tuesday, 8 December 1998. Graduation Luncheon at the Officers' Mess, Keswick Barracks.

RMC Ceremonial Parades Saturday, 6 June 1998. The Queen's Birthday Parade. Wednesday, 17 June 1998. The Sovereign's Banner Parade. Tuesday, 23 June 1998. Graduation Parade. Saturday, 22 August 1998. University of New South Wales Regiment presentation of new Colours at Victoria Barracks, Paddington. Further information can be obtained from the Protocol Officer, Warrant Officer Class I K.F. Noon on (02) 6275 9539.

Open Day Duntroon House Sunday, 11 October 1998. With the completion of its refurbishment, Duntroon House will, on this day, again be open to the public who are invited to view the House and its surrounds. Volunteer guides will be available, the Band of the RMC will be in in attendance and refreshments will be provided.

Council Column

At its meeting on 3 April 1998 Council had as its Chairman the recently appointed Commandant of the RMC, Brigader P.L.C. Pursey, AM (OTU 4/70) together with his Staff Officer, Captain G.W. Butler (1991) as National Secretary. In addition to routine business Council dealt with other matters including the following:

Centenary Project The Notice of Motion proposed at the last meeting of Council was considered and significant doubts about the suitability of a major recreational facility for this purpose were raised. These doubts flowed mainly from the feeling that a building of that kind was essentially a Commonwealth responsibility and also from the capacity of the Society to raise the large amount to pay for it. Whatever the outcome of these deliberations, Brigadier A.R. (Tan) Roberts (OCS June 1952) is continuing to arrange the establishment of a trust fund to control the contributions to the Centenary Project.

Designation of Class or Course Year To embrace all ex-members of the various officer- producing institutions who are now members of the Duntroon Society, Council decided that, where appropriate, the following will be used after the first appearance of a Member's name in the Newsletter: RMC (Year of graduation) OCS (OCS and year & month of graduation) OTU (OTU & course number) WRAAC OCS (WRAAC & course number)

Society Tie The design for the Duntroon Society tie has been fixed and a manufacturer selected. The tie incorporates the badges of the four institutions included in the Society and is shown on this page. An insert to this Newsletter is provided for those wishing to order ties. Annual Postal Golf Competition In 1997 the 'Trophy' moved south tovictoria. A fine 8th: A.C.T. (Federal I.F. Ahearn (1956) 37 victory for the 'Mexicans'. It is particularly notable in that it Golf Club) (191) A.R. Pearson (1974) 35 was won on a true links course on a windy day. Congratulations Friday, 19 December 1997 I.J.C. Hearne (1960) 33 Victoria!! In the ACT last year we saw the introduction of a Fine & hot R.L. Wainwright 32 new team. Growth is good! Welcome to the Federal Golf Club F.C. Lehman (1960) 27 team. We still hope for a team from W.A. one day. R.W. Fisher (1960) 27 G.L.A. Hellyer (1960) 27 Team event results were: 9th: A.C.T. (RCGC 3) (1 81) I.G. Porteous (1 954) 37 1st: Victoria 'A' (214) D.J. Gilroy (1958) As for RCGC 1 & 2 R.E. Rooks (1954) 34 At Barwon Heads Golf Club C.D. Darrow (1986) J.M. Church (1948) 30 Friday, 7 November 1997 D.F. Catterall (OCS Dec W.D. Mostyn (1955) 29 Fine, strong breeze 1965) I.R. Smith (1957) 28 23 played G.J. Bieser (1982) P.J.A. Evans (1958) 27 G. Watts (1970) A.M. Stove (1963) B.L. Stark (OCS Jun 1954) 21 P.R. Phillips (1955) 18 2nd: New Zealand J.A. Brandon (1970) (Wellington) (21 1) T.A. Harker (196 1) 10th: New Zealand M.J. Dudman (1959) At Martinborough Golf J.P. Gatley (1956) (Auckland) (I 80) R.G. Williams (1952) Course A.T.A. Mataira (1950) At Helensville Golf Course I.H. Burrows (1953) Sunday, 14 December 1997 M.J. Ross (1956) Friday, 14 November 1997 G. M. McKay (1953) Fine, warm, strong NW D.W.S. Moloney (1960) Rain & south west winds R.K.G. Porter (1944) G.A. Hitchings (1952) breeze P.F. Koorey (1970) C.M. Dixon (1954) Equal 2nd: ACT (Royal L.G. O'Donnell(1954) 37 R.J. Andrews (1957) ~kberraGolf club i) (211) G.T. Salmon (1959) Monday, 1 December 1997 J.H. Townley (1960) 11 th: Victoria 'B' (173) J.F.B. Mansell (1979) Fine and hot W. J.Henderson (1957) As for Victoria 'A' D. Lawrence T.A. Gee (1961) G. Hollings (1948) G.A. Turner P.J. Lawrence (1958) T.C. Bannister (1955) R.A. Sunderland (1953) A.J. Fittock (1961) 30 Individual scores were: 1st J.A. Brandon New Zealand 39 4th: ACT (Royal Canberra N.P.Farquhar 36 (Wellington) Golf Club 2) (203) D. Knaggs 35 Equal 2nd D.J. Gilroy (Victoria 'A') 38 As for ACT (RCGC 1) W.J.S. Gordon (1942) 34 W. McDonald (S.A.) 3 8 P.D. Knight (1965) 34 C.D. Darrow (Victoria 'A') 38 D.F.W. Engel (1946) 32 J.O. Langtry 32 Four Ball Scores were: W. Hall 3 1 1st: New Zealand (Wellington) (47) J.P. Gatley R.A. Hay (1939) 23 T.A. Harker 2nd: S.A. (45) W. McDonald 5th: Queensland (201) I.M. Hunter (1939) A.J. de B. Forbes At Royal Queensland L.R. Greville (1946) Equal 3rd: A.C.T. RCGC 3 (44) I.G. Porteous Golf Club R.B. Bishop (1964) W.D. Mostyn Friday, 24 October 1997 D.E. Millar Equal 3rd: Victoria 'A' (44) D.F. Catterall R.A. Clark (1950) G. Watts H.M. Greville Thank you once more for the great support shown by all B. McGuire Duntroon Society golfers. If anyone is interested in joining the B.G. Bond (1960) competition for 1998 please contact one of the members of the Match Committee listed below: 6th: S.A. (194) W. McDonald (1 959) 3 8 At Royal Adelaide Golf Club P.O.G. Forbes 33 Chairman A.L. (Alan) Vickers J.A. Clark (1947) 32 (02) 6295 0663 (H) (02) 6249 7790 (FAX) Thursday, 13 November 1997 J.E. Duff (1951) 3 1 A.C.T. J.H. (Jim) Townley Fine, the odd shower A.J.de B. Forbes (1942) 30 (02) 6295 2078 (H) G.A. Fry (1955) 30 N.S.W. B.A. (Bruce) Andrews (02) 9349 3671 (H) Sir Donald Dunstan (1942) 30 New Zealand R.K.G. (Ralph) Porter 33 coldham-cres. St John's Park Auckland 5, ~ew~ealand 7th: N.S.W. (193) C.C. Sanders (1968) (09) 52 1 21 95 (H) At Avondale Golf Club L.S .Sheringham (1956) Queensland R.B.(Ross) Bishop Wednesday, 5 November 1997 G.W. Grimsdale (1959) (07) 3268 1127 (W) (07) 3268 195 1 (FAX) (Services Day) B.A. Andrews (1942) S.A. J.A. (Alex) Clark Warm with a gentle drizzle B. Pembroke(l950) (08) 8272 5968 H.M. Greville Victoria A.M. (Tony) Stove (03) 9583 631 8 (H) (03) 9592 6294 (W) W.A. C.J. (Colin) Purcell 'The Tradition continues in 1998' (08) 9791 1530