Peter Johnston - Mon, 4 Dec 2023
Alice English - Wed, 23 Aug 2023
Eddie Tricker - Tue, 25 Apr 2023
Source: https://nominal-rolls.dva.gov.au/veteran?id=1261962&c=VIETNAM
Veteran Details
Name ORMSTON, Andrew John
Service Australian Army
Service Number 1200596
Date of Birth 13 Jul 1946
Place of Birth SYDNEY NSW AUSTRALIA
Rank Corporal
National Service No
Corps Royal Australian Army Service Corps
Honours None for display
Unit History
Unit Name Start Date End Date
Headquarters, 1st Australian Task Force 15 Jul 1968 16 Jul 1969
John Verhelst - Tue, 28 Mar 2023
Please ensemble in Phillip Street, out side front entrance of Wentworth Sofitel Hotel by 0930 hours, same as last few years. We are second in Vietnam contingent, behind AATTV.
Peter Dahl will lead as I will be out of Sydney
Ian Palfery - Wed, 22 Mar 2023
As we have for the past 21 years in the Melbourne ANZAC Day March, we will be marching as a Unit again in this year's Melb March under our Red Rat banner.
Change of time & meeting point [again!]:
Time - 0830 hrs.
Place - Swanston St East side between Flinders St & Flinders Lane in front of the Matthew Flinders statue.
After March for refreshments: same venue as last year, Limerick Arms Hotel 364 Clarendon St, South Melbourne. All welcome!
Our numbers have been dwindling a bit over the past few years - it would be great to have a good roll up on ANZAC Day to join us in the March.
Ian Palfery
Vic State Rep
Rebecca Ormston - Sun, 19 Mar 2023
Rebecca Ormston - Sun, 19 Mar 2023
john Levitzke - Tue, 30 Aug 2022
Colin Rayfield - Sat, 28 May 2022
This is my first visit to the website; I find some of the text colours against background colours a bit difficult to read, unless page is magnified.
But a good read - and will be back.
Di Louis (Barbato) - Thu, 21 Apr 2022
It’s great to see you will be marching on Anzac Day this year. I hope you all stay well & free from that dreaded COVID
Have a Great Day. March with pride guys & I'm sure all of your past mates will be there with you in spirit. I know Ian always looked forward to your times together. We thank you all…🌹
Ian Palfery - Fri, 25 Mar 2022
This year in Melbourne ANZAC Day is finally back to normal so we will be marching under our banner again - this will be our 21st March! It would be great if as many marchers as possible can join us for this auspicious occasion!
Please meet at 0800 hours at SE corner of Swanston & Collins Streets [City Square side opposite Melbourne Town Hall] - look out for our Red Rat banner!
After March a change of venue for refreshments: The Limerick Arms Hotel 364 Clarendon Street, South Melbourne - can you believe our usual haunt for the past few years is closed on Anzac Day?!
Let's have a good roll up on Anzac Day!
Ian Palfery
Vic State Rep
Hq 1 ATF Assocn.
John Verhelst - Tue, 22 Feb 2022
We will be Marching in Sydney on Anzac Day, 25 April 2022.
Come along and join us.
Di Louis (Barbato) - Thu, 14 Oct 2021
John Eller (Webmaste - Mon, 5 Jul 2021
Ian Palfery - Thu, 16 Mar 2017
2017 Anzac Day March in Melbourne - HQ 1 ATF Group will be marching again, as usual, in this year's Melbourne March.
Unlike last year when Vietnam Veterans led the March, we are now back in our usual position - between AATTV and Armoured Corps!
Please meet no later than 10.00 am [1000 hrs Army time!] at the South East corner of Swanston & Collins Streets [City Square side opposite Melbourne Town Hall] - look out for our Red Rat banner!
Post-March lunch & refreshments will again be at last year's venue - The George, South Melbourne, corner Coventry & Cecil Streets South Melbourne.
All family, partners & friends are welcome to join us there.
I look forward to catching up with all who can make it on the day.
Best regards
Ian Palfery
Vic State Rep
HQ 1 ATF Assocn.
Graeme Taylor - Mon, 14 Nov 2016
Cheers
john verhelst - Wed, 2 Nov 2016
hq1atf.org/reunion2016
john bert - Tue, 13 Sep 2016
john verhelst - Sun, 4 Sep 2016
The September 2016 RED RAT will be emailed and snail-mailed out next Monday 5 September 2016. It details some interesting stories and also the list of all 139 members/spouses confirmed for the October reunion. The RED RAT newsletter will also be found on this website.
regards.
john verhelst
Belinda Duarte - Fri, 22 Jul 2016
I'm the daughter of Alexander Jakiel (passed away 2005) and of whom I miss deeply. Keep up the care and support to all the Vietnam Veterans.
john verhelst - Sat, 2 Jul 2016
I have responded to the affirmative.
jv
Peter Westcott - Thu, 30 Jun 2016
Kevin Joss - Wed, 1 Jun 2016
Eddie Tricker - Tue, 31 May 2016
From John Verhelst to ALL former HQ 1 ATF personnel.
Good evening everyone,
We have received news that the Repatriation Service for the Vietnam Veterans' and family members will be shown on ABC News Channel 24, on Thursday 02 June, at 10:30am AEST.
Others States should check their local time.
Further details contained in Media Release below.
Media Release - Minister for Veterans' Affairs 29 May 2016
Australia will welcome home 33 Australian service personnel and dependants, including 22 Vietnam
War veterans, on Thursday, 2 June in one of the largest, single military repatriations in this country's history.
The returning Australians, 21 Vietnam veterans, three servicemen and eight dependants, had been interred at Terendak Military Cemetery in Malaysia, with the single other casualty of the Vietnam War still interred overseas returning from the Kranji Military Cemetery in Singapore.
A military repatriation ceremony and private memorial service will be held at RAAF Richmond in Sydney on June 2, after two Royal Australian Air Force Aircraft C-17 Globe-master aircraft bearing the Australians land at about 10:30am.
Minister for Veterans' Affairs Dan Tehan said bringing the Australians home was an important moment for the families and for the country.
The return of these Australians will bring closure to their families who have grieved for lost loved ones, Mr Tehan said.
They will be welcomed home with a respectful and dignified return to this country.
For every Australian this will be an opportunity to acknowledge the sacrifice of all those who have died in service to their country.
Representatives of our Vietnam Veteran community will attend and for some of them this will be a particularly moving occasion as they served with the returning servicemen.
Mr Tehan said the Australian Government last year made an offer of repatriation to 36 families of Australians buried and Terendak and Kranji.
Several families made the decision not to bring their loved ones home, and I am sure Australians will respect that decision and appreciate it was not made lightly, he said.
At the conclusion of the private memorial service for the families, 33 hearses bearing the returning Australians will depart RAAF Base Richmond in a funeral procession at about 12.15pm and travel to the centre of Parramatta, arriving about 1pm.
The funeral procession will proceed via a green light corridor and under escort of the NSW Police Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, with assistance from the Transport Management Centre.
Mr Tehan encouraged members of the public wanting to pay their respects to line the route of the procession.
It will travel from RAAF Richmond to Parramatta CBD via Church Street – George Street – Smith Street – Station Street – Parkes Street, where the public will be welcome to view the procession and pay their respects. Motorists using these roads at that time may experience some delays.
Re-interment services will then take place in every State and Territory, except Tasmania, over the following few weeks, in accordance with the families' wishes.
john verhelst - Wed, 25 May 2016
The June 2016 RED RAT will be emailed and snail-mailed out next Monday 30 May 2016. It details some interesting stories and also the list of all 110 members/spouses confirmed for the October reunion. The RED RAT newsletter will also be found on this website.
regards.
john verhelst
Russell Couper - Sun, 24 Apr 2016
Di Louis (Barbato) - Wed, 20 Apr 2016
Just want to wish you all a great Anzac Day, will be thinking of you all. Be proud fellas you deserve it.
Ian Palfery - Wed, 16 Mar 2016
2016 Anzac Day March in Melbourne - as usual, HQ 1ATF will be marching BUT as this year is 50th anniversary of Long Tan, Vietnam Vets have been given the honour of leading this year's March!
SO we need to assemble MUCH EARLIER than usual & at a new forming up point - meet at 8.30am [0830 Army time!] at Fed Square corner opposite Flinders St. Station in front of the Info Booth & look out for our Red Rat Banner!
Post- March we have booked a new venue - The George South Melbourne corner Coventry & Cecil Streets, South Melbourne (which is a block further up Coventry Street from our recent years venue) to which all family, partners & friends are invited to join us.
On such a significant occasion, where Vietnam Vets are to lead the March, it would be great to get a big turnout of HQ 1 ATF personnel for this year's Anzac Day in Melbourne.
I hope as many of you as possible can make it for the March this year & I look forward to catching up with all who do.
Best Regards
Ian Palfery
Vic State Rep.
HQ 1 ATF Association
John verhelst - Tue, 1 Mar 2016
Yes the hq1atf banners will be there on the day, in the city.
Please read the SMH to ascertain the exact March route as George Street is closed.
So we will meet about 10 AM corner Bligh/Bent streets as usual.
Pam - Thu, 7 Jan 2016
Thank you so much for every one who assisted in making contact with Nevill. Caught up with him yesterday and had a great chat.
Again, many thanks.
Kindest regards Pam
Pam - Sat, 2 Jan 2016
We are researching Kitchener House, Moorebank NSW (LMA), and seeking to contact a Col(?) Neville BLAND who may have resided in the house when it was the area commander's residence. It's a long shot but thinking it may be Neville Lewis BLAND.
Any assistance would be gratefully appreciated. Kindest regards Pam
Denis Hare - Sun, 29 Nov 2015
Denis Hare - Sun, 29 Nov 2015
Frank Feldmann - Mon, 27 Jul 2015
Kay Hair - Mon, 29 Jun 2015
john verhelst - Fri, 12 Jun 2015
It will also be available on this web site.
The Reunion promises to be a great event.
regards. john verhelst
Kevin lawson - Sat, 23 May 2015
Kevin Lawson - Sat, 23 May 2015
kevL
Frank Parisio - Wed, 13 May 2015
Thanks for your kind invitation John, maybe some time in the future
Frank Parisio
Di Louis (Barbato) - Tue, 21 Apr 2015
Wishing you all the very best for the Centenary Anzac Day 2015.
I hope you all have a Great Day. March with pride guys & I'm sure you will have all of your past mates there with you in spirit. I know Ian (Postie) always looked forward to your times together. We thank you all...

Di Louis (Barbato).
John verhelst - Sun, 19 Apr 2015
Come down to Sydney and join us.
Regards,
John verhelst, HQ1ATF Association
Frank Parisio - Sat, 18 Apr 2015
I hope everyone is well and would appreciate some help, please.
Does anyone know if there is a Brisbane group for H Q Coy 1 ATF, march on ANZAC Day in the city.
If so, would you kindly send me the information as i would like to join in this year.
Thank you
Frank Parisio
H Q Coy Tpt 1 ATF.
Ian Palfery - Thu, 12 Mar 2015
This is the annual reminder that HQ 1 ATF will as usual be marching in this year's Centenary ANZAC Day March in Melbourne.
Please note the change to last year's arrangements - we need to assemble earlier at 10.00am sharp!
Meet at the usual forming up point outside the Athenaeum Theatre in Collins Street and look out for our Red Rat Banner!
It would be great to have a large turnout this year for the Centenary of ANZAC!
Post-March - same arrangements as past years upstairs at Golden Gate Hotel cnr Clarendon & Coventry Streets South melbourne - all welcome!
Any HQ 1 ATF members who are in, or can make it to, Melbourne on ANZAC Day are most welcome to join us for the March and to join us with family, partners & friends afterwards for the post-March get-together.
I look forward to catching up with all who can make it for the March this year!
Best Regards
Ian Palfery
Vic State rep.
HQ 1 ATF Association
John verhelst - Thu, 12 Mar 2015
Any direct descendants, ie children of deceased members of HQ1ATF are invited to join us however please ensure any medals are worn on the right side, not the left side.
Any questions contact me.john@jhconsult.com.au
Regards, john verhelst.on behalf of HQ1ATF Association.
John Eller - Wed, 11 Mar 2015
It is with great sadness that I inform you of
the passing of:
1537 DIGHTON, Herbert Mansfield (Snowy)
HQ 1 ATF SVN 18/12/67 to 10/12/68
Snowy passed away March 2015 from cancer.
Funeral/Poppy Service details:
Great Northern Garden of Remembrance
1 Tallwood Dr
DECEPTION BAY QLD 4508
Medals to be worn.
Yours sincerely
Peter Thorne
Secretary
VVAA Queensland Branch (Brisbane North) Inc.
Phone: + 61 7 3285 4823
Mob: 0409 633 353
Matthew Pericic - Sun, 8 Mar 2015
Colin R - Thu, 26 Feb 2015
They have been brought home by the AUSTMIA team led by Jim Bourke,
some years ago.
Rebecca Ormston - Wed, 11 Feb 2015
Don Smith - Thu, 30 Oct 2014
Have been plotting grids on the 1:50,000 series maps for 30 years now. Have read through
your war diaries and found some of your LZ, FSPB's. Does anyone have a complete list with
names and grid coordinates for the Australian Task Force & New Zealand? I tried to download
your maps to see if I could plot grids on my maps, but they would not download. In looking at the
maps, I noticed names like Wombat, Kiwi, Lyrebird & Paratus, were these FSPB's?
Any help would be appreciated - Don't want to leave you guys out of the Vietnam Maps
Don "SGT Snuffy" Smith
Recon Platoon, 1/52nd Infantry, 198th LIB, 23rd Infantry Division (Americal)
Eddie Tricker - Sat, 20 Sep 2014
To all,
Greetings and I hope that you are all well.
DAVID KITTYEA's memorial service is planned for this coming WED 24th SEP at 2PM.
I understand that it will be held in the Memorial Hall at MERRIDIN, final details yet to be confirmed.
Sorry I can’t be more definitive but I’ve been advised that a funeral notice is to be included in the WESTERN AUSTRALIAN Newspaper tomorrow with all details so I’ll be able to confirm information after that.
I’ve arranged a wreath from D&E Pl and will be passing on condolences on your behalf to the gathering on WED.
After WED I’ll also send a sitrep and copy of the notices in the paper etc.
Any queries please don’t hesitate to call.
Regards,
JOHN BURROWS.
Ross Croft (Ex 7RAR) - Wed, 17 Sep 2014
John Burrows - Fri, 12 Sep 2014
The funeral and memorial arrangements for DAVID KITTYEA have yet to be finalised but some indication from his sister of what’s intended is as follows.
He is to be privately cremated in PERTH sometime in the next week or so.
His ashes will then to be taken to his home town of MERRIDIN where they will be interned alongside his brother in a private service in the local cemetery.
At some stage after that the local RSL and Vietnam Veteran group intend to conduct a memorial service/ get together of some sort to celebrate DAVID’s life.
We were all very humbled when our GOVERNOR GENERAL Sir PETER COSGROVE took the time to contact DAVID in his last days and then sent his commiserations and condolences to the family and extended them to those of us that knew DAVID after he had passed.
For those who aren’t aware DAVID was in D&E PL for about 2 months when Sir PETER was the PL COMD.
Its intended that if we from HQ Coy and D&E Pl want to participate in any way it will be with the local RSL group and the function that they intend to conduct.
A notice is being put in the paper today by the MERRIDIN RSL Sub Branch and I’ll be putting one in the paper on behalf of D&E PL tomorrow.
As things develop I’ll let you know any further details as they come to hand.
Please pass on this information to all those that you know would have known and served with DAVID.
Thank you, stay healthy, wealthy and wise.
JOHN BURROWS.
Eddie Tricker - Thu, 11 Sep 2014
A sad message to let All Former HQ 1 ATF personnel know that David Ross "Dave" Kittyea, (ex 5716848), of Western Australia passed away at Hollywood Private, early evening of 09 September 2014.
Dave was a Machine Gunner, in D&E Pl, HQ Coy, 1ATF for his tour of South Vietnam.
See also scrolling message on the home page of this web site from John Burrows, his "Skipper".
Lest We Forget
Graeme Pulford - Sat, 19 Jul 2014
john verhelst - Wed, 2 Jul 2014
The July 2014 RED RAT will be snail mailed and emailed out to members over the next 10 days. Don't forget we have a reunion in November in Launceston. Details also are on this website. So, if you have not yet confirmed, please do so.
regards. john verhelst (Ed).
Eddie Tricker - Sat, 28 Jun 2014
A message to let All Former HQ 1 ATF personnel know that Clarence James "Clarrie" Hair, (ex 5713655), of Western Australia passed away at Joondalup Hospital yesterday morning after a long battle with chronic lung disease.
This would have been the morning of 20 June 2014, as the original e-mail message from Clarrie's wife, Kay, was time stamped " 21 June 2014 5:43:47 pm GMT+2".
Lest We Forget
Ned DIXON - Fri, 2 May 2014
We went to the dawn service at Long Tan.
Ran in to a guy named John Martin who served after us with Peter Cosgrove's group (July 1969) onwards
He is keen to make contact with old mates. His e-mail is: john.martin1@hotmail.com
Please contact him if you know him. Thanks, DICKO
Di Louis (Barbato) - Tue, 22 Apr 2014
Wishing you all the best for Anzac Day 2014 on Friday my thought & prayers are with you all.
It will be ten years this August since Ian passed away, oh my, how time is flying by.
Regards
Di Louis

john verhelst - Wed, 16 Apr 2014
Ian Palfery - Tue, 15 Apr 2014
Hi All,
Just the usual annual reminder that HQ 1 ATF will be marching as a Unit again in this year's Melbourne ANZAC Day March.
Same arrangements as last year - meet at 10.45am in Collins Street outside the Athenaeum Theatre & look for our "Red Rat" banner!
Afterwards at the same venue - Golden Gate Hotel, corner Clarendon & Coventry Streets South Melbourne.
Any HQ 1ATF members who are in Melbourne on the day are most welcome to join us for the March - and to join us with family, relatives, partners & friends afterwards for the post-March refreshments.
Look forward to catching up with all who can make it for the March this year.
Best Regards
Ian Palfery
Vic State Rep
HQ 1 ATF Association
Russell Couper - Mon, 14 Apr 2014
Rod Chandler - Sun, 2 Mar 2014
I have a battle jacket dated 1968 once belonging to Major Ian Stuart Power, Headquarters, 1st Australian Task Force 09/11/1966 - 03/11/1967.
The jacket has Royal Australian Regiment shoulder flashes and a 3 medal riband (General Service Medal 1918-62. Vietnam Medal and Vietnamese Campaign Medal). No lanyard to determine which battalion.
http://www.vietnamroll.gov.au/VeteranDetails.aspx?VeteranId=1279856
Please, any additional information on the good major would be greatly appreciated
Thank you greatly
Rod Chandler
rmc49@hotmail.com
john verhelst - Tue, 11 Feb 2014
Don't forget that our Association's reunion takes place in Launceston 8/12 November 2014. So register your attendance now and bring some family along. Full details on this website or in your RED RAT sent every four months.
jv- editor
Booka Bushell - Sat, 14 Dec 2013
Lindsay's sister has approached the Blue Mountains Vietnam Veterans hoping to find out some information on his service in Vietnam, before she travels there next year.
Anyone out there who served with him?
Cheers,
Booka
john verhelst - Tue, 5 Nov 2013
Also for interested folk, a copy will be added within the pages of this website about that time also.
regards. john verhelst/ RED RAT Editor.
Rod Chandler - Mon, 2 Sep 2013
I have a battle jacket dated 1968 once belonging to Major Ian Stuart Power, Headquarters, 1st Australian Task Force 09/11/1966 - 03/11/1967.
The jacket has Royal Australian Regiment shoulder flashes and a 3 medal riband (General Service Medal 1918-62. Vietnam Medal and Vietnamese Campaign Medal). No lanyard to determine which battalion.
http://www.vietnamroll.gov.au/VeteranDetails.aspx?VeteranId=1279856
Please, any additional information on the good major would be greatly appreciated
Thank you greatly
Rod Chandler
rmc49@hotmail.com
John Eller - Mon, 15 Jul 2013
was horrified to find a Vietnam veteran’s medals in a Pawn shop so he bought them with the thought of returning them some day. He never got around to it. Graham Ross (5RAR) is now tasked with finding the veteran. He made an enquiry at DVA and was told he was alive but moved around a bit, they can’t give any further information. The veteran’s details are 1201500 John Gordon Davidson, his DOB is 5-11-48; he served with 17 Const Sqn 1969-70.
If you know John’s whereabouts please email Graham Ross at
janross@bigpond.net.au
John Eller - Wed, 26 Jun 2013
John Bede McEwen
2782851
8 January 1945 - 22 June 2013.
D&E 13 June 1966 to 6 September 1966
6 RAR 7 September 1966 to 14 June 1967
Lest We Forget
john verhelst - Thu, 30 May 2013
Also for interested folk, a copy will be added within the pages of this website about that time also.
regards. john verhelst/ RED RAT Editor.
john verhelst - Mon, 22 Apr 2013
Dougie Lawrence is holding the banner on Thursday morning and hopefully many of our HQCoy/D&E vets will be there.
Thanks for your posting.
kind regards. john v
Di Louis (Barbato) - Sun, 21 Apr 2013
Regards
Di Louis
john verhelst - Wed, 27 Mar 2013
Meeting up for the March at the usual place- just after 9 RAR, in Bent Street. Our new banner will be present.
Doug Lawrence is the MC. He can be contacted on 0416 114 664 in case anyone has some questions.
regards.
john verhelst
Ian Palfery - Mon, 25 Mar 2013
A quick note to confirm that HQ 1ATF will be marching as a Unit again as usual in this year's Melbourne ANZAC Day March.
Forming up arrangements are back to the old format this year - meet in Collins Street outside the Athenaeum Theatre at about 10.45 am where we will have our "Red Rat" banner unfurled.
Afterwards at the Golden Gate Hotel cnr Clarendon & Coventry Streets South Melbourne.
Any HQ 1 ATF members in Melbourne for ANZAC Day this year will be most welcome to march with us - as are all family, relatives, partners & friends to join us afterwards for post-March refreshments.
Hoping for a good rollup this year!
Best Regards
Ian Palfery
Victorian State Representative
HQ 1 ATF Association
john verhelst - Wed, 13 Mar 2013
G’Day John,
I am currently at the university (USQ) In Toowoomba. I have to pay for accommodation at the Uni, but all fees and books are paid for by DVA. I was studying by correspondence and this worked OK. I decided to up the ante and finish off the studies by the end of this year by doing class attendance. I will end up with the Associate Degree of Civil Engineering. DVA has helped both with the correspondence course and with this one by paying for fees and books because my treating shrink wrote a letter stating that study, in particular home study was an ideal treatment for PTSD. If anyone wants to write to me, my postal address is Michael Kramer, USQ, McGregor College, Room C15, Locked Bag2, Darling Heights Qld 4350. Those who want more information can either use that medium or else email me at kramercad@bigpond.com or w0084331@umail.usq.edu.au either one of these will contact me.
Kind regards – Mick Kramer OMIEAust. (Officer Member Institution Engineers Australia)
John Verhelst - Thu, 3 Jan 2013
G'day John,
>> THANKS for the Red Rat report on the recent reunion & DVD (which I'll digest later). Much appreciated.
>> Helene & I relocated to Cairns FNQ last December and are enjoying the change back to where we lived 1985-90. I have maintained our eMail address rommel@brisnet.org.au and welcome any correspondence from fellow D&Eers including The Editor & Treasurer (GRIN). Our postal address is:
>> MV & JH McCarthy
>> 4-6 Tolson Close, BRINSMEAD, Qld., 4870
>> Mobile: 0414 251 785
Lynn McDonough - Tue, 1 Jan 2013
John Verhelst - Mon, 10 Dec 2012
Your DVD of the event will be mailed out early next week to your respective home address.
regards.
john v
Wayne Koch - Sat, 8 Dec 2012
Can you provide me with the email for Michael & Lyn Love, I have some happy snaps of him in 1969. Cheers, "Kochie", (as in Scotch, not "Cosh"! :-) to All.
John Verhelst - Sat, 8 Dec 2012
Happy reading.
john v
John Eller - Wed, 14 Nov 2012
Mick Grimes - Sat, 3 Nov 2012
John Verhelst - Tue, 23 Oct 2012
Well done. regards. john v
John Verhelst - Fri, 7 Sep 2012
Further to our Home page. Malcolm died on 3 March 2012 from Pancreatic Cancer.
His Army No. was 17575 and he served as (Temp) Captain AACC in Nui Dat - 4 May 1966 until 4 May 1967.
An original and a decent bloke. RIP Malcolm. We will toast you at the Merimbula Reunion.
Eddie S. Tricker - Thu, 30 Aug 2012
Thanks to those dedicated people in England who helped locate NOK for Michael Pommy" Towler. Without you, I'd be pushing it still.
My regards to all
Eddie t
Eddie S. Tricker - Wed, 22 Aug 2012
Planning is now underway for the Australian contribution to the Vietnam Veterans Education Centre (VVEC). The Centre, to be located underground on the Mall in Washington D.C, adjacent to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial better known as "The WaH” will tell the story of the Vietnam War.
The VVEC will tell the story of the Vietnam War and is planned to open in 2015. Within it, Australia's story will be told alongside that of the United States of America. The Australian Government has made a significant commitment to ensure that the service of our Vietnam veterans will be recognized in the VVEC, and to ensure that when Americans and others visit, they will also learn of the contribution that Australia made to the Vietnam War.
The VVEC will be a centre for both education and commemoration. It will not only be a building for people to visit, but it will also include extensive Internet based media, that may be viewed from anywhere in the world.
The central feature of the VVEC will be a "Wall of Faces," essentially a photographic Roll of Honour, featuring a photograph and some details of each of the Australian and American service men and women who died in the Vietnam War.
The Office of Australian War Graves (OAWG) is currently searching for the families of those who died in the Vietnam War, in order to obtain suitable photographs to be included in the "Wall of Faces." In July 2012, OAWG wrote to 143 known next of kin, seeking their agreement to the display of a suitable photograph and service details of their family member on the "Wall of Faces."
To date, the OAWG has received overwhelming support for the project in the responses received.
If you are able to assist in this search for the families, or you possess a photograph of a Vietnam serviceman whose name appears on the Roll of Honour at the Australian War Memorial, please email the OAWG at VVEC@dva.gov.au. Alternatively, please pass this request on to others who may be able to assist. Our aim is to ensure that our Vietnam War Dead are properly recognized in the VVEC. Any assistance you can provide would be gratefully received.
While enlistment photos are available for most of these men, OAWG preference is for other, better quality images. These may be from prior to enlistment or taken whilst in service, in uniform or civilian dress. Each family's preference for the image of their serviceman is our first consideration. All photographs provided to OAWG will be treated with care and respect, and will be returned to the owner as soon as is possible.
There are two D&E Platoon soldiers who still have no known Next Of Kin. These two are: Arthur Ruduss, died 12 June 1966; and Michael Towler, died 12 June 1971. Arthur Ruduss had family, (?sisters) in Melbourne,Victoria. Michael Towler was from England, and to my knowledge no NOK in Australia.
But if anyone can help, please contact the Vietnam Veterans Education Centre (VVEC) email adress shown in the body of this message.
All other D&E platoon soldiers, who had no known NOK have been taken care of.
regards to all Platoon embers
Eddie.
kevin lawson - Wed, 15 Aug 2012
7RAR -dec65-aug66--
John Verhelst - Wed, 1 Aug 2012
100 days to our HQ1ATF Association reunion at Merimbula.
110 people confirmed and paid.
We need 150 to make it a great event so please, members, register now.
The details are on this website.
regards.
john v
Danny Buxallen - Wed, 11 Jul 2012
Danny Buxallen - Wed, 11 Jul 2012
Eddie Tricker - Sat, 30 Jun 2012
This year, this Vietnam Veterans Day, aka Long Tan Day, marks the 50th anniversary of the commencement of Australia's involvement in the war in Vietnam.
With this in mind I understand that a service has been arranged at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne to mark this special anniversary.
The 18th August 2012, is a Saturday this year.
I am wondering what the Victorian branch of HQ 1 ATF Association is going to do in relation to this anniversary?
It is planned to gather around our banner at the Shrine in Melbourne, or are we simply going to let it pass without remembrance?
I know of at least country based sub branch of VVAA that is arranging for the free return busing of their local VVs from their local area to the Shrine in Melbourne.
These arrangements are to cover the Veteran and one person nominated by the Veteran, whilst additional seats will be available at a cost of $20.00 per person.
So veteran mates, friends, and other Victorian veterans, are we going to gather under our banner at the Shrine on 18 August 2012?
Let me know your thoughts
regards to all
eddie t
Chris Bean - Sun, 6 May 2012
Di Louis - Mon, 23 Apr 2012
Regards
Di Louis
John Verhelst - Tue, 3 Apr 2012
Meet at normal place in Blight Street.
regards.
john verhelst
John Verhelst - Thu, 1 Mar 2012
Regards,.
john verhelst
Ross Benton - Thu, 1 Mar 2012
Brian McFarlane - Wed, 29 Feb 2012
All the best for the forthcoming reunion.
Cheers,
Brian
Warren Alloway - Thu, 23 Feb 2012
john verhelst - Fri, 13 Jan 2012
We have just had confirmation that Normie Rowe will be guest at our 9 November private dinner at the Merimbula RSL Club.
regards and keep the bookings rolling in.
john v
john verhelst - Sat, 24 Dec 2011
May 2012 bring true all your wishes.....
See you in Merimbula on Thursday 8 November..
regards, John v / President, 2012 Reunion Committee.
john verhelst - Wed, 30 Nov 2011
Please start sending your details to us so that we can keep an update on those couples (or singles) attending,
Regards. john v
Michael Allan (Mo) - Thu, 17 Nov 2011
Ernie Chamberlain - Tue, 13 Sep 2011
Kirsty Harrison - Wed, 7 Sep 2011
john verhelst - Sat, 6 Aug 2011
Ian, of Boolaroo in NSW passed away on 25 July 2011. I have been advised by his wife Wendy, and do not have any more information.
regards, john v
john verhelst - Sat, 4 Jun 2011
With regret, I am advised by Dougie Lawrence that Neal passed away two days ago: Thursday 2 June 2011. His funeral will be held in Richmond, NSW, next Friday 10 June at 10 AM.
regards.johnv
John Eller - Wed, 25 May 2011
richard stott - Tue, 24 May 2011
john verhelst - Tue, 24 May 2011
Please do email me with your current email details if you currently receive the Red Rat by snail mail. It will save us all a few dollars.
regards.
john verhelst: email: hq1atf2012@jhconsult.com.au[
Dianne Louis - Wed, 20 Apr 2011
Di Louis
John Eller - Tue, 12 Apr 2011
3rd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment 13/10/1964 22/10/1964
Headquarters, 1st Australian Task Force 14/05/1966 20/04/1967
Lest We Forget!!
Patrick A Phelan - Thu, 7 Apr 2011
Anyone know the whereabouts of Graham Ashby cpl, would like to catch up.
kindest regards
Patrick
Eddie Tricker - Mon, 28 Mar 2011
I am currently in the process of updating the list "HQ 1 ATF Veterans who have died since RTA". If you have any details of HQ 1 ATF diggers who have died recently would appreciate those details so that I can add them to the list for the web page.
regards to all
Eddie T
Eddie Tricker - Mon, 28 Mar 2011
A short note to all to say that Jack Carter's funeral service was well attended by his mates and others of the Veteran community, who knew him, and widely by his family and friends.He will be missed by us all.
Eddie Tricker
Tom May - Wed, 16 Mar 2011
We form up near Anzac House on Adelaide Tce 9am-9.30 look out for the HQ banner.
After the march I have arranged for us to meet back at the 43BELOW BAR
on Barrack St they have applied for early open licence
Its not far from the corner of Adelaide Tce so not far to walk
Hope to see a good rool up and will post more info when i get it
Regards to all Tom May
John Eller - Mon, 14 Mar 2011
Jack passed away on Friday March 11 and was actually in hospital to have a sleep apnea test, to sort out his breathing difficulties prior to him commencing treatment for another condition. He took a sudden turn for the worst, and sadly not long after, passed away. I know he will be sadly missed by us all and will be remembered for his jovial wit and keen sense of humour.
Our thoughts are with Jean, and children Michelle, Cathy, Mandy and Owen and families.
For those that may want to, or are able to, attend his funeral, it is to be held in the Renowden Chapel, Springvale Botanical Cemetery, Princes Highway, Springvale on Friday March 18, 2011, commencing at 2.15pm.
RIP
donald Campbell - Mon, 7 Mar 2011
Donald Campbell - Mon, 7 Mar 2011
Rod Barrett - Mon, 21 Feb 2011
Tom and Sailor will be arranging details for the Anza day march.
Contact emails for the above are :-
thomasmay08@gmail.com
rbarron@bigpond.net.au
John Verhelst - Tue, 8 Feb 2011
regards.
Keith HYDE - Mon, 24 Jan 2011
john verhelst - Mon, 17 Jan 2011
regards. john v
Mick Kamenek - Thu, 13 Jan 2011
Regards
Mick Kamenek
Rod Fennings - Thu, 13 Jan 2011
More Brits ought to have a look at this and remember what a huge contribution and sacrifice Australian forces have made to restoring peace to the planet.
Thank you.
warwick beatson - Tue, 4 Jan 2011
Charlie Hardy - Sun, 26 Dec 2010
Wanted to catch up on the guest book entries, but see they've all disappeared presumably due to the change over from one company to another.
Bit late for christmas wishes, but you all have a safe, healthy and prosperous new year.
Phil Harrington - Fri, 24 Dec 2010
Regards
Phil Harrington
Rod Barrett - Fri, 10 Dec 2010
It was a bit of a task at times to arrange the reunion, but with 20 odd years under my belt doing very similar things (but only bigger) everything turned out tikityboo. Many thanks to my committee for ensuring we finished up in front financially and I look forward to attending the 2012 reunion at Merimbula. For those who are wondering what a reunion is like...wonder no more because they are a great way to renew old friendships and make new ones.
Make a effort to attend in 2012 and you won't be disappointed.
Merry Xmas to all members of our association.
Regards to all
Rod Barrett
Ex President 2010 reunion committee
zane howard - Tue, 7 Dec 2010
Eddie Tricker - Tue, 7 Dec 2010
John Verheltz - Sun, 5 Dec 2010
VENUE; Merimbula Beach Holiday Park, 2 Short Point Road, Merimbula, NSW 2548
www.merimbulabeachholidaypark.com.au
(P); 02 6499 8909 (F); 02 6495 3381
Reunion Email; hq1atf2012@jhconsult.com.au
John Eller - Sun, 5 Dec 2010
This one is fancier, but it seems to be working ok. I hope users will find it useful. Any comments, either positive or negative should be forwarded to me at hq1atf@hotmail.com