The messages below represent past feedback from members. If you have something to share please use the 'Feedback' form. If you're looking for a lost mate, use the find a mate form
Use the page to send in your feedback. We will post your comments here if they relate to our membership.
From:
James stamell
james.stamell@gmail.com
Message:
G day Guys,
My name is James and I m a current serving Captain in the Army. In 2017, I had the pleasure of serving as A Coys Forward Observer.
I m currently conducting research into Operation Bribie and interested in talking to any veterans from the Battle about their experiences
If any members of your association would be willing to talk to me about their part in the operation I d be very thankful if you could pass my contact details to them;
James.stamell@gmail.com
0405474810
Cheers
Jimmy
Recently, we heard from and received a donation from 'Ruffy'. Did you serve with 'Ruffy' in Vietnam, 69-70? If so, please contact grasmith6@gmail.com
Cockatoo Rise-Veterans Retreat
Good morning everybody , not sure how many of you saw the wonderful story A Current Affair did on COCKATOO RISE WAR Veterans retreat .
THE RESPONSE FROM ACROSS THE NATION WAS WONDERFUL .
I have put a link to the story below
If you would be kind enough top pass this mail onto other members of your group and also friends otherwise it would be gratefully appreciated ,
thank you very much Greg and Anne
From 2 RAR Association
Dear 6RAR Association, Message from the President 2RAR Association: On behalf of all members of 2RAR Association, I offer congratulations on the milestone of 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan. We wish the Association good luck for all your celebrations on this auspicious occasion. We too will remember those who lost their lives in the battle, may they rest in peace. We will as well think of all those who may have survived the battle but have suffered both physical and psychological trauma every day since. Duty First
4th June 2015 Joe Cazey (joec61@optusnet.com.au) Phone Contact 0407 649 424 says:- All the best from the Pl Comd 15 Pl C Coy at JTC during BE training, attached to C Coy. Pl made up of 6 RAR pioneer & mortar men plus a section of sappers from 7 Fd Sqn. Maj Mc Farlane in command and Peter Harris 2IC. Then I served in 1 Fd Sqn and supported the battalion during '66/67 as part of 1 Fd Tp. Many happy memories so Many Happy Returns 6 RAR. Joe 25th November 2014 I am seeking photos and any other information on my brother Glenn Simonsen ("simo") who served in D Coy in the 1970's . He was previously posted to 1RAR and also went to Rifle Coy, Butterworth once with 1RAR and once with D coy 6 RAR. His last posting was the parachute training school in NSW I would be interested in hearing from anyone who served with him. I can only remember a couple of his mates names such as Cowboy Grey (or Gray) and Garside. Sadly Glenn suddenly passed away a number of years ago. Mark Simonsen 10th November 2014 I'm looking for a 1983 copy of the 6 RAR Magazine. Can anyone help please? Steve Lamb 10th March 2014 Two years ago, you helped me find Ray Davidson of V Coy, survivor of an ambush south of the Horseshoe on 24 Nov 69. I have since written a book, which in part, deals with that event and its aftermath. I wondered if you would be interested in letting your members know about the book. Its title is Beneath Blades: Flying at the Ends of the Earth- a pilot's journal by David Earley. "The book covers David's flying career of 46 years in Australia, Vietnam, the USA, Papua New Guinea, Irian Jaya, Nepal, Moscow and beyond. It has been an amazing journey encompassing fear and exhilaration; discovery of personal faith; wildlife encounters; combat operations in Vietnam and Cambodia; cross cultural encounters; training in Moscow with Russian test pilots; operating in PNG and Nepal; flying into impossible airstrips; a devastating accident; and much more. From Australian Army pilot to Chief Pilot roles in organisations in/across several countries, to Chief Executive Officer of a major Australian helicopter company the story has been written for those with an interest in adventure, aviation (especially helicopters), cultural differences, management and personal growth. To order, go to the website at http://dhearley.com. If you have any questions, or experience any difficulty with the ordering process, please email the author at beneathblades@dhearley.com" David Earley 18th November 2013 I would like to contact Peter Gordon who served with C Company 6RAR on the 1st Tour. Peter and I grew up in Bulleen,Vic and both served in Vietnam in 66/77 David Bryan 15th November 2013 I served in 6RAR from 1974 to 1978 and have fond memories of that time, I'd like to catch up with an old mate John (noggy) More he used to ride a Kawasaki 900, I lost contact in the mid 80's and have often wondered what happened to him, cheers lundy. Mark Lund 18th August 2013 My brother Ian Humphrey served in 6 RAR from 1975 to about 1977 as a private (machine gunner) possibly in D Coy. He had postings to the UK and New Zealand for exercises during that time and was mates with someone called 'Goose'. He was posted to 3RAR at Woodside in 1978. Sadly Ian was killed by a hit run driver in 2003. If anyone knew Ian and has a photo of him that the family could see we would be so grateful to hear from you. Ian did many things in later life but always spoke of his time in 6RAR as the best of times with some great mates. Thanks to you all. Neil Humphrey, Hobart. 29th May 2013 Hi gents, just wanted to thank you for the notifications by email and on the site about the passing of our former comrades. Whilst I would normally get a phone call from one of the boys, a bit of a mix up meant that I wasn't aware of the passing of a mate (Darryl Fisher) until I got the email. Thanks for that, I was able to make the funeral. On another note, I was browsing the site and would like to mention something I noticed in the Roll of Honour. Peter (Mother) Hansen was killed on the 25th October '69, which is recorded correctly. (It was election day, we were at an outpost down from the Horseshoe called Ap Lo Gom). One of the Sappers attached, was I believe, Sapper Duncuff, who was wounded in the same incident which took Peter's life. I see that Spr Duncuff is recorded as having been KIA on the 21st. My memory may be wrong on this, but I thought it may be worth checking.
Thanks Noel, have checked www.thecasualtylist.com and confirmed your information. Thanks, Webmaster
Cheers, Noel Mackey 24th May 2013 Regards from Adelaide. You may remember me as Lieutenant M Smith of 1 platoon A company 1976/77. The OC was Allan Black. I was later recon platoon commander in Support company with “Brasso” Bamlett. For my sins I am now a Member of Parliament. I gave an address to Parliament in SA about the passing of Hans Fleer AM DCM with whom I served in SASR. There was a good contingent from 6 RAR present at the funeral in Melbourne with whom Hans served in Vietnam. I thought I would pass this on for the members of our association given the imminent gathering for the birthday celebrations. Sadly I am unable to attend. I hope that everyone has a fantastic time. Warmest regards, Martin MARTIN HAMILTON-SMITH MP 9th April 2013 It is with great sadness I have learned about the passing of Hans Fleer. I served with him in Vietnam. He was a corporal in 3PL and I was a corporal in 2PL.His great courage and selflessness during one particular Operation says to me what a wonderful human being he was. He will be sadly missed. My condolences to his family and friends.
Peter Hill hill.peter61@gmail.com 9th August 2012 Hello sorry i cant make it to Perth i was in a severe road crash last year still got on going issues plus im having prostrate cancer treatment with an operation in sept 2012 other than that i would have been there my son in the army a chopper pilot hes a major know he has served in timor with 6 rar and know is going over to afganistan later this year i wish to say have a good reunion see you at the next big one Barry (5 plt )
Barry Lewis 7th April 2012 Hi Guys, Requesting any Stories/photo's of Pte Sonne Ian Parker HALL late, of Bravo Coy 6RAR. He was my Step-Dad, we lost him about 15yrs ago, and unfortunately, I have few photo's of him from those days (1966-67). I was in the RAN for 20 yrs, and realise, some of his mates could have old photo's of him, so thanks in advance, for any assistance. yours Aye,
Rick Fishbourne 06/04/2012 5th February 2012 Visited the memorial walk on sunday with an ex 6 RAR Veteran his name is John Robert Hall service number 3787763 served in Vietnam alongside 27758 WO2 JW Kirby CCM and 3787416 Pte G L Tweedie. I am unable to find any articles or if there is someone who knows John could they contact me via my email or ring me on 0414323205. It was the first time he had visited the walk and was suitably impressed with the surrounds. John Mentioned to me that he his 20th birthday in vietnam and has returned for his 50th and 60th his next quest would be his 65th i believe he said.look forward to hearing from someone. Ian Roberts 2 CER 30th January 2012 I would like to contact whoever is familiar with the events of 24 Nov 1969 when NZ members of V Coy were patrolling with an ARVN PF unit south east of Dat Do. I was the pilot of the Direct Support Possum helicopter who was sent to investigate a radio call for help. I discovered several wounded and returned for a medic from FSB Discovery. I wrote my report at the time but there are details that don't add up. I would like to find the medic I took in that day ideally and ask for his recollection. Can you assist please? What I want to know in short form is how many Kiwis were there with V Coy that day and did any survive? If so, who? I am happy to share my account if anyone is interested.
David Earley 22nd January 2012 Unfortunately my leukemia has flared up again, and I will be going back to RPA for more chemo sometime at the end of next week. Should be okay as I am in much better physical condition compared to last time. Will keep you all posted. Jeff Single 20 January 2012 Previous post looking for Laurence Lampard. Have had contact from family. Laurie deceased in 1973.Family has no army photos of Laurie and would dearly love some. Laurie was platoon medic for D company before and during 2nd tour SVN.(1969-70) If anyone has any photos with laurie in please contact me. Regards and thanks
Barry Francis (Frenchie) 24th December 2011 Hey good site,am looking for Terry Grainger 10pl D COY 79-80 just wondering if he is still the worlds largest Led Zeppelin fan.I read the post about Dolly Dyer he was a great platoon SGT.Regards Blue. Blue Warwick 6th June 2010 Thinking of all members of the battalion today on its 46th birthday. 6 RAR has a wonderful history and the contribution made by former and current members is much appreciated and admired. Graham Smith 6th June 2011 HAPPY BIRTHDAY 6 RAR.
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I am a currently serving pogo (RAAOC), just wanted to pass on my thanks to all Viet Vets for your committments & sacrifices during that time; Graham "Dolly" Dyer OAM was my RSM when I was posted to 1 RTB as a PL SGT between 1996-98 (he took over from Col Lee OAM) & I would also like to pass on my thanks to him & Lyn for their efforts during his time there as RSM, I know that all of us held him in the highest regard & were very fortunate to have him as our RSM; our wives were also very appreciate of Lyns friendship & her ability to make us all feel part of the Mess. |
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15th Aug 2008 I am delighted to see today (14/8/08) the long-overdue Government recognition of the astonishing achievement of the Battle of Long Tan soldiers. I saw many of my friends off to war in Vietnam, and have always been appalled by their subsequent treatment by uncaring governments of both persuasions. I hope you all know that there were always many ordinary Australians who knew of your courage, and the incredible difficulities you faced. My husband and I have travelled in Vietnam, & it only increased our respect for the troops who served there. I hope & believe that as our older servicemen of WW1 & WW11 leave us, that our Vietnam Vets will take pride of place in our Anzac Day celebrations. Deborah Chiswell 11th August 2008 To all. I was in B coy with Fox as my my Cpl then went to Spt Coy Pioneers in 1977, I am now living in Vung Tau Vietnam any body wants to get me I'im at Tommys Restaurant 94 Ha Long Street Vung Tau Ph +84907378523. I can help with visits to the cross and long hai and so on just ring or email. GLENN NOLAN 17th May 2008 G'day everybody. I'm an ex matelot and brought some of you blokes back home on the Vung Tau ferry in 67. The reason I am contacting you guys is to see if anybody can help me with a claim for dva. On the trip back i was a young bloke in the wheelhouse on the Sydney and a guy from 6RAR,went a little troppo when we turned back north{to kill time as it happened}. Anyway he had been there for a couple of days with his slr, just watching the gyro. When we turned around, I was on the wheel and he made some threatening gestures which thank god was diffused pretty quickly. I f anybody remembers this incident or knows the bloke involved, it would help me terrifically with my claim. My Please understand i donot and have never had any animosity towards the bloke concerned and hope he is enjoying his life.regards to all who served in 6RAR. There is a p.s. Reading the feedback letters;there is a guy called Webb mentioned. Iam wondering if this was the same Webb that I boxed on the way up North? An aboriginal chap, sorry to hear of his death in Vietnam.`I never heard from again after we landed him. Boxed another bloke called Schaeffer, ran into a year or so later in sydney,a good bloke. once again thanks for your help fellows,regards dean [bluey]burton Dean Burton 12th May 2008 I am writing in in the hope that I can obtain information relating to my uncle Robert E Power who served in the 6th Battalion in Vietnam in 1969 and died on May 6 1970. I am slowly finding out more as I go but would love to hear from anyone who served with Bob or knew of him and could share there stories with me. I have only just found this site and will now be getting to know it a lot better. Toby Fowler 10th May 2008 This is the first time I have visited this site and I would like to say that it is a fantastic tribute to those diggers that died not only in the Battle of Long Tan, but those many others that died during the Vietnam conflict. My uncle, Private Kenneth Graham WEBB was a member of the 6th Battalion and served in Vietnam during 1966 - 1967. I can clearly recall seeing him off in Brisbane in May 1966. I was only young at the time and a photograph of us all (Ken, my Grandmother, my brother Mark and I) appeared on the front page of the Courier Mail dated Tuesday May 31, 1966. He served in the Mortar Platoon I believe. I am led to believe that Ken rode into Long Tan with the APC's as the battle came to an end. If anyone knows Ken and maybe can confirm this I would like to hear from you. Steve WEBB. webby.59@hotmail.com 14th April 2008 Thanks to all who helped me find Michael Armstrongs family. I now have been contacted and I have given all the photos to his family to keep. His sister e-mailed me and we are now in touch with each other. They were very happy to receive them as they had very little of Micks military history. Just another great reason to keep this site going, keep up the good work folks. Thankyou. 4th Jan 2008 email address: nathan.watkins@us.army.mil Comment: Great site! 27 Nov 2007 From: Michael Tuckett ( B COY 74-80 ) email address: tuckett7@bigpond.com Thanks for a great website. If anyone can help me find the relitives of Michael Armstrong who I served with in both A Coy and B Coy 1975-1980. Mick died some time ago and his sister requested all assistance in helping with information into his service history.I have now found some great photoes of Mick and I in Malaysia and Thialand.I am sure she would appreciate these photos. If anyone has any ideas could you e-mail me at tuckett7@bigpond.com ASAP.Thanks, and have a great christmas..See you all around the ridges. |
"Our aim is to perpetuate the camaraderie that was generated amongst us when we served."
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The Secretary
6 RAR Association
PO Box 225
Red Hill Qld 4059