This page contains information which may be of interest to AATTV members in regard to contacts, forthcoming events, lost and found etc.  Should any AATTV member or persons interested in submitting news etc. which may be relevant to Team members, then they can do so by contacting Rick Ryan - AATTV WA Branch Inc. on email:- advisor@echidna.id.au. Content on this page will be at my discretion.

Entry Date:28th June 2008

A soldier died today

G'day all,

Sad news received from Peter Conway AATTV Qld Branch on the passing of Norbert (Bert) Gruetzner AATTV on the 26th June 2008.Bert served with the Nung Force in Danang briefly in 1966 and with the C Team, Danang, also in 1966.

I had met with Bert on a number of occasions over the past few years and found that Bert was one that had the health and welfare of all veterans close to his heart. Bert had on a number of times reminded the pollies in Canberra of what was required to fix certain veteran issues.

Bert served with the Nung Force in Danang briefly in 1966 and with the C Team, Danang, also in 1966. He will be sadly missed by me and his fellow Team members.

A funeral service will be held for Bert on thursday, 3rd July at St John's Anglican Church, Queen Street, BOOROWA, NSW at 1100 hours.

May he Rest in Peace,

Persevere,

Rick

Sad News just received from Bruce Elphick.

Bert Gruetzner passed away at 2.00AM this morning.

Bruce Elphick tells me that a funeral service will be held in Boorowa on Thursday, 3rd July. Further details as they come to hand.

May he rest in Peace

Pierre

Lest we forget

 Entry Date: 5th June 2008

Team Member in Hospital

G'day all,

John Riley - Secretary AATTV WA Branch has informed via Tony Thorpe AATTV that fellow Team member, Alf Haberely is in hospital.

I am in Switzerland at present with Mandi and pass on our best to Alf and trust he can get through this battle. John Riley has left a phone contact number (refer below) or get well message for Alf can be emailed to John on: jhriley@tpg.com.au

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

WA member Albert (Alf) Haberely is in Royal Perth Hospital having suffered a stroke, he is having difficulty swallowing and it looks like he may have to have an operation. Alf served with the Team 3.6.67-- 11.6.68. He served with 12th Coy,Mike Force 5th SFGA Coy C Danang and was Adjutant, Mike Force ,Danang.
My contact no is 0894017898
many thanks
Persevere
 
John Riley (sec).

Entry Date: 4th June 2008

A soldier died today

G'day all,

Funeral details as received from Peter Conway, AATTV Qld Branch are as follows,

Persevere,

Rick

I have been advised by our welfare officer Des Ford who visited Ken's wife Nola this AM that funeral details for the late Ken are as follows:
 
Date Friday 6th June 2008
Time 1.00PM
Place "Lakeside" Chapel
Albany Creek Crematorium
Albany Creek Road
Bridgeman Downs
BRISBANE.
 
Funeral Director
Anton Brown
Phone 3217 3088
 
 
Family Funeral Notice is scheduled to appear in Wednesday Morning's Courier Mail
 
Nola's contact details
 
82 Leonie Street
BRAY PARK
QLD 4500
Phone (07) 3205 6653
 
Please pass through your net
 
Regards
 
Pierre

G'day all,

More sad news received from Peter Conway - AATTV Qld Branch on the passing of WO2 K. (Ken) J. Daly AATTV.

I am sure that all Team member would wish to pass on their sincerest condolences to the family of Ken. Funeral details will be advised once known.

May he Rest in Peace,

Persevere,

Rick

Good Morning Gentlemen

(Rick) for info only

This morning has brought more sad news with the passing of Ken Daly last night. Information came from Ken's wife Nola via John McDonagh.

Further details will be forwarded as they come to hand.

Regards and Keep Safe

Peter

Lest we forget

Entry Date: 4th June 2008

A soldier died today

G'day all,

Late news of the passing Denis Heehan AATTV as received from Peter Conway - Qld Branch on the 30th May 2008.

May he Rest in Peace,

Persevere,

Rick

Hi Bernie & Rick,

Sad news from NQ. I have just received a message from Barry & Chris Caligari that Denis Heenan passed away last friday 23rd May. His funeral was held in Townsville on Tuesday 27th May. Denis was married to Barry's sister Lynette. I do have a copy of the Obituary and will reproduce in the September Advisor.

May he rest in peace

Peter

Lest we forget

Entry Date: 8th May 2008

Good Morning Bernie and Rick
 
It is with a great deal of sadness that I must advise of the passing of Anne Pryde wife of our member Des. Anne passed away last Wednesday 9th April.
 
The family are having a PRIVATE funeral service,however Des advisies that he is arranging a gathering at a later date to remember Anne. Once details of this gathering are finalised details will be forwarded.
 
May Anne Rest in Peace
 
Regards and Take Care
 
Peter

Hi Peter and Mick,
 
We will gather in the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Park opposite the Bribie Island RSL at 1400 Sat 19 Apr 08.  The initial RV to be near the rotunda central North of the park.  After a few words from me anyone who wants to will be invited to say what they like.  This part will end with a short (I hope) word and prayer by my sister, who is a retired Baptist minister and ex missionary.   We will then move across the road to the Bribie RSL where tea, coffee, hot and cold nibbles and a few drinks will be available.  Here I hope we can join to celebrate Anne's life.
 
Park in the RSL carpark.
 
I would like that people who intend to attend contact me on phone: (07) 5428 5390 or email despryde@netspace.net.au   so that I can adjust catering as required.
 
I am persevering,
 
Des

Entry Date: 8th May 2008

G'day all,

Sad and unfortunately belated news of the passing of WO2 George "Geoff" Thomas Smith RAINF who served with AATTV in 1968 -69.  Geoff served from Jul 68 to Jan 69 as a Patoon then Company Commander of 212 & 211 companies, 5th SFGA, 2 MSF , Pleiku and from Feb to Jun 69 at Ranger Training Centre, Jungle - Mountain - Swamp Course, Duc My. He will be deeply missed by all Team members.

May he Rest in Peace,

Persevere,

Rick

Peter, Rick,
I was advised by Geoff's wife that Geoff Smith (61242George Thomas Smith) had passed away on 16 Apr in Ulverstone, Tasmania. Most details of his service can be obtained from Bruce Davies book with the rider that Geoff was company commander of 211MSF Coy, not pl comd. His real name is George but he was known by everyone as Geoff after an informal name change whilst at recruit training to separate two Smiths both with Christian name of George. Very good soldier, straightforward, totally reliable, no bullshit about him and a great loss.
Regards,

David Savage

G'day all,

Sad and late news on the passing on 23rd January 2008 of WO2 Barry T. Fitzpatrick RAINF who served with AATTV in 1967 – 68.  Barry served as a Platoon Commander with 11th Company, 5th SFGA, Mike Force, Danang from 6th Apr 67 to Mar 68.

May he Rest In Peace.

Persevere,

Rick

From: Peter Conway [mailto:plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au]
Sent: Sunday, 24 February 2008 8:21 AM
To: Bruce Davies; Rick Ryan; Bernie McGurgan
Cc: Barry Sullivan
Subject: Passing of AATTV Member Barry FITZPATRICK

Good Morning Bernie Bruce & Rick

I have just received some belated  news from Barry Sullivan that BARRY FITZPATRICK  passed away on the 23rd January 2008 and was farewelled at Rookwood Cemetery on the 30th January 2008.

I do regret late notification of this sad event. Apparently Barry Sullivan sent me an email just after Barry's passing but unfortunatley it did not get through to me.There was good roll up for his funeral service.

 May he Rest in Peace

Take Care and Keep Safe

Peter

Sad news in from Barry Sullivan per Peter Conway on the passing on 16th February 2008 of WO1 Gregory (Greg) Francis McGee RAINF who served with AATTV in 1965/66.  Greg was with ARVN battalion, Quang Tin in May 65, Tam Ky Sector, Quang Tin Jul-Aug 65, CSD Vung Tau Oct 65, CSD Dalat Dec 65 – Feb 66 and National Police Field Force Training Centre near Dalat Mar – Apr 66.

I am sure all Team members pass their sincerest condolences onto the family of Greg McGee. Condolence messages can be passed through Barry Sullivan on email: marbar@speednet.com.au

Funeral details are as follows:
Just received funeral arrangements for Greg and they are as follows – Service at ST FINBARS CATHOLIC CHURCH, GLENBROOK AT 8.30 AM (Yes that is correct – 8.30am) followed by burial at SPRINGWOOD CEMETERY.

Persevere Barry Sullivan
 

May he Rest In Peace,

Persevere,

Rick

From: Peter Conway [mailto:plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au]
Sent: Monday, 18 February 2008 10:10 AM
To: Rick Ryan; Bruce Davies; Bernie McGurgan
Subject: Fw: A soldier died today

Godd Morning Bruce, Bernie and Rick
 

More sad news as detailed below.

May he Rest In Peace

Peter
----- Original Message -----
From: Barry Sullivan
To: 'Peter Conway'
Sent: Monday, February 18, 2008 11:08 AM
Subject: A soldier died today

Dear Peter,

Sadly I have to notify you of the passing of WO1 Greg McGee late on Saturday night16 February 2008.   Greg served with the Trg Team 7 May – 30 April 1966.

Funeral arrangements not firm as yet, but possibly on Friday 22 Feb 2008.   Will keep you informed as information becomes available.   Persevere.

Barry Sullivan

G'day all,

Nice to bring you some goods news and appropriate on Valentine's Day. Congratulations to Brian and Betty Quee on the celebration of their 50th Wedding Anniversary.

Thanks for the photos Michelle.

Good onya Brian.

Persevere,

Rick
 

Some photos of Mum and Dad's big day.
Priest giving them a blessing. Can you see the photo on the wall behind them.

Family shot. - Jim Michelle Kathy at the back, Mum and Dad at front.

The AATTV flowers that were sent to them, in front is their cake.

Mum showing Dad their wedding photo. He is in the chair that we fought for.

It was a great day, dad seemed very awake. It was a good feel day.
Everything just fell into place.

Regards

Michelle Quee

G’day all,

Sad news on the passing  of fellow Team Member WO1 Leslie Steele RAEME on 4th February 2008 who had served with AATTV from 16 Mar 65 to 8 Feb 66 in RVN.  Leslie served with RF/PF Thua Thien, Mar to Aug 65 and from Oct 65 to Jan 66, General Subjects Committee, National Training Centre Dong Da.

May he Rest In Peace.

Persevere,

Rick

Funeral Details are as follows:

Anton Brown Funerals
Telephone: 03217 3088

Date:  Monday, 11th February 2008 at 1300hrs.

Location: Hemmant Crematorium Chapel
                 Hemmant and Tingalpa Roads
                 Hemmant

Medals to be worn.

Rick

More sad and belated news on the passing of a fellow Team member just in from Peter Conway.

WO2 Roland (Ron) John Diggens RAINF served with AATTV from Apr – Aug 65, 3/3 ARVN, 1st Division Hue and Sep – Oct 65 with RF/PF Quang Tri Sector.

May he Rest In Peace,

Persevere,

Rick

From: Peter Conway [mailto:plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au]
Sent: Friday, 8 February 2008 1:01 PM
To: Bruce Davies; Rick Ryan; Bernie McGurgan
Subject: Passing of Team Member

Hi Folks

Some more belated sad news.

Mick Smith (Qld Secretary) advised yesterday that he had received an email from the daughter of Ron Diggens advising that Ron passed away on the 31st December 2007. A Private and quiet funeral service was conducted.Ron had been ill for many years.

May he Rest in Peace

Regards and Take Care

Peter

Funeral of Brian Foster. OAM

Brian Foster, CSM A Company 6 RAR Vietnam 1967, then 2 RAR, RSM Duntroon, AATTV, RSM 3 RAR, RSM Land Warfare Centre passed away peacefully on Sat 12 Jan 08 with family at his side having made his own decision on Thursday 10 Jan to turn off life support.

Brian will be cremated at the Allambe Memorial Park Cemetery and Crematorium, Nerang-Broadbeach Road, Nerang (on the Gold Coast) at 1100 hours, Friday 18 January 2008.

The funeral service will be conducted by ex Infantry Major Ross Eastgate and a simple wake will be held after the service. It is then intended that mourners will retire to Brian's favourite pub, Ashmore Tavern on the corner of Cotlew St and Currumburra Rd, Ashmore on the Gold Coast.

Please wear medals and make yourself known to wife Annett and sons Murray, Ashley and Wayne and daughter Michell.

Messages of condolence and enquiries can be made to son Murray Foster on 07 5532 4082. Please leave a message if not answered and your call will be returned.

For those coming from far away, limited accommodation is available at the Veterans Respite Centre created by Brian, "Nui Dat House", 112 Allied Drive, Arundel, Qld, 4214, Phone 5594 7499.

Please promulgate these details to your networks.

Further to my last, the Foster family have requested, "No floral tributes". However, if you wanted to make a donation instead, an appropriate recipient would be the Veterans Retreat Brian created, Nui Dat House, 112 A llied Drive, Arundel, Qld, 4214. Or EFT to Nui Dat House Trustees V&ADFVets Assoc, Commonwealth Bank, Ashmore, BSB 064-450, Account Number 28013841
 

Charles S Mollison
Patron

A Coy 6 RAR Assoc
PO Box 82
Woombye, Qld, 4559

Phone 07 5442 1589
Fax 07 5442 1587

G’day all,

Sad but not un-expected news on the passing of fellow Team member, WO2 Brian Foster RAINF AATTV as received from Robbie Robinson AATTV.

Brian Foster served with AATTV from 30 Jun 1971 to 16 Jun 1972.  He served from Jul-Sep 71 with NOTT at Phu Cat, Dec 71 with AATTV Training Group, Vung Tau and Jan-Jun 72 with Phuoc Tuy Training Battalion.  Brian also served on SVN with 6 RAR from 6 Jan 1967 to 29 May 1967 and then with 2 RAR from 30 May 1967 to 6 Sep 1967.

Brian will be sadly missed, may he Rest in Peace,

Persevere,

Rick

From: robbie [mailto:pji3au@bigpond.net.au]
Sent: Saturday, 12 January 2008 9:58 AM
To: Rick Ryan
Subject: Re: BRIAN FOSTER AATTV

HI.

Just to let you know if you have not been informed as yet.

Brian Passed away early this morning.

Family are not sure of funeral arrangements at this stage.

He is going to be missed at the House and around the traps.

You all that side of the Country have a Great New Year.

Got out the hospital to celebrate my OBE..........
Over Bloody Eighty on the 4th Jan 2008

This growing old is no BloodyGood......
Operation effects the Golf.But will Persevere

Take Care and God Bless.

Robbie....................Surfers.

G’day all,

I received the email below notifying the passing of Raymond Anthony Kean RAAC who served with AATTV 1970/71. I have ascertained that Ray passed away on 29th September 2007.

Ray served from Sep 70 to Mar 71 with 2/4th ARVN Cavalry Regiment, Hoa Vang, Quang Nam. Apr 71 with 4th ARVN Cavalry, Hong Ha, Quang Tri, May 71 with 7th ARVN Cav, Dong Ha and Jun – Aug 71 with 3/7th ARVN Cav, Dong Ha.

I do not have the actual date, place or reason for Ray’s passing but have confirmed from RAAC Association that he is deceased.

Once again, late and sad news on the passing of one of our fellow members.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

From: John R Howard [mailto:john.howard6@bigpond.com]
Sent: Friday, 28 December 2007 11:06 AM
To: Rick Ryan
Subject: Death of AATTV Member; WO1 Raymond Anthony KEAN

G'day Rick,

Sorry this is late but notices from the Family,Watsonia RSL & Melb Legacy, were placed in the Herald Sun notices of deaths for the 1st/2nd October 07[pages 90/ 74] reporting the passing of 35237 Raymond Kean.
His funeral was held at the Eltham[Vic] cemetery at 1030hrs on the 4/10/2007. There was no mention of cause of Death.
Regards,

John H

An old worn out Malayan, Borneo & Sth Vietnam Infantry Veteran of 20 + years. STILL FIGHTING,THIS TIME FOR VETERANS RIGHTS.

Entry Date:  19th December 2007

G'day Rick,

I spent an hour with Dave today down at the Nursing Home and delivered the e-mails that I received.  I should have had a video camera on Dave to capture his reaction when I read out the names of those who had sent messages.  Priceless, and he remembered every name that I read out.

Dave sends his best wishes to all for the festive season and for a prosperous 2008.

His daughter is staying in town and sorting out Power of Attorney requirements.  Once this is completed Dave will be moving to Bundaberg Qld to be closer to his children and his 13 grand children.

I haven’t replied individually to the e-mails so it would be appreciated if you would send this out on your net.

Sad times this week here at our Mens Shed.  We lost three WWII veterans including our eldest who would have been 93 in February.  He spent three years in Changi as a POW.  Vale a true gentleman in Pat White.

Best regards.

Bruce Henderson

Good Morning All
Sad News from the West

I have been advised by Bruce Sutherland of the passing of John Sheehan in th early hours of yesterday (Monday) morning.
Further details as they come to hand.

May he rest in peace
Persevere and Keep safe

Pierre

G’day all,
Just been advised of the passing of WO2 John N. Sheehan AATTV.  Funeral details as received follow.

John served in Vietnam with 1 SAS Sqn 16 Feb 65 to 13 Aug 65, with HQ AAFV 14 Aug 65 to 5 Oct 65 and with AATTV from 3 Feb 66 to 26 Feb 66 at 11 Ranger Battalion, Danang, Quang Nam. He was
wounded-in-action on 12 Feb 66 from a booby trap, Medically evacuated to Butterworth, Malaysia on 26 Feb 66 and to Australia on 7 Mar 66.
John will be sadly missed by Team members and members of the ASASA.
Persevere,
Rick

From: Peter Conway [mailto:plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au]
Sent: Tuesday, 18 December 2007 1:58 PM
To: Rick Ryan; Bruce Davies; Bernie McGurgan
Subject: Funeral arrangements John Sheehan

Bernie/Bruce/Rick

Please see below for funeral arrangements for John Sheehan

Regards

Pierre

Official update on funeral arrangements for John Neil Sheehan.

Funeral at 1000hrs Saturday 22nd December at the Pinnaroo Valley Memorial

Park Crematoria, left off the Mitchell Freeway (if travelling north from
Perth) at Whitfords Ave.

A service will be held at the Crematoria. Following the service there will
be a grave site internment.

The family request that Medals be worn, no Beret, please. The wake is to
be  held after the funeral at The House, Campbell Barracks.

Regards Kevan Logan
ASASA WA Branch Secretary
08 9451 8557 Mob. 0402035128

Message from Terry and Jill Whitwam on Terry’s treatment for cancer.  Terry has been battling this illness for quite some time now and the latest news is not the best.

I am sure all Team members wish Terry well and trust that he can continue to fight this latest attack.

Emails can be sent to Terry and Jill on: whitty38@bigpond.com

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

Hi All

We have just received the results of a recent CT Scan the results as expected weren't very encouraging the original cancer has increased in size and some small ones have popped up on the Liver.  On the plus side these two are the only Cancer's that have been identified and I am  to undergo a new round of Chemo as soon as possible.  I am confidant along with the Oncologist that this early and according to him aggressive attack will if nothing else extend my time amongst us.

Best regards to all

Terry Whitwam

Message below from Judy Smith (RDNS), daughter of Stan Kent AATTV on his current health situation.

Any emails for Stan can be directed through Judy on email: Judy.Smith@rdns.org.au

Like Judy, I am sure all Team members wish him all the best.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

Subject: Stan Kent

Hi just thought I would bring you up to date with Stan. He is currently quite unwell. He had a fall and fractured some more bones in his spine. He is currently in St Andrews Hospital in Ipswich Qld. His goal is to return back home but that might be a pretty tall order because walking is becoming increasingly difficult. He also has some other health issues and they all tend to complicate things. He turned 86 years old this year. I suppose that is a pretty good innings when you consider both his service in WW2 and then his service in Vietnam. The RSL members have been fabulous and have helped me organise Mum’s placement into St Michaels Nursing Home (Dad is her carer) and getting all of the various forms signed etc. I will keep you informed. Fingers crossed that Stan is able to win this fight and get well again.
Regards
Judy Smith (Stan’s daughter)
Executive Director of Nursing & Client Services
Royal District Nursing Service (SA)
Telephone: (08) 8208 5306
Fax: (08) 8338 8506
Email: judy.smith@rdns.org.au
Web: http://www.rdns.org.au

G’day all,

Message on the current health of fellow Team Member Dave Dermody AATTV follows. Dave served with AATTV in Sep 66 at 2/5 ARVN, 2nd Division, Quang Ngai and from May – Aug 67 with the Mobile Guerrilla Force, Danang.  On his second tour of duty with AATTV Feb- Jul 70 with 2/51 ARVN, Mieu Bong, near Danang, Aug-Oct 70, Ranger Training Centre, Duc My and Nov-Dec 70, NOAT, Cho Gao, Dinh Tuong, IV Corps.

Email messages for Dave can be passed through Bruce Henderson on email: brucehenderson1@bigpond.com

Please take note of the offer if traveling through Port Augusta.

Our best wishes go out to Dave.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

From: Bruce Henderson [mailto:brucehenderson1@bigpond.com]
Sent: Sunday, 11 November 2007 12:19 PM
To: advisor@echidna.id.au
Subject: Dave Dermody

Dear Rick,

I was wondering if anybody from the Team was keeping up to speed on the health of Dave Dermody?

I had a talk with him at the Remembrance Day Service at the Port Augusta R&SL today.  Dave had a stroke some time back and this year his condition has deteriorated to the extent that he is now wheelchair bound.  He currently resides in the Nerilda Nursing Home in Port Augusta.

He still enjoys a beer and a smoke and also a conversation although at times the latter is difficult.

I’m sure that he would enjoy the company of mates from his days with the Team so if anyone is passing through “The Port” please take the time to look him up.

I’m happy to act as an initial contact point and to relay messages.

An excellent website and keep up the good work.

Best regards.

Bruce Henderson

G’day all,

Message below on the current health of Brian Quee AATTV as passed to me from Bruce McIlwraith follows.

Any messages for Brian can be passed back through Bruce on email: bruceandlee@westnet.com.au

It sounds like Brian is doing reasonably well and we all send him our best wishes.

Persevere,

Rick

Greetings Bruce,

Thought you may like this report for tomorrow's lunch.

I managed to make contact with Betty Quee about 30 minutes ago.

Brian's condition is unchanged.  However, his own chair is a Godsend.

Brian is as fit as a Mallee Bull, still strong.  However, now he can not walk anywhere, thus the chair is his only mode of moving from point A to point B.

Betty, Jim,Michelle and the whole family are so grateful to DVA for now, after many letters from Michelle to the Department and the intervention of "Our Team"  for making the provision of the chair a reality.

Betty still goes to the hospital twice a day to see Brian.  She deserves a Medal.  She says the hospital staff at Lockhart are so wonderful.

Once or twice a week they, take Brian down to the township to have a meal, a change from the hospital food, at a local cafe.  Brian, as usual, has won over the staff. He always was a "cool dude" and obviously has not lost his charm.  He might just have a piece of fish or chips etc which of course has to be cut up for him.

Just thought I should get this to you as soon as I can and before tomorrow.

Kindest regards to all,

Bruce
Fort Thurgoona - which is in NSW - the best side of the Mighty Murray