G’day all,

Sad news just in on the passing today (Sunday, 15th Nov 2009)  of fellow Team member 52744 WO2 Glenn Scally RAINF who served with AATTV in South Vietnam from Jun 65 to Jan 66 .  Glenn served with 2/5 ARVN, Quang Ngai then 5th SFG A-107 Tra Bong. He also served with 3RAR from Feb to Oct 71.

No further details are known at present but will be advised once known.

May he Rest In Peace,

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

G,day all,

A Service to celebrate the life of Glenn Scally of Hilton will take place in the East Chapel of FREMANTLE Cemetery on FRIDAY, 20th November 2009.

Assemble at the main entrance of the Cemetery, Carrington Street, Palmyra at 1.30pm.

At the conclusion of the Service, the cortege will proceed to the Graveside for a Burial Service.

Donations in lieu of flowers to the Vietnam Veterans Counselling Service, GPO Box 9998, Perth WA 6001, would be appreciated.

Medals to be worn.

Please pass condolence messages to Tony Thorp, President AATTV WA Branch on email: tonythorp@westnet.com.au

May he Rest In Peace,

Take care and Persevere,

Rick
 

G’day all,

Message in on the passing on fellow Team Member Capt later Col George ‘Jock’ David IRVINE RAINF who served with AATTV in South Vietnam from 14 Aug 63 at Duc MY Ranger Training Centre, Chief General Subjects. Feb 64 Chief Tactics Committee. Mar 64 Chief Basic Ranger Committee. Jun 64 1st SFG A-224 An Diem and from Jul to Nov 64, 1st SFG A-412B A Ro, both Quang Nam.

Apologies for the late notification.   Funeral details are listed below.

Our deepest and sincerest condolences go out the family and friends of Jock.  May he Rest In Peace.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick
 

From: BOB HASLETT [mailto:b0bett@bigpond.net.au]
Sent: Sunday, 18 October 2009 3:23 PM
Subject: Fw: VALE - Jock Irvine

Hi all Just received this info through the MP network.

Bob Haslett
 

Subject: VALE - Jock Irvine

- VALE -

235110   Colonel George David William (Jock) Irvine
13 June 1933   -   13 October 2009

Jock Irvine passed away on Tuesday 13 Oct 09 at the age of 76 years.
Jock was a Duntroon Graduate and RA Inf Officer who transferred to
RACMP as a LTCOL to take up the position of DMP / PM-A.  He transferred
to RACMP in 1976 and served as DMP / PM-A until 1979.   In 1979,
Jock was promoted to Colonel and posted as Military Attaché to the
Philippines.   He served in Vietnam with AATTV from August 1963 till
November 1964.

Funeral Details are as follows :-

Date / Time :   Tuesday 20 October 2009.   1445 hrs.

Location :   East Chapel, Northern Suburbs Memorial Gardens and Crematorium,
                    199 Delhi Road,   North Ryde.   NSW.

Condolences may be sent to :   Mrs Jennie Irvine & Family
                                                    17 Valerie Avenue
                                                    Chatswood West   NSW   2067
 
 

Please read the following email from Mick Malone in relation to Ray Simpson VC, DCM of AATTV fame.

If you have any photograph, anecdotes etc on Simmo then please contact Mick at malones@wn.com.au

Postal details are also included below for fowarding on any information etc you may wish to send.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

From: Imprimatur Books [ mailto:malones@wn.com.au]
Sent: Friday, 18 September 2009 3:44 PM
To: Rick Ryan
Cc: Pete Lutley; Dave Lewis
Subject: Re: Noel Dudgeon & Ray Simpson

G'day Rick,

Members of our Association are taking on the 'RAY SIMPSON VC, DCM Biography Project' - a project long overdue for one of our most highly decorated soldiers since Albert Jacka. Peter Lutley, ex WO1 SASR is undertaking the bulk of the research and data collection and I will be editing the final product. We are calling on organisations such as yours to assist if possible with stories, photos and anecdotes etc of Simmo (we also have access to Brian Kelly's archive at the AWM in which there are many letters etc from AATTV members). I don't mind doubling up. The project will hopefully be funded by grants from Army History Unit, DVA and the RSL and other interested organisations. Private sponsorship will also be sought.

So, could I ask you to put out a note on your AATTV network letting people know what we're doing and my email address for anyone who may wish to assist.

I'll see you at Roy Weir's funeral on Tuesday?

Cheers

Mick Malone
PO Box 695
MUNDARING WA 6073
Ph 0892953911
Mob 0417964530

G'day all,

Fellow Team Member, Noel Dudgeon is now out of hospital but still facing a battle with his illness.

I am sure those Team members that know Noel will follow the request from his wife Anne and send him a card.  SAS Association here in the West send their regards to Noel and wish him a speedy recovery.  They do remember him from his days as 2IC of the Regt.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick
 

From: Peter Conway [mailto:plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au]
Sent: Friday, 18 September 2009 9:09 AM
To: Bernie McGurgan; Rick Ryan
Cc: Barry Silk; Des Ford; kaynmar@tpg.com.au
Subject: Noel Dudgeon

Hi Bernie and Rick

I received a note that from Bruce Davies recently advising that Noel Dudgeon had been very ill in hospital, however he was now home and on the improve.
Today I received a note from Noel's wife Anne saying that he was still battling a serous illness. Noel has specifically asked that we convey his best regards to our Team members who may remember him; I'm sure there are many.

Perhaps a few cards from mates of days gone by might cheer him up ..

Contact details are:

Address: 9 Crowley Rd
HEALESVILLE
Vic 3777

G’day all,

Roy Weir, BEM of Nollamara passed away on 14th September 2009 at Hollywood Private Hospital, Western Australia.

Funeral service for Roy will be as follows:

Funeral Cortege will arrive at PINNAROO Valley Memorial Park Chapel, Whitfords Avenue, Padbyry on Tuesday, 22nd September 2009 at 1100hrs for a Cremation Service.
No flowers by request.
Medals to be worn.

May he Rest In Peace,

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

G’day all,

Sad news just in from Tony Thorpe, President AATTV Association WA Branch on the passing of WO2 R. (Roy) L. Weir, BEM RAINF who served with AATTV in South Vietnam for three tours of duty.  Exact details of Roy’s passing are not known at present but will be advised once received.

Roy’s first tour of duty commenced on 3 Aug 1962 to 6 Jun 63 at Swamp Camp, Duc My Ranger Training Centre, small boat handling and watercourse operations. Oct 62 visited 20 Special Battalion (Ranger), Kontum area. Second tour of duty from 26 Mar 66 to May 66, Nung Force, Danang and from Aug 66 to 14 Mar 67 approximately National Police Field Force commander Nung guards, Trai Mat, near Dalat. On his third and final tour of duty from 2 Apr 68, B-36 Long Hai. Apr-Nov 68,  Van Kiep, LRRP Wing, Phuoc Tuy and from Dec-68 to Feb 69 as Training Officer, 2 MSF B-20 5th SFGA, Pleiku.  Roy Weir was wounded-in-action on 16 Feb 69, Kontum and medically evacuated. Roy also served in WWII, BCOF and Korea.

Roy Weir was awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for his service in South Vietnam on his first tour of duty.  His citation reads as follows:

Army Number:                       52636
Rank:                                       Warrant Officer Class Two
Christian Name:                     Roy Leslie
Surname:                                WEIR
Honour or Award:                 BEM

Sergeant Roy Leslie Weir served with the 1st Recruit Training Battalion from April to December 1953 when he joined the 1st Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment in January 1954 to March 1955 and served in Korea.  From April 1955 to September 1957, he was an instructor with 17th National Service Battalion and he served with the 1st Special Air Service Company from September 1957 until he joined the Australian Army Training Team in Vietnam on 3 August 1962.
Sergeant Roy Leslie Weir at the Ranger Training Centre, Duc My, acted as a Warrant Officer Adviser of the Swamp Camp in the Jungle, Swamp, Mountain Warfare School from 3 August 1962 to 17 June 1963.  He was responsible for many improvements in the Swamp Camp particularly in small boat handling and waterborne operations.  His advice, example and close supervision in the care and maintenance of the small boats helped train the Vietnamese instructors and gave them a proper appreciation in this vital area.  His determination, attention to duty and his fine sense of leadership in training the Demonstration Platoons of the Ranger Training Centre made them an outstanding success.
Sgt Weir’s purposeful, calm and diplomatic approach gained the admiration of both the United States advisers and the Vietnamese instructors.  His professional knowledge and his devotion to duty reflected great credit on the Australian Army.

Roy will be sadly missed by fellow Teams mates. Funeral details will be advised once known.  Condolence messages can be passed through Tony Thorpe AATTV on email:
tonythorp@westnet.com.au

May he Rest-In-Peace,

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

G’day all,

Sad and belated news on the passing of one of our own, 23808 WO2 (later WO1) Edward ‘Ted’ Hugh Graham RAE aged 80 years, who served with AATTV in South Vietnam from Sep 64 – Nov 64 with 1st SFG, Team A-414 A Ro western Quang Nam then Dec 64 – May 65 with CSD-CIA paramilitary, Ridge Camp, Vung Tau, demolition instructor.

Ted also had four (4) official visits to South Vietnam during 1969 – 70.  He will be sadly missed by all Team members. I remember him from my military days.

Condolence messages can be sent to Bruce Davies AATTV on email: bruce.davies@tpg.com.au

Funeral arrangements will be at Cordell Chapel Fawkner Crematorium on Monday, 24th August 2009 commencing at 1430 hrs.

May he Rest In Peace,

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

From: John R Howard [mailto:john.howard6@bigpond.com]
Sent: Sunday, 23 August 2009 2:44 AM
To: advisor@echidna.id.au
Subject: "VALE" 23808 WO1 EDWARD HUGH GRAHAM AATTV 23/8/64 to 24/5/65
G' day Rick,

It's my sad duty to inform you that 23808 WO1 EDWARD HUGH GRAHAM AATTV died suddenly at home [in Melb]on the 18/8/2009. His passing was in the H'Sun newspaper 20/8/09 [page76] aged 80yrs.

Funeral arrangements are in the hands of BELL Funeral Services Melb. And will be at the Cordell Chapel Fawkner Crematorium on Monday 24 Aug, commencing at 2.30pm.

Your comrade was a member of the Watsonia RSL, sorry about the late notice unfortunately my health in the past couple of weeks kept me away from the papers and I missed his entry.

John H

Regards,

John R Howard
Malaya, Borneo, Vietnam

Funeral details for Rob Harris AATTV as sent by Ian Hodgson AATTV are detailed below.

Please pass all condolence message for the family of Ron through Ian on email: ednahodgson@bigpond.com

May Rob Rest In Peace,

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

From: Edna Hodgson [mailto:ednahodgson@bigpond.com]
Sent: Wednesday, 19 August 2009 2:49 PM
To: advisor@echidna.id.au
Subject: Re: A soldier died today

Dear Rick,
                      Rob Harris Funeral Details.

              Rob's Service is to be held on 31st Aug 2009 at 2pm   The service will be at the Pulteney Grammer School.   190 South Terrace, Adelaide  S.A.
 

G’day all,

Sad news on this Vietnam Veterans Commemorative Services Day (Long Tan Day) 18th August 2009 of the passing of  fellow Team member WO2 (later WO1) Robert (Rob) George Harris RAAC, AATTV.

Rob served with AATTV in South Vietnam from Aug – Nov 64 with2nd ARVN Division, Quang Nam and from Dec 64 – May 65 with 1st Division Panther Company, Hue.

As Ian Hodgson, President of AATTV Association SA Branch states below, Rob had been fighting illness for a long time and now may he Rest In Peace.

Our deepest and sincerest condolences go out to the family or Rob Harris.

Funeral details will be advised once known.  Condolence messages can be passed to Ian Hodgson on email: ednahodgson@bigpond.com

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

From: Edna Hodgson [mailto:ednahodgson@bigpond.com]
Sent: Tuesday, 18 August 2009 1:46 PM
To: advisor@echidna.id.au
Subject: Vale.

Dear Rick,
                Vale. A Soldier Died Today.
                     Wo1 R Harris passed away this afternoon. 18th Aug 2009.He had been fighting  illness for a long time.
                     Rob was a great Team Member and did a lot for the S.A,Branch.
                     At this time his Funeral Service details are not available.  Messages for the family can be passed through me.     Rob will be missed by all of us.
                                                                                Ian Hodgson
 
 

G'day all,

Good to see Vic is out of hospital and on the mend.  At least he can get to his keyboard to keep us advised of his progress.  I can sympathise with Vic when it come to back pain.  Like a 'bear with a sore tooth' when one can not get around to do the normal things in life.

You can email Vic on: vpennton@bigpond.com

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

From: Vic Pennington [mailto:vpennton@bigpond.com]
Sent: Friday, 14 August 2009 9:00 AM
Subject: Update!

Hi there gang!   I am back from hospital. What started off as a routine operation finished up a 3 ½ hour work of art. I was going in for a bone graft to L3 and L4 in the lumbar region but due to the effects of the injury I finished up with 2 holes in both vertebras and plates, nuts and bolts with a metal cage to replace the disk between them. I am very sore and I am not allowed to walk anywhere except around the house till the 19th Aug. I can’t drive for 6 weeks which is a bummer. Getting bored out of my mind. I am getting more movement back but the pain has to be handled by pain killers. It is just a matter of time I suppose. Seeing the surgeon on the 19th . Will keep you informed of my progress.
Keep healthy,
Vic

G’day all,

It is my sad duty to inform you of the passing today of fellow Team member and  mate Cpl (later WO2) Terence 'Terry' James Whitwam RAINF AATTV.  I have been notified that Terry passed away peacefully at 0545hrs Perth time today the 6th August 2009.  As advised in previous messages Terry had fought a gallant battle against cancer over the past several years.

Terry served in South Vietnam on his first tour of duty with 9 RAR from 4 Nov 68 to 26 Nov 69.  His second tour of duty was with AATTV with MATT in Phuoc Tuy Province from May to Oct 71 and with HQ AATTV Saigon from Nov 71 to Jan 72. From Feb 72 Terry served with AAAGV.

Terry also served as Secretary of AATTV Association WA Branch for some time and also as a Committee member.  He also played an important part in raising funds for our 40th Anniversary Reunion held here in Perth.  He will be missed by us all.

To Jill, his stalwart wife and his family, we offer our sincerest condolences and deepest sympathies at this time.

Funeral details will be advised once known.

Please pass email condolence messages through Ed Harkin on: monty2@tadaust.org.au

Address for Jill Whitwam is:

9 The Crest
Lake Ridge
Jandakot WA  6164

Telephone: 0894148453

May he Rest In Peace,

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

G’day all,

Tony Thorp, President AATTV Association WA Branch has advised the funeral service for Terry Whitwam AATTV is to be held on Wednesday, 12th August 2009 at the Fremantle Crematorium

Time: 1400hrs

Location: Cnr Carrington Street and Leach Highway, Fremantle

Medals to be worn.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

G’day all,

Sad news just in from Ian Hodgson AATTV on the passing on 22nd July 2009 of fellow Team member, WO2 C. ‘Dave’ D. Dermody RAINF.  Dave served with AATTV in South Vietnam from Sep 66 – May 67 with 2/5 ARVN Bn 2nd Division Quang Ngai, May 67 – Aug 67, Mobile Guerrilla Force, Danang. On his second tour of duty, Dave served from Feb – Jul 70 with 2/51 ARVN, Mieu Bong near Danang, Aug – Oct 70 at Ranger Training Centre, Duc My and Nov – Dec 70 with NOAT, Cho Gao, Dinh Tuong, IV Corps.

As stated by Ian Hodgson, President AATTV Association SA Branch below, Dave had been ill for a quite some time.  However, we were well advised of his condition and his great community spirit with fellow veterans.  He will be sadly missed by Team members and our sincerest condolences go out to his family and friends.

Funeral details will be advised once known.  Condolence messages may be sent via Ian Hodgson on email: ednahodgson@bigpond.com

May he now Rest In Peace.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

From: Edna Hodgson [mailto:ednahodgson@bigpond.com]
Sent: Thursday, 23 July 2009 7:40 AM
To: advisor@echidna.id.au
Subject: Vale

From Ian Hodgson  S.A.

                                Vale: A soldier died Wednesday 22nd July 2009.  WO2 C.D (Dave) Dermody passed away in the Port Augusta Hospital yesterday after a long illness. Prior to his passing,Dave spent the last few years in a full care nursing home.
                                          Dave served in the Team during 1966 and 1970.

Take care Rick

Entry Date: 17th July 2009

Sad and belated news on the passing of one of our fellow Team members WO2 Colin ‘Col’ Francis Keioskie RAASC on the 24th April 2009.  Col served with AATTV in South Vietnam from October 1965 at Hoi An sub-sector, Quang Nam and then HQ AATTV Saigon to end March 1967. On his second tour of duty with AATTV he served from Jul 1968 until Jan 1969 with 2/51 ARVN Danang, Feb – Apr 1969 HQ AATTV Saigon and from May 1969 to Feb 1970 with 2/51 ARVN Danang/Mieu Bong, Quang Nam.

Colin had kept a relatively low profile over these past years but those of us that knew him from our Army days will no doubt miss him greatly.

Once again it is sad to hear late news on the passing of one of our own and I trust that Col is now Resting In Peace.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

Sent: Friday, 17 July 2009 7:58 AM
To: Recipient list suppressed:
Subject: Passing Of Team member Colin Keioskie

Good Morning Rick and Bernie

Some belated news regarding the passing of Team member Colin Keioskie .

I received a mssage through Rick Ryan yesterday that Col Kieoskie had passed away. I have this morning spoken to Col's sister Sherree and she has confirmed that Col passed away on the 24th April 2009.

We last saw Col on ANZAC Day two years ago when he marched and had lunch with us. Although Col kept a very low profile his passing still comes as a shock. His remains were interred at Sarina (Qld) cemetery.

MAY HE REST IN PEACE

Coule you please distribute and thank you

Peter

Back at home base after two and a half months of travel around the Eastern states.  Messages below relate to events that have occurred whilst I have been travelling.  Thankfully with the help of Peter Conway, Bernie McGurgan, Bruce Davies and Oliver Moon messages have been passed along to our email contacts.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

G'day all,

Information received from Henry Chisholm and Bob Buick on the current health of fellow Team member, Jock Rutherford is below.

Contact details for Jock are as follows:

Rutherford R B & S A
538 Alice St
Maryborough QLD 4650
Telephone: (07) 4121 0998

Team members on the National Emailing List have been advised.  I trust that Jock is on the road to recovery. It certainly look like our veteran mates are looking after him.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

From: Bob Buick
To: 'Henry Chisholm'
Cc: Rick Ryan
Sent: Saturday, June 27, 2009 3:26 PM
Subject: RE: Keeping in touch.Jock Rutherford

I never knew he was crook.

Rick, Boyd  ‘Jock’ we Rutherford was AATTV (MATT) about 1970/71 you might be interested, he served with Bravo 6, 66-67 and awarded the MM for his action during Op Hobart, he was the 1st to be decorated in the battalion to my knowledge. He lost his son in a vehicle crash in Johore, I think the son was with 4RAR, I am not sure where is now residing Henry Chisholm might know.

Bob Buick

We thought we would bring you up todate with what is happening with Jock.

The Neurologist and speech pathologist both recomended a special computer called a Litewriter for Jock.It is only small with a reverse screen and keyboard and is light to carry around.

His speech has deteriated a lot and he can't carry a conversation, just odd words.

This Primary progressive aphasia is quite rare. It is only his speech that is effected thankgoodness. It is a cruel disease. He gets very frustrated as you can imagine.

Anyway we applied to Vet. Affairs and the application was rejected. They didn't deem it war caused.They couldn't find a link to their statement of policies.. We got on to the local Advocate recomended by our Doctor; he has been very helpfull but had no joy either. As it happens he is the President of the Maryborough RSL. So he approached the committee and they decided to buy the Litewriter for Jock. The Advocate rang a week ago and gave us the news. We thought it was absolutely wonderful that they would do that. We were going to buy it ourselves. They said if we can't help our own then there is something wrong. Anyway it was ordered and he got it last Friday and is learning all the features on it and getting used to it. It is going to make a big difference to his life especially, when we are in company he will be able type on it what he wants to say and start a conversation and feel more a part of what is going on.

Hope you are all going well and hope to catch up sometime in the future.

Take care.        Shirley and Jock.

G'day all,

Message below from daughter Toni on the current health situation of Alan Bone AATTV.  Bruce Davies AATTV Vic Branch has been notified as have Team members on the Team Emailing List.

We trust that Alan is now coping alright.  Messages can be passed via Toni on email: ppodbury@bigpond.net.au

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

From: Peter Podbury [mailto:ppodbury@bigpond.net.au]
Sent: Friday, 26 June 2009 8:40 AM
To: advisor@echidna.id.au
Subject: re Alan Bone AATTV

Hi Rick...Alan Frisby suggested I drop a line saying that Dad, Alan Bone, isn't travelling all that well at the moment.
We just went through an horrific experience with a private hospital here in Geelong and with the Veteran's Liasion Officer which saw Dad being buffeted around.
Fortunately I am in the position (Welfare Chairperson, Geelong RSL) to jump up and down and make some noise so this never happens to a veteran again!
Dad is now home with support and services to help.
Cheers
Toni Podbury
(Daughter)

Sad news on the passing of Merle Ford wife of fellow Team member, Des Ford.

Our sincerest condolences to Des and the family on this very sad occasion.

May Merle Rest In Peace,

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

From: Peter Conway [mailto:plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au]
Sent: Wednesday, 17 June 2009 9:13 AM
To: Rick Ryan; Bernie McGurgan; Australian Army Training Team Vietnam Association Qld; Darcy Dugan

Subject: Passing of Merle Ford

Good Morning Rick and Bernie and Darcy

Some very very sad and distressing news has just come to hand .

I have just received a phone call from Don Lord advising that Merle Ford wife of our member and welfare officer has passed away this morning'

It is indeed a very very sad day for the Ford family, and Des's many friends in the various military associations.

Would appreciate it if you could disseminate this message through your respective nets.

My Merle Rest in Peace.

I will advise further arrangements as they come to hand.

Regards

Peter

Funeral details for Merle Ford are as follows

Date Monday:                22nd June
Time:                               1130 AM
Venue:                            Albany Creek Crematorium
                                        400 Albany Creek Rd
                                        Bridgeman Downs
Funeral Director:           Anton Brown

Family notice will appear in tomorrow's (Friday's)  Courier Mail

Regards and Keep Safe

Peter

News below from Peter Conway AATTV Qld Branch on the current health status of Ray Barnes DCM, AATTV.

Sounds like Ray has been a few hurdles of late and we wish him all the best on the road to recovery.

Messages can be passed through Peter Conway on email: plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

From: Peter Conway [mailto:plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au]
Sent: Wednesday, 17 June 2009 8:12 AM
To: Darcy Dugan
Cc: Rick Ryan; Bruce Davies; Bernie McGurgan

Subject: RAY Barnes DCM

Hi Darcy

Mate this AM I had a call from Bill Parry and from what Bill tells me I can give you the latest on Ray Barnes.

Bill tells me Ray is currently in the Rehabilitation Wing of the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital which is located in Herston Road Herston.

He has been there for some time following complications after an operation which left him in a coma for some three weeks.

Once I have confirmation that Ray is well enough to receive visitors I will arrange for one of our AATTV Welfare Officers to visit him

Bill also is of the opinion that Ray is still living at Hendra. I have an address, however I will wait until such time as Bill confirms with Ray and his wife Audrey that it is correct.

I will further advise once this confirmation comes through.

Please thank all from the RAR Association and various Battalions for their help and concern about Ray.

Regards and Keep Safe

Peter

G’day all,

Sad news received from the West on the passing on 25th June 2009 of WO2 George Lawrence AATTV who served with The Team in South Vietnam 1965/66.  George served with 4/3 ARVN, 1st Division, I Corps and was medically evacuated as NBC in Feb 1966.

George lived in Sydney and funeral details will be advised once known.

Please pass any condolence messages to Oliver Moon, President of AATTV WA Branch on email: ocm@starwon.com.au

Our sincerest condolences to the family and friends of George.  May he Rest In Peace.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

Original Message-----
From: Oliver Moon [mailto:ocm@starwon.com.au]
Sent: Friday, 26 June 2009 10:42 AM
To: AATTV WA
Subject: VALE: GEORGE LAWRENCE

WA TEAM MEMBERS ON EMAIL:  Per advice by Al Bacon, it is my sad duty to have
to inform you of the passing of GEORGE LAWRENCE overnight in Sydney.
Although George resided in Sydney and we didn't get to see him much he
remained a member of our Branch of the AATTVA Association.

Our Secretary, John Riley, is arranging to place a notice of George's
passing in The West Australian.

Regards

Oliver Moon, President
Australian Army Training Team Association WA
08-9250 3549

Sad news was received on the passing of Sandra Wallner on 2nd July 2009. Messages, including funeral details were passed out on Team Emailing list via Bernie McGurgan.

Terrible thing to happen to one of our own and I am sure that all Team members pass their sincerest condolences to Dave on the passing of his soul mate.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

Gidday

Peter Conway has just advised me (1640 HR local time) of the passing of Sandra Wallner last night.

Sandra was the wife of Team Member Dave Wallner who served with AATTV during 1964 and 1967!

Our sincere sympathies  go to the Wallner family and may Sandra Rest in Peace.

Persevere
Bernie McGurgan
CAPALABA QLD 4157

Good Morning Bernie

A Celebration of the life of Sandra wife of Dave Wallner are as follows.

Date             Wednesday 8th July 2009
Time             1000 AM
Place            Mt Gravatt Crermatorium Chapel within the Cemetery Grounds
                    Mains Road
                    Mt Gravatt Qld

Funeral Director Anton Brown
 

For those who may wish to send cards or messages of condolence Dave's address is

513 Lyndale & Cheviot Streets
GREENBANK
QLD 4124

Regards

Pierre

Messages below relate to the hospitalisation of Ron Crewe AATTV and his subsequent discharge from hospital.

Ron would appear to now be recuperating at home.  His contact details are as follows:

The home address for Ron and Winsome is:
2 “Ankatel Gate,”
2a Doodson Court, Eltham, VIC  3095   Telephone: 03-9431 1671

Information on Ron's health problems was disseminated to Team members on the Email list.

I trust Ron is well on the road to recovery and wish him all the best.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick
 

Mon, 6 Jul 2009 09:39:43 +1000
From: "john alcock"
To: "'Geoffrey Stooke'
        "'Paul Asbury'"
Subject: RE: Ron Crewe
Date: Mon, 6 Jul 2009 09:45:27 -0700

Hi Paul & Geoff,  Ron called me yesterday.He is home but still very weak. I told him I had given the chaps a 'heads up' that he was in hospital.He thought some of the lads thought he had died but this rumor is obviously wrong as he was still under the impression he hadn't.They deained a large quantity of fluid from he and it helped a lot.All previous advice from Winsome should stand.Cards ,letters of support will help. Cheers to you both. John

From: Paul Asbury
To: Peter Conway
Sent: Tuesday, June 30, 2009 11:19 AM
Subject: Ron Crewe is very ill

Peter,
I have just received some bad news on one of my 1967 OCS Portsea classmates, Ron Crewe RA Sigs.  Ron also served with AATTV 16 Apr - 9 Dec 1972.  I wonder if you could please pass on the heads-up to the AATTV organisation in Victoria?

Ron is VSI in hospital in Melbourne at:
Warringal Private Hospital
216 Burgundy Street
HEIDELBERG VIC 3084    phone: (03) 9274 1300
Strictly No Visitors  1.00 pm - 3.00 pm
Visitors are welcome daily between the hours of 3pm and 8pm.
The home address for Ron and Winsome is:
2 “Ankatel Gate,”
2a Doodson Court, Eltham, VIC  3095   phone: 03-9431 1671
Regards,
Paul Asbury

G'day all,

Message below from Peter Conway AATTV on health of Ray Barnes AATTV was dated 29th June 2009. I have been away for the past two months but this message and other were disseminated via our Team emailing list.

I trust by now that Ray is well on the road to recovery.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

Good Morning All

I have just spoken to Ray Barnes who has now been discharged from hospital. He is still very weak but is coming along quiet well, how ever he estimates that it will be another two to three months before he is back to his normal self. To quote Ray he said "the only thing I have lost is a little bit of hair on the top of my head".

Ray has given authorisation for the release of his contact details which are:

Address: 1/124 Manson Road
HENDRA
QLD 4011

Phone (07) 3268 3555

He has no objection whatsoever to visitors and would appreciate some of his old mates calling in to say hello.

Regards and keep safe

Peter Conway 

Team Member in Poor Health G’day all,

Message below came in from Bob Buick on the current status of one of our fellow Team Members – Jock Rutherford.

It sounds like he has been and is having a rough time at present.  Email address for Jock and Shirley is: boydan@bigpond.com

Mailing address for Shirley and Jock.
Rutherford R B & S A
538 Alice St
Maryborough QLD 4650

Telephone: (07) 4121 0998

We trust that at least Jock with the new device will help with his communication processes.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

From: Henry Chisholm [mailto:hch87003@bigpond.net.au]
Sent: Saturday, 27 June 2009 15:18

Subject: Fw: Keeping in touch.Jock Rutherford

From Shirley. So sad with this disease.
Henry
Subject: Keeping in touch.

We thought we would bring you up todate with what is happening with Jock.

The Neurologist and speech pathologist both recomended a special computer called a Litewriter for Jock.It is only small with a reverse screen and keyboard and is light to carry around.

His speech has deteriated a lot and he can't carry a conversation, just odd words.

This Primary progressive aphasia is quite rare. It is only his speech that is effected thankgoodness. It is a cruel desease. He gets very frustrated as you can imagine.

Anyway we applied to Vet. Affairs and the application was rejected. They didn't deem it war caused.They couldn't find a link to their statement of policies.. We got on to the local Advocate recomended by our Doctor; he has been very helpfull but had no joy either. As it happens he is the President of the Maryborough RSL. So he approached the committee and they decided to buy the Litewriter for Jock. The Advocate rang a week ago and gave us the news. We thought it was absolutely wonderful that they would do that. We were going to buy it ourselves. They said if we can't help our own then there is something wrong. Anyway it was ordered and he got it last Friday and is learning all the features on it and getting used to it. It is going to make a big difference to his life especially, when we are in company he will be able type on it what he wants to say and start a conversation and feel more a part of what is going on.

Hope you are all going well and hope to catch up sometime in the future.

Take care.        Shirley and Jock.

---

Entry Date: 17th July 2009 A soldier died today

G'day all,

Sad news on the passing on 8th June 2009 of WO2 John 'Scoff'  J. Cootes RNZIR, who served with AATTV in South Vietnam 1970/71.  Scoff served from Oct 70 to Feb 71 with MATT 7 Ong Trinnh, Mar - Jun 71 with MATT 3, Long Dien and from Jul - Oct 71 with NAT 1/2 Bac Lieu and Dong Tam.

Out deepest and sincerest condolences go across the waters to New Zealand, to the family and friends of Scoff .

May he Rest In Peace,

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

Gentlemen,

It is regret and sadness that I inform you of the passing of John ( Scoff) Cootes ex V Coy RNZIR and NZTTV.  I believe that he would be known among AATTV members.

Cheers,

Kiwi Bovill
________________________________________
From: vcoy@yahoogroups.com [ mailto:vcoy@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Ross Himona
Sent: Tuesday, 9 June 2009 4:36 PM

Subject: [vcoy67] He Aitua: John Cootes

I have just spoken with Elaine Preston, Scoff's partner. Scoff passed away at home just over an hour ago. He was in good health and just keeled over. We don't know what the arrangements are yet but he might be staying at home tonight, and then to Turangawaewae Marae at Ngaruawahia tomorrow. If Ngati Toa arrive to tono for him he may then be taken to Otaki, but if not he will be interred on Taupiri Mountain. I'll let you know.

No reira e te rangatira John, kei te tangi atu au mo koe, e te tino hoa. Ahakoa kua mate kei te ora koe i roto i te manawa, mo ake tonu ake. No reira i tenei wa moe mai moe mai moe mai
Moe mai i te rangaimarie.

Therefore o chiefly one, John, I shed tears for you, best friend

Although you have passed you will live on in my heart forever
Rest in peace.

Ross Himona

From: vcoy@yahoogroups.com [ mailto:vcoy@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Ross Himona
Sent: Sunday, 14 June 2009 7:58 AM
To: vcoy@yahoogroups.com
Cc: cooteswhanau@xtra.co.nz
Subject: [vcoy67] Vale Scoff Cootes

Vale Scoff Cootes

Yesterday at Turangawaewae was one of the biggest veteran turnouts, not just our lot, but from Malaya 61-63, and from all the units he served with over his career. Won't list our lot because I always seem to miss a few but your presence was much appreciated by Elaine's and Scoff's whanau, those who came on Friday and yesterday. Maybe someone else can jog my memory. Also many Maori Affairs people Scoff worked with when he worked for (Lt Col) Sir Wira Gardiner for a few years after the Army, and a large contingent from Ngaruawahia community who universally admired and loved the man they knew as John Cootes. The 3 Auck & North RSM W01 Grant Payton was there with bugler, honour guard and firing party.

Turangawaewae people told me afterwards that was the first time in their memories that they'd had the military rituals as part of a tangihanga, on that most august marae, and they were a bit apprehensive at first but when they saw how Grant Payton (and myself) seamlessly fused the two kawa/protocols, marae and army, they were very happy with the result. So Scoff broke the ice there too, as he did throughout his whole life.

I do need to single out Bill Harris who arrived on Friday afternoon and stayed for the po whakamutunga (final night), the night of reminiscence and story telling, which did go on into the early hours of the next morning, and who backed me up as we told Scoff's five daughters, two wives, and the whole whanau the much embellished story of Scoff's service. They loved it. E Wiremu, tena koe. Our waiata was "Green Green Grass". Our whanau do seem a bit starved of information about our life of service, a life that says so much about who and what we are today, and why we are so close to this other Victor Company whanau that they know so little about, except that when we get together in two's or three's or more's it's as though we are living still in another time and in another unseen world. Scoff's whanau paid tribute to Victor Company, his much loved band of brothers.

At the service all of your emails and other messages were read by JJ, his youngest daughter, and the group of her close friends that Scoff adopted as his own. At the formal poroporoaki (farewell) before the service both Donny Merito and Richard Easton spoke and passed on messages they brought with them. Kia ora korua. JJ publicly thanked Victor Company for passing the bucket around at Tribute08 and raising a goodly sum to help send her to San Diego last year for her waka ama (Polynesian canoe) competitions.

Red, at Po Whakamutunga we made special mention of how immensely proud Scoff was to have served with NZATTV attached to AATTV in Viet Nam. He often talked to me about AATTV. In retrospect I can see now that he was making sure that I would pay tribute to them when the time came. Never left anything to chance. We told the whanau that he was hugely respected by the Australians he served with there. Following his strict instructions he was buried in his green AATTV jacket, and I put the AATTV cap badge and unit citations into his casket along with the RNZIR
badge. Red, could you please pass that on to your AATTV contacts.

The whanau thanks all of you who made it, and those who couldn't (including those of you I told to stay home and not to risk your own health) and thanks you for your messages of love, respect and condolence.

Scoff now rests on Taupiri Mountain, on State Highway 1 between Huntly and Ngaruawahia, on your left as you drive south, just over the railway line and up the hill a little, at the very northern end of the urupa (cemetery). As you drive by greet him with the whistle.

No reira te rangatira, E Scoff, ko tenei te mihi aroha, ko tenei taku mihi whakamutunga ki a koe, e te hoa, ko tenei hoki taku poroporoaki whakamutunga ki a koe, te rangatira.
Moe mai i te rangimarie, moe mai i roto i te aroha o to whanau, o nga hoa hoia hoki.
No reira haere, haere, haere atu ra.

And now O Chiefly One, Scoff, these are greetings of love, this is my final greeting to you, my friend, this is also my final farewell to you, Chief.
Rest in peace, in the love of your whanau and your comrades.
Farewell, farewell, farewell.

Vale.

Lest we forget

---

Entry Date: 17th July 2009 A soldier died today

G'day all,

Sad news in on the passing on 23rd May 2009 of WO2 Ian 'Ike' Charles Lever RASVY who served with AATTV in South Vietnam 1968/69.  Ike was unallotted Saigon Apr 68, May - Jul 68, Admin WO Saigon, Aug 68 - Feb 69, Admin WO, LRRP Wing, Van Kiep, Phuoc Tuy Province.

Our deepest and sincerest condolences go out to the family and friends of Ike Lever.

May he Rest In Peace,

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

From: E "Dutchy" Lensing [mailto:dlandbh@gmail.com]
Sent: Monday, 25 May 2009 6:59 PM
To: Lloyd Patterson; John R Howard; AATTV Association; Hervey Bay RSL Sub Branch; V.V.A.A Hervey Bay
Subject: DEATH OF 35751 IAN CHARLES "IKE" LEVER - RA SVY / AATTV - FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS

G'Day All,

With the early return of a daughter ex Bali, the funeral of Ian "Ike" LEVER will now take place on Thu 28 May 09 at 1030hr at St Joseph's Church, Bryant St, Hervey Bay, Qld. 4655 with a Requiem Mass, followed by interment in the Polson Cemetery, Corser St, Pt. Vernon about 1130hr. Following a graveside commital, Betty will offer light refreshments at midday either at the RSL or at another location (to be advised) for mourners attending.

Subject: Ian Charles "Ike" LEVER
 

It is with sadness that I advise you of the passing of 35751 WO1 Ian Charles "Ike" Lever, formerly of Wodonga, Vic, last night 23 May '09 at Hervey Bay Hospital in Qld.
"Ike" had been unwell for some time and had recently been diagnosed with Cancer and Leukaemia but Renal failure contributed to his demise.
"Ike" served with the Royal Australian Survey Corps and served in South Vietnam in the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam from 16/3/68 - 11/3/69.
"Ike" was a strong member and advocate of Legacy, Hervey Bay RSL Sub Branch, Tri-Service Hervey Bay and Vietnam Veterans Social Club until his health began to fail.
Cards etc can be sent to his widow Betty at 6 Haynes St, Pt Vernon, Qld. 4655.

Rest, old mate, your job is done!

Funeral Details will be advised when known.

Lest we forget

---

Entry Date: 17th July 2009

A soldier died today

From: Bernie McGurgan [mailto:hill55@vtown.com.au]
Sent: Wednesday, 20 May 2009 4:32 PM
To: Recipient list suppressed:
Subject: Vale: Lt Thomas T OGEE US Army (Team 1 Advisor 51st ARVN Regt 1970)

Gidday All
Sad news as below from WO Vic Pennington (AATTV) who served with Tom Ogee in the 3/51st ARVN Bn during the last six months of 1970!
For those of you with even worse memories than nine I enclose a photo of Tom and few other Advisors at the time!
From right to left in the pic are:Maj/Col (Rtd) Dale Prieser, 3rd Bn CO, BN XO, Lt Tom Ogee & other ARVN Bn Officers! Pic was taken to the north of Thuong Duc (Special Forces outpost) and where my very own 1/51st ARVN Bn  got into a huge contact with large numbers of NVA, around MAY/JUN 70 in those bloody great yahmas!
Vale Tom Ogee!
Pic courtesy of Dale Prieser! Thanks Dale!
Persevere
Bernie McGurgan (AATTV 1970/71)
Brisbane Australia

Hi Mates, on arrival back home I was hit with the news that my American counterpart had died after a 4 year struggle with cancer. Bernie you would remember him, Barry he was good friends with Frank Sykes, do you have contact with Frank?
Tom Ogee passed away aged 61. A ROTC officer he turned out to be a good soldier and understood the Viet plight in the ARVN.
Just let me know if you can contact Frank. Bernie if you wish I can resend Tom Ogee Junior’s email
Regards
Vic (PERSEVERE)

Lest we forget

---

Entry Date: 29th April 2009

G'day all,
 

News in that Eric 'Dusty' Miller AATTV has been and is in the wars with illness. Dusty served with AATTV 1965/66 att Quang Nam and Quang Ngai.

Dusty has had a bad time during the past year with heart surgery, hip replacement surgery and now Neurendocrine cancer of the liver in an aggressive form. The cancer is beyond operating and Dusty is on chemo. Results of the chemo will not be known for some weeks but there will be difficult times ahead.

I have no email address for Dusty or Elaine Miller but contact details are as below.

Postal Address: 351/60 Carlyle Gardens Beck Drive Condon Qld 4815

Telephone: 07 4773 3862

We trust Dusty and Elaine will be able to get through this latest battle.

Take care and Persevere,
 

Rick

G'day all,

Sad news received on the passing of WO2 Alfred (Alan) James Seal RAINF who served with AATTV in South Vietnam from Sep 64 to Dec 64, Duc My Ranger Training Centre, Ranger Unit Training. Jan - Feb 65, 1st SFG Team A-122, Gia Vuc, Quang Ngai. Mar-Apr 65, 1st SFG Team A-324, Ba To, Quang Ngai. May-Sep 65, 5th SFGA, C Team, Nung Company, Danang.

Alan also served from Feb-Apr 66, with 11th Ranger Battalion, AO to the South of Danang and from May-Sep 66, attached 1 ATF, CA duties.

I know all Team members would wish our sincerest condolences to be passed to family and friends of Alan Seal who had a most distinguished service career both here in Australia and in the United Kingdom.

Funeral details will be passed on once known. Condolence messages from Team members can be passed to Tony Thorp, Past President AATTV WA Branch on email: tonythorp@westnet.com.au

May he Rest-In-Peace,

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS:

Funeral arrangements for Alan Seal AATTV who passed away in Mandurah WA on the 14th April 2009 are as follows:

Memorial Service Location: Bowra & O'Dea, 2 Leslie Street, Mandurah. Closest intersection is Pinjarra Road.

Timing: 1330 hrs, 23rd April 2009.

Tony Thorp, Past President of AATTV WA Branch will recite the ode, representing both SASR and The Team.

Medals to be worn.

Following the service, drinks will available at the Mandurah Sub-Branch of the R&SL.

As Oliver Moon, President of AATTV WA Branch will be overseas, please pass any condolence message through Tony Thorp on email: tonythorp@westnet.com.au

Below is old news from 15th December as received from Peter Conway.  Those on the emailing list would have received the message but as I have been absent from home here for the past few months, the site has not been updated.

Sad to hear such news on one of our own.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

Hi Boys

I have just had a note from Don Palmer in which he says that Fred Callendar is in a nursing home  in Bundaberg. He is suffering from severe dementia and does not recognise his wife or any of the family. She mentioned that Fred does have visitors but does not recognise anybody.

Very sad.

Regards

Pierre

Sad news of the passing of fellow Team Member Maj Barry J. O'Neill who served with AATTV in 1971. Full funeral details will be advised once  known. Barry served with AATTC from January to February 1971 with JWTC, Nui Dat,March 71 at Baria, Phuoc Tuy Sector, 12 April 71 to July 71, DSA, Long Le and from August to December 71 at Xuyen Moc.

May he Rest In Peace,

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

From: "Len Avery" <lavery19@tpg.com.au>
To: "McGurgan Bernie - AATTV" <hill55@vtown.com.au>
Subject: Passing of Barry O'Neill RAA - Fixed Wing Instructor 16 ALA - AATTV

Good morning Bernie,

 I have received a call from one of our 161 (Indep) Recce Flt members  advising that Barry O'Neill passed away in his sleep late Thursday night or early Friday morning.

From the Vietnam Veteran's Nominal Roll Barry O'Neill served in Vietnam  with  the Australian Army Training Team from 07 January 1971 until 16 December 1971.

You may already be aware of Barry's passing however, if not I thought  you would like to know.

Barry was a member of the 11/56 Air Op Course conducted by 16 Air Op  Flight at RAAF Canberra between June and December 1956.

Barry O'Neill was an AOP pilot and a fixed wing instructor with 16 ALA at Amberley in the early 1960's and therefore trained a number of our  161 pilots.

I do not know when Barry left 16 ALA to return to Artillery however,  as of  01 January 1967 he was as the SORA 2 (Ops) with HQ RAA 3 Div.

Barry Joseph O'Neill was born at Marrickville in Sydney on 07 November  1934.

I have been advised that Barry's funeral will be held on Friday, 16  January, at the Garrison Church at The Rocks in Sydney however, at  this point in time we do not have any timings or other details
regarding the funeral.

May He Rest In Peace.

Regards
Len

Belated news on the passing of one of our NZ Team Members, Capt Richard M. Mountfort RNZIR who served with AATTV  from October 1970 to February 1971 at JWTC and with NAT 2, Dong Tam from March to October 1971.

May he Rest In Peace,

Rick

Sad News this Australia Day.

I have just been advised by Vic Pennington through Scoff Cootes in NZ that Richard Mountfort passed away in NZ on 14th October 2008.

Unsure of the date at this time but I will contact Red Beatson in NZ and I'm sure he will be able to give me the details.

I believe Richard died from cancer.

We were wondering why the Advisor we sent him in NZ was returned and it was only through follow up thatwe have learnt of his passing .

May He Rest In Peace.

Keep Safe and Persevere

Pierre

Always a sad when we have belated news of the passing of one of our members on 22nd February 2006.  Advice from Peter Conway - AATTV Qld Branch on the passing of WO2 Leslie (Jim) Arthur West RAINF who served with AATTV in RVN from Jul 69 to Dec 69 with 3/2 ARVN Dong Ha, 1st Division, Quang Tri and Jan - Jul 70 at HQ AATTV Saigon.

May he Rest in Peace,

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

Good afternoon Boys

I have just had a call from Mrs Christine COLEMAN advising of the passing of her husband Leslie Arthur (Jim) WEST.

Christine tells me Jim passed away on the 22nd February 2006.

For those who may have known Jim Christine now resides at Murwillumbah in NSW and her postal address is
PO Box 1049
MURWILLUMBAH NSW 2484

Please amend your records accordingly

I'm sure JIM rests well in peace

Regards

Peter

G'day all,

Don is not out of the woods yet from the message as passed from Bob Gibson via Bernei McGurgan.  We wish him well with these further tests and trust there is a positive outcome.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

Bernie & the "Team"
I just rang Daph mate and she said they have found a spot on Dons liver, yes he is home mate. Daph said he was going for more tests on the 4th next week
another light down his throat, also he has lots of blood tests to do. We just have to keep our fingers crossed digger. Im going to pop around and see
him tomorrow and will say "G'day for you and the rest of the boys who have asked about him from the "TEAM". Don didn't go out to the gun club yesterday
and in all the years ive known Donny he hasn't missed a Saturday shoot.

Duty First
Bob "Bomber"  Gibson
Australian Vietnam  Veteran
Gold Coast
Queensland
Australia

To: Rick Ryan
Subject: Update On Donny

G'day All
Good news ,Donny come home from hospital today. He has many more tests to do from home, but things at this stage are looking much brighter for Donny. In all they gave him 7 litres of blood,but still not sure where its coming from and where its going. I have copied and given Donny all your thoughtful messages and he said to thank you all. Im sure when he is well enough he will thank you himself. cheers
DUTY FIRST
Bob "Bomber"  Gibson
Australian Vietnam  Veteran
Gold Coast
Queensland
Australia

G'day
Update on Donny Palmer.
Don is having a colectomy  this morning both ends to see where all the bleeding is coming from,he was given more blood today,
We will know more by tomorrow. I  did print out your message and gave to Donny and he said to thank you all.
Cheers
Bob "Bomber"  Gibson
Australian Vietnam  Veteran
Gold Coast
Queensland
Australia

G'day all,

Message from Bob Gibson via Bernie McGurgan AATTV on the hospitalisation of fellow Team Member Don Palmer.

We all wish Don a speedy recovery.  Personal messages for Don can be emailed to Bob Gibson who will pass them on.  Email address is: gibbo.1968@bigpond.com.au

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

From: "Bob Gibson" <gibbo.1968@bigpond.com.au>
To: "Bernie" <hill55@vtown.com.au>
Subject: R.A.P
Date: Thu, 13 Nov 2008 18:28:27 +1000
 

Bernie
Don Palmers wife Daph just rang me they put Donny into hospital today, he has been unwell for a while, they are doing tests and I will keep you informed digger, he is in Alamanda private hospital on the Gold Coast. cheers
Bob "Bomber"  Gibson
Australian Vietnam  Veteran
Gold Coast
Queensland
Australia

Sad and late news on the passing on 4th November 2008 of Cpl Terrence George Fitzgerald RAAMC who served with AATTV from 7 Aug 70 to Nov 70 with MATT 6 in Hoa Long, Dec 70 to Feb 71 iwth MATT 15, Long Son Island, Mar and Apr 71  with MATT 6 Hoa Long and from May to Jul 71 with MATT Phuoc Tuy.  Terry also served with 8th Fd Amb from 24 Oct 67 to 6 Aug 68.

A member of the WA Branch of AATTV he will be sadly missed and I am sure all Team Members would wish to pass on their condolences to family members.  Messages for the family can be passed via John Riley, Secretary of AATTV Branch on email: jhriley@tpg.com.au

Funeral details are as follows:

The Funeral Cortage for the late Mr Terry (Fitzy) Fitzgerald of Willagee will assemble at the Main Entrance, FREMANTLE Cemetery for a Cremation Service at 1.00pm MONDAY, (10.11.2008).

No flowers by request, donations in lieu to the Cancer Foundation.

CHIPPERS Understanding Funerals MYAREE 08 9330 6344

Medals to be worn.

May he Rest In Peace

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

Sad news from Peter Conway AATTV Qld Branch on the passing of fellow Team Member, WO2 Brian (Paddy) Morrow RAINF.  Paddy served from 05 Aug 1971 to Nov 71 with NOTT 2 Dong Tam, Dec 71 with AATTV Training Group, Vung Tau and from Jan to Aug 72 with Phuoc Tuy Training Battalion.

Good Morning all

Some sad news from Theo Morrow. His brother Brian (better known as Paddy )  and our fellow Team member passed away last evening (4th November 2008) in the Phillipines.

We are unsure of funeral arrangements at this time.IF they come to hand will advise when known.

MAY HE REST IN PEACE

Theo can be contacted at
15 Rickwood Street
CARINA QLD 4152
 

{Phone  (07) 3166  8910/ (07) 3910 6500

Regards

Pierre

Entry Date: 6th November 2008
 
 

G'day all,

Information is being sought from Maj Jack Thurgar - Department of Defence (Army) into the RAAF MIA as detailed below.  Any details can be passed to Jack Thurgar on email: jack.thurgar@defence.gov.au

Of interest, it should be noted that Jim Bourke AATTV and Operation Aussies Home were the real instrument into locating three of the four Army MIA.  It was only after their successes that the Department of Defence really got involved and located the last MIA.

Hopefully, sometime in the future, the two airmen will be located and brought back home.

This information has also been sent to our US of A allies.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

Australia had four soldiers and two airman listed as MIA from the Vietnam War. Army has  repatriated its four soldiers and brought them home.

Air Force has now asked the Army investigative team to help them find their two man crew from a Canberra Bomber aircraft (a/c)  very similar to a a B-57, which was lost in Nam Giang District, Quang Nam Province ( approx. 65km south-west of Da Nang) on the night of 3 Nov 1970. (2022 hours local).

 The Last Known Position (LKP) of the a/c was about 17km due West of now Thanh My town (formerly known as My Hiep).  The a/c had completed its bomb run, received voice confirmation of the target details from the Milky operator located at Phu Bai (near Da Nang) and had turned for home when all contact and radar trace of the a/c was lost. The Milky operator stated that the bombing mission had been in support of 1 ARVN. (voice tape transcript)

I need to establish if the Milky operator meant 1 ARVN Division or 1 ARVN Regiment. There is a big difference. It appears from records kept that 1 ARVN Divsion was North of the 16th parallel and this mission was flown just South of the 16th parallel as at Nov 1970.

Additionally, can anyone comment on whether the 2 ARVN Division was located below the 16th parallel on the 3 Nov 1970?

I also believe the 1st US Marine Division operated in Quang Nam province in Nov 1970. Can anyone give me feedback on that.

Given that the area of the LKP of the a/c was in the West of Quang Nam province, in a remote mountainous region, it seems more likely that the target which was reportedly a 'known enemy position' may have been called in by LRRP, CIDG or SF team. In this case I need to determine who called in the mission.

I would really like to talk to by email or telephone  to  any of your members who served in Quang Nam Province who may know something of the  target acquisition,  crash ,  or of the finding of parts of a crashed a/c, or even of the reported finding of bodies, in the jungle from 1970 onwards. (there is always scuttlebutt after the event)

If you should learn of anyone who can help, can you please have them contact me either by email (Best Option) Email address is: jack.thurgar@defence.gov.au or by telephone on  +61 439 610 913 .  I will return their call if they give me their contact phone number.

Thank you very much.
regards

Jack Thurgar

Len Opie AATTV passed away on the 22nd September 2008.  The follow Ministerial Statment was read out in the South Australian Parliament on the 14th October 2008 and is worthy of inclusion on our site.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

Ministerial Statement
Major Leonard Murray Opie DCM RFD ED (RL)

Mr Speaker, I rise to bring to the notice of the House the passing of one of this state’s most famous military sons.

On Monday 22 September we lost Major Leonard Murray Opie DCM, RFD, ED.

With the artificial  heroics of modern entertainment and the sometimes loose interpretation of the word ‘hero’  in the sporting arena, it can come as a real surprise to realize that we have lived in the same community as a person who is a genuine war hero.

Len Opie was exactly that - but he was more - he was the epitome of the Australian infantrymen. That special breed of soldier that is called upon to seek out the enemy, to close with him and to kill or capture him.

To many who met Len in his later years he was a quiet, unassuming, even humble man. He was nevertheless one of this state’s greatest war heroes and we are all diminished by his passing.

Len was buried on 2 October. He was farewelled by two hundred of his family and friends, including Mr Keith Payne V.C., the last surviving Victoria Cross winner of the Vietnam War.
Keith Payne served with Len in the Australian Army Training Team.
Speaking on behalf of Len’s mates Mr Payne said that the Australian military family had lost one of its finest warriors.
Moreover South Australia, nay Australia, had lost one of its finest sons.

Len Opie was a soldier above soldiers - a true “man of Sparta”.

Len’s military career spanned some thirty years.
Interestingly (and a point of great pride for Len) is that all his service was rendered as a member of the Citizen Military Forces - the C.M.F as it was known.

Len was proud that his entire career, as distinguished as it was, was rendered as a South Australian citizen soldier.

He enlisted at age 18 in 1942 and saw service in World War 2 in Papua New Guinea.

After a short period out of uniform he re-enlisted for service in Korea.
He served with 3 R.A.R. and was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal.
 
 

Recently Len recounted the incident which led to that award.
He said “I was having a cup of cocoa in the morning when the platoon commander said “come on, we’re having a go at this hill’, “
The colonel added ‘I want you to nudge along but I don’t want you to get into any trouble’ “
Len laughed at the order realising that the task ahead was a difficult one. He then led his section up the heavily fortified Hill 614 and using grenades, an Owen sub-machinegun, and a .303 rifle and captured Chinese weapons he eliminated the enemy posts one-by-one.

Such was the mettle of the man.

Len went on to fight with 3 R.A.R.  in the Battle of Kapyong, the defining battle of that conflict

With Korea and subsequent service in Japan over Len was discharged, but it was not long before he re-enlisted in the C.M.F. and in 1965 he commenced fulltime duty with the Australian Regular Army.

Australia’s Commitment to the Vietnam War was just beginning and Len was to serve three years and five months in that theatre.
 He served with the Australian Army Training Team - our nation’s most decorated military unit.

I haven’t checked but I think that Len probably spent more time on active service in Vietnam than any other member of the Australian Army.

I note that in the recent history of the Australian Army Training Team in Vietnam Len Opie’s tasks were described as varied. From Province Reconnaissance Unit operations to training and operations in Vung Tau.
As the authors themselves said “Len Opie’s exploits deserve a book of their own”.

During the Vietnam War the Australian government policy was that no soldier could spend any more that two consecutive tours of twelve months in Vietnam, without a break outside the country.

To a professional soldier like Len this presented a problem - his life was professional soldiering and he wanted to live it at the “sharp end”.

Begrudgingly Len left Vietnam after two years but managed to have himself posted to the Kashmir/Pakistan border on what was at time euphemistically called “peace keeping duties.”

Len served as a “peacekeeper” for twelve months. He then returned to Australia briefly before being reposted to Vietnam where he rejoined the Training Team for another twelve month tour of duty.

Len Left Vietnam in April 1971 only a few months before Australia ceased operations in that war.

Len was promoted to the rank of Major in 1974 and was placed on the retired list on 23 December 1975.

Len’s military career was remarkable.

He fought in three wars.

He was decorated by three countries.

Under our award system he was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal which at the time was second only to the Victoria Cross in order of precedence.

He received honours and Awards from the United States of America including the, the Presidential Unit Citation, the Meritorious Unit Commendation the Bronze Star, and the Air Medal.
He received the Cross of Gallantry with palm from the Army of the Republic of Vietnam and the Cross of Gallantry (Divisional Level) from the Republic of Vietnam.

In over thirty years service Len saw active front line service facing the enemy for a full eight and a half years!

I doubt that few, if any Australian soldiers have ever equalled that level of service or sacrifice.

Len was true hero - a man of courage and tenacity in the mould of the original ANZACs.

He was a true warrior of the like we may never see again.

In retirement Len retained his interest in the military, being flown to Darwin only a few weeks ago to farewell the young men of 7 R.A.R. before they departed for Afghanistan.
They were privileged and Len felt likewise.
I understand he even tried to convince them to take him with them!

But for all that Len was a gentle man. In has latter years fond of model railways, endless cups of milky tea, his voluntary work at the Army Museum and his little dog Sally.

It is difficult to sum up a man such as Len Opie, but I was impressed with one sentence that seemed to say so much about him.

When asked why he went to war he said”

“It was the right thing to do”

The amazing creed of an amazing man.

In conclusion I wish to announce that the Government has donated $5,000 in honour of Len Opie to the Army Museum at Keswick Barrack.
The funds will be used to establish a Korean War exhibit as a tribute to Len.
His friends tell me he would have liked that.

On behalf of Len’s army mates I would like to conclude this statement by reciting the Ode of the Royal Australian Regiment in honour of Len Opie.

Rest ye, oh warrior,
you’ll battle no more,
no longer to live
the horrors of war.
Your duty was done,
With honour and pride
Farewell! Oh brother,
Until we march by your side.
 

Lest we forget

The report of the passing of WO2 Keith O. Smith AATTV in September has proven to be false. Keith was found alive and kicking in Seymour, Victoria and made it known that he was still around and had not gone to the great beyond.  Good news for a change.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

Update on Dave Dermody AATTV as kindly supplied by friend and mate, Bruce Henderson follows.  Messages can be passed to Dave through Bruce on email: brucehenderson1@bigpond.com
or if you wish to send Dave a card or a few lines to cheer him up, then here is his address:

C/- Nerrilda Nursing Home
71 Stokes Terrace
Port Augusta  S.A.  5700

Have a look at the newspaper clipping below as kindly sent to me from Bruce.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

From: Bruce Henderson [mailto:brucehenderson1@bigpond.com]
Sent: Thursday, 16 October 2008 7:23 PM
To: 'Rick Ryan'
G’day Rick,

Hope all is well.

Very sorry to learn of the passing of Len Opie, one mighty fine soldier.

Just to let you know that Dave Dermody is in hospital for some tests.  He comes down to the Mens Shed at Port Augusta each Wednesday and he and we enjoy each others company. He still has a wicked sense of humor and I’ve never heard him complain of his situation.  I’ll keep you posted on his health when he is happy for me to pass on any details.

Best regards.

Bruce

G'day all,

Some of the entries below are outdated due to my having no internet access for the past few months here at home.  Problems are now resolved and I have satellite so hopefully I will be back on the air.

Information was passed to those Team members on the emailing list by fellow Team Members, Peter Conway, Bruce Davies and Bernie McGurgan.

I trust George Lawrence is on the mend.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

From: John [mailto:jhriley@tpg.com.au]
Sent: Friday, 5 September 2008 1:10 PM
To: advisor@echidna.id.au
Cc: hill55@vtown.com.au
Subject: AATTV MEMBER IN HOSPITAL

Hello to all members,

I’ve just received news from Al Bacon that WA member (living in NSW) George Lawrence was admitted to RPA Thursday and is having an operation today for liver cancer
Our thoughts are with George at this time (George served with the team 21/10/65_19/02/66 with 4/3 ARVN Div I Corps.)
More news as it comes to hand.

Persevere

John Riley WA Secretary.

From: John [mailto:jhriley@tpg.com.au]
Sent: Saturday, 13 September 2008 10:42 AM
To: advisor@echidna.id.au
Cc: hill55@vtown.com.au
Subject: update on George Lawrence

G’day All
George is in RPA in Sydney, he had an operation yesterday to remove part of his liver and will have another one at a later stage.
23971 George Lawrence served in Korea,Malaya and Vietnam. He was with AATTV 21/10/65-19/02/66. George returns to Perth each year to spend
Anzac Day with friends he has known going back as far as Korea and they send their best wishes to George.

Persevere

John Riley WA Secretary.

Allan Smithers is after photographs of WO J.M. Grafton AATTV.  You can contact Allan on email: alshirl@tadaust.org.au

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

Dear Sir,

WO2 John Malcolm Grafton 54223 soldiered with me In Borneo and In PNG.
with 2SAS sqn in the mid 1960's

His wife June is wondering if AATTV association has any photographs of John in their archives.

I gave her photo of Borneo patrol team members taken at last Septembers 50th anniversary in Swanbourne we would like to insert a ghost of John Into a photo for her and her family.

Hope you can help.

Best Regards ....................  Allan Smithers    ex 1sas Regt and COY.

G'day all,

Sad news on the passing of Len Opie,DCM AATTV. Capt Leonard Murray Opie, DCM served with AATTV from 12 May 1966 to 15 Oct 1968 and from 16 Apr 1970 to 21 Apr 1971.  From May 66, CSD, Tam Ky, Quang Tin. 4 Feb-Jul 67, Trail Watch/Provincial Recon Units, Kontum, Darlac, Quang Duc, Pleiku. Aug-Sep attached Market Time Patrol, Danang. 26 Sep-Oct leave. Nove 67- 2 Sep 68, CSD, PRU Training Centre, Vung Tau. 4 Sep-Oct68, Rung Sat Special Zone, PRU.  On his second tour, Apr-May 70, 2/1 ARVN, 1st Division, Qunag Tri. Jun70, MATT3, Baria, Phuoc Tuy. Feb 71 MATT 3, Long Dien. Mar- Apr 71, Phuoc Tuy Sector.

Len earned his DCM during the Korean War. One of our greatest warriors, he will be sadly missed.

May he Rest In Peace,

Rick

Hi Gents

Some very sad news just passed on to me from Ian Hodgson (President South Australian Branch)

Well known and highly respected soldier Len Opie has passed away this morning. He was a fine man and will be very sadly missed

 Ian will pass on funeral arrangments  to me as they come to hand.May Len rest in peace.

Regards

Pierre

Funeral details are as follows:

Good Evening Gentlemen

Ian Hodgson has advised the following regarding the funeral service for the late Len Opie

Date Thursday 2nd October 2008

Time 1030 hrs

Place     Hysen Chapel
             Centennial Park
             Adelaide
             South Aust.

Would appreciate it if you would distribute through your respective nets.

Regards Take Care and

Persevere

 Pierre

Dear Rick,
Vale:  A Team Member has passed away after a long illness.
Warrant Officer 2 J.P Hagean served 1967 with Special Forces out of Danang. John did not belong to the S.A.Branch.He lived in the Riverland at the town called Berri.  I do have some particulars about his wife Beryl.
I received this information from Jack Boyce who lives in that area.
Thanks Mate.
Ian.

Funeral Details are as follows:

I am now advised  by Ian Hodgson ( President SA Branch )  of the following regarding the passing of John Hagean

Date of Death 14 September 2008

His funeral Service will be held in the Berri (SA ) Chapel on Tuesday 24th September 2008. Fellow Team Member Jack Boyce will deliver the Eulogy.

Condolence cards can be sent to:

Mrs Beryl Hagean
17 Larden Street
BERRI
South Aust 5343.

G'day all,

Latest on Ike Lever from Dutchy Lensing follows:

G'day Rick,
I am pleased to advise that "Ike" has returned home and there has been some considerable improvement. He is now off oxygen and no longer has a drain in the cavity between the lungs and ribcage. Since the Medicos diagnosed his problem as emanating as a strange spin off from his Rheumatoid Arthritis and treating him accordingly his condition is improving. Let's hope it stays that way.
I gave "Ike" the messages of support i received and that, too, lifted his spirits. Should anyone wish to contact him , his email address is bettylever@hotmail.com
Regards,
"Dutchy" Lensing

Persevere,

Rick

G'day all,

Email below from Dutchy Lensing concerning fellow Team member, Ian ‘Ike’  Lever AATTV who is in hospital at Maryborough, QLD.

Ike does not sound the best from the information supplied and I am sure fellow Team members would wish him the very best for an early recovery.

Any messages for Ike Lever can be passed via Dutchy Lensing on email: dlandbh@gmail.com

I will post further details on Ike’s health as they come to hand.

Take care and Persevere,

 Rick

From: E "Dutchy" Lensing [mailto:dlandbh@gmail.com]
Sent: Thursday, 11 September 2008 6:25 PM
To: advisor@echidna.id.au
Subject: AATTV Member 35751 WO2 IC Lever
 
 

Rick,

"Dutchy" Lensing here

Former Member 1,4,3 RAR, 1 RTB, RAAOC.

I am contacting you to let you know that a mate of mine and , i beleve, a member of your association is unwell and has been in and out of hospital since January this year.

His details are;

35751  WO2  Ian "Ike" Charles LEVER. ( RA Survey Corps )

Served with the team from 16/03/68 to 11/03/69.

Currently in Hospital with complications from a strange form of Rheumatoid Arthritis and is on oxygen.

He will be in hospital at least another week but it is quite possible he will then go into a nursing home then, however this is uncertain at this stage. His prognosis does not appear to be good. "Ike" is 74 or 75, i'm not sure which.

His home address is; 6 Haynes St, Point Vernon. Qld.4655.

He is currently in St Stephens Private Hospital in Maryborough, Qld.

I will forward info on any changes in his condition as they occur.

Regards to your membership.

E "Dutchy" Lensing

G'day all,

Funeral details for Keith Forden AATTV are as follows:

Pinnaroo Chapel, Whitfords Avenue, Padbury WA at 9.00am on Friday, 12th September 2008.

May he Rest In Peace,

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

G'day all,

More sad news from WA on the passing on fellow Team member  WO2 Keith W. Forden AATTV today, Sunday, 7th September 2008. Message as received from John Riley, Secretary AATTV WA Branch follows.

I am sure all Team members would join me in expressing our sincerest condolencies to the family of Keith.

Funeral details will be advised once known.

Please pass messages through John Riley on email: jhriley@tpg.com.au

May Keith Rest In Peace,

Take care and Persevere,

Rick at Christmas Island

AATTVA WA Members

Dear Members

For members who may not have already heard, it is with much sadness that I inform you of the death of Keith William Forden. Keith passed away on Sunday 7 September 2008 in Hollywood Hospital in Perth.  It was only a few days ago that we found out that Keith was in hospital.

WO2 Keith Forden served in Vietnam 26 MAY 65 - 11 JUN 66 with 1RAR.  He also served with  AATTV (30 SEP 68 - 17SEP 69 and 14 OCT 69 - 14 MAY 70) (Oct 68-Feb 69, RF,Vinh Binh, Mar 69, CORDS, RD Training, Can Tho, Apr-Sep 69, VDAT, Kien Hoa, Sep -Oct 69, pre-extension leave and 14 OCT 69 - 14 MAY 70, Black Panther Coy, 1st Division, Hue).
The funeral service to celebrate Keith's life will assemble at Pinnaroo Chapel, Whitfords Avenue, Padbury at 9.00am Friday 12 September 2008.
I apologise for the lateness in advising members of the date and time of the funeral.

Regards
OLIVER MOON
 

From: John [mailto:jhriley@tpg.com.au]
Sent: Sunday, 7 September 2008 8:48 PM
To: advisor@echidna.id.au
Cc: hill55@vtown.com.au
Subject: Passing of Team Member

Dear Members,

It is with much sadness that I have to inform you of the death of Keith William Forden.Keith passed away today ( Sunday) in Hollywood Hospital in Perth. It was only a few days ago that we knew that Keith was in hospital.

WO2 Keith Forden served in Vietnam 26/05/65- 11/06/66 with 1RAR.   AATTV-- 1/10/68- 1709/69 (Oct.68-Feb69,RF,Vin Binh.Mar 69,CORDS, RD Training, Can Tho.Apr-Sep 69,VDAT, Kien Hoa. Sep. /Oct 69, pre-extension leave. 14/10/69-14/05/70, Black Panther Coy, 1st Division, Hue.

Rest in Peace.

Further details will be forwarded as they come to hand.

John Riley Secretary WA Branch.

More sad news on the passing of yet another Team Member, WO2 Terence "Terry" John Egan DCM AATTVon Friday, 29th August at 2145hrs in St Vincent's Hospital, Toowoomba, QLD. Terry served with the RF/PF Trg Centre, near Hue and with the 1st Div Recon Coy in the same area of I Corps during TET 1968. He also served with the RD Cadre Trg, Chuong Thien, IV Corps.

Terry has been ill for some time and has fought his last battle. He will be sadly missed by us all.

Funeral details will follow once known.

Message from Len Avery a close friend follows.

Terry's award of the DCM while serving with AATTV is:

Army Number:             2137140
Substantive Rank:       Sergeant
Temporary Rank:        Warrant Officer Class Two
Christian Name:           Terence John
Surname:                       EGAN
Honour or Award:         DCM

After 11 years service in the Citizen Military Forces, Warrant Officer Egan volunteered to serve on full time duty and joined the Australian Army Training Team in Vietnam in September 1967.  He was appointed Senior Adviser to the 1st Division Reconnaissance Company, Army Republic of Vietnam. On the night of 30 January when the enemy began his attack on the City of Hue, Warrant Officer Egan and a Platoon of the Reconnaissance Company were on operations about five miles south west of the City, on one of the main enemy approach routes. It was not possible to extricate this small force by helicopter and the platoon was forced to fight its way back to the City on foot, via a circuitous route. Warrant Officer Egan's outstanding leadership and disregard for his own safety were a great inspiration to the platoon which, in a number of engagements with the enemy, killed twenty-one for the loss of only one of their own soldiers. On 2 February when the platoon had reached the relative safety of a military compound on the City's outskirts, Warrant Officer Egan heard that four wonded American soldiers were in a nearby compound and that all rescue attempts had failed. He immediately organised and led a resuce party which eventually broke through to join the small group of defenders. He arranged for a helicopter to evacuate the wounded and, because of the intense enemy small arms fire, accompanied the medical evacuation helicopter to provide suppressive fire, in the course of which he killed two enemy. Later he managed to rejoin his beleagurered Platoon bringing with him urgently needed ammunition and supplies. On a number of occasions, Warrant Officer Egan has displayed outstanding conduct under fire. His leadership, initiative and personal bravery have been  an inspiration to the Vietnamese and American troops with whom he has served and he has brought great credit to himself and the Australian Army.

May he Rest In Peace,

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

Good morning Rick,

It is with deep regret that I advise that Terence John Egan passed away last night, Friday 29 August 2008 at 2145 hrs in St Vincent's Hospital here in Toowoomba.

I have just had a phone call from Carol, Terry's wife, with advising of Terry's passing. Carol and the immediate family had been with Terry leading up to his passing.

Terry was born on 13 May 1936.

Terry joined the Army Reserve in May 1954, commenced Army Reserve full time duty in June 1965, transferred to the Australian Regular Army in January 1969 until retiring in February 1986. He continued in the Army Reserve for 18 months returning to Army Reserve full time duty in July 1989, thirty six years of continuing service.

Terry served with the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV) form 26 September 1967 until 10 September 1968 and he was awarded the Distinguished Cofnduct Medal (DCM). The South Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Silver Star twice and the Vietnamese Army Medal of Honour.

In early 1987, Terry accepted an invitation to establish the Museum of Australian Army Flying.

In 1990, Terry was awarded the Brigadier M.B. Simkin Trophy as the Australian Army Aviation Aviator for his efforts of establishing the Museum of Australian Army Flying as the curator of the Museum.

Terry was responsible for organising the donation of a replica of the first Army aeroplane, a Bristol Boxkite, from Mr Cliff Douglas. The Bristol Boxkite is proudly displayed within the Museum.

Terry has battled poor health for many years which included a heart transplant 12 years ago. The past 12 months has been particularly hard for Terry and his health slowly deteriorated which has included progressive heart and liver failure plus the onset of diabetes however, even though his health was very poor he would make time to phone me to check how I was going because he was worried about me.

Terry's funeral will be held on Saturday, 6th September here in Toowoomba.

The reason for the funeral not being held until next Saturday is so that Terry's heart can be delivered to the Prince Charles Hospital in Brisbane for further research seeing that Terry had the heart for over 12 years.

I will post details of Terry's funeral as soon as they are known.

If you would like to send a card or message to Carol and the family, Carol's postal address is,

'Tyrone', 5 Glen Court, Glencoe. QLD. 4352

Terry is now at peace and he will not suffer anymore. May He Rest In Peace - Lest We Forget

Regards,

Len

Funeral details for Terry Egan, DCM are as follows:

Date - Saturday 06 September 2008,

Location - St Luke's Church, Toowoomba, Corner Herries and Ruthven Street,

Time - 1030 hrs.

Following the service at St Luke's there will be a private cremation at the Toowoomba Garden of
Remembrance while those attending the service are invited to join family and friends at the Shamrock
Hotel ,which is at 604 Ruthven Street, just south of St Luke's Church.

For those who may require accommodation the Shamrock Hotel also has its own motel and the contact
phone number for the Shamrock Hotel/Motel is 07 4632 2666.
 
 

G’day all,

Just got some sad news on the passing of Team Member from Bernie McGurgan AATTV on WO2 (later WO1) Brendon Maurice Ryan RAINF, AATTV. Message below.

I am sure that Team members would wish sincere condolences and deepest sympathy to the family of Brendon on his passing.

Funeral details will be advised once known.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

Gidday

More very sad news Men I have just been informed (0845 Hr) that our fellow Team soldier and all round "good blike", Brendon Ryan, passed away this morning.

Brendon and I did our Team preparatory courses together at JTC and Woodside! Brendon served with 1/2 ARVN Bn (1st Div) at Dong Ha and then at the Adviser School at Di An and lastly with MATT12 at Long Le (PT Province).

May he rest in peace! He was a fine soldier and a good mate.!

I will advise funeral arrangements when known.

Persevere,

Bernie

Funeral details are as follows:

RYAN, Brendan Maurice Noone

Former WO1 RAINF

Aged 66 Years

Late of Emu Park formerly of Rockhampton. Passed away on Sunday, 24th August, 2008. Beloved Husband of Judith. Loving Father and Father-in-law of Matthew and Addie. Son of Frank and Kathleen Ryan (nee Noone) (both dec'd). Brother of Patrick (dec'd), Annette and Eugene (dec'd). Loving Uncle of his Nieces and Nephews and their Families.

Relatives and Friends are invited to attend a Requiem Mass to celebrate the life of Brendan to be held at Mary Immaculate Catholic Church, Archer Street, Emu Park on Wednesday, 27th August 2008, commencing at 1 p.m.

Upon conclusion of Mass the cortege will proceed to the Emu Park Cemetery, Rockhampton Road, Emu Park. Military and former military members may wish to wear decorations.

'A PROUD VIETNAM VETERAN'

TUVCKER & NANKIVELL, 166 Alma Street, ROCKHAMPTON Phone 4927 2500

G’day all,

Sad news on the passing of WO2 John 'Jack' Desmond Martin RAINF, AATTV who passed away in Hollywood Hospital WA on Thursday, 14th August 2008.

Jack has been in poor health for some time and will be sadly missed by fellow Team members.

Funeral details will be forwarded once known.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

From: D O'Connell [mailto:oconnd@iinet.net.au]
Sent: Friday, 15 August 2008 2:17 PM
To: advisor@echidna.id.au
Subject: roll of honour entry

Hi Rick,
Can you please add J D Martin (John Desmond, or "Jack") to the honour roll, of Palmyra, WA He passed away on Thursday 14th August 2008, at 8:34am, after a long battle with cancer.
He will be sorely missed.
Service number is 51724.

I can post the funeral details if you would like them, please let me know.

Thanks

Deanne O'Connell (grandaughter)

Sad news from Peter Conway AATTV on the passing of fellow Team member,  Maj Dave Holford RAINF.  Dave served with AATTV from Jun to Dec 1972 at JWTC, Van Kiep, Phuoc Tuy Province and had also completed a tour of duty with HQ 1 ATF from May 1966 to May 1967.

Dave had attended a Team function at JTC on Sunday and was found passed away this morning.  No doubt this will be a shock to those that attended the function. He will be sadly missed by fellow Team members.

Funeral details as forwarded by Peter Conway are as follows:

Hi Bernie Bruce and Rick

I am advised by our Welfare Officer that the funeral service for our late Qld Member David Holford will be held as follows:

Time /Date 2.00 PM  Monday 4th August 2008
Place        Pinnaroo Crermatorium
                Graham Road
                Bridgeman Downs Qld

 Family Funeral Notice will appear in Brisbane Courier Mail Friday 1st August 2008.

Could you please distribut through your respective "nets"

Regards

Peter
 

May he Rest In Peace,

Take care and Persevere,

Rick
 

From: Peter Conway [mailto:plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au]
Sent: Monday, 28 July 2008 1:54 PM
To: Barry Sullivan; Rick Ryan; Bruce Davies; Bernie McGurgan
Subject: Fw: Peter J S Harris - AATTV

Hi Gents

Have just arrived home after a wonderful weekend at JTC (LWC) for our Memorial Service and Team Birthday Luncheon. Very sadly this morning our emotions about the weekend were changed with news of Dave Holford's passing early this morning.

Regards To All
 

Peter

Most of you have been informed on the current status of Terry Egan which painted a bleak picture.  The latest message is from Len Avery a long time mate and friend of Terry's.  Any messages for Terry can be passed through Len at email:  lavery19@tpg.com.au

Our prayers have been and will continue to be with Terry.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

From: Len Avery [mailto:lavery19@tpg.com.au]
Sent: Tuesday, 29 July 2008 11:08 AM
To: Rick Ryan
Subject: RE: Len Avery Calling

Afternoon Rick,

I have just had a brief visit to see Terry Egan and pass on your well wishes.

To be honest he looked very weak however, we were able to exchange a few words which
was more than we could do the last time I saw him.

How long he has left we do not know however, I will maintain contact with Carol and keep
you advised.

Regards
Len 

From: "Peter Conway" <plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au>
To: "Bernie McGurgan" <hill55@vtown.com.au>
Cc: "Bruce Davies" <bruce.davies@optusnet.com.au>
Subject: Jim Calcutt
Date: Wed, 30 Jul 2008 10:36:44 +1000
X-Mailer: Microsoft Outlook Express 6.00.2900.3138

Hi Bern

Please distribute the following

I have just received news that Jim Calcutt is in Pindari Hospital on the Gold Coast.

It appears that Jim and his wife travelled up with a group from Victoria and Jim has taken ill and is not well enough to travel home at this stage.

His wife is staying at the Beach Point Break Free Resort Unit 15 B , telephone number 07 5538 4355. She can also be contacted on her mobile 0407 889 329.

She is quiet concerned about Jim and would appreciate it if someone from the Team could go and see him and also make contact with her.

Could some of our members who live on the Gold Coast please spare some time and visit Jim.

I'm sure it would be appreciated.

Please reply if you can assist and give all an update on Jim's condition

Regards

Peter

Things are not looking good for Jack Martin AATTV.  Please refer to the requests below from Danny and Deanne O’Connell’s and if you can assist forward photos.

Take care and Persevere,

Rick

-----Original Message-----
From: D O'Connell [mailto:oconnd@iinet.net.au]
Sent: Tuesday, 29 July 2008 12:20 AM
To: advisor@echidna.id.au
Subject: urgent help request
Importance: High

Hi
My grandfather is John ("Jack") J D Martin, he was a WO2 with the aattv.
He is terminally ill with cancer, with not a lot of time left, and I am hunting for any photos or information that is out and about that I can show him, before he leaves us.

I was sent a grainy photo from the book 'the team in pictures', but I am trying to source the book itself, and any other photos, and memorabilia from his army days which he describes as the "best days of his life".

Could you please post on your website (or in the magazine) that Jack is in hospital, and give my mobile number as a contact to anyone who wishes to see him before he passes?

my full name is Deanne O'Connell, and my mobile number is 0421 016 422

Thankyou so much for your website, it has given me a lot of insight to what my grandad went through in his life as a soldier.

Deanne
 

From: "john riley" <jhriley@tpg.com.au>
To: <advisor@echidna.id.au>
Cc: "Bernie McGurgan" <hill55@vtown.com.au>
Subject: Team Member Jack Martin
Date: Mon, 28 Jul 2008 11:15:58 +0800
X-Mailer: Microsoft Outlook Express 6.00.2800.1106

Hello Rick
Could you please post the following message on your site
Many thanks
John Riley

WA Team member Jack Martin's situation is not good. He is in pallative care in Hollywood Hospital in Perth
WO2 Jack Martin served with the Team 27.5.72- 18.12.72 at the Phuoc Tuy Training Battalion.(RAINF).
Jack's son in law Danny O'connell has made a request if anyone has any photos of Jack during his army carreer, could they forward them to him.Copies would be made and returned. His e-mail is wacoins@iinet.au tel:0894560519.

Many thanks
Persevere
John Riley WA Sec.

G,day all,

Message below passed from Peter Conway AATTV Qld Branch.  Peter Harris served AATTV from Mar1969 with Special Forces Combat Orientation Course Nha Trang and Hon Tre Island.  Apr-May 69 as 223 Company commander, 5th SFGA, 2 MSF Pleiku. Jun 69, Mike Force Battalion XO and Jul 69 to Mar 70, Van Kiep, LRRP School. Peter was WIA on 6 May 69 nea Ban Me Thuot and WIA on 27 Jun 69, gunshot Kontum.  He also served with 6 RAR in 1966 67.

Please pass any information direct to Michele on email: mjcs@internode.on.net

Take care and Persevere,

Rick
 

From: Michele Stephens
To: plconway@nnsw.quik.com.au
Sent: Monday, July 28, 2008 8:27 AM
Subject: Peter J S Harris - AATTV

Dear Peter
P.J.S. Harris
I have only just learned that Peter Harris passed away in August 2006 and would like to add my sincere condolences.

Peter was a good friend of my family in Sydney in the early 1980s and, while we knew of his AATTV service, he modestly did not say much about his lengthy military career.  Partly our fault, as we were too polite to ask questions.  To us, he was the epitome of an 'officer and gentleman' and we all appreciated his friendship and enjoyed his company immensely.

We lost track of Peter, and then my family moved to Queensland where we spent 8 years before I returned to NSW in the mid-1990s.

I came across the notice about Peter's death and funeral quite by accident - I was googling for something entirely different - and felt a deep sadness when I read it.  At the same time I was pleased to learn that he had married and had a son.  We always felt Peter wanted a family of his own.

I feel privileged to have known Peter Harris and would like to know more about his Army service. Are you able to fill me in or put me in touch with someone who can?

Sincerely
Michele Stephens
 

(Miss) Michele Stephens
PO Box 322
Gosford NSW 2250
Email: mjcs@internode.on.net

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

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 WO1 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