Books
Where Life Falls
by Tas Browning (Sydney Association Member)
An engaging account of an Australian flight deck crewman's life, of lifelong friendships and dangers shared, and adventures on the high seas, in the skies and in foreign ports.
Published by Sid Harta Publishers
Available on Booktopia
RRP: $29.95
read the reviews.....
Out of Sight, Out of Mind - The Royal Australian Navy in Vietnam
by Dr John R. Carroll
Rosenberg Publishing
216 pages - RRP $33.50 (posted)
All orders to:
All Royalties go to the Teddy Whitten Foundation for Prostate Cancer.
Although HMAS Sydney III served with distinction in the Korean and Vietnam wars, her exploits are not as widely known as her predecessors – HMAS Sydney I and HMAS Sydney II. This is because her operations, especially in Vietnam, were so successful, as this book points out. The hazards and operational threats faced were met by authorities with an overall disregard to the size and importance of the task that was to be implemented.
In this book John Carroll is able to supply an immense amount of knowledge based on his academic experience, contacts within the military and naval service experience.
Opening with a critique of other publications in this area, the main point of the book is then discussed, starting in chapter two. Here we delve into the requirement for the Navy to implement, with concern and thoroughness, a way to transport the bulk of Army and war materials from Australia to the war zone in Vietnam. It also discusses the apparent threat, considered by the military and government hierarchy, in the journeys to and from Australia.
It is made apparent that there was a difference in perception between those who made the regulations regarding the awarding of service benefits for those performing these duties, and the servicemen who actually carried them out. A great deal of this publication is also spent on the apparent threats and counter-measures to these ships when on route and unloading in the war zone.
Another point is made about the importance of logistic and support roles; that they did not involve direct combat but were still important in shaping the course of the war. From ‘Reports of Proceedings’, a commentary is given on most of HMAS Sydney’s 25 voyages to Vietnam, along with incidents that occurred involving her escorts. Mention is also made of the merchant ships requisitioned into the Royal Australian Navy to help with the logistical tasks – HMAS Jeparit and HMAS Boonaroo.
A chapter is devoted to the exposure of these ships to Agent Orange in the course of their duties in Vietnam. The point is made that this chemical did not dissolve in the water tanks and was present when the ships returned to Australia. It also devotes reference to illnesses attributable to this chemical.
In closing, reference is made to the lack of operational recognition that was given to these ships by way of medals and Repatriation and War Service benefits, due to the nature of their duties and the way their involvement in the war was perceived by interested parties.
The book has numerous photographs, diagrams and maps, which makes it an interesting read as well as an important reference for researchers and those interested in Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War.
Fred McLeod-Dryden
Founding President HMAS Sydney and Vietnam Logistical Support Veterans Association
President of the Navy-Vietnam sub-section of the Naval Association of Australia
Col Elliott - In Between Laughter
Col Elliott has become one of Australia's favourite entertainers. Most know him from his many albums, television appearances, live work and DVD’s... However, there is a whole lot more to this man, who's own life story will surprise and delight!. From a ten quid Pommie, to a life in poor working-class Melbourne...
In the stables at 14, to the Navy at 16, and sent to Vietnam at 17... old enough to serve, yet too young to vote or drink. He writes a graphic account of Gunline operations in North Vietnam. Still a kid, surrounded by danger, and under fire. Life before show business, was as a Navy Sonar Operator and eventual Instructor.
He spent his 18th birthday in Vietnam, as part of the rescue team, when the USS Forestal lost 134 brave souls.
At 19, he was part of the rescue team that operated when the ‘Melbourne’ cut the ‘U.S.S. Frank. E. Evans’ in half ... 74 men died that morning.
Col’s early life is related with much humour and honesty. And throughout the book, you continue to follow his journey, as he and a rag tag bunch of unlikely heroes travel to exotic and often dangerous ports, as a rough and ready band of wandering minstrels.
Through all of this, humour plays an integral part... This is a story of survival and as a reader, Col gives you an insight into his battles with depression, alcoholism and at just 37, a major heart attack. He regroups and emerges unbeaten.
It tells of his rise through the tough ranks of Aussie comedy...
Many long and wonderful years of marriage, three daughters, several grandchildren and growing.
This is an Australian story that covers all bases. Belly laughs, Aussie humour, adversity, pathos, mate-ship, action and adventure. Col Elliott's story will surprise many... An enthralling read.
For details on purchasing the book, go to Col Elliott's website.....
Can Do Easy
by ex-CPOCD Tony Ey
This story is based on numerous real life experiences of the Royal Australian Navy's Clearance Diving Team 3 (RANCDT3), which served in South Vietnam from 1967 to 1971. It is the author's intention to provide a quite accurate insight into what it was like to be a serving Australian Navy 'Clearance Diver' in South Vietnam during the late ‘60s and early ‘70s.
Their professionalism, their at times unconventional behavior, their ever present sense of humour and most importantly, their willingness, bordering on obsession, to confront life-threatening danger head on, were all fundamental ingredients of what made these men stand out from the crowd.
For full details go to the Amazon website.....