The USS Constellation (CV-64) stands as an emblem of American naval prowess, boasting a storied legacy that stretches across more than four decades of service. Commissioned on October 27, 1961, this majestic aircraft carrier quickly solidified its reputation as a cornerstone of U.S. maritime power. Throughout its illustrious career, the USS Constellation played an integral role in safeguarding national interests, projecting military might, and fostering global stability through a myriad of engagements and deployments.

From the turbulent waters of the Vietnam War to the tense standoffs of the Cold War era, the USS Constellation exemplified resilience and resolve in the face of adversity. Its deck became a launching pad for countless sorties, delivering decisive air support and striking deep into enemy territory when called upon. The carrier’s strategic presence and unmatched capabilities underscored its significance as a linchpin of American military strategy, earning it respect and admiration among allies and adversaries alike.

Beyond its combat missions, the USS Constellation served as a beacon of diplomacy and cooperation through its participation in multinational exercises and joint operations. Its presence in various regions around the globe underscored America’s commitment to upholding peace and security, while also strengthening alliances and partnerships with nations sharing common interests.

The USS Constellation’s impact extended far beyond the confines of its steel hull. It served as a training ground for generations of sailors and aviators, instilling in them the values of honour, courage, and commitment. Its crew, comprising dedicated men and women from all walks of life, formed a tight-knit community bound by a shared sense of duty and camaraderie.

As the USS Constellation was decommissioned on August 7, 2003, its departure marked the end of an era but not the conclusion of its legacy. Even in retirement, the carrier continues to inspire future generations of naval personnel, reminding them of the enduring importance of maritime supremacy and the indispensable role played by the United States Navy in safeguarding freedom and security around the world.

In the annals of naval history, the USS Constellation (CV-64) remains a testament to the unwavering dedication and sacrifice of those who served aboard her. Its name will forever be synonymous with excellence, resilience, and the proud tradition of American naval power.

Photo: Soldiers from 8th/12th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery, conduct intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations via Zodiac as part of Operation Resolute in the Kimberley Marine Park, WA. Story by Captain Annie Richardson. Photo by Corporal Gregory Scott.

In a departure from its traditional role rooted in conventional gunnery, the 101st Battery of the 8th/12th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery, has embraced a pioneering mission in the littoral space.

Established in 1916 as the 101st Howitzer Battery, originating from the 1st Field Artillery Brigade at Gallipoli, the unit underwent disbandment after the war, only to be reconstituted in the 1920s and again in 1957.

The 2023 Defence Strategic Review (DSR) advocated for a strategic pivot towards a light-littoral brigade, prompting the 101st Battery to specialize in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations within archipelagos and coastal regions.

Major Jack Bagwill, the battery commander, expressed confidence in their ability to tackle ISR challenges in coastal territories. “Our team comprises highly trained joint-fires observers and artillery-command-systems operators, individuals well-versed in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance methodologies, and the coordination of joint operations,” Major Bagwill remarked.

He added, “Their proficiency in observation and target acquisition seamlessly translates into the littoral domain, where our focus shifts from hills to managing tides, beaches, and rugged coastal terrains.”

Despite encountering challenges during the transition, members of the 101st Battery enthusiastically embraced the opportunity. They dedicated themselves to mastering small watercraft operations and refining their intelligence photography skills to support Operation Resolute, the ADF’s mission to safeguard the nation’s borders and maritime interests.

“Embracing the evolving battlespace, the 101st Battery has pioneered advancements in littoral operations,” Major Bagwill noted. “We conduct ISR operations around the clock, providing crucial intelligence to the Australian Border Force to address potential illicit activities in the region.”

As the Army prepares for the integration of long-range fires following the DSR, the 8th/12th Regiment is also adapting to its new role as the Army’s light-littoral combat brigade. Major Bagwill highlighted their unique contribution, stating, “We have established a dedicated brigade reconnaissance element, marking a significant step forward in our capabilities.”

In essence, the transformation of the 101st Battery underscores the Army’s commitment to innovation and adaptation in response to evolving security challenges in coastal environments.

Photo: Soldiers from 8th/12th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery, prepare to conduct Zodiac patrols at night as part of Operation Resolute. Photo by Corporal Gregory Scott.

By Contact

Photo: Sergeant Chris Hughes, Lance Corporal Ben Crawford and Trooper Liam Skinner supported testing of the Boxer combat reconnaissance vehicle. Story by Lieutenant Colonel Ryan. Photos by Marcus Jacobs.

As the Australian Army prepares to take delivery of block II Boxer combat reconnaissance vehicles (CRV) from this year, soldiers who will be operating them have been contributing to the vehicle’s future design.

Three soldiers from 2nd/14th Light Horse Regiment (Queensland Mounted Infantry) (2/14LHR [QMI]) were involved in testing at the Rheinmetall site in Unterluss, Germany, late last year, where the vehicle’s Lance 2.0 turret was designed and initial production has commenced.

Tests included firing the MK30-2 cannon and MAG58 machine gun in extreme weather conditions, as well as testing the new programmable munitions capability.

Crew commander Lance Corporal Ben Crawford and driver Trooper Liam Skinner fired 30mm training and programmable rounds from the MK30-2 cannon in the block II turret.

The visit included a brief on the block II vehicle design, operation of the combat intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance system and new weapon control systems.

Development of these systems included input from 2/14LHR [QMI] soldiers, leveraging their experience with the block I vehicles.

Trooper Skinner was also impressed with the strong focus on crew safety.

“The implementation of an emergency escape hatch for the driver on the block II design ensures improved survivability,” he said.

“Seeing lessons learned from block I now being implemented into block II provided me with confidence moving forward.”

Soldiers participated in a working group with Rheinmetall in Kassel to support future design options for Boxer with an active protection system.

They were also briefed on the ballistic and blast testing program in Germany and Australia.

“I found it incredibly beneficial to see the input that soldiers from 2/14 LHR [QMI] have made to the design of block II Boxer, particularly in the crew operation of the weapon systems, and be able to tell them how it has been implemented,” Lance Corporal Crawford said.

Sergeant Chris Hughes said one of the highlights was being exposed to the new electronic systems that enable the block II Boxer CRVs to manage combat information, communications and weapon systems.

“The combat intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance system in Boxer provides not only the commander but all crew within the vehicle a situational awareness advantage on the battlefield,” Sergeant Hughes said.

Army received 25 block I Boxers between 2019 and 2021 to provide an interim cavalry capability.

Delivery of the remaining 186 block II vehicles will begin this year.

CAPTION: Sergeant Chris Hughes, Lance Corporal Ben Crawford and Trooper Liam Skinner reload the 30mm ammunition magazine on the Boxer.

Dear Hon. Korean War Veterans and family members;

The Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs of the Republic of Korea has proposed to invite Veterans and their family members to participate in Revisit Korea 2024 and also Youth Peace Camp inviting descendants of the War Veterans.

1. Revisit Program (in April, July & November 2024)
Unfortunately, the date has not fixed yet, but please choose your preferred month to visit Korea though the program.
Quotas to Australians can be found on the information attached, which is inclusive of carers.
Another matter to note is that this time, the Veterans themselves will receive 100% reimbursement of airfares.

2. Youth Peace Camp (1.7.2024 – 7.7.2024)
Descendants of the Korean War Veterans attending University or soon to enter the University are welcome to join the Camp Program to visit Korea for further engaging in activities, leadership building, and experiential learning.

Having said that, please have a thorough read of the information give, and fill out the application form attached and return it back to me as soon as you can.

For further information, please find the attached documents including application or do not hesitate to contact the consulate.

Inquiry contact details;
Officer:   Ms Kate Kim in the Korean Consulate General in Melbourne
Office:   +61 3 9533 3872
Email:    ghkim18@mofa.go.kr

LEST WE FORGET!

The year 2023 has seen remarkable advancements in military drone technology, driven by the quest for increased autonomy, enhanced stealth capabilities, and improved operational efficiency. As nations strive to fortify their defence mechanisms, drones, or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), remain a crucial component in modern warfare due to their ability to carry out reconnaissance, surveillance, and targeted strikes with minimal risk to personnel.

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Latest Military Drone Technology 2023 (isp.page)

Allegedly, the Minister for Defence was absent from a scheduled video teleconference with US Secretary of Defence Lloyd James Austin III, as disclosed during the recent Senate committee meeting on foreign affairs, defence, and trade convened on February 14th.

This teleconference pertained to Operation Prosperity Guardian; a multinational military initiative led by the US formed in response to Houthi-led attacks on Red Sea shipping in December of the previous year.

US Secretary of Defence Austin initiated the two-hour conference on December 19th to engage international partners for contributions to Operation Prosperity Guardian. Chief of the Defence Force, General Angus Campbell, clarified during this week’s Senate estimates that he attended the conference in lieu of Minister Marles due to the latter’s prior commitments.

In response to queries about discussions between Minister Marles and the US Defence Secretary regarding the Red Sea deployment, General Campbell stated no knowledge of such discussions. He pointed out that the apparent absence of ministerial activity during the 16-day period following the early December request was a time for understanding the operational approach the United States was considering.

Although Australia eventually decided not to dispatch a warship for the US-led multinational task force, it committed six additional Australian Defence Force personnel to the Combined Maritime Force on December 21st. Notably, this decision was made without convening the National Security Committee.

General Campbell was further questioned about discussions between Minister for Defence Richard Marles and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese regarding the Red Sea deployment request. He indicated no awareness of such discussions, stating it was not within his purview to track the Deputy Prime Minister’s engagements with the Prime Minister or colleagues.

During the Senate meeting, Royal Australian Navy Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Mark David Hammond confirmed that while the Royal Australian Navy possessed the capability to fulfill a Red Sea deployment request, the ultimate decision rested with the government.

ED: I was reminded this morning by many of you that there was no ‘Friday Smile’ yesterday. Sorry about that … to make up today you have two.

A soldier shows up for military training but realizes he forgot to bring his rifle.

The sergeant hands him a stick and gestures to the training field.

“You’ll have to use this, soldier. If you need to shoot someone, just aim your stick at them and shout ‘Bangity bang-bang’. If someone gets too close to you, poke them in the gut with it as though it was a bayonette and shout ‘Stabbity stab-stab’. Now get moving.”

The soldier thinks this is pretty ridiculous, but to his surprise, when he aims his stick at a fellow trainee across the field and shouts “Bangity bang-bang!” the other soldier goes down in a theatrical display. Then, another trainee tries to run past him, so he pokes the guy in the ribs and shouts “Stabbity stab-stab!” and he too goes down, pretending to be dead.

So, the soldier starts running through the mock-battlefield, shouting “Bangity bang-bang” and occasionally “Stabbity-stab-stab”, until eventually, he realizes he’s the last man standing.

He’s feeling pretty proud of himself until another soldier rounds a corner and starts walking toward him. Slowly. Stiffly. Menacingly.

The soldier takes aim with his stick and shouts, “Bangity-bang-bang!”

But the other soldier doesn’t go down this time. He keeps approaching, arms stiff at his sides, boots stomping aggressively into the ground.

The soldier begins to sweat. He clears his throat, adjusts grip on his stick and hollers, “Bangity bang-bang!”

But nothing happens. The other soldier keeps marching toward him.

Now the soldier panics. He pretends to reload his stick and desperately cries out, “Bangity bang-bang! Bangity bang-bang! Stabbity stab-stab!”

But to his dismay, nothing works.

Finally, the other soldier reaches him, kicks him in the shin and knocks him onto the ground.

He stands over the fallen soldier and says:

“Tankity tank-tank.”

********

A famous Naval Officer and an equally famous RSM were fishing together when a sudden storm hit. When it died down both renowned warriors were struggling helplessly in the water.

The sailor floundered his way back to the boat and pulled himself painfully in. Then he fished out the RSM, using an oar.

Catching his breath, he puffed: “Please don’t say a word about this to anyone. If the Navy found out I can’t swim I’d be disgraced.”

“Don’t worry,” the RSM said. “Your secret is safe. I’d hate to have my men find out I can’t walk on water.”

In July 1969, the tranquil shores of Okinawa were disrupted by an alarming incident that would reverberate through history, forever altering the perception of the U.S. military’s presence on the island. It began with a clandestine leak of chemical weapons, shrouded in secrecy, but soon escalated into a public health crisis that could no longer be concealed.

The leak of toxic chemicals on Okinawa’s soil sickened more than 20 U.S. soldiers, sending shockwaves not only through the military ranks but also through the local Okinawan community. This incident ripped the veil off one of the Pentagon’s most closely guarded Cold War secrets: the covert storage of hazardous munitions beyond the borders of the continental United States.

The public outcry following the Okinawa accident reached the highest echelons of government, compelling the White House to take immediate action. Thus, Operation Red Hat was born—a clandestine endeavour aimed at swiftly and discreetly removing the hazardous chemicals from the island, all while keeping the operation hidden from public scrutiny.

For over four decades, Operation Red Hat remained shrouded in mystery, its details locked away in classified archives, its participants bound by strict oaths of silence. Yet, the passage of time has a way of eroding secrets, and now, newly disclosed scientific studies and firsthand accounts from U.S. veterans who participated in the operation are finally shedding light on the truth behind this covert mission.

These revelations paint a vivid picture of the challenges faced by the soldiers tasked with executing Operation Red Hat. They recount tales of navigating treacherous terrain, facing the constant threat of exposure to deadly toxins, and operating under the cloak of utmost secrecy. Despite the risks, they were driven by a sense of duty and the imperative to protect both their fellow soldiers and the local Okinawan population from the looming spectre of chemical contamination.

The newly disclosed scientific studies provide further insight into the environmental impact of the chemicals stored on Okinawa, revealing the extent of the damage inflicted on the island’s delicate ecosystem. They underscore the long-lasting consequences of the military’s presence and its disregard for the environmental and public health risks associated with storing toxic munitions in foreign territories.

As these revelations come to light, they spark renewed debate and scrutiny over the legacy of U.S. military operations abroad and the ethical implications of their actions. Operation Red Hat serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve in the shadows, often at great personal risk, and the profound consequences of decisions made in the name of national security. It stands as a testament to the power of truth to transcend the passage of time and illuminate the darkest corners of history.

Top of Form

AUSTRALIA’S defence preparedness is in its most parlous state since Federation, though those responsible seem incapable of pinpointing the cause or finding a solution.

With escalating tensions worldwide the prospect of international war is only too real.

Nor is the problem helped by the level of ill-informed commentary by self-professed experts, including from both sides of politics.

Defence Minister Richard Marles recently said Defence still had a “way to go” to achieving excellence, making no apologies for butting heads with military chiefs and mandarins.

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Pundits and pollies don’t help our Defence | Australian Defence History, Policy and Veterans Issues (targetsdown.blogspot.com)