The Urgent Need for Recognition and Support for Australia’s Veterans and Families.

By Luke Gosling OAM MP

For many Afghanistan veterans and their families, the withdrawal from Kabul in 2021 and the imagery of the triumphant Taliban screamed failure.

Not since the fall of Saigon in 1975 had Australians been confronted with shocking images of our failed involvement in a foreign war.

Aware of our Vietnam Veterans’ experience, our Afghan veterans wonder how they will be remembered.

Afghanistan represents Australia’s longest military engagement.

Of the tens of thousands of service personnel deployed there, 41 were killed – their families left irreversibly damaged. Another 300 soldiers were seriously injured. Countless others deal with physical, psychological, and moral injury.

It is important to remember that Australia committed its defence personnel and civilians to the war to fulfil our U.S. alliance obligations after 9/11 and to deny terrorist organisations the use of Afghanistan as a training ground for renewed attacks around the world.

Our loss in this war, the perception of collective punishment for alleged war crimes, the sensationalism of sections of our media, and our failure to hold people accountable for poor decisions during the war, and in its aftermath, have had a significant impact on that war’s veterans.

It’s why I fought for the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, as well as for 3,000 Afghanistan veterans to retain their Meritorious Unit Citation.

Photo: Luke Gosling OAM MP – taken in Kandahar 2003 providing security during the election process for the Loya Jirga Constitutional Convention

I am a veteran, and although I did not serve with the Australian Defence Force in Afghanistan, my experience with the country began 20 years ago when I worked to secure an Afghan-led democratic election process in southern Afghanistan.

I experienced some of the beauty and terror of that place and the pride of the people, as well as the complexity of the human landscape and the difficulty of the operating environment.

It had to be experienced to be believed.

I do understand why many of our veterans question how they could be judged harshly for their service – like Vietnam veterans before them – and why no one seems to be advocating for them.

In the face of consistent negative media coverage, I will continue to argue that the many should not be punished for the sins of the few.

Veterans of Afghanistan wonder whether our nation will forget their service or whether we will remember them and recognise that this was a real war, a hard-fought war, and that a cruel and insidious regime was held at bay for over twenty years.

The work of our veterans allowed for the building of local infrastructure, the education of women and girls, and the expansion of democracy.

Their leadership demonstrated to Afghanistan’s proud people that those who rule them should do so with dignity and respect.

Veterans of Afghanistan wonder whether our nation will forget their service or whether we will remember them and recognise their service.

There is much more we can do today to better support our Afghanistan veterans and families, beginning by commemorating their service with a welcome home, perhaps around the time of the AWM redevelopment opening, and acknowledging our failings and learning how we can do better.

We owe it to the veterans and their families to address this issue formally, to provide them a voice, and to listen.

But let us not confuse this proposed review with the important work of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide that will report this year, nor with the work of the Special Investigator.

The review I am recommending should be a detailed research project, with stringent ethical oversight and broad terms of reference, that recommends positive actions to address the human impact on returned Australian soldiers and families of two decades of war in Afghanistan and the Middle East more broadly.

But aren’t there reviews galore already? What will another one add?

It’s true that the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, which in 1999 found that the children of Vietnam veterans were three times more likely to die from suicide than their peers, has also pioneered extensive research into veteran suicide among the Afghanistan and Iraq veteran cohorts.

Ample health-related reviews have also been commissioned by the departments of veterans’ affairs and defence, but none of them could seriously delve into the crucial question of the health impact of how our civilian and military leaders, senior public servants, and media all handled our longest war.

Such a project, led by veteran academics – neither commissioned nor directed by government – would make veterans and their families feel valued, would reinforce the importance of the purpose that is derived from military service, and give policymakers crucial insights to enhance the lives of those that serve, and will serve, our great nation.

It would also help Australia live up to our promise within the Veterans’ Covenant: ‘For what they have done, this we will do.’

Australian gunners showcased their expertise and resilience in the recent US Army’s Best by Test artillery competition held in Hawaii. Hailing from the 4th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery, a team of 31 personnel competed vigorously against international counterparts during the nine-day event on Oahu.

In a fierce display of military prowess, physical endurance, and technical artillery proficiency, the Australian Army gunners faced off against members of the US 2nd Division and 25th Infantry Division. Among the accolades earned, the 109 Battery clinched the title of Best Fire Support Team, with Captain Pat Glasby receiving individual recognition as the Best Forward Observer.

Captain Taras Jakubovsky recounted the team’s journey through challenging terrains characterized by steep hills and dense jungle, compounded by relentless rainfall. Despite the adverse conditions, the team persisted, averaging a mere four hours of sleep per night and covering extensive distances with heavy packs daily. Captain Jakubovsky emphasized the camaraderie and mutual support among team members, acknowledging the collective effort required to overcome physical and mental hurdles.

Reflecting on the experience, Captain Jakubovsky expressed pride in the team’s performance, viewing it as a validation of their training and a testament to their preparedness. He underscored the significance of collaboration with US allies, highlighting the opportunity to align methodologies and strengthen strategic partnerships.

Lance Bombardier Thomas Mundy echoed Captain Jakubovsky’s sentiments, emphasizing the rigorous nature of the competition and the team’s resilience in adverse conditions. He emphasized the value of integrating with American counterparts, noting the exchange of operational techniques and the enhancement of efficiency.

In conclusion, Mundy emphasized the honour of representing Australia on the global stage, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts and maintaining a positive reputation among international allies.

In February, the 1st Battalion of the Royal Australian Regiment immersed themselves in an intensive week of jungle warfare training, conducted amidst the dense foliage of Tully, Queensland. Beginning with foundational jungle skills, the training swiftly escalated to encompass live-fire jungle shakeouts at the platoon level, and further advanced to hone individual and section-level proficiencies.

Reflecting on the comprehensive training, Lance Corporal Jamal Basaid of Bravo Company emphasized the multifaceted nature of the curriculum, which delved into the intricacies of tactics, techniques, and procedures essential for survival in the jungle environment. “There’s a wealth of knowledge to absorb when it comes to thriving in the jungle,” remarked Lance Corporal Basaid, encapsulating the breadth of skills imparted during the rigorous sessions.

Major Tom Folley underscored the unforgiving nature of jungle operations, drawing parallels to historical campaigns like Kokoda and the Vietnam War, which epitomized the relentless challenges posed by such environments. “The jungle presents a unique set of obstacles, where vegetation, terrain, and weather exert profound influence,” Major Folley elucidated. “Operating in such conditions demands heightened resourcefulness, adaptability, and resilience from our soldiers.”

Elaborating on the specialized tactics necessitated by jungle warfare, Major Folley emphasized the primacy of fundamental soldiering skills in navigation. “Jungle navigation relies heavily on traditional methods; the dense canopy obstructs GPS signals, emphasizing the reliance on maps, compass bearings, and pacing,” he elucidated. Furthermore, he emphasized the imperative for soldiers to wield their weapons effectively amidst the dense foliage, adapting their tactics to suit the environment.

Echoing Major Folley’s sentiments, Lance Corporal Basaid stressed the importance of morale amidst the challenges of jungle living. “Maintaining high morale is pivotal, fostered through camaraderie, humour, and mutual understanding,” he emphasized. However, he also emphasized the necessity of focus and commitment when duty calls, highlighting the soldier’s inherent ability to switch gears when faced with operational demands.

In essence, the jungle warfare training encapsulated not only the acquisition of vital skills but also fostered a profound understanding of the unique demands and challenges posed by jungle environments, ensuring that soldiers are prepared to confront and overcome adversity in the most austere conditions.

In a strategic move, the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) dispatched the 383 Contingency Response Squadron (383CRS) to Tinian in the Northern Mariana Islands to participate in Exercise Cope North 24.

During this multinational exercise, RAAF personnel collaborated closely with counterparts from the US, Canada, and Japan to enhance the integration of their respective capabilities.

Flying Officer Natasha Willett highlighted the squadron’s role in facilitating airbase operations for various military branches, including the RAAF, US Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps. The 383CRS showcased its flexibility as an expeditionary force, delivering essential support.

“Our contingent on Tinian consisted of diverse elements such as command and control, security forces, health services, air movements, logistics, airfield engineering, and communications,” remarked Flying Officer Willett. “Working alongside allied counterparts has been an enriching experience, allowing us to conduct agile operations seamlessly.”

Exercise Cope North 24 saw the collaboration of 383CRS with counterparts from the US Air Force’s 36th Contingency Response Squadron and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (Koku-Jieitai). Together, they established fully operational airfields on Tinian within short timeframes, fostering flexibility and deeper integration.

Lieutenant Colonel Steve Smith, Commander of the 36th Contingency Response Squadron, emphasized the shared objective of learning, procedural development, and interoperability enhancement.

“A contingency response squadron comprises various elements focused on establishing an airbase for aircraft operations, maintenance, and support,” explained Lieutenant Colonel Smith. “Our self-sufficient deployment capability ensures operational continuity without the need for external resupply.”

Approximately 200 Australian personnel participated in Exercise Cope North 24 from February 5 to 23, offering aviators a platform to refine their skills in a dynamic environment.

The exercise centered on trilateral combined command structures, with key roles held by the Koku-Jieitai, USAF, and RAAF, facilitating the development of common procedures and protocols.

Embedded within 383CRS was USAF Technical Sergeant Matthew Lothrop, overseeing runway safety operations at Tinian North. His responsibilities included coordinating aircraft movements, airspace management, and collaborating with allied teams to ensure operational safety.

“We engaged in cross-training activities with RAAF counterparts, gaining insights into each other’s operational methods and safety protocols,” noted Sergeant Lothrop.

Amidst challenging scenarios, the Contingency Response Squadron conducted various exercises, including mass casualty response, aeromedical evacuations, airbase recovery, and close combat protection drills, fostering collaboration and problem-solving within the multinational coalition force.

Exercise Cope North 24 provided a valuable opportunity for the participating forces to integrate, address challenges collectively, and refine their tactical approaches.

The Government has today announced the commencement of public consultation on proposed changes to simplify veterans’ entitlements, compensation and rehabilitation legislation.

This important body of work is the next step in responding to the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide’s Interim Report.

The Government is seeking comments on the draft Veterans’ Entitlements, Treatment and Support (Simplification and Harmonisation) Bill 2024 that, if passed by Parliament, will reform more than a century of veteran compensation legislation.

The Bill would implement a ‘single Act’ model with the following core elements:

• An improved Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act(MRCA) where all new claims for compensation and rehabilitation will be considered under the improved MRCA; and
• Closing the Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986 (VEA) and the Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation (Defence‑related claims) Act 1988 (DRCA) to new claims for compensation and rehabilitation, with grandparenting of already approved VEA/DRCA compensation payments.

The proposed changes will see the MRCA enhanced for various entitlements, including:

1. the introduction of a new Additional Disablement Amount (ADA), similar to the Extreme Disablement Adjustment (EDA) available under the VEA. Like EDA, the ADA would compensate veterans who are Age Pension age or older and who have a high degree of incapacity due to service-related conditions.
2. the introduction of ‘presumptive liability’, which means the Repatriation Commission would be able to specify injuries and diseases that can be determined on a presumptive (in other words – automatic unless proven otherwise) basis where they are known to have a common connection with military service.
3. consolidation of household and attendant care, travel for treatment, and retention of automatic granting of VEA funeral benefits in the MRCA.
4. an increase to $3,000 for funeral allowance for previous automatic grant categories under the VEA, and the availability of reimbursement of funeral expenses up to $14,062 for all service related deaths.
5. the availability to all veterans of the higher travel reimbursement amount, regardless of kilometres, when a private vehicle is used to travel for treatment.
6. standardisation of allowances and other payments, including: acute support packages, Victoria Cross and decoration allowances, education schemes, prisoner of war ex gratia payments, and additional compensation for children of severely impaired veterans.
7. enhancement of the Commission’s ability to grant special assistance to veterans and their dependants.

Feedback and submissions during public consultation in 2023 on the pathway for legislation reform has helped the Government to respond to issues of most concern.

Further details on the proposed changes, how they impact veterans, and how to provide feedback, can be found on the DVA website.

Submissions will be accepted until 28 April 2024.

ED: The following was in my inbox this morning from Bob Buick … thanks Bob I was not aware of the extent of this land grab. The video I have placed below Bob’s comment.

This link https://youtu.be/ChjOC8JAxcE?si=Ye2JyUP-yh2F6-8H will I am sure surprise you, it did me, but I was not shocked because I follow politics from a distance. For decades, well two and a half decades since retiring and spending a lot of time online, I have developed an attitude that if nobody cares, why should I?

Since WW2 and for half a century Australia was a global middle power politically, and industrially, but I now believe, and I’ve said this before we are sliding into a second-world nation, we’ve lost industrial capability, so we are no longer self-reliant and moving towards a Marxist Socialist Political nation and very likely a socialist republic by the mid 21 Century.

The WOKE MOVEMENT is a socialist tool for Marxists and soon Australia will be coloured “political red”! The Qld election will late 2024 will be the tipping point if Labor is returned.

The Conservative political parties are not as effective as they were in the past thanks to the Liberal Parliamentary Member assassinating Abbott and accepting Turnbull and Morrison as leaders.

Bob Buick

The Queensland Government’s actions in Toobeah, QLD, epitomize a troubling trend of favouritism towards “First Nations” at the expense of Australian residents. Despite many of us being born and raised here, the government sees fit to hand over our lands, citing some historical entitlement. It’s a ludicrous notion that only widens divides rather than closing any supposed gaps.

The recent uproar in Toobeah underscores the frustration felt by locals. The government, under the guise of “closing the gap,” is facilitating the transfer of freehold land to Indigenous groups without proper consultation. It’s a slap in the face to the community’s rights and autonomy.

A glance at the National Native Title Tribunal’s maps reveals a staggering amount of land already under Indigenous ownership or in the process of transfer. Queensland alone sees nearly half its territory subject to such determinations. This disproportionate allocation of land, coupled with vague government goals, raises serious concerns about the future of property rights and equality.

Residents like Michael Offerdahl rightly voice their concerns about losing access to vital resources and the precedent this sets for other communities across Queensland. The government’s move to test these waters in smaller towns like Toobeah before advancing to larger urban areas is a worrying sign of things to come.

Senator Pauline Hanson’s call for a pause in the transfer process highlights the need for proper consultation and consideration of all stakeholders. However, assurances from the Aboriginal Corporation that public access will remain open do little to assuage fears of loss of control over communal spaces.

The most immediate recourse for affected citizens is to use their voting power to voice their discontent at the ballot box. It’s clear that the current Queensland Government has lost touch with the concerns of its constituents and prioritizes divisive policies over the welfare of all Queenslanders.

In the end, this isn’t just about land; it’s about fundamental principles of fairness and equality. If we allow ethnicity to dictate land ownership and rights, we jeopardize the very fabric of our society. It’s high time for our leaders to heed the voices of all Australians and work towards a future where equality is not just a slogan but a reality for every citizen.

Photo: Courtesy of the Ghost Army Legacy Project

‘Combat Con Artists’ of World War II Who Hoodwinked Nazis Get Long Overdue Top Honor from Congress

Sun Tzu, the ancient Chinese strategist, famously proclaimed that all warfare hinges on deception. The 23rd Headquarters Special Troops unit, better known as the “Ghost Army,” epitomized this principle during World War II, employing ingenious tactics to confound the enemy and safeguard Allied lives throughout the European theatre.

Utilizing a repertoire of deceptive measures ranging from inflatable tanks and artillery pieces to simulated radio transmissions and orchestrated sound effects, the Ghost Army orchestrated an elaborate charade from the beaches of Normandy to the banks of the Rhine. Their efforts, as documented by Army historians, potentially spared the lives of thousands of American troops amidst the chaos of war.

In recognition of their exceptional valour and innovation, the Ghost Army is slated to be honoured with the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian distinction bestowed by Congress. President Joe Biden signed the “Ghost Army Congressional Gold Medal Act” in 2022, underscoring the unit’s enduring legacy of bravery and resourcefulness.

Representative Annie Kuster praised the Ghost Army for their remarkable courage and creativity, emphasizing their pivotal role in shaping the outcome of critical military campaigns. Indeed, the impact of their stratagems was so profound that General George Patton himself sought their expertise to outmanoeuvred the enemy in key engagements, such as the assault on Metz and the relief of Bastogne.

Despite operating in obscurity for decades after the war, the Ghost Army’s clandestine efforts finally came to light, revealing a cohort of enlisted troops and officers drawn from diverse backgrounds, including notable figures like designer Bill Blass and artist Ellsworth Kelly. Their contributions, though often overlooked, were instrumental in turning the tide of battle and sparing civilian families the anguish of loss.

In retrospect, the essence of the Ghost Army’s mission can be encapsulated in the words of Sergeant Stan Nance, who reflected on the profound significance of their deception: to prevent even a single mother or new bride from bearing the heartbreaking burden of a Gold Star in their window.

This address delivered by former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper resonates with profound insight. When one approaches Israel’s narrative with a commitment to logic and reason, it becomes undeniably impressive. Regrettably, there exist detractors who reject rationality and common sense. Their voices are increasingly amplified through platforms like ABC and numerous mainstream media outlets, as well as certain segments within the Muslim community and environmentalist groups. Yet, amidst such noise, the strength of Israel’s story stands as a testament to the enduring power of reason and logic.

ED: When discussing the ongoing costs of electric vehicles (EVs), it’s crucial to consider various factors beyond just the initial purchase price. Here are some aspects often overlooked:

1. Resale Value: Resale value after a few years is a significant consideration. EVs typically depreciate faster than traditional vehicles due to concerns about battery life and technology advancements. Buyers should anticipate potential losses in resale value over time.
2. Weight Impact on Road Maintenance: EVs tend to be heavier than their petrol counterparts due to battery packs. While the impact on road maintenance might seem negligible per vehicle, it could accumulate significant costs for municipalities over time, especially as EV adoption increases.
3. Battery Disposal: The disposal of EV batteries is a growing concern. While advancements are being made in battery recycling, it still poses environmental challenges and costs. Proper disposal or recycling processes need to be established and funded.
4. Government Subsidies: Many governments offer subsidies and incentives to promote EV adoption, which ultimately come from taxpayers’ money. These subsidies cover various aspects, including purchase incentives, charging infrastructure development, and research grants. The long-term sustainability of such subsidies and their effectiveness in promoting EV adoption is a topic of debate.
5. Charging Infrastructure: While not directly an ongoing cost of EV ownership, the development and maintenance of charging infrastructure are significant considerations. Public charging stations require investment in installation, maintenance, and operation, which may involve ongoing costs borne by governments, businesses, or consumers.
6. Insurance Costs: Insurance premiums for EVs can be higher due to the perceived higher cost of repair or replacement of specialized EV components like batteries. Additionally, limited availability of qualified repair technicians may affect insurance rates.
7. Maintenance and Repair: While EVs generally have fewer moving parts and require less maintenance than traditional vehicles, servicing and repairing electric drivetrains and battery systems can be expensive. Specialized training and equipment are often needed, which may result in higher labour and parts costs.

In conclusion, while EVs offer numerous benefits such as reduced emissions, it’s essential to consider the full spectrum of ongoing costs and potential impacts on infrastructure, the environment, and taxpayers. These factors should be weighed alongside the benefits to make informed decisions about EV adoption and policy support.

The Labor Party’s latest proposal, spearheaded by Chris Bowen, to impose stringent fuel efficiency standards on vehicle manufacturers reflects a troubling trend towards government overreach and paternalistic control. Under this policy, Australians would find themselves compelled to opt for vehicles that meet the government’s specified fuel efficiency criteria, potentially limiting consumer choice and imposing additional financial burdens.

This heavy-handed approach not only infringes upon individual freedom but also neglects the diverse needs and preferences of Australian consumers. By effectively dictating which cars citizens “must drive,” Labor is undermining the principle of free market dynamics and stifling innovation within the automotive industry. Rather than empowering consumers to make informed decisions based on their unique circumstances, the government is imposing its will in a manner reminiscent of authoritarian regimes.

Moreover, the unintended consequences of such a policy are manifold. While ostensibly aimed at promoting environmental sustainability by encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles, the reality is that it could exacerbate socioeconomic disparities. The inevitable rise in prices for popular vehicles like the Toyota Land Cruiser and Ford Ranger would disproportionately impact working-class Australians who rely on these vehicles for their livelihoods, such as farmers, tradespeople, and regional residents.

Furthermore, the lack of consideration for infrastructure readiness and affordability of alternative options like electric vehicles demonstrates a disconnect between policymakers and the realities faced by everyday Australians. Rather than coercing citizens into compliance with arbitrary mandates, the government should focus on fostering a supportive environment for technological advancements and offering incentives to encourage sustainable choices.

In summary, Labor’s proposal to dictate the types of cars Australians are permitted to drive represents an alarming encroachment on personal liberty and economic autonomy. Instead of paternalistic control, policymakers should prioritize empowering individuals to make informed decisions while fostering innovation and inclusivity within the automotive sector.