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ED: From my inBox. 

During the November 2023 session of Federal Parliament, Senator Pauline Hanson read to the Senate a comment from her Facebook page posted by ‘Rebecca’. Read it and see if you think what “Rebecca” says ought to be headlines all over the country.

“Can we stop using the term Traditional Owners?”  Senator Hanson quotes the post as asking.  “Aborigines did not and do not own Australia. They were original inhabitants, and that is it.   Mother Nature provided all what Aboriginals claim as theirs. They did not build Ayer’s Rock, the Three Sisters, Kakadu, the river systems, the mountains etc.”

“They used the land and its natural resources and structures that were already there. They did not construct or design one single thing and, just as they continue to do today, they used and took whatever was available to them.”

“A lot of Australians feel nothing has changed.”

Senator Lidia Thorpe interjected: “Not all Australians”.

Senator Hanson continued. “‘What people tend to forget, like Senator Thorpe, is that I was born here too and so were millions of other Australians whose parents came as migrants and have made Australia their home All I have asked for is equality for all Australians. If you need it you get that helping hand. If you don’t need it, then fine you don’t. If you work hard for what you need, you can earn it, and that’s been proven by the 11 Senators in this Parliament who actually are of Aboriginal descent, and yet you, Senator Thorpe, want special treatment.”

The shouted interruptions increased until Senate President Sue Lines intervened and told both Senators to take their seats. After a pause she told Senator Hanson to resume but to address remarks to her as the chair.

Senator Hanson resumed and asserted that “Australia does not only belong to the Stone Age hunter gathers discovered by the British explorers and settlers, but to all who have made their home here.”

“I have to ask the question what special or unique contribution entitle Indigenous Australians to special or unique rights greater than anybody else. The answer is none whatsoever,”

“There has only ever been one nation on this continent founded on the first of January 1901 so there cannot be a legitimate treaty and this means there is no requirement for so-called ‘truth telling’ ”

“This is rewriting history to maximize settlements in a treaty, just forget it. We are all Australians together and should be treated equally.”

Earlier in the same speech Senator Hanson had singled Senator Thorpe out for special mention.

“There is no war on Indigenous Australians as Senator Thorpe pretends,” Senator Hanson said.  “That she sits in parliament along with other Indigenous people shows this claim for the lie that it is. Senator Thorpe is no victim on her taxpayer funded salary, and most Indigenous people reject the idea they are victims.”

As part of the 35th Tactical Fighter Wing, 2 Squadron RAAF received its tasks from HQ 7th Air Force in Saigon. The squadron’s mission was to conduct eight sorties per day, seven days a week, covering various areas of South Vietnam. This intense operational tempo demonstrated the commitment of the RAAF to the conflict and the vital role of air support in the overall military strategy.

The Canberra bombers filled a significant gap in the United States Air Force (USAF) inventory, as they were the only tactical aircraft in South Vietnam capable of bombing from straight and level flight at about 350 knots. This unique capability allowed the Canberra to deliver accurate strikes visually, making it a valuable asset in the challenging and dynamic environment of the Vietnam War.

Most of 2 Squadron’s sorties were dedicated to supporting the Australian Task Force in the III Corps area. Operating at an altitude of approximately 3000 feet (915 meters) above ground level, the crews aimed to minimize the risk of ground fire while still achieving remarkable accuracy. Despite flying at a relatively low altitude, the Canberra crews demonstrated their skill by achieving accuracies of about 45 meters, showcasing the aircraft’s evolution from a high-level bomber with poor accuracy to a highly effective low-level tactical bomber.

The transition of the Canberra over the years reflected the adaptability and versatility of the aircraft and its crews. The ability to deliver precise strikes in support of ground troops underscored the importance of 2 Squadron RAAF in contributing to the overall success of the allied efforts in South Vietnam. The squadron continued its operations until its return to Australia in 1971, leaving a legacy of professionalism and effectiveness in the challenging conditions of the Vietnam War.

CANBERRA BOMBER HISTORY:

The English Electric Canberra bomber not only served as a long-range jet bomber but also proved itself as a highly capable spy plane, achieving altitude and distance records during its operational history.

Originating from the renowned de Haviland Mosquito, a long-range multi-role fighter-bomber with wooden construction and Merlin piston engines, the English Electric Canberra emerged as a response to the impending age of jets in 1944. Designed by “Teddy” Petter, the Canberra featured two jet engines embedded into the wings, creating an aircraft with a length of 65 feet, 6 inches (19.964 meters), a wingspan of 64 feet (19.507 meters), and a height of 15 feet, 7 inches (4.750 meters). The journey from concept to prototype took five years, with the first Canberra taking flight on May 13th, 1949, showcasing impressive performance despite initial concerns.

Named after Canberra, Australia, as a nod to the British Commonwealth, the Canberra saw production in the UK and Australia, with an additional contribution from the US’s Martin Aircraft Company, producing 403 Canberras for the US Air Force between 1951 and 1959. The versatile aircraft took on various roles, including bombing, high-altitude reconnaissance, aviation test support, electronic warfare, and weather reconnaissance.

The Canberra’s service records were remarkable, with the UK Royal Air Force utilizing it for 55 years, concluding its service in 2006 with reconnaissance missions over Afghanistan. The aircraft’s longevity eventually led to its replacement by the Raytheon Sentinel R1 due to cost considerations and efficiency improvements.

Notably, the Canberra set speed and distance records, exemplified by a journey from Aldergrove, Northern Ireland, to Gander, Newfoundland, covering 2,072 miles in just 4 hours and 37 minutes on February 22nd, 1951. The aircraft maintained an average ground speed of 450 mph (724 kph) at a cruise altitude of 40,000 feet above sea level. This historic flight also served as a test for new high-altitude clothing designed to protect aircrew from extreme temperatures, featuring waistcoats with passive inspiration and active expiration mechanisms.

In addition to distance records, a Canberra conducted a daring altitude test by carrying a Napier Double Scorpion rocket in its bomb bay. Pilots Mike Randrup and Walter Shirley took the aircraft to 44,000 feet on its jets before igniting the rocket, achieving an impressive altitude of 70,308 feet (21km). This feat showcased the aircraft’s capabilities in pushing boundaries and contributing to advancements in aviation technology.

Former Australian Special Forces commando Wes Hennessey vehemently opposes the proposition of recruiting non-Australians into the Defence Forces, citing a pressing retention and recruitment challenge within the Australian military. In an interview with Sky News host Erin Molan, Hennessey expressed his categorical disagreement with the idea, emphasizing the severity of the situation by describing the Australian Defence Forces’ desperation to bolster their numbers for the future.

Hennessey underscored the existing issues within the military, including both retention and recruitment difficulties, suggesting a systemic problem that needs urgent attention. He argued that the reported consideration of enlisting recruits with non-Australian citizenship is a misguided approach, one that he staunchly rejects.

The former Special Forces commando’s concerns echo broader sentiments within the defence community, where the need to address manpower shortages has led to discussions about potential unconventional solutions. As Hennessey voiced his opposition, he shed light on the complex dynamics at play within the Australian Defence Forces and the challenges they face in maintaining and expanding their personnel.

The contrasting perspectives presented by Hennessey and the government officials highlight the ongoing discourse regarding the best approach to address the current and future needs of the Australian military. The tensions between maintaining a strictly nationalistic approach to military recruitment and exploring international collaboration raise questions about the efficacy and potential implications of such policy decisions in the broader context of defence strategy and national security.

Click Link to watch video.

Australian Defence Forces ‘desperate’ in search for recruits (youtube.com)

The Australia Day honours list serves as a testament to the outstanding contributions and exemplary service of individuals across various sectors, particularly within the Australian Defence Force (ADF). This year’s honours list has notably acknowledged the dedication and commitment of 20 ADF personnel in the Order of Australia’s military division, alongside the recognition of 58 ADF personnel for their distinguished and conspicuous service.

Among the distinguished honourees, the leadership of Royal Australian Air Force Chief Air Marshal Robert Chipman has stood out prominently. Air Marshal Chipman’s notable achievements include his instrumental role in the development of rapid-support plans aimed at identifying crucial equipment that Australia could generously provide to Ukraine. His strategic foresight, commitment to international collaboration, and adept planning in this regard have not only showcased his leadership capabilities but have also contributed significantly to fostering positive diplomatic relations.

In recognition of his outstanding achievements and leadership in the military domain, Air Marshal Robert Chipman has been conferred the prestigious title of an Officer in the Military Division of the Order of Australia. This distinguished accolade underscores the highest level of recognition and appreciation for his exceptional service to the nation.

OFFICER (AO) IN THE MILITARY DIVISION OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA

Air Marshal Robert Timothy Chipman AM CSC

MEMBER (AM) IN THE MILITARY DIVISION OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA

Navy: Rear Admiral Matthew Paul Buckley CSC RAN; Commodore Peter James Leavy CSM RAN

Army: Brigadier David Charles Hafner CSC; Major General Jason Kyle Walk

Air Force: Group Captain David John Clyde CSM; Group Captain Dennis Davison; Air Commodore Gretchen Elizabeth Fryar; Air Commodore Anthony John Hindmarsh CSC; Group Captain Hannah Louise Jude-Smith

MEDAL (OAM) IN THE MILITARY DIVISION OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA

Navy: Commander Steven John Bliss RAN; Captain Jacqueline Margaret King RAN; Warrant Officer David John Passmore; Chief Petty Officer Steven David Paterson CSM; Commander Liza Jane Stephenson RAN

Army: Major David Graeme Brown CSM; Warrant Officer Class One Glen Andrew Donaldson; Warrant Officer Class Two Tommy Munyarryun

Air Force: Sergeant Justin Luke Kurban; Flight Sergeant Grant William Reibel,

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE MEDAL (DSM)

Army: Lieutenant Colonel M

CONSPICUOUS SERVICE CROSS (CSC)

Navy: Petty Officer Gillian Louise Bryant; Commander Claire Elizabeth Jones RAN; Commander Nathan Wyllie Lockhart RAN; Commodore Gustaaf Henri Nord-Thomson RAN;

Army: Brigadier Mark Norman Armstrong; Lieutenant Colonel Alana Burkitt; Lieutenant Colonel Gwenda Margo Caspersonn; Colonel John Angus Dougall; Lieutenant Colonel David James Evans; Brigadier G; Colonel Michael James King; Brigadier Robert Barton Lording CSM; Colonel Rodney Waldemar Petersen; Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan David Pollard; Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Lytton Watson

Air Force: Warrant Officer Paul Ernest Argus; Wing Commander David Norman Bell; Wing Commander Brett Andrew Clarke; Group Captain Daniel Christopher Drinan; Wing Commander Andrew Michael Jackson OAM; Squadron Leader Malith Jayasinghe; Warrant Officer Martin James Miller; Air Commodore Scott Matthew Parry AM; Warrant Officer Melinda Jane Skinner

CONSPICUOUS SERVICE MEDAL (CSM)

Navy: Lieutenant Commander Simon Craig Abley RAN; Chief Petty Officer Dennis Andrew Anning; Warrant Officer Jessica Amy Buley; Lieutenant Commander Michael Copland RAN; Captain Roger Fonhof RAN; Lieutenant Commander Mark Gallagher RAN; Petty Officer Keigan James Gunther; Warrant Officer Steven Alexander Mcconnachie; Lieutenant Matthew Alex Parritt RAN; Commander Peter Dennis Shirley RAN; Warrant Officer Cheryl Valerie Young

Army: Captain Jackson Harris Cail; Warrant Officer Class One Damien Mark Cheung; Warrant Officer Class One Steven Owen Davies; Bombardier Adam James Davies-Moore; Warrant Officer Class One Nigel Roy Dobson; Warrant Officer Class Two David Robert Elliott; Captain Nicholas Paul Goldsworthy; Warrant Officer Class One Shawn Glenn Goodbody; Signaller Thomas Anthony Grayham; Warrant Officer Class One Megan Jennifer Griffiths; Colonel Alison Kim Kaine; Warrant Officer Class Two Benjamin James Kilgour; Major Benjamin Kreis; Major L; Lieutenant Colonel James Thomas Pidgeon; Lieutenant Colonel Meng Wang; Warrant Officer Class One Sean Heinz Weber; Major Sally Williamson

Air Force: Chaplain (Wing Commander) Lindsay Brian Carey; Wing Commander Denis Brian French; Corporal Matthew Palmer; Corporal Jack Clifford Simpson; Squadron Leader Melissa Jane Vreugdenburg

ED: I sure you’ll join me in congratulating each and every one on being recognised for their individual awards.

You might find the attached January 1972 US press item interesting:

“Jade Warriors – Aussies Leaving But Legend Stays”.

The US journalist has apparently “misheard” Australian troops – i.e. thinking their reference to the “dark green jungle”- as “the J”, was “the Jade”!

Other comments on the Australian military involvement are also interesting e.g.: Australians were unlikely to leave a “permanent mark” despite their “victories”; Australians “paid their way” and their image was not “tainted” – unlike other non-US Free World Forces; Vietnamese bar girls taunted Australian soldiers as “cheap charlies” because of their “thriftiness”; and “the Aussies were untouched by the US drug sub-culture … the potent Australian beer was a substitute used by many.”

Regards, Ernie Chamberlain

The prolonged hesitation by Hungary to ratify Sweden’s NATO membership has intensified concerns and triggered diplomatic repercussions within the alliance. While Turkey recently gave its nod to Sweden’s NATO inclusion, Hungary stands as the sole member among the 31-nation alliance yet to formalize its approval, raising speculations about the motives behind Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s reluctance.

The Hungarian parliament’s failure to vote on the matter has become a focal point of scrutiny, prompting questions about Orbán’s foreign policy objectives. This development has not gone unnoticed by NATO allies, and it has particularly irked the United States, with its ambassador to Hungary, David Pressman, openly criticizing Orbán’s foreign policy as a “fantasy.” Pressman’s warning that Budapest is “really alone” emphasizes the urgency for Hungary to honour its commitment and address the mounting frustration within the alliance.

Amid the diplomatic standoff, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson has demonstrated a diplomatic approach, accepting Orbán’s invitation for discussions. However, Kristersson has firmly asserted that negotiations will not be on the table regarding Sweden’s NATO membership. This stance underscores Sweden’s unwavering commitment to its NATO aspirations and signals its readiness to engage in dialogue while maintaining the integrity of the membership approval process.

The delay in Hungary’s ratification process holds global implications, particularly in light of Hungary’s recent geopolitical decisions. Actions such as blocking EU financing for Ukraine, engaging in talks with Vladimir Putin, and resisting efforts to diversify energy sources away from Russian influence have raised concerns about Hungary’s alignment and commitment to Western values. The NATO membership delay adds another layer of uncertainty, casting a shadow over Hungary’s role within the alliance and contributing to a broader geopolitical landscape marked by shifting alliances and diverging interests.

As Hungary’s hesitation persists, the international community closely watches the developments, weighing the broader consequences of a NATO member potentially straying from the alliance’s unified objectives and values. The situation emphasizes the delicate balance between national interests and collective security within the intricate web of international relations.

Yemen’s Houthi rebels launched a missile at the U.S. warship USS Carney in the Gulf of Aden, prompting the ship to intercept the projectile. The attack also hit a British vessel, escalating tensions in the region. It marks the first direct targeting of a U.S. warship by the Houthis. The U.S. and allies are now taking regular action against Houthi weapons sites. China has urged the Houthis to stop Red Sea attacks, expressing concern about rising tensions in the region. China reportedly asked Iran to intervene with the Houthis to protect business relations with Beijing.

Explore the frozen frontiers and witness the prowess of the United States Air Force as they navigate the coldest airspaces on Earth. In this captivating video, we embark on a journey to the most frigid Air Force bases, where temperatures plummet to bone-chilling extremes. Operating sophisticated million-dollar aircraft in these harsh conditions requires a combination of cutting-edge technology, strategic planning, and the unwavering dedication of Air Force personnel.

CLICK LINK

Inside US Coldest Air Force Base Operating Frozen Million $ Aircraft (youtube.com)

Sometimes there are Australians that don’t get the chance to smell the wattle

Sometimes there are some that never get to swim in our jewelled sea

There are people who have lost limbs defending us that never get to dance

To celebrate our special day there are some that would like the chance.

There are some that are still filled with hatred from 200 years before

When British ship bearing convicts arrived on a new countries shore

There are many who have built Australia till it grew into a nation

Then a flag was born to fly proudly as we headed forwards to federation.

There are many who have served our flag across our wide brown plains

Ready to help out mates in droughts and flooding rains

In Australia we call them mates…unknown to us but care

When disaster calls from all over ordinary Australians will be there

So why can’t we come together why do people want to change the date

Australia day should unite us, that’s the meaning of a Mate

The Flag that flies above you proudly every day

We can achieve the best that’s our Australian way

John Seagg – 26th Jan 2024

In the quiet corner of an RSL I visited, a group of veterans had gathered. They were a diverse bunch, spanning different eras and conflicts – Korea, Vietnam, Somalia, Iraq, Timor, Afghanistan. Yet, in that dimly lit space, the years melted away, and the common thread that bound them all became evident – mateship forged in the crucible of military service.

Amidst the clinking of glasses and murmurs of conversation, there was a shared understanding that transcended time and battlefield. Most of them had been mere teenagers when they first donned their uniforms, fresh-faced and filled with a mix of excitement and trepidation. Now, decades later, their faces bore the marks of life’s journey, etched with the lines of experiences that only those who had served could truly comprehend.

As they swapped stories, a camaraderie emerged, weaving a tapestry of memories that crisscrossed continents and climates. The specific theatres of war may have varied, but the essence of their tales resonated with a universal truth – the bond of mateship.

During the animated conversations, an encounter unfolded that encapsulated the essence of their shared brotherhood. A seasoned veteran, having left the military behind for many years, found himself seated next to another stranger in uniform. They exchanged acknowledgments, recognizing the familiar lanyard that adorned the young soldier’s uniform.

With a wide smile, the older veteran initiated a conversation. As they delved into their respective stories, the invisible walls that often separate strangers crumbled away. It was as if they had known each other for a lifetime. The shared language of military experiences flowed effortlessly between them, creating an unspoken understanding that words alone couldn’t convey.

In that moment, the club transformed into a sanctuary of shared memories and unspoken camaraderie. The laughter and camaraderie echoed through the air, carrying the weight of years spent in service and the unique connection that only those who have worn the uniform can understand.

As the night wore on, we all parted ways, carrying with us the warmth of newfound connections and the reassurance that, no matter the era or the theatre of operation, the unbreakable bond of mateship endured. For in those chance encounters, strangers became comrades, and the shared tapestry of their military service wove a story that transcended time and distance.

That’s enough from me – enjoy the video.