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Richard, (my husband), never really talked a lot about his time in Viet Nam other than he had been shot by a sniper. However, he had a rather grainy, 8 x 10 black & white photo he had taken at a USO show of Ann Margaret with Bob Hope in the background that was one of his treasures.

A few years ago, Ann Margaret was doing a book signing at a local bookstore. Richard wanted to see if he could get her to sign the treasured photo so he arrived at the bookstore at 12 o’clock for the 7:30 signing. When I got there after work, the line went all the way around the bookstore, circled the parking lot, and disappeared behind a parking garage.

Before her appearance, bookstore employees announced that she would sign only her book and no memorabilia would be permitted. Richard was disappointed, but wanted to show her the photo and let her know how much those shows meant to lonely GI’s so far from home.

Ann Margaret came out looking as beautiful as ever and, as 2nd in line, it was soon Richard’s turn. He presented the book for her signature and then took out the photo. When he did, there were many shouts from the employees that she would not sign it. Richard said, “I understand. I just wanted her to see it”.

She took one look at the photo, tears welled up in her eyes and she said, “This is one of my gentlemen from Viet Nam and I most certainly will sign his photo. I know what these men did for their country and I always have time for “my gentlemen”. With that, she pulled Richard across the table and planted a big kiss on him.

She then made quite a to do about the bravery of the young men she met over the years, how much she admired them, and how much she appreciated them. There weren’t too many dry eyes among those close enough to hear. She then posed for pictures and acted as if he was the only one there.

Later at dinner, Richard was very quiet. When I asked if he’d like to talk about it, my big strong husband broke down in tears. “That’s the first time anyone ever thanked me for my time in the Army”, he said.

Richard, like many others, came home to people who spit on him and shouted ugly things at him. That night was a turning point for him. He walked a little straighter and, for the first time in years, was proud to have been a Vet.

I’ll never forget Ann Margaret for her graciousness and how much that small act of kindness meant to my husband. I now make it a point to say Thank You to every person I come across who served in our Armed Forces.

Freedom does not come cheap and I am grateful for all those who have served their country.

If you’d like to pass on this story, feel free to do so. Perhaps it will help others to become aware of how important it is to acknowledge the contribution our service people make.

Origins:   Ann-Margret (born Ann-Margret Olsson in 1941) caught the entertainment industry’s eye while still a teen. Her vivacious spirit and startling good looks helped propel her into a successful career as an actress, singer, and dancer, but she was initially saddled with a sex kitten image that limited her to siren roles. With the help of her husband (Roger Smith

of television’s 77 Sunset Strip), she began to shake free of that perception during her thirties; and she has since been twice nominated for Academy Awards (for Carnal Knowledge in 1971 and Tommy in 1975) and has been the recipient of numerous Emmys.

The book signing story presented above adheres to the facts of Ann-Margret’s life, and according to Bruce Thompson, webmaster of Ann-Margret.com (the star’s offical web site), it is indeed true. Ann-Margret entertained American servicemen in Vietnam as part of Bob Hope’s traveling troupe in the 1960s, and she participated in a number of signings at book stores when her autobiography, Ann-Margret: My Story, was published in 1994. (My Story made the New York Times‘s best-seller list scant days after its release.)

Ann-Margret is still remembered fondly by many of those soldiers who served in Vietnam and who were lucky enough to be in the audience for one of her shows. In press interviews she has often spoken about former G.I.s who have stepped forward to thank her for taking the time to do her part back then, so it’s hardly a stretch to think she would be thanking them in return.

In April 2015 a reader wrote to us to report his recent encounter with the star, who still runs true to form in her love for our veterans after all these years:

I actually had the pleasure of meeting her at an autograph signing at Chiller Theatre in Parsippany, NJ this past weekend.

With the limited time I was permitted with her, I brought up the article on Snopes and thanked her for always supporting our veterans.

She told me she hadn’t known about it being on Snopes but verified that the story was true and said that she was so overwhelmed with emotion.

She told me she had just been at a VA hospital the previous week and said she always tries to see “[her] boys” whenever she can.

At 74 years old (her birthday was yesterday, actually!) she’s one of the classiest celebrities I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. She spent as much time as she could talking to each person that came up, and said she was having the time of her life being able to meet such wonderful people. A true sweetheart, and still loves her vets every bit as much to this day.

I told her, “God bless you for what you do for our soldiers.”

She replied, “And God bless you for recognizing how important they are.”

And that’s how she signed my photo, “God Bless”.

Thanks for sharing the original story, it certainly gave me a unique experience in meeting Ann-Margret.

ED: Video follows the article.

In a landmark aviation feat in 1928, the legendary Charles Kingsford Smith etched his name in history by completing the first-ever trans-Pacific flight from mainland US to Australia aboard the iconic Fokker F.VIIb/3m trimotor, famously known as the Southern Cross. Covering an astounding distance of approximately 11,670 kilometres (7,250 miles), this pioneering journey was a testament to human ingenuity and aviation prowess.

Fast forward to the present day, where the spirit of the Southern Cross has been resurrected in the form of a meticulously crafted replica. Constructed in South Australia over the span of seven years, from 1980 to 1987, this full-sized flying reproduction stands as the largest known replica aircraft in the world, paying homage to the golden age of aviation.

However, fate dealt a blow to the Southern Cross on May 25, 2002, when it suffered a severe takeoff accident, resulting in major structural damage. Undeterred by the setback, the Historical Aircraft Restoration Society (HARS) stepped in, acquiring the historic aircraft from the South Australia Government in 2010. What followed was an exhaustive and intricate 12-year restoration effort by dedicated HARS volunteers, breathing new life into this aviation marvel.

The culmination of this laborious restoration journey was marked by the Southern Cross achieving airworthiness in the year 2023. On the historic day of December 8, 2023, the aircraft emerged from its cocoon of restoration, taking to the skies once again in a resplendent display of its revived glory. This momentous occasion was graced by a public flight demonstration that garnered widespread acclaim for its seamless execution and the remarkable dedication exhibited by the restoration team.

At the helm of this historic flight were esteemed Qantas pilots Bruce Simpson and Mark Thurstan, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to guide the Southern Cross through the skies. Their presence underscored the significance of this achievement, connecting the past and present of aviation history.

The rebirth of the Southern Cross stands not only as a tribute to Charles Kingsford Smith’s pioneering spirit but also as a testament to the unwavering commitment of the aviation community to preserve and celebrate the heritage of flight. The Southern Cross replica, now soaring through the skies once more, serves as a living testament to the indomitable human spirit and the enduring legacy of those who paved the way for aviation exploration.

With potential conflict brewing in the region, Ben Packham, The Australian’s renowned Foreign Affairs and Defence correspondent, unravels the $7.8 billion lethal weapon load-out that will keep Australia safe.

By the mid-1950s the RAAF started to consider a replacement for the Australian produced CAC Sabre. A joint evaluation team from the Departments of Air and Supply toured Europe and North America in 1960 to consider Australia’s options. The Mirage was chosen as the first supersonic fighter for Australia.

On July 16, 1965, the resounding echoes of artillery fire pierced the air as 161 Battery, strategically stationed at Bien Hoa air base near Saigon, unleashed its firepower upon a Viet Cong position. This formidable display of force was undertaken in unwavering support of 1RAR, the Australian Army unit intricately attached to the renowned American 173rd Airborne Brigade.

Fast forward just over a year to August 18, 1966, and 161 Battery of the 16 Field Regiment, Royal New Zealand Artillery (RNZA), found itself in a pivotal role once again. Positioned within the 1st Australian Task Force at Nui Dat, South Vietnam, this artillery unit played a crucial role in the Battle of Long Tan. Collaborating seamlessly with Australian artillery units—103 Battery and 105 Battery of the Royal Australian Army, and the 2/35th Howitzer Battalion of the US Army—161 Battery, RNZA, made history.

The Battle of Long Tan saw the valiant efforts of D Company, 6RAR, against overwhelming odds. The Forward (Artillery) Observers attached to D Company, including Capt Morrie Stanley, Bdr Willie Walker, and Bdr Murray Broomhall from 161 Battery, RNZA, took charge of orchestrating the firepower from 24 guns. Stationed in the rubber plantation known as Long Tan, they maintained an astonishing rate of fire, averaging 6-8 rounds per minute—2 above the intense rate—for over 3.5 relentless hours.

In a remarkable testament to courage and resilience, 105 Australians and 3 New Zealanders from D Company, 6RAR, faced off against a staggering force of 2,500 North Vietnamese and Viet Cong soldiers. The battle concluded with a decisive victory for the Australian and New Zealand forces, but not without a heavy toll. Eighteen Australians and more than 500 Viet Cong and North Vietnamese soldiers lost their lives in the ferocious encounter.

The Vietnam War marked a significant chapter in New Zealand’s military history. Between June 1964 and December 1972, over 3,000 New Zealand military personnel served in South Vietnam. At its zenith in 1968, the New Zealand force numbered 543. Notably, this conflict was distinctive as it marked the first time New Zealand did not align itself with Great Britain in war. Instead, New Zealand collaborated with the United States and Australia, reaffirming its commitment to global alliances and its role in international conflicts. The toll on New Zealand forces was profound, with 37 men losing their lives and 187 sustaining injuries during their active service in Vietnam.

WARNING THIS REPORT IS 271 PAGES OF GRANTS

https://www.aph.gov.au/-/media/Estimates/fpa/supp2423/addinfo/1_NIAA_Grants_between_1_January_2023_and_30_June_2023.pdf?la=en&hash=25D1D35C27BB6305EFF80F8607FA2FBE33699897       

In recent times, a comprehensive 271-page report has emerged, shedding light on the allocation of government grants to Aboriginal communities over the past six months. The contents of this report have ignited controversy and stirred public discontent, with some individuals expressing their dismay over what they perceive as a misuse of taxpayer funds. The revelation of these grants has sparked debates about government priorities, particularly in the face of other pressing issues such as veteran affairs, healthcare, and homelessness.

The report has become a focal point of public frustration, with many expressing their outrage at what they consider a misallocation of resources. Critics argue that the government is diverting significant funds towards specific initiatives, neglecting other critical sectors of society in the process. The concern is not just about the monetary allocation but also about the lack of transparency and public awareness.

The issue becomes even more contentious when considering its potential impact on public opinion. Some individuals suggest that had this information been made available before a recent referendum, the outcome might have been different. The public’s trust in the government’s decision-making processes is now in question, as citizens grapple with the revelation that funds might not be allocated in accordance with their expectations.

The frustration expressed by some citizens extends beyond the Aboriginal grants to encompass cutbacks in essential services such as the Department of Veterans Affairs and Medicare. Concerns have been raised about the implications of these cutbacks on the well-being of veterans and the general population’s access to healthcare. The revelation of seemingly limitless funds for certain initiatives while essential services face cutbacks has further fueled public discontent.

One recurring theme in public discourse is the perception that no matter how much is allocated, it is never enough, and the “Gap” continues to widen. The allocation of substantial funds to specific projects, as revealed in the report, raises questions about the government’s commitment to addressing broader societal issues, including homelessness, medical research, and education.

Critics argue that the government’s funding priorities, as reflected in the report, highlight a misalignment with the needs and expectations of the wider population. While there is apparent generosity towards certain projects, essential services and programs that directly impact citizens’ daily lives seem to be underfunded or neglected.

The emergence of the 6-month government grants report has undoubtedly sparked controversy and public outcry. As citizens grapple with the revelation of seemingly disproportionate fund allocations, questions arise about the government’s decision-making processes and its commitment to addressing pressing issues affecting the broader population. The impact of this revelation on future elections and public trust remains to be seen, but it undeniably adds fuel to the ongoing debate about government transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility.

HMAS Brisbane

2 Tours: 20 Mar 69 -13 Oct 69, Mar 71-15 Oct 71

Together with other Australian destroyers, HMAS Brisbane provided Naval Gunfire Support (NGFS) along the South Vietnamese coast. Her second deployment was the last combat tour of a RAN destroyer.

HMAS Perth

3 Tours: 2 Sep 67 – 10 Apr 68, 14 Sep 68 – 20 Apr 69, 14 Sep 70 – 8 Apr 71

On 18 Oct 67, during her first deployment, Perth was hit by an artillery shell which penetrated one deck. In her six-month deployment HMAS Perth came under fire four times and was the only Australian ship hit by enemy fire.

HMAS Hobart

3 Tours: 7 Mar 67 – 27 Sep 67, 22 Mar 68 -11 Oct 68, 6 Mar 70 -17 Oct 70

Between 1967 and 1971, Australian destroyers were attached to the United States Seventh fleet for six-month tours of duty. HMAS Hobart was the first Australian destroyer deployed. During her second deployment to Vietnam, Hobart was accidentally attacked by US aircraft. The ship was damaged and two Australians were killed. During her second deployment Hobart was under fire on three occasions. The deployment was mainly involved in NGFS in support of a joint Australian/ARVN sweep between the Long Hai hills and the coastline.

HMAS Vendetta

15 Sep 69 -11 Apr 70

HMAS Vendetta was the only Australian-built warship to serve in Vietnam and was the first Australian Daring Class destroyer to see active service. During her one deployment, Vendetta steamed 39,558 miles and fired more than 13,000 shells.

Clearance Diving Team 3

6 Feb 67 – 11 Apr 71

In early 1967 a team of one officer and five sailors known as Clearance Diving Team 3 formed for service in Vietnam. The team was assigned to Vung Tau Harbour defence between Feb 67 and Aug 70, and was then stationed at Da Nang until Apr 71 when the unit was withdrawn from Vietnam. Eight contingents saw service in Vietnam.

RAN Helicopter Flight Vietnam

16 Oct 67 – 14 Jun 71

On 16 Oct 67 eight RAN helicopter pilots and support staff joined the US Army 135th Assault Helicopter Company in Vietnam. The RAN contingents served with the Americans till 1971. The RAN pilots flew their last mission on 8 Jun 71 and the experiment of a mixed Australian Navy and American Army helicopter unit had been successful.

RAN Detachment 9 Squadron RAAF

Jun 66 – May 69

The RAN Detachment of 9 Squadron RAAF comprised eight Fleet Air Arm pilots operating in direct support of the 1st Australian Task Force. Australian Force Logistic Support All three Australian services provided logistic support to Australian forces in Vietnam.

HMAS Sydney

May 65 -11 Mar 72

The troop transport HMAS Sydney was the first RAN ship to have operational service in Vietnam. She completed 22 voyages in 7 years.

Also serving with HMAS Sydney were:

Detachment of 725 Squadron (8 April – 19 June 1967) and
Detachment of 817 Squadron (1 December 1967 – 16 February 1968, 26March 1968 – 26 April 1968, 18 May 1968 – 16 June 1968 and circa 28 October 1968 – 6 December 1968)2

HMAS Jeparit

9 Jun 66 -15 Mar 72

Formerly the Australian National Line cargo ship – MV Jeparit. She completed 43 voyages to Vietnam carrying military supplies and civil aid cargoes. She was commissioned into the RAN on 11 Dec 69 and paid off on 15 Mar 72.

HMAS Boonaroo

May 66

Formerly the Australian National Line cargo ship – MV Boonaroo, was commissioned into the RAN 1 Mar 67 and paid off 8 May l967. She completed 2 voyages to Vietnam.

RAN Medical Officers

Thirteen RAN RANR and RANVR served in Vietnam. Some served on the Australian destroyers and others with the 1st Australian Field Hospital and with the US Army and Naval Hospitals.

RAN Chaplains

Fleet Chaplains attended to the spiritual needs of RAN, and allied servicemen in Vietnam.

Operation Marauder, a collaborative effort between the 173rd Airborne Brigade and the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (1 RAR), unfolded in the challenging terrain of the Plain of Reeds within the Mekong Delta. Spanning from January 1 to January 8, 1966, this military endeavour showcased the coordinated deployment and strategic prowess of the participating forces.

The operation kicked off on January 1, 1966, as 1st Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, 1 RAR, and C Battery, 3rd Battalion, 319th Artillery Regiment, which included 161 Battery, Royal New Zealand Artillery, were airlifted into Ba Tri airfield from Hậu Nghĩa Province. The initial phase saw the establishment of a formidable presence on the ground, setting the stage for subsequent engagements.

On January 2, 2/503rd encountered a well-entrenched Viet Cong force upon landing at Landing Zone Wine. A fierce battle ensued, with the 2/503rd receiving support from artillery fire and air assistance. Despite the challenges, the unit successfully overran the VC position, discovering 111 deceased insurgents. The subsequent days of the operation witnessed sporadic contact with the Viet Cong, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of the allied forces.

Tragically, on January 3, 1966, two rounds fired by 161 Battery accidentally landed on C Company, 2/503rd, resulting in the loss of three paratroopers and the injury of seven others. Investigations later revealed that the tragic incident was caused by damp powder affecting the trajectory of the artillery rounds.

Simultaneously, the Australian contingent from 1 RAR engaged in extensive patrolling activities from January 2 to January 6. While making small, sporadic contact with the enemy, resulting in the elimination of two Viet Cong members, the Australians also discovered an ammunition cache and several substantial rice caches. On January 5, a patrol from 1 RAR engaged a VC platoon near Hoa Khanh, forcing the enemy to break contact and retreat.

One of the notable achievements of the operation occurred on January 6 when the 2/503rd located the abandoned headquarters of the 506th Battalion. This discovery proved instrumental as the allied forces recovered arms, ammunition, maps, and personnel rosters, providing valuable intelligence for future operations.

Operation Marauder, with its blend of airborne deployment, ground engagement, and strategic discoveries, underscored the effectiveness of joint military efforts in countering insurgent forces. The operation’s success in neutralizing a significant Viet Cong position and obtaining valuable intelligence showcased the determination and proficiency of the 173rd Airborne Brigade, 1 RAR, and their allies in the Plain of Reeds during this critical period of the Vietnam War.

The Gloster Meteor, a distinctive British jet marvel, lingered on the aviation stage long after the curtains fell on World War II. With a staggering production count of 3,875 units, it outpaced all contemporaneous British jet aircraft. While the German Luftwaffe showcased its jet prowess with the Me-262, Me-163 Komet, and He-162 during the war, the Meteor’s narrative remains overshadowed, an unsung hero in the jet-powered chronicles of the time.

In the crucible of wartime innovation, the Gloster Meteor made its operational entrance nearly parallel to the Me-262. Yet, its historical footprint is not as prominent, perhaps owing to its initial mission – intercepting the V-1 Buzz Bombs, rather than engaging in direct aerial confrontations over Germany like its German counterpart. This unique facet sets the Meteor apart from its better-acknowledged contemporaries.

The origins of the Meteor trace back to the visionary mind of George Carter in 1940, a period when turbojet technology was still in its nascent stages. Despite Germany’s acclaim for birthing the first operational jet fighter, Britain was, in fact, at the forefront of this revolutionary technology. Gloster, having crafted the last British biplane fighter, the Gloster Gladiator, merely a decade prior, took up the challenge of developing a single-seat, jet-powered interceptor.

While Carter, inspired by the Me-262, opted for twin engines, the Meteor differed with straight wings, a distinctive departure from the swept-back wings of its German counterpart. Positioned in the forward fuselage, the cockpit offered superior visibility, a design feature that enhanced the pilot’s situational awareness.

Initially dubbed the Gloster Thunderbolt, the aircraft faced a nomenclature clash with the American Republic P-47 Thunderbolt. Consequently, the name Meteor was chosen, not with an eye on Germany’s Me-163 Komet, but rather fittingly reflecting the era’s trend of associating early jet aircraft with celestial objects. Considered alternatives included Ace, Reaper, Scourge, Terrific, and Wildfire.

In stark contrast to the rapid development cycles of American P-47 Thunderbolts and P-51 Mustangs, the Gloster Meteor’s journey was characterized by methodical, albeit slow, progression. While the German urgency to deploy the Me-262 as a superweapon resulted in a rushed, potentially hazardous aircraft, the Allies prioritized the Meteor’s airworthiness and safety. Although both the Me-262 and Meteor achieved operational status by mid-1944, circumstances dictated that they never crossed paths in aerial combat.

The Meteor’s primary wartime role was to intercept V-1 flying bombs, a mission that underscored its limited range due to rapid fuel consumption. This stood in stark contrast to the Me-262, which, despite its fuel inefficiency, operated within familiar skies. Post-World War II, the Meteor continued its service, attaining a production volume of 3,875 units, an unmatched feat among British jet aircraft of the era.

While the Meteor did not encounter German jet fighters, it found itself in the crucible of the Korean War, serving with the Australian Air Force. However, it faced formidable opponents in the Soviet-designed North Korean and Chinese Mig-15 fighters, marking its struggle against advancing aviation technology. Despite its shortcomings, the Meteor remained operational until the 1980s, gracing the skies under the banner of Ecuador’s Air Force.

The final flight of the last airworthy Gloster Meteor at Bruntinghorpe Airfield in Leicestershire in January 2019 marked the end of an era. This venerable aircraft, now housed in the Classic British Jets Collection, serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Gloster Meteor, an often-forgotten chapter in the annals of aviation history.

The US Department of Defence has declared an additional security aid package to address Ukraine’s critical security and defence requirements. In the latest move by the Biden Administration, the 53rd tranche of equipment slated for delivery from DOD inventories to Ukraine since August 2021 encompasses additional air defence equipment, artillery ammunition, anti-tank weapons, and various weaponry valued at approximately US$200 million.

The specific systems set for delivery comprise AIM-9M air defence missiles, air defence system components, High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) ammunition, 155mm and 105mm artillery rounds, high-speed anti-radiation missiles, TOW missiles, Javelin and AT-4 anti-armour systems, obstacle clearing demolitions, over 4 million rounds of small arms ammunition, equipment safeguarding critical national infrastructure, as well as spare parts, generators, maintenance, and other ancillary equipment.

The commitment of the United States to support Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression remains steadfast. Highlighting the impact of coalition capabilities on the battlefield, it was noted that Ukraine has successfully reclaimed more than half of the territory seized by Russia since February 2022. Emphasizing the importance of standing against Kremlin aggression, the statement warned that failure to do so could invite more bloodshed and chaos.

Secretary of Defence Austin expressed confidence in the weakened state of the Russian military, asserting that Putin’s attempt to demoralise the Ukrainian people had instead demoralised the Russian military. Collaborating with allies and partners, the United States aims to assist Ukraine in consolidating and expanding its battlefield gains while concurrently building a future force capable of deterring Russian aggression in the years to come.

In this critical juncture, the United States is resolute in its determination to aid Ukraine in defending its territory and citizens. The overarching goal is to deter Russia from further aggression, including any potential threats against NATO allies, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the defence of freedom on the global stage.