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The Defence Strategic Review by the Australian government has outlined six key areas for immediate action to safeguard the nation in the face of increasing global power competition and multipolarity. These priorities include acquiring nuclear-powered submarines through AUKUS, enhancing the Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) ability to strike targets at longer ranges and produce munitions domestically, improving operations from northern bases, fostering a skilled defence workforce, swiftly integrating disruptive technologies, and strengthening diplomatic and defence partnerships in the Indo-Pacific.

Additionally, the review directed Defence to eliminate unnecessary barriers to acquisitions, streamline important projects and low-complexity procurements, expedite decision-making in defence projects, and collaborate closely with the defence industry to find practical solutions.

Industry reactions to the Defence Strategic Review have been mixed, transitioning from initial optimism to frustration. The delay in the release of the Defence Industry Development Strategy (DIDS) has added to industry concerns. The DIDS aims to establish the rationale for a sovereign defence industrial base, outline targeted industrial capability priorities, plan for workforce growth, propose procurement reforms, enhance security in defence businesses, and provide a detailed implementation plan.

This unfolds against the backdrop of a deteriorating global security order and a post-World War II paradigm shift, creating a sense of urgency that appears to be underestimated by both the government and the Australian public. As global events escalate, there is a growing realisation that Australia needs to act swiftly and effectively. The year 2024 is seen as a pivotal moment, marking a significant turning point in the global security paradigm. Australia needs Defence to align rhetoric with action, as the emerging global order may not be benevolent to the nation’s values and interests. There is a pressing need for execution to bridge the gap between discourse and concrete measures.

OLDER VETERANS PAPER UPDATE – DVA AND MY AGED CARE 13 DEC 23

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Dearest Frontline community,

Tomorrow will be my final posts to Frontline until the 2nd of January 2024. With Christmas upon us, my home is bustling with the warmth of visiting relatives, and the inviting presence of a house and caravan teeming with shared stories and laughter.

Beyond the simple politeness of not spending my time in the office during this festive season with a house full of guests, there’s a deeper reason. I’ve been blessed with 55 years of marriage, and my aim is to make 56 years!

Reflecting on the past year, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for your unwavering support. Together with my son Glenn, we embarked on a journey to rebrand the site, and although we encountered a few glitches, your steadfast presence and encouragement carried us through.

Julie, with her unyielding support, has been my rock, her unwavering support, stands as my backstop, enabling me to navigate this incredible journey with Frontline. Her understanding and support are the pillars that allow me to devote the time I do.

As we embrace the spirit of Christmas, my heartfelt wishes extend to each and every one of you and your families. May your homes be filled with the pure joy and excitement that this Christmas and New Year season brings. In the midst of the festivities, let’s take a moment to remember those who may not be as fortunate and send warm thoughts to our servicemen deployed or without the luxury of a stand-down.

Looking ahead to 2024, I hope your plans are filled with promise and joy. May you all be blessed with good health, and may the coming year unfold as a tapestry of beautiful moments and accomplishments.

Thank you once again for being an integral part of Frontline and my life. Your support has been a beacon of light, and I am truly grateful. Until we reconnect in the new year, I wish you and your families a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

With cheers,

Ray, Julie & Glenn.

In a rare and unprecedented turn of events, a song played a pivotal role in the awarding of the Medal of Honor at a White House ceremony in September. Captain Larry Taylor, an 81-year-old former U.S. Army officer and helicopter pilot, received the prestigious decoration for his courageous actions during the Vietnam War, specifically on the night of June 18, 1968.

Taylor’s bravery, flying his AH-1G Cobra helicopter gunship out of the Phu Loi base camp north of Saigon, was immortalized in the song “No Man Left Behind.” Written by Taylor himself two years ago in collaboration with professional songwriters Steve Dean and Don Goodman, founders of the organization Freedom Sings USA, the song served as a therapeutic outlet for veterans dealing with combat-related trauma through music and writing.

Steve Dean had the honour of singing Taylor’s words at the White House ceremony, capturing the essence of the harrowing experience: “Four men were surrounded, outnumbered and outgunned… Looking back on that day, we were in the hands of God… Looking back on that war, they wouldn’t let us win, If I could do it over, I’d do it all again.”

One of the four men rescued by Taylor that fateful night, Dave Hill, now 75 and residing in Nevada, shared the incredible tale of Taylor’s courage under intense fire from Vietcong forces. Disobeying orders to return to base, Taylor risked his life for a long-range reconnaissance patrol (LRRP) surrounded by the enemy and out of ammunition.

Hill, attending the White House ceremony, recounted, “I think he perfectly captured the experience in the song. In just three minutes, he tells the story not just of what was done, but why it was done.” Hill, a strong advocate for Taylor’s recognition, joined Freedom Sings to support the campaign to upgrade Taylor’s Silver Star to a Medal of Honor.

The song, encapsulating Taylor’s heroic actions, gained widespread attention with over 100,000 views on YouTube. Interviews with Taylor conducted by Freedom Sings executive director Bobbie Allison-Standefer further contributed to the campaign’s success.

Started in 2012, Freedom Sings has become a nationwide initiative with chapters in Arkansas, Colorado, Tennessee, and beyond. The organization, founded by accomplished songwriters Goodman and Dean, provides a platform for veterans to express their experiences through music. Over 700 songs have been recorded and released to date.

“It’s vet-to-vet therapy,” explained Allison-Standefer, emphasizing the ongoing support provided to veterans. The organization conducts weekly online Zoom classes, in-person meetings, and special retreats, bringing together veterans from different eras.

At the White House ceremony, a frail Taylor, battling the last stages of cancer, was visibly moved. The lyrics of the song had to be adjusted that day to reflect the Medal of Honor, replacing the reference to the Silver Star. As Dean sang, “They awarded me the Medal of Honor, but I was just doin’ my job, the things that I did that day are always on my mind.” The ceremony marked not only Taylor’s recognition but also the extraordinary impact of a song in honouring a hero’s selfless actions.

Increased recruitment for defence is imperative, as acknowledged by the previous government, which aimed to expand the “whole-of-Defence” workforce to approximately 100,000 personnel.  The expansion was emphasized for the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to effectively navigate the evolving landscape in the coming decades. The growth in personnel, as outlined by the then Defence minister, was intended to support the development of nuclear-powered submarines, ships, aircraft, and advanced weapons, enhancing capabilities in space, information, and cyber domains.

Despite the recognized necessity for growth, there are consistent reports of challenges hindering the fulfillment of the government’s identified requirements. Prospective recruits often express dissatisfaction with the extensive and laborious application process, which appears more inclined towards eliminating those lacking complete commitment to joining the ADF.

In response to concerns, a Defence spokesperson clarified that the approach to recruitment is aimed at “recruit in, not screen out,” employing diverse methods to enhance candidate success while maintaining entry standards. Nevertheless, feedback from potential recruits frequently highlights the prolonged duration of the application process. Various complaints on platforms like Reddit echo frustrations from current and former applicants and service personnel.

The Defence spokesperson revealed statistics indicating that between January 2018 and January 2023, an annual average of 259 candidates withdrew their ADF application for diverse reasons. Additionally, an average of 19.2% of applicants annually failed to complete their online Job Opportunities Assessment, while 17.8% were withdrawn due to extended non-contact with Defence Force Recruiting (DFR).

Considering these figures, the critical question arises: What is the conversion rate of applicants who successfully commence employment with the ADF? The Defence spokesperson disclosed that as of November 2023, the conversion rate stands at 8.6 to 1 from the pool of applicants to candidates commencing ADF employment.

These insights prompt a deeper exploration of recruitment and attraction strategies, especially in light of public sentiments revealed by a 2022 poll conducted by the Institute of Public Affairs. The poll questioned Australians about their willingness to defend the nation, with 46% expressing a readiness to stay and fight, 28% preferring to leave the country, and 26% remaining unsure. Notably, those inclined to leave were primarily of Middle Eastern descent.

Analysing this data alongside the imperative for the ADF to expand to meet operational requirements presents a stark reality. It also raises questions about the utilization of the existing uniformed workforce within the Australian Defence Force, particularly when compared to the apparent effectiveness of uniformed workforces in regional and global partner nations.

For years, the HUMVEE stood as a symbol of robust American design synonymous with durability. However, the conflicts in the Middle East exposed significant vulnerabilities, particularly in the face of IEDs and urban warfare. The necessity for a revolutionary military vehicle became evident, leading to the emergence of the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle, or JLTV. Engineered for versatility, it can be customized to meet the requirements of any mission, whether it involves deploying bunker-busting and anti-tank missiles or providing enhanced armour for troop protection. The JLTV’s impact is not limited to U.S. borders; with contracts for over 19,000 units, it has garnered attention from armed forces worldwide. An advanced A2 version is on the horizon, incorporating even more environmentally friendly electric options. As the HUMVEE takes a backseat, the JLTV is steering military strategy toward a new era marked by unparalleled adaptability and protection.

The Battle of Suoi Bong Trang, which took place on February 23-24, 1966, was a confrontation between US, Australian, and New Zealand forces, and the Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army during the Vietnam War. This engagement occurred within the scope of Operation Rolling Stone, an American security operation aimed at safeguarding engineers constructing a strategically significant road near Tan Binh in central Binh Duong Province, approximately 30 kilometres northwest of Bien Hoa airbase.

The conflict involved troops from the US 1st Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, and the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (1 RAR), which was attached for the operation. These forces successfully defended against a regimental-sized Viet Cong night assault. The Viet Cong, repelled by concentrated firepower from artillery and tanks, suffered substantial casualties and withdrew by morning. Following the attack, there was no pursuit of the Viet Cong by the American and Australian forces, as their focus shifted to securing the battlefield and evacuating their own casualties. Despite occasional sniper and mortar fire from the Viet Cong in the aftermath, these tactics proved ineffective, and the road construction was completed by March 2.

In February 1966, as part of an American road-building initiative challenging the Viet Cong’s mobility around Saigon, the US 1st Engineer Battalion, led by Lieutenant Colonel Howard Sargent, was constructing an all-weather road in central Binh Duong Province. This road aimed to disrupt communist supply routes and connect various zones while extending the South Vietnamese government’s authority. In response to Viet Cong harassment against the engineers, Operation Rolling Stone was launched by elements of the US 1st Division, with the US 1st Brigade tasked to guard engineers on a rotating basis and conduct probing operations against Viet Cong positions.

Simultaneously, 1 RAR, led by Lieutenant Colonel Alex Preece, detached from the US 173rd Airborne Brigade, was placed under the operational command of the US 1st Division until March 5. This decision was based on the Australians’ reputation for dispersed, aggressive patrolling. The Australian forces, supported by vehicles, helicopters, and artillery, were assigned the mission to protect the engineer base and road work parties.

By February 19, 1 RAR took over from the US 38th Infantry Regiment and implemented a dispersed patrolling strategy, reducing Viet Cong activity. Suspecting a major attack, the Australians, by February 22, engaged Viet Cong Main Force elements, escalating tensions. The night of February 23-24 saw a significant Viet Cong assault, involving three battalions from the 9th Division.

The battle ensued with 1 RAR adopting an all-round defensive position. US reinforcements, including tanks and artillery, were brought in to defend the Brigade Headquarters. The Viet Cong initiated a night assault with mortar and small arms fire, met by intense American and Australian firepower. Although the Australian position faced mortar attacks, the Viet Cong’s attempt was futile, and they suffered heavy losses.

Casualties included 89 dead and 11 wounded Viet Cong, primarily inflicted by American forces. The US-Australian combined force experienced limited casualties, with 11 Americans and two Australians killed, and 72 Americans and two Australians wounded. The battlefield aftermath revealed significant Viet Cong casualties, equipment capture, and destruction of American tanks and personnel carriers.

In summary, the Battle of Suoi Bong Trang was a decisive victory for the US-Australian forces and stands as a testament to the effectiveness of the US-Australian forces in repelling a determined Viet Cong assault. Their coordinated efforts not only secured the battlefield but also ensured the completion of the strategically significant road by March 2, thereby achieving the objectives set forth by Operation Rolling Stone.

In a shocking revelation, the director of Kamal Adwan hospital, Ahmed Kahlot, has admitted that the medical facility was used as a military outpost by the militant group Hamas. This disclosure came during an interrogation by Shin Bet, the Israel Security Agency, shedding light on a dark secret that implicates not only Hamas but also raises concerns about the violation of international laws protecting medical facilities during conflicts.

Kahlot, who has been associated with Hamas since 2010, disclosed that the hospital staff, including doctors and nurses, were not only aware of but actively involved in military operations conducted by Hamas’s al-Qassam Brigades and Islamic Jihad’s Quds Brigades. While suspicions regarding the hospital’s dual role had been circulating, this admission provides concrete evidence of the extent to which civilian structures were exploited for military purposes.

In a surprising twist, Kahlot did not mince words when expressing his disdain for Hamas leaders. Accusing them of cowardice, he revealed, “The leaders of Hamas are cowards. They left us in the field while they’re hiding in secret places. The people are the ones who pay the price. (…) They destroyed us.” This internal criticism highlights a growing disillusionment within the ranks of Hamas, especially after enduring two and a half months of war.

The admission by Kahlot corroborates long-standing claims by Israel that Hamas exploits hospitals for military purposes. The transformation of a hospital into a military hub not only endangers the lives of the hospital staff but also poses a severe challenge to the sanctity of medical facilities during times of conflict. This revelation reinforces concerns about the use of human shields, as terrorist groups strategically deploy their operations within civilian structures, believing that their humanitarian nature will deter targeted attacks.

The criticism from Kahlot, someone intimately connected with the workings of Hamas, invites reflection on the tactics employed by the terror group. The revelation not only exposes the exploitation of hospitals for military purposes but also underscores the internal strife within Hamas. As the conflict rages on, such revelations might further erode support for the organization, both domestically and on the international stage.

In conclusion, the admission of Hamas’s use of Kamal Adwan hospital for military operations raises serious ethical and legal questions. The exploitation of civilian structures for military purposes not only endangers lives but also challenges the fundamental principles safeguarding humanitarian institutions during times of conflict.