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20240716 – Chief of Army Letter to the Army – Seizing the Opportunity of the RCDVS – OFFICIAL
Today we honour Vietnam veterans, by supporting the future of their children and grandchildren through the 2025 Long Tan Bursary.
Applications are now open to eligible children and grandchildren of Vietnam veterans, who can apply for up to $12,000 over 3 years to assist with the cost of their education.
Each year, 37 Long Tan Bursaries are awarded. They provide education support to recipients, helping them to acquire qualifications in their chosen careers.
The Long Tan Bursary scheme is named after the Battle of Long Tan, the best-known battle fought by Australians during the Vietnam War.
Vietnam veterans were instrumental in setting up the Long Tan Bursary more than 20 years ago. The Bursary is funded by DVA and administered by the Australian Veterans’ Children Assistance Trust (AVCAT) on the Department’s behalf.
So far, the Bursary has supported 967 children and grandchildren of Vietnam veterans. It has helped aspiring doctors, teachers, lawyers, artists, mechanics and many others succeed in their chosen professions.
Julia Clugston, whose father served in Vietnam, received a Long Tan Bursary in 2019.
‘Without [the Bursary], I would not have been here with a finished university degree, driving around national parks fighting fires and seeing a good vision for the future with my career,’ she said last year. ‘I have had the great opportunity of meeting people from AVCAT from all around and being mentored and supported by them. I feel like I could not be in safer hands.’
Leon Ross is multimedia composer who was awarded the Long Tan Bursary in 2018. The Bursary helped him complete a Bachelor of Applied Music before going on to study overseas.
‘[My] goals take extreme dedication, perseverance and quite possibly a lot of support in coping with rejections,’ said Leon. ‘AVCAT has provided me a mental stabiliser of sorts, allowing me to focus on my aspirations and act on them to bring them to fruition. Thank you, AVCAT, and all for the countless support throughout my growth as a composer.’
More information on the Long Tan Bursary, including eligibility criteria and how to apply, can be found on the Long Tan Bursary page of the DVA website.
To apply, visit the AVCAT website. Applications close on 31 October 2024.
Defence Media Release
More than 1500 personnel converged on Rockhampton and the expansive Shoalwater Bay Training Area in Queensland from August 10-20 for the 7th Brigade’s culminating warfighting exercise for 2024, Diamond Run.
Combined support and logistics elements of about 500 soldiers, drawn primarily from the 17th Sustainment Brigade, operated from protected logistics hubs within Rockhampton’s city areas.
Another 1000 7th Brigade troops fought the enemy and the elements after torrential rain created bogging mud, providing an added challenge for manoeuvres and transport across the training area’s rugged terrain.
The exercise ensures Army’s ‘ready brigade’ is poised to respond to a range of operational contingencies in defence of Australia and the country’s interests in the near region.
Commander of the Combat Training Centre (CTC) Colonel Ben McLennan said the Warfighter series of exercises, including Diamond Run, were highly significant to Army.
“They provide Army the most realistic, immersive and challenging way in which we can prepare our people, our teams, our equipment – alongside our partners and allies, as part of the integrated force – for war,” Colonel McLennan said.
Diamond Run achieved several objectives, including tactical air landing operations with the support of the Royal Australian Air Force; expeditionary resupply by land and sea; conventional trench warfare; urban operations; and chemical weapons defence.
7th Brigade’s Battle Group Heeler, comprising the 6th Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment (6RAR), was joined by a platoon of infantry from the New Zealand Army.
Major Tomaroa Wawatai, of the New Zealand Army’s 1st Brigade, was appointed the Officer Commanding Delta Company, 6RAR, comprising Australian and New Zealand infantry.
“It is pretty awesome that Kiwi and Aussie soldiers are working together so closely and that we can forge new bonds with our new compatriots in the 7th Brigade,” Major Wawatai said.
7th Brigade is working as closely as ever with its New Zealand counterparts as part of Plan Anzac, a bilateral agreement designed to increase capacity, enabling the two armies to exchange views and share situational awareness, capability, training and readiness.
The exercise also demonstrated the successful transition of the brigade’s rapid transformation to a motorised force, part of Army’s wider implementation of changes following the release of the Defence Strategic Review in 2023 and the National Defence Strategy, released this year.
The Krakow Post
A Baffling Deployment: In a surprising and perplexing move, Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered the deployment of a newly formed unit dubbed “space troops” to defend the Kursk region, which is facing a Ukrainian incursion. This decision has left many Russians scratching their heads, as this unusual unit consists of personnel from diverse backgrounds, including security and logistics companies, engineers, mechanics, and servicemen from a Russian spaceport.
The unit was hastily assembled between May and June, drawing on personnel from special warehouses and radar stations previously responsible for maintaining Russia’s nuclear deterrent. The rationale behind deploying these unconventional forces to the front lines in Kursk remains unclear, adding to the confusion surrounding Moscow’s military strategy.
A Desperate Scramble: As the Ukrainian offensive continues to unfold, Russia appears to be scrambling to mount an effective response. Approximately 5,000 personnel have been redeployed from the Ukrainian front line to bolster defences in Kursk, signalling the seriousness of the situation. However, military experts and observers are questioning the efficacy and speed of this redeployment, suggesting that Moscow may be running out of conventional options to address the crisis.
Public Reaction: The decision to send “space troops” to Kursk has been met with scepticism from both the public and military experts. The Fighter-bomber Telegram channel, which is linked to the Russian Aerospace Forces, voiced confusion over the deployment, reflecting broader doubts about its effectiveness. Tatiana Stanovaya, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Centre, also weighed in, highlighting concerns that Ukrainian forces may establish a long-term presence in Russian border regions, further complicating the situation for Moscow.
A Historic Advance: The Ukrainian incursion into Kursk has been marked by significant territorial gains. Since August 6, Ukrainian forces have reportedly seized 1,250 square kilometres of Russian territory and 92 settlements. This marks a historic moment, as it is the first time foreign troops have occupied Russian territory since World War II. The rapid advance has caught Russia off guard and raised questions about the country’s military preparedness.
A Turning Point in the Conflict? Putin’s decision to deploy the “space troops” to Kursk may be seen as a desperate measure or a calculated risk, depending on one’s perspective. As the situation continues to evolve, the effectiveness of this unconventional deployment remains to be seen. However, it is clear that the conflict between Russia and Ukraine has entered a new and unpredictable phase, with significant implications for both countries and the broader region.
Defence Media Release
Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) aircraft and personnel have landed in Alaska to take part in Exercise Red Flag, a large-scale air-combat exercise hosted by the United States Pacific Air Forces Command.
This year, RAAF F-35A Lightning IIs will team up with United States combat and support aircraft to face simulated peer adversaries and ground-based air-defence systems. The RAAF’s E-7A Wedgetail’s superior airborne surveillance capabilities will play a critical role in coordinating aircraft.
Task Unit Commander, Group Captain Tracy Douglas, highlighted the importance of the exercise to train in complex environments alongside the United States to meet any future contingency.
“Exercise Red Flag Alaska enables United States and allied aviators to refine their operational concepts, enhance their capabilities, and develop strategies that strengthen deterrence and maintain a competitive edge,” Group Captain Douglas said.
“Our air forces continue to improve interoperability and integration through combat scenarios that reflect the challenges of real-world conflicts.”
The expansive 174,000 square-kilometre Joint Alaska Pacific Range Complex provides an ideal setting for simulating a contested environment, where battlefield strategy demands a high-operations tempo and necessitates innovation, determination and teamwork to stay ahead of ever-changing mission needs.
“The goal of Red Flag is learning as a team,” Group Captain Douglas said.
“While individuals may improve from their exercise experience, the aspiration is to forge ever-greater ability and efficiency working with our United States partners.
“Taking aircraft overseas and adapting to different airspaces and procedures can be challenging, but the rewards of such exercises are immense, paving the way for enhanced capabilities and stronger international cooperation.”
The exercise will involve more than 260 Australian personnel operating from Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson and Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska from 19-30 August 2024.
Australia has expressed interest in acquiring over 350 Javelin FGM-148F missiles and associated equipment, under a proposed foreign military sale valued at approximately $100 million. The United States Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) informed Congress of the potential transaction on August 19.
The proposed deal encompasses the missiles, technical assistance from the U.S. government, repair and return services, logistics, and program support. The DSCA emphasized the sale’s alignment with U.S. foreign policy and national security goals, noting Australia’s critical role as a key ally in the Western Pacific.
According to the DSCA’s public statement, Australia’s strategic significance as a political and economic powerhouse in the region is crucial for maintaining peace and stability. The sale aims to bolster Australia’s self-defence capabilities, ensuring the country is well-prepared to address both current and future threats.
The statement also clarified that the Australian Army would seamlessly integrate the new equipment into its existing forces, without disrupting the regional military balance or affecting U.S. defence readiness.
The prime contractors for this potential sale are the Javelin Joint Venture, a collaboration between RTX Corporation and Lockheed Martin. The implementation of the sale is not expected to require any U.S. government or contractor personnel to be stationed in Australia.
In 2023, the Australian Defence Force successfully fired Javelin missiles from a War-fighter unmanned ground vehicle (UGV), marking just the second known instance of such a launch globally. The Special Operations Command of the Australian Defence Force showcased the Javelin system in a live-fire demonstration at Singleton Military Training Area in New South Wales in March 2023. The Cyborg Dynamics Engineering UGV system, equipped with the R400 remote weapon station developed by Electro Optic Systems, demonstrated the ability to accurately strike targets at maximum range with the Javelin missiles.
The Straits Times
Australia and Indonesia have pledged to enhance their cooperation in the contested Asia-Pacific region, unveiling a “treaty-level” defence agreement on August 20 that Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles described as “historic.”
The treaty, under negotiation since February, will be formally signed in the coming weeks during Marles’ visit to Indonesia. It builds on the existing Australia-Indonesia Defence Co-operation Arrangement, which enables joint security exercises, by allowing military and security personnel from each nation to operate within the other’s territory.
Despite the significance of the agreement, details remain scarce. A joint press conference featuring Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Indonesian President-elect and Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto allowed no questions, leaving much to speculation. Albanese emphasized the importance of the Australia-Indonesia relationship, highlighting mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. He declared, “There is no more important relationship than the one between our two great nations,” and announced the conclusion of the bilateral treaty-level defence agreement.
Albanese referenced the 2006 Lombok Treaty, which includes Australia’s commitment to not supporting separatism—a nod that has been interpreted as a stance against the West Papua independence movement.
Marles underscored the significance of the new agreement, describing it as “a profoundly significant moment for the national security of both of our countries” that would enhance “interoperability between our defence forces.” He called Australia and Indonesia “the closest of neighbours” with a “shared destiny,” and praised the treaty as a symbol of deep strategic trust between the two nations. “When you consider the journeys of Indonesia and Australia over the decades, it is profoundly historic that we have reached this moment where we find security in each other,” Marles remarked.
As the two nations celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations—Australia being one of the first countries to support Indonesian independence—Prabowo echoed the sentiment, calling the defence pact “a mark of the friendship” between the countries. He acknowledged the ups and downs in their relationship over the years but expressed optimism for continued cooperation, stating, “I am determined to continue this good neighbour relationship.”
The two countries already collaborate on various issues, including security, people trafficking, and drug smuggling. However, on the economic front, Canberra still faces challenges in securing Jakarta’s full allegiance, as highlighted by Prabowo’s visit to China in April and the subsequent visit of Beijing’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi to Jakarta. During these meetings, discussions on bilateral defence ties, particularly in education, training, joint exercises, and defence-industrial collaboration, took place.
BAE Systems Media
BAE Systems has been chosen by the U.S. Navy to develop the Dual Band Decoy (DBD), one of the most advanced radio frequencies (RF) countermeasures in existence. The DBD is a state-of-the-art RF self-protection jammer designed to shield fighter jets from enemy attacks.
Building on the proven capabilities of BAE Systems’ AN/ALE-55 Fibre-Optic Towed Decoy, the DBD consists of a towed unit connected by a fibre-optic cable to the aircraft’s onboard electronic warfare equipment. This decoy employs the latest jamming technology to disrupt enemy radars and divert missiles away from the aircraft. It can be deployed either manually by the pilot or automatically in response to detected threats, providing essential protection in highly contested airspace.
“With Dual Band Decoy, we are building on the ALE-55’s years of mission success as a high-powered jamming system,” said Don Davidson, director of the Advanced Compact Electronic Warfare Solutions product line at BAE Systems. “Dual Band Decoy delivers broad capability that can be installed on a variety of aircraft and is upgradeable to address future threats.”
The DBD integrates BAE Systems’ custom integrated circuits, enhancing performance while reducing size, weight, and power requirements. This system is a crucial component of BAE Systems’ Intrepid Shield™ strategy, which aims to create a protective sphere around platforms in highly contested battlespaces by using the full electromagnetic spectrum to detect, exploit, and counter advanced threats.
The Dual Band Decoy will initially be deployed on the U.S. Navy’s F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, with development taking place at BAE Systems’ advanced facilities in Nashua, New Hampshire.
Video created by Elijah (Age 11) and Gabriel (Age 8) Leigh. Brothers and children to singer songwriter Rae Leigh. This song is dedicated to their Papa and Rae Leighs father (the boys grandfather) Robert Hewett who served as a Tunnel Rat in the Vietnam War. This video was made during an excursion to Canungra where the war memorial for Vietnam Veterans is in the same location where Mr. Robert Hewett was trained for jungle warfare before being shipped off to war.
Song written by Rae Leigh and Allan Caswell Released by Rae Leigh Music www.rae-leigh.com
This week, we turn our focus to Colonel Alexander Hugh “Sandy” MacGregor, MC, RFD, a figure whose life story embodies bravery, resilience, and an enduring commitment to the well-being of others. Born on 16 March 1940, MacGregor’s distinguished military career and his transformative post-military work have left an indelible mark on both military history and personal development spheres.
The Vietnam War:
Sandy MacGregor’s military journey began with his commission as a captain in the Australian Army, where he quickly established himself as a leader of extraordinary courage and skill. His most renowned contribution came during the Vietnam War, a conflict that tested the mettle of soldiers in ways previously unimaginable. In this arena, MacGregor led the 3 Field Troop engineers on one of the most dangerous missions of the war—exploring the Củ Chi tunnels.
These tunnels were a labyrinth of underground passageways used by the Viet Cong for hiding, communication, and launching surprise attacks. They were heavily booby-trapped and nearly impossible to navigate without succumbing to the dangers within. Yet, MacGregor and his men, known as “tunnel rats,” took on the daunting task of mapping these tunnels. Their work not only revealed the extensive nature of the Viet Cong’s underground operations but also uncovered vital resources that would aid Allied forces in turning the tide of the war.
MacGregor’s leadership during these missions was nothing short of heroic. He led from the front, demonstrating a calm under pressure that inspired his men to follow him into the depths of these deadly tunnels. The risks were immense, but MacGregor’s unflinching courage earned him the Military Cross, a recognition reserved for acts of gallantry in the presence of the enemy. The United States, too, acknowledged his valour with the Bronze Star Medal, underscoring the international significance of his contributions.
Post-Military Life: A Journey of Healing and Empowerment
After the war, MacGregor faced the challenge that many veterans encounter—transitioning from a life defined by combat to one of peace. However, instead of letting the war define him, MacGregor chose a path of healing and empowerment, not just for himself but for others as well.
He channelled his experiences and the lessons learned on the battlefield into a new mission: helping people harness the power of their subconscious minds. Through seminars and motivational speaking, MacGregor taught individuals how to overcome their own fears, doubts, and limitations. His approach was unique in that it drew directly from his military experience, where mental toughness and resilience were as crucial as physical strength.
MacGregor’s teachings resonated deeply with audiences, many of whom faced their own battles, whether personal, professional, or psychological. He emphasized the importance of inner strength, a quality he had relied on during his time in the tunnels of Vietnam and later in his life as he dealt with personal tragedies.
Personal Tragedy and the Power of Forgiveness
Beyond his military and professional accomplishments, MacGregor’s life was also marked by profound personal tragedy. In a heartbreaking event that would test the limits of anyone’s resilience, MacGregor’s three daughters were tragically murdered in 1987. The devastating loss was a turning point in his life, forcing him to confront unimaginable pain.
Remarkably, MacGregor emerged from this tragedy not with bitterness, but with a commitment to forgiveness and healing. He publicly forgave the man responsible for his daughters’ deaths, a decision that was both deeply personal and universally inspiring. This act of forgiveness became a cornerstone of his teachings, demonstrating the incredible power of the human spirit to transcend even the most profound grief.
A Lasting Legacy
Today, Colonel Sandy MacGregor’s legacy is multifaceted. He is remembered as a war hero whose actions saved lives and changed the course of history. But he is also celebrated as a mentor and guide, someone who used his experiences to help others find strength and peace within themselves. His seminars have left a lasting impact on those who have attended, teaching them that the greatest battles are often fought within the mind.
MacGregor’s life is a testament to the power of resilience, not just in the face of external adversities like war, but also in overcoming the internal challenges of grief, fear, and loss. His story is one of courage, not only in combat but in the ongoing journey of personal growth and forgiveness. As we reflect on his contributions, both on the battlefield and beyond, we are reminded that true heroism lies in the ability to rise above adversity and inspire others to do the same.
Colonel Alexander Hugh “Sandy” MacGregor’s story continues to inspire new generations, reminding us all that no matter the challenges we face, we have the power within us to overcome and thrive.