April 9, 2015Edition 1348

THANK YOUSoldiers march in national parades to commemorate

Op Slipper servicePAGES 2-3

INSIDELending a hand on Op Pacific Assist

Celebrating 50 years of M113 service

PAGES 4-5

SPECIAL LIFTOUT

3 Bde soldiers march during the Op Slipper parade in Townsville as three Chinooks fly overhead. Photo by LCpl Kyle Genner

Army April 9, 2015NEWS www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews2 Army April 9, 2015 NEWSwww.defence.gov.au/news/armynews 3

Laura Carew

SOLDIERS who served on Operation Slipper came out in force on March 21 as a day of commemoration was held across the country to mark the end of Australia’s longest military operation.

Marches were held in all capital cities across the country, as well as in Townsville, in honour of those who deployed to Afghanistan and the Middle East Region between 2001 and 2014.

Families, friends and members of the community lined city streets across the country to show their support and say thank you to Operation Slipper veterans.

CA Lt-Gen David Morrison proudly marched through the streets of Brisbane alongside 3000 veterans.

He praised the efforts of all Australian personnel who deployed as part of the whole-of-government commitment to combat terrorism in the Middle East.

“Today provided us all with an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of thousands of our fellow Australians who have served in Afghanistan and the Middle East,” he said.

“Working alongside the Afghan National Army and coali-tion forces, our Defence Force has assisted the Afghans to develop governance, construct and redevelop local infrastruc-ture, and made significant ongoing improvements to security, stability and prosperity. We are proud of our accomplishments in Australia’s longest war.”

Lt-Gen Morrison also paid tribute to the soldiers who did not return home.

“We have also felt the deepest sorrow for the 41 Australian soldiers who lost their lives in the service of our nation, and the hundreds of veterans who continue to live with physical and mental wounds. They will never be forgotten,” he said.

DCA Maj-Gen Rick Burr led the Army detachment of the parade in Canberra.

He said the ceremony at the Australian War Memorial was poignant.

“It’s very moving to hear those names read today and it’s great that they will be preserved on the Roll of Honour here at the Memorial,” he said. “But I think those people who have made the ultimate sacrifice, who gave their lives, would say they were doing what they loved, they were doing it with their mates and they were making a difference.

“I think collectively we’ve all continued with that mission and made a big difference in Afghanistan.”

At the national parade in Canberra, Prime Minister Tony Abbott thanked the veterans for their service.

“Today, on behalf of our nation, I say to all our Afghanistan veterans: we are grateful to have you home, we acknowledge your achievements and we thank you for your service,” Mr Abbott said.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged the significant role played by Australia in Afghanistan.

“The war ended not with victory and not with defeat, but with hope: hope for a better Afghanistan and for a safer world,” he said. “Australians didn’t fight to conquer – we fought to protect, to help and to build. Afghanistan is a better country because Australia was there.”

Operation Slipper began in October 2001 and formally ended on December 31, 2014. More than 34,500 ADF per-sonnel, Australian Public Service employees and Australian Federal Police deployed on the operation.

Although Operation Slipper has ended, the ADF and inter-national partners continue to provide support and assistance through the NATO-led Resolute Support mission.

Resolute Support is focused on training, advising and assisting the Afghan National Security Forces and Afghan security institutions at the operational, institutional and min-isterial levels. About 400 ADF personnel are deployed across Afghanistan, in a variety of roles, on Operation Highroad.

A day of thanks and pride in serving Soldiers turn out in their thousands across the country to mark the end of Operation Slipper

Soldiers march down Knuckey Street in Darwin. Photo by Cpl Bill Solomou

Army personnel stand by the Pool of Remembrance at the Anzac War Memorial in Sydney. Photo by Cpl David SaidSoldiers stand at attention at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne. Photo by AB Cassie McBride

BSM WO2 Sean O’Toole, of the Australian Army Band – Tasmania, leads a parade of almost 100 ADF personnel in the parade in Hobart. Photo by Cpl Steve Duncan

Soldiers march down King William Road in Adelaide. Photo by Cpl David Gibbs

Below, WO2 Michael Carroll during the memorial service at

Anzac Park in Townsville.Photo by LCpl Kyle Genner

Above, CO HMAS Stirling Capt Angela Bond,

Col Sean L’Estrange, of HQ 13 Bde, and CO 25 Sqn Wg-Cdr Peter Kershaw lead

the march in Perth. Photo by LS Lee-Anne Mack

MELBOURNE“It was a nostalgic opportunity to reflect on my deployment and to share the experience of

receiving gratitude from the Australian people.– Capt Thomas Larter, DFR,

Deployed on Op Slipper as part of the Force Protection Team “Marching down George Street in Sydney in the parade, it’s recognition of what we did overseas. The public gave us a cheer. It’s just great to be

out here with the boys.– LCpl Reuben Griggs, SME

Deployed on Op Slipper twice to Tarin Kot Marched with EDD Bundy

SYDNEY

DARWIN

PERTH

HOBART “Today’s parade was really about

remembering, and the efforts that everyone,

including families,

have had to go through to support

Australia’s role in Operation

Slipper in Afghanistan.

– Sgt Daniel Button, 12/40RTR

“Today was very sobering for me and

made me realise that I was marching

there with some people who were absent and it was

like closure for me.– Sgt Lisa Inger, APAC – NT/K

“To me, the parade meant the end of the operation. I’m not saying we are going to forget

it. We are putting it behind us and then moving forward

into the next spectrum of operations we are faced with.

– Capt Gregg Dunthorne, 13 Bde Deployed on Op Slipper to Uruzgan and Kabul

TOWNSVILLE

“The parade today meant an opportunity

for my friends to see the vast amount of people who have

served on Op Slipper. It was an opportunity

for me to also remember those who couldn’t come today, especially those that I deployed with, and it’s an opportunity

just to remember and say thank you.– Capt Caitlin Scott, 1CHSB

Deployed twice on Op Slipper to Tarin Kot

ADELAIDE

“It’s good to see the people of Adelaide

come and clap us on and give us some

support, which made us feel really great.

– Pte Phillip Hering, D Sqn, 1 Armd Regt,

Deployed twice on Op Slipper

CANBERRA

Cpl Elizabeth Flook and her son, Zachary. Photo by David McClenaghan“It was a good way to show

exactly what we have accomplished as a country and as individuals and to pay our respects to those

who didn’t come back.– Cpl Elizabeth Flook, DSCM – Army, Deployed on Op Slipper to Tarin Kot

BRISBANE “It’s a great feeling to know

that the civil population is 100 per cent

behind you. It’s good to see

people from all generations and all walks of life here to support

the Brisbane-based soldiers.

– Capt Jacob Pendley, HQ 7 Bde

Soldiers cross Victoria Bridge in Brisbane. Photo by Maj Al Green

LS Jayson Tufrey

BROTHERS Cpls Andrew and Steven Reid marched together for the first time at the Operation Slipper parade in Darwin on March 21.

Both soldiers agreed marching together was a highlight of their 10-year careers.

Andrew deployed to the MER with Force Support Unit 7/8 from April to November 2013, and said marching with his brother was a fantastic experi-ence.

“It’s not every day you march in a parade like this with a family member; it just makes the experience that little bit more memorable,” he said.

“There have been a few parades since returning from deployment and it’s still good to see all the peo-ple getting out on the streets supporting the soldiers.

“The positive comments we received from family and friends on the day were pretty amazing.”

Steven, who deployed to Tarin Kot from May to September 2006 and again from January to May 2008, agreed marching alongside his little brother was the highlight of parade.

“To be honest I never thought this day would eventuate,” he said.

“After 10 years it was an amazing experience to be marching with Andrew and at the same time being recognised for our operational service.

“This is the first time we have been posted to the same locality and, because of the high tempo of 1 Bde, when events like this are on we usually aren’t available at the same time.

“The feedback we received from family and friends back in Adelaide was great, too – they are all very proud of what we have done.”

The Reid brothers are looking forward to Anzac Day where they hope to again march side by side through the streets of Darwin.

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LT-GEN Angus Campbell (pictured) will be appointed Chief of Army on May 16, taking over from current CA Lt-Gen David Morrison, who will complete his tenure on May 15.

Lt-Gen Campbell has served as the Commander of the Joint Agency Task Force for Operation Sovereign Borders, overseen operations in the Middle East as

Commander JTF 633 and com-manded on operations in Timor-Leste.

He also served as Deputy National Security Adviser in the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.

Current Deputy Chief of Air Force, AVM Gavin Davies, will also be appointed Chief of Air Force on July 4, taking over from current CAF, Air-Mshl Geoff Brown.

Army April 9, 2015NEWS www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews4 Army April 9, 2015 NEWSwww.defence.gov.au/news/armynews 5

New CA announced

Capt Bradley Richardson

TWO Black Hawks have started flying missions in Vanuatu as part of Operation Pacific Assist after arriving on board a C-17A Globemaster on March 20.

Aircraft and avionics technicians were critical in the successful arrival and preparation of the two Black Hawks for operations.

Avionic technician Cpl James Coy said they needed to unfold the head or rotors, unfold the tail and make sure technical inspec-tions were carried out before the helicopters could begin providing humanitarian aid to people affected by Tropical Cyclone Pam.

“It takes about three hours to

Army, Navy and Air Force work together on Operation Pacific Assist in the wake of Tropical Cyclone Pam

LCdr Alistair Tomlinson and Sgt Dave Morley

ReseRVIsTs from 11 Bde’s Civilian Military Cooperation Detachment (CIMIC) deployed to Vanuatu with just 24 hours notice and are proving their worth on the ground during Operation Pacific Assist 2015.

Capt Barry Miller said it was no secret successful humanitarian relief operations depended on cooperation between all groups and government agencies offering assistance, to prevent waste and ineffi-ciency delaying help to those in need.

“With international transport being relatively inexpensive and reliable, mov-ing relief supplies from donor warehouses to the capital city of a natural disaster-affected country is relatively easy,” he said.

“But then things become a lot more interesting. even though there was a lot of goodwill among those trying to help, every group, including the ADF, had its strengths and weaknesses.”

Capt Miller said every non-govern-ment organisation (NGO) and govern-ment agency had different relief objec-tives, levels of experience, access to resources and governance responsibilities.

“This is where CIMIC steps for-ward,” he said. “Government agencies and NGOs don’t take orders from us. Therefore, we have to apply non-military influencing skills in order to blend together all these disparate organisational strengths and weaknesses into one coher-ent plan for delivering help.”

Capt Miller said the role of CIMIC in relief operations could be summarised as engagement, influence and liaison.

“While CIMIC has been a part of many recent operations, this deployment is a first for the Army Reserve following the implementation of Plan Beersheba, where all Army Reserve CIMIC teams moved to 2 Div,” he said.

CIMIC detachment commander Lt-Col Mark smith said the speed with which the team was able to deploy vali-dated all the hard work the team, 11 Bde and 3 Bde had put in to build and main-tain the capability and readiness in the reserve.

“It’s no coincidence that CIMIC is dominated by reservists as their civilian employment gives them greater exposure to non-military organisations, which is invaluable experience when dealing with government and independent aid organi-sations,” he said.

unload both Black Hawks from the Globemaster and then six-to-10 hours to prepare them for flight,” he said.

Pilot Capt Nick Pound said he was proud to assist.

“We have the ability to land in a tight spot; we don’t need a runway,”

Capt Pound said. “We can easily fly straight down to the south islands without having to prove a surface to land.

“Ultimately, we can land where no one else can and provide a level of flexibility that no other aircraft can.”

A Black Hawk is lowered down the ramp of a C-17A Globemaster after being flown from Australia to Vanuatu. Photo by Sgt Hamish Paterson

Capt Jesse Platz and Sgt Dave Morley

HUMANITARIAN assistance contin-ues to flow into the most heavily affect-ed areas of Vanuatu following Tropical Cyclone Pam.

The remote islands of erromango, Tanna and Ambrym, which were dev-astated by the cyclone on March 14-15, have received vital aid and supplies from the ADF.

VCDF VAdm Ray Griggs said help-ing regional friends in times of need was what the ADF did best.

“The people of Vanuatu have suffered greatly because of Cyclone Pam and the ADF is determined to bring some relief,” he said.

As well as providing villages with food, water, shelter and medical equip-ment, engineers from 3CeR are clearing roads, removing debris and rebuilding community infrastructure.

elements of the engineering support Group on Tanna have conducted prepara-tory works on Isangel Central school and Lenakel Hospital and started major repair and reconstruction works.

Troops have also assisted in distrib-uting eight tonnes of humanitarian aid stores in cooperation with the World Food Program and World Vision.

At Dillon Bay, erromango Island, land elements have repaired a church, distribu-tion centre and school.

Village chief Jason Mete said this would help return life to normal for the 600 people of his village.

“We are fortunate to have the Australian troops here bringing us these stores and we would like to thank the people of Australia,” he said.

Mr Mete said the people were really excited to see the “big vehicles” [LARC Vs] come up out of the sea into their vil-lage.

“They have never before seen vehicles like these,” he said.

While some sappers unloaded and stacked the humanitarian aid stores, oth-ers assisted with clearing a large fallen tree with a chainsaw and placing tarps over a damaged section of the local school.

spr Nick everett was one of those assisting at the school.

“While the tarps are only a temporary measure, at least the local kids will now be able to go back to school on Monday,” he said.

3CeR troop commander Lt Robert Bitters said the activity was a high-impact task that enabled combat engineer ele-ments to deliver humanitarian and disas-ter relief stores.

“It is always good to be in a position to positively influence a community in need and to make a difference in a time of devastation,” he said.

“It is a task all soldiers are proud to conduct.”

Lt Bitters said combat engineer ele-ments had also conducted short-notice taskings by LARC V and helicopters from HMAs Tobruk in previous days.

“It has been a notable outcome for locals to see Australian soldiers deliver aid in such a short period of time on the ground,” he said.

On March 30 the ADF delivered 4100kg of humanitarian aid and food from Port Vila to Ambrym island in cen-tral Vanuatu.

Commander JTF 665 Capt Jay Bannister said the mission continued at a very high tempo, bringing impressive results.

“The impact of our people on the ground has been phenomenal,” he said.

“seeing the relief, the thanks, the smiles and the appreciation written across the faces of those who have been strug-gling for a while gives us a deep sense of pride and accomplishment.”

More than 500 ADF personnel are deployed in Vanuatu as part of Operation Pacific Assist.

Proving their worth

Joint operation to help Pacific neighbours

“While the tarps are only a temporary

measure, at least the local kids will now be able to go back to school on

Monday.– Spr Nick Everett, 3CER

An Army medical team conducts initial assessments of a village in Waisisi Bay, Tanna island, damaged during Tropical Cyclone Pam. Photo by Sgt Hamish Paterson

Above, Spr Nick Everett repairs a chainsaw on the island of Erromango. Photo by AB Tom Gibson

3CER soldiers sail back to HMAS Tobruk after

delivering supplies to the island of Erromango.

Below, the soldiers prepare to fit a tarp to a

hut in Waisisi Bay. Photos by AB Tom Gibson and Sgt Hamish Paterson

A LARK V approaches Erromango to deliver supplies. Photo by AB Tom Gibson

3CER soldiers unload boxes of aid into a storeroom on Erromango. Photo by AB Tom Gibson

Black Hawks’ vital role

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Army April 9, 2015NEWS www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews6

Flt-Lt Daniel Phillips

ITEMS of historic significance are inspiring personnel of B Coy, 1RAR, on their mission in Afghanistan as Force Protection Element 3.

The members of B Coy are the custodians of the original 1RAR flag and a Bible from the bat-talion’s service in South Vietnam in 1965-66.

The Bible contains the names of soldiers and officers of B Coy, a chronological history of all operations and a record of the names of the three personnel killed and 13 wounded in action.

It has accompanied B Coy on operations since Vietnam and is a source of pride for the company.

The current custodian of the Bible, Pte Adam Seaman, said he was given the honour as a reward for his dedication to service.

“I was given the Bible to look after because I was performing well,” he said.

“It’s a great honour and I’m proud to be the one looking after it on operations.”

The 1RAR flag has been loaned to B Coy for safekeeping in Afghanistan by David Vogele, a member of the Charters Towers RSL and Vietnam veteran infantry signaller with B Coy.

Mr Vogele said the flag would have been flown overseas 50 years ago.

“All the living members feel a great deal of pride knowing that it would have spent two Anzac days 50 years apart on operations,” he said.

“This is not the only 1RAR flag we had in Vietnam, it’s the only one we know still exists.”

Pte Damien Jaundrell, an infantry signaller, has been tasked with keeping the flag while perform-ing his duties supporting, mentoring and training the Afghanistan National Security Forces.

The flag will be raised and the Bible will be read from as part of the Centenary of Anzac com-memorations at Camp Baker in Kandahar later this month.

History a source of pride

Ptes Damien Jaundrell and Adam Seaman display an original Vietnam-era 1RAR flag and the company Bible. Photo by Cpl David Cotton

B Coy, 1RAR, maintains ties with history on Operation Highroad

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This stunning double-sided 85mm antique brass finished medallion is set in an attractive timber presentation box.

The reverse of the medallion includes space for personalised engraving.

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COMMEMORATING AUSTRALIA’SOPERATION IN AFGHANISTANAND THE MIDDLE EAST

Simon Paton

Team army was strongly repre-sented at the Formula 1 Grand Prix in melbourne from march 12-15.

Project Digger, a 1978 Ford LTD, and armygeddon, a supercharged V8 powered Land Rover 6x6, from the army Logistics Training Centre at Bandiana in Victoria, impressed visitors during the four-day event, according to project manager Lt-Col Tom Regener.

“Team army attend some high-pro-file events around australia showcasing these amazing vehicles,” Lt-Col Regener said.

“It gives us an opportunity to high-light the role of the army School of electrical and mechanical engineering (aSeme) and how army provides real career alternatives for people interested in a technical trade.”

The vehicles were prepared by train-ees who stripped the original vehicles to bare metal, prepared a full re-wiring for armygeddon, built a V8 supercharged

engine and installed the engines in the vehicles.

“Project Digger was completely built in-house by trainees and staff from the aSeme,” Lt-Col Regener said.

“This was a major achievement by the resourceful members of Team army.”

also on hand to entertain the crowds was the seven-piece Rising Suns rock band.

Based at Simpson Barracks in Watsonia, the australian army Band – melbourne provides entertainment across the city and around Victoria promoting a positive image for army.

Band 2IC Capt Steve Cottier said the band received “unbelievably positive” feedback from passers-by.

“Our members are all reservists and left their day jobs to support the Grand Prix,” he said.

“We love the atmosphere and a chance to entertain the tens of thousands of people who visit this iconic event.”

FLAMES AND FLAIR: See page 20-21 for a feature on Team Army at Clipsal.

Army April 9, 2015 NEWSwww.defence.gov.au/news/armynews 7

Army revs up at Melbourne Grand Prix

Our formula for success

Left, Cfn Jasmine Hendry shows William the driver’s seat of Armygeddon at the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Melbourne.

Above, Cfn Hendry talks with Frank Hempel in front of the 1978 Ford LTD called Project Digger.

Photos by AB James McDougall

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Army April 9, 2015NEWS www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews8

Pay updateThe Defence Force Remuneration Tribunal (DFRT) will review the adjusted 2014 ADF Workplace Remuneration Agreement on April 16. CDF ACM Mark Binskin said at the hearing he and the government would ask the DFRT to approve a pay increase from 4.5 per cent to 6 per cent over the remaining life of the agreement. he will propose a 0.5 per cent pay rise from 1.5 per cent to 2 per cent from March 12, a further 2 per cent with effect from November 5 and another 2 per cent with effect from November 3, 2016. The proposed changes do not require any productiv-ity offsets to fund the pay increase. The decision process may take several weeks and CDF will advise ADF mem-bers of the outcomes in a signal.

Goodbye SarbiFORMeR Army explosive detection dog Sarbi, who was missing in action in Afghanistan for 14 months before being returned to Australian forces, died on March 27. her owners made the announcement on Sarbi’s official Facebook page, saying she “passed away peacefully with her family by her side”. Sarbi spent her last years as a family pet with her former handler.

Editor’s note: Read the next edition of Army for a full story honouring Sarbi and her service to Army.

CorrectionIn Army edition 1347, March 26, 2015, it was incorrectly reported on page 13 that A Sqn, 3/9Lh (SAMR), and 4/19PWLh supported 1 Bde gunners during exercise Paratus Crawl. In fact the soldiers supported 1 Bde’s Armoured Cavalry Regiment.

IN BRIEFBrigade’s proud pastCpl Mark Doran

An oAk with direct links to Anzac Cove was recently planted at Gallipoli Barracks during a service to recognise the centenary and proud history of 6 Bde.

The Palestine oak planted in Brisbane was propagated from one of the four holly oaks in Australia with historical links to trees originating from the Gallipoli Peninsula.

The Gallipoli oak “grandparent” trees were grown from acorns originally sent to Australia by soldiers fighting at Gallipoli in WWI.

The young tree was donated to 6 CS Bde by the president of the national Trust of Australia’s (Victoria) Gallipoli oaks Project, Peter Whitelaw, as a symbol of the Centenary of Anzac.

6 Bde was raised as an infantry formation on February 20, 1915. It has undergone many changes over the years, earning battle honours in some of the most significant actions of both world wars.

More recently, the brigade has evolved into Army’s only dedicated combat support formation.

The specialised units of 6 CS Bde are 16ALR, 20 STA Regt, 6ESR, 19 CE Works, 7 Sig Regt and 1 Int Bn.

Former RSM 6 CS Bde Wo1 Richard Andersen, of the School of Artillery, said the tree-planting had significant meaning.

“This oak represents the sacrifices made by soldiers from 6 CS Bde across the past 100 years and will be there as a reminder for at least the next 100 years,” Wo1 Andersen said.

“The ceremony meant a lot to the members of the brigade. While the oak may look small in stature, what it represents is immense.”

Soldiers reflect on a century of achievements at tree-planting ceremony

From left, former RSM 6 CS Bde WO1 Richard Anderson and Commander 6 CS Bde Brig Gavan Reynolds unveil the plaque during the commemorative planting of a Palestine Oak. Photo by Spr Myron Allen

The 6th Infantry Brigade, AIF, was formed in early 1915 and embarked for egypt in May that year.

By September, most bri-gade members had landed at Gallipoli where they spent the next three months before being evacuated from the pen-insula in December.

In 1916 they were trans-ferred to the Western Front, where they took part in the fighting in the trenches until the end of the war.

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Army April 9, 2015 NEWSwww.defence.gov.au/news/armynews 9

Flt-Lt Daniel Phillips

COMEDIANS Mick Mol loy and Anthony “Lehmo” Lehmann brought the laughs while rock band 28 Days belt-ed out the tunes during a recent Forces Entertainment Tour across the Middle East.

The tour performed for personnel on Operations Highroad, Manitou, Okra and Accordion.

The tour, funded by RSL – Australia, in Afghanistan began in Kabul in early March.

The entertainers performed for troops from Australia and other coalition nations as part of the multinational Resolute Support Mission.

Mick Molloy, a veteran of several Forces Entertainment Tours, said he had more of a chance to appreciate what he saw this time compared with previous tours.

“The tour moves at a pretty hectic pace so there’s a bit of a sensory overload,” he said.

“I’ve been constantly aware of the responsibility attached to the role we’re doing and how important it is to get this right.

“I’m always blown away by how happy the troops are that we’ve made the trip and how happy they are that people at home are thinking of them.

“I think sometimes it’s probably lost on the general public how important it is to the troops.”

28 Days lead singer Jay Dunne said he had the time of his life performing for the troops.

“We were really keen to do the tour – I

understand what it’s like to be away from home touring all the time,” Dunne said.

“It really feels like something you have to see for yourself to be able to describe.

“We got to Kabul and it was stunning. The guys pointed to a hill, which was quite close, and said rockets sometimes got shot at them.

“The troops are really down to earth here and enjoyed the show.”

The tour also visited Camp Qargha where troops provide training and force protec-tion for the Afghan National Army Officer Academy.

The performers enjoyed every minute in front of the multinational audience despite the near blizzard conditions and the road move in Bushmasters through the streets of Kabul.

Even though it was Lehmo’s sixth tour, he said he had not lost the desire to perform for Australians on operations.

“I absolutely love these trips,” Lehmo said. “There’s nothing quite like the roar of 100 soldiers laughing at your jokes.

“I’ve spoken with many soldiers individu-ally and they’ve told me about what they’re doing here.

“It is dangerous work and it’s a joy for me to be able to bring a piece of Australia here to give them some relief from what they’re doing day-to-day.”

After Kabul, the tour moved to Camp Baker, Kandahar, for a more intimate show for mainly Australian and US troops.

The tour also included shows on board HMAS Success, at Australia’s main logistics base in the Middle East and for the Air Task Group.

Touring tunes and laughs Forces Entertainment Tour performs across the Middle East Region

Comedians Anthony Lehmann, left, and Mick Molloy perform in Kandahar, while Jay Howard from Australian rock band 28 Days scratches the turntables in Kabul (inset). Photos by Cpl David Cotton

Army April 9, 2015NEWS www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews10

Capt Bradley Richardson

FIGHTING fictitious Kamarian forces and restoring the government of Legais was 7 Bde’s primary role as part of Exercise Blue Diamond 2015.

Blue Diamond was held a t Gallipoli Barracks in Brisbane from March 2-13.

It was the first of four major activi-ties in which 7 Bde will participate as it prepares to be Army’s Ready Brigade on July 1.

Commander 7 Bde Brig Adam Findlay is acutely aware of the bri-gade’s unique situation, where it has grown rapidly to become a combat brigade and fulfil the readiness com-mitment.

“This is something the brigade has not been before and we are very conscious to develop ourselves for high readiness and operations,” Brig Findlay said.

“This activity has enabled my headquarters to shakeout with all the assets that a combat brigade headquar-ters would normally deploy on opera-tions with.”

The Combat Training Centre (CTC) was integral in providing the infrastructure for the exercise.

CO CTC – Battle Command and exercise director Lt-Col Spencer Norris oversaw the planning and exe-cution of Blue Diamond.

On road to war

“We were able to build a complex operating environment, which included coalition, interagency, conventional and unconventional organisations that tested all aspects of brigade planning and execution,” he said.

In preparation for Exercises Talisman Sabre and Hamel, the exer-cise included support from the US 25 Inf Div and a combat team from New

Zealand. US Army Maj Joe Bradshaw acted as Chief of Staff 25 Inf Div as part of the higher headquarters for 7 Bde.

“We have provided command and control for 7 Bde and injects for the exercises to test the brigade headquar-ters,” Maj Bradshaw said.

“The exercise has been an oppor-tunity to test not only 7 Bde but the

interoperability between Australian and US forces, which has been inter-esting as we have been able to estab-lish a joint headquarters in support of the exercise.”

7 Bde and coalition forces operated within a training scenario based on the fictitious state of Southern Legais.

“I appreciate all the effort behind the scenes that enables us to be worked

up as realistically as we can and get us ready for real-time deployment on operations,” Brig Findlay said.

“From here we will take the lessons and make ourselves better.”

7 Bde will continue its road to war in 2015 with the CTC-run Ready Battalion Group warfighter, a com-bined arms training activity and Exercises Talisman Sabre and Hamel.

Soldiers begin readiness preparations with Exercise Blue Diamond

Capt Amber Humphreys, Maj Murray Stewart and Jonathan Thorpe, of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, discuss exercise details.

Soldiers from 2/14LHR(QMI) take part in computer simulation during Exercise Blue Diamond. Photos by Cpl Matthew Bickerton

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Army April 9, 2015 NEWSwww.defence.gov.au/news/armynews 11

With the shadow of tropical Cyclone Marcia passing over south-east Queensland, ready elements of 1 int Bn rehearsed their call-out pro-cedures as part of Exercise Phoenix Finisher from February 23-26.

For the first time since being raised in 1999, the Brisbane-based battalion had no formed bodies on operations.

the intelligence battalion main-tains short-notice ready elements for each of its sub-unit capabilities of human intelligence, all-source intel-ligence, geospatial intelligence, exploi-tation operations and psychological operations.

As the sole provider of these capa-bilities to Army, 1 int Bn is required to be prepared to support contingencies ranging from humanitarian assistance and disaster relief through to high-end warfighting.

Exercise Phoenix Finisher involved ready elements deploying in support of a notional DFAt-led, RAAF-centric, non-combatant evacuation operation.

CO 1 int Bn Lt-Col S said the bat-talion shifted its focus from predict-able rotations on known operations to preparing for short-notice contingency operations.

“this shift requires higher readi-ness and flexibility in the application of our tradecraft than we have shown

in recent years,” Lt-Col S said. “Our readiness and flexibility were tested and confirmed on the exercise.

“the value in exercising a scenario which involved other government agen-cies and services was it ensured capa-bilities remained interoperable in any environment.

“Realistically, we are unlikely to deploy to an environment that does not involve Air Force, Navy or other gov-ernment players.”

Vital to 1 int Bn is its non-Army personnel posted to the unit under Operation Argonaut, the ADF human intelligence program.

Since 2008, sailors, airmen and women and non-intelligence Corps soldiers have posted to 1 int Bn for employment as human intelligence operators or interrogators.

Lt-Col S said this enhanced the unit’s capabilities as well as individual skills.

“By the time they post out of the unit after two or three years they pos-sess enhanced maturity and manage-ment skills they otherwise would not have developed. the experience these airmen and women and sailors bring to the battalion is invaluable,” he said.

LS M serves with the exploitation operations capability and was tasked to debrief a local national who had detailed knowledge of a disrupted port facility.

Cpl Aaron Curran

thE Defence intelligence training Centre was renamed the Defence Force School of intelligence (DFSi) on January 1, aligning itself with the naming conventions used by other schools.

Based at Kokoda Barracks, Canungra, in the hills behind the Gold Coast, DFSi instructs foundation-level, career and specialist skills intelligence courses.

CO DFSi Lt-Col Arran hassell said the name change came about to main-tain consistency with all schools in the Defence Command Support training Centre.

“For example, we are now named the same as the DFS of Signals, DFS of Policing and DFS of Music,” Lt-Col hassell said.

DFSi is a triservice unit with 111

full-time, reserve and APS personnel of whom 57 are Army, 23 Air Force, 23 APS and eight Navy.

Lt-Col hassell said DFSi conducted officers’ basic and advanced intelli-gence courses for Army, Navy and Air Force, as well as the intelligence initial employment training course for Army.

“We do career continuum courses, source operations, interrogation, psy-chological operations, imagery analysis and conduct after-capture training,” Lt-Col hassell said.

“Each year we also teach six to eight mobile training serials overseas, which includes courses such as Defence intelligence Research and Analysis, as well as intelligence Preparation of the Battlespace.”

this year, DFSi will run 67 courses for up to 1160 trainees, which will include ADF personnel from across Australia and individuals from other government agencies.

Training centre’s new name

Intelligent preparation

this critical piece of intelligence was later corroborated by a detachment supporting key leadership engagement and was used to adjust the Joint task Force’s sea point of disembarkation.

LS M said his Navy background helped him understand the technical details the local national discussed.

“the information i collected would have been invaluable to maritime plan-ners in hQJOC and the JtF,” he said.

Sgt A, an airman with 1 int Bn’s source operations capability, assisted in the screening of local nationals as they were processed through the Evacuation handling Centre.

During this process, vital informa-tion regarding a significant threat to the centre was obtained, leading to swift counter action to avert any potential threat to Australian personnel.

“in this scenario, we were working in a RAAF Joint task Force so it was rewarding to collect intelligence spe-cifically relevant to my RAAF counter-parts,” Sgt A said.

“i was able to tailor my questioning to meet the specific needs of RAAF.”

Central to the intelligence efforts on Exercise Phoenix Finisher was the work of 1 int Bn’s intelligence analysts.

they were able to fuse the intel-

ligence collected from Air Force, Navy and government sources and provide advice to commanders, which drove operational planning.

Pte Natalie Leahey, who complet-ed her intelligence initial employment training last year, was central to this effort.

She said analysts were tasked to identify and locate Australian nationals who were stranded at a mine and unable to make it to the evacuation point.

“After collating all available facts i was able to task our screeners to ask particular questions to fill our gaps in knowledge,” Pte Leahey said.

Soldiers practise call-out procedures

Pte Nate Van Dore briefs an Air Force planner on the most recent intelligence available.

Photo provided by 1 Int Bn

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Army April 9, 2015 NEWSwww.defence.gov.au/news/armynews 13

Cpl Mark Doran

The ADF Peace Opera t ions Training Centre’s (POTC) 2015 ADF Peace Operations Seminar was held at the Australian Defence College in Canberra from March 23-27.

The seminar familiarised selected ADF personnel, other government and non-government agencies and inter-national Defence partners with factors influencing national participation in peace operations.

About 20 Australian participants from the ADF, Australian Public Service, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Australian Federal Police attended, as well as 23 par-ticipants from 14 countries including egypt, India, Tonga, Mongolia and New Zealand.

CO ADF POTC Lt-Col Matthew Nash said three senior officers from the Armed Forces of Ukraine also attended the seminar in what was one of the first international engagement activities between the two countries.

“The seminar was held in a relaxed academic environment and each day began with a keynote speaker who focused on key issues related to peace operations,” Lt-Col Nash said.

Topics included an overview of the United Nations and peacekeeping, rules of engagement and protection of

civilians, women, peace and security and the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1325, and the issues and challenges of peacekeeping operations.

T h e U N S e c u r i t y C o u n c i l Resolution 1325 is a landmark interna-tional legal framework that addresses not only the inordinate impact of war on women, but the pivotal role women should and do play in conflict manage-ment, conflict resolution and sustain-able peace.

The seminar ended with a case study of Australia’s support to the UN Mission in South Sudan.

Lt-Col James Kerr, of hQJOC, has been involved with the women, peace and security agenda for the past two years on operations and in his current role as an operational planner.

“It is vital women, peace and security considerations are incorpo-rated into our operational planning and organisation,” Lt-Col Kerr said.

“In 2013, I completed the UN Military Observers course in New Delhi and it was interesting to see the different perspectives of the nations involved on peace opera-tions, compared to the training run by Australians.

“The best part of this seminar was the involvement of the international visitors who were all keen and we learnt about their backgrounds or expe-rience on UN operations.”

Joining together for peace

ABOUT THE CENTREThe ADF POTC provides training, education and advice to government agencies, including Defence, as well as international defence forces and organi-sations.

Its headquarters is in Canberra at the Australian Defence College with residential training facilities at RAAF Base Williamtown.

Two Army officers and two public servants make up the centre’s perma-nent staff. They are assisted by a joint workforce of nearly 20 reservists who deliver training within Australia and overseas.

CO ADF POTC Lt-Col Matthew Nash said the centre provided pre-deployment training for Australian offic-ers and NCOs.

“The courses we provide include the ADF UN Staff Officer Course and the ADF UN Military expert on Mission Course, which prepare military observ-ers, military advisers, military liaison officers and other specialists for peace operations,” Lt-Col Nash said.

“The foundation of training for those

courses is based on a general military skill set, but we provide knowledge on the history, formation, organisation and workplace requirements of the UN to help selected members adjust quickly to being part of a very different military force compared to the ADF or our regu-lar coalition partnerships.

“We help them understand the UN’s policies and its command and control structure, any issues and concerns, and importantly what their role and respon-sibilities will be on mission.”

The ADF POTC’s mobile training teams travel to South-east Asia, the south Pacific or Africa in support of Defence and government’s international engagement objectives. Later this year, a team will work in Vietnam and Kenya, supporting those countries’ POTCs, to prepare troops deploying to Sudan and other missions in Africa.

The centre is one of two UN accred-ited training facilities in the southern hemisphere, the other being in Latin America.

Lt-Col Kerr said Australians had a good history of participation on UN missions.

“While we haven’t recently provid-ed large number of troops, we continue to provide people for key positions because our planning, operational and

training standards mean people per-form strongly in those roles,” he said.

“Our qualifications and experience allow us to conduct the communica-tion, liaison and staff work required to get things done.

“The UN is a convoluted organisa-

tion with a complex chain of command through to the headquarters in New York, which means personnel deploy-ing need very good organisational and negotiating skills, patience and, impor-tantly, a good understanding of the organisation itself.”

Representatives from 15 countries discuss factors influencing peace operations

Leut Daniel Iwata, of 723 Sqn, Air-Cdre Kathryn Dunn, of Air Force hQ, and Lt-Col James Kerr, of hQJOC, at the 2015 ADF Peace Operations Seminar in Canberra. Photo by Cpl Mark Doran

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Army April 9, 2015NEWS www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews14

Cpl Mark Doran

AustrAliAn country music star Beccy Cole visited the 1rAr Museum at lavarack Barracks on March 27.

During the visit, she met with soldiers who served in Afghanistan with former 1rAr officer Capt Paul McKay, who took his own life in the us last year.

Capt McKay’s mother, Angela, sug-gested Cole visit 1rAr when she was next in townsville.

“it was a fantastic experience to see the preservation of the battalion’s history and it was also special to see the display hon-ouring Capt McKay and meet some of his mates,” Cole said.

Cole has released a song called Broken Soldiers on the album Sweet Rebecca, which was inspired after she attended a memorial for Capt McKay.

“What struck a chord with me was the strength with which his mother spoke of her son, her broken soldier,” Cole said.

sOlDiErs from A Coy, 3rAr, are halfway through their three-month rifle Company Butterworth rotation in Malaysia.

the unit began its demanding train-ing program on January 28, which focused on live-fire training, designed to enhance 3rAr’s lethality operating in complex terrain, both in jungle and urban environments.

A Coy 2iC Capt timothy Farrell said phase one of the training was con-ducted at the Gurun range training area.

“Each of our platoons spent a week going through realistic live-fire serials,” Capt Farrell said.

“the training consisted of live-fire section attacks, sneaker ranges in pairs and section ambushing in the jungle environment.”

the live-fire training culminated with a combat shooting package.

“Each platoon was taken through the course, which leveraged the skills passed to the unit by sAsr during a range of combat shooting courses run for us over the past two years,” Capt Farrell said.

“soldiers who’d not yet been exposed to this training methodology and techniques found it demanding, but showed rapid improvement in their ability to apply lethal fire from their rifle and sidearm.”

Cpl tristan Kennedy, a section com-

mander from 3 Pl, said the combat shooting was beneficial.

“We are now definitely more con-fident and lethal with our primary and secondary weapons,” Cpl Kennedy said.

“the infantry integrated combat training has also taught us the skills needed to carry on the fight when our weapons go down.”

During phase two of the training at the sik national Park and Kulim state Forest, the soldiers were joined by instructors from the Combat training Centre’s Jungle training Wing, who put them through two weeks of specialised jungle warfare training.

“the soldiers conducted section and platoon patrolling, developed their close-country ambushing skills and conducted a demanding platoon delib-erate attack in very thick and steep jun-gle terrain,” Capt Farrell said.

“We are now deployed to Pulada training area, the home of the Malaysian Army Combat training Centre, for phase three of our rotation.

“We are conducting two weeks of live-fire training, leading up to a 72-hour platoon live-fire exercise.”

the exercise will be a demanding activity, designed to test the soldiers’ new skills.

“Each platoon will be inserted with live ammunition into a well-developed exercise scenario requiring them to

Country star visits 1RAR

interdict an enemy movement corridor,” Capt Farrell said.

“Both commanders and their sol-diers will be tested, as area and platoon ambushes are planned and will be set utilising mechanical and explosive aids.

“the exercise scenario will culmi-nate with a platoon deliberate attack to clear an enemy camp in complex jungle

terrain, incorporating the firepower of a complete manoeuvre support section.”

in the fourth phase of A Coy’s train-ing, the soldiers will travel to singapore for five days to practise urban terrain operations and continued combat shoot-ing at the singaporean Armed Force’s state-of-the-art Murai urban training Facility.

the soldiers will then redeploy to rMAF Base Butterworth before con-tributing guards to high-profile com-memorations at Hellfire Pass on the Burma railway for Anzac Day cer-emonies.

the sub-unit is due to return to Australia in early May and will be replaced by C Coy, 3rAr.

Demanding training

Soldiers from MSS Platoon engage

targets with 84mm high explosive. Above,

Commander 3 Pl Lt Jason Richardson gives

orders in the jungle. Photos by Cpl Tristan Kennedy

Soldiers enhance live-fire skills in Malaysia Left, Cpl Tristan Kennedy fires from the knee during a combat shooting package.

Cole will donate profits from down-loads of Broken Soldiers to soldier On.

To download, visit itunes.apple.com/au/album/sweet-rebecca If you need help with mental health issues, contact the ADF All Hours Support Line on 1800 628 036.

Cpl Lawrence Robertson, Capt Andrew Evans and Cpl Brain Heilbronn with Beccy Cole. Photo by LCpl Kyle Genner

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Army April 9, 2015 NEWSwww.defence.gov.au/news/armynews 15

Compo changes Amendments to Act tabled in ParliamentADF members and veterans will be exempt from all but two changes to compensation legislation that pro-vides cover to all Commonwealth employees.

P r o p o s e d a m e n d m e n t s t o the Safety, Rehabi l i ta t ion and Compensation Act 1988 (SRCA) were tabled in Parliament last month.

The SRCA provides compensa-tion coverage to all Commonwealth employees and is administered by Comcare on an agency basis for the Department of Employment.

The Act also provides compensa-tion coverage, under Part XI, for cur-rent and former ADF members for injuries which relate to service before July 1, 2004.

The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) is responsible for the administration of Part XI of the act.

Compensation coverage for current and former ADF members for inju-ries related to service on or after July 1, 2004, is provided by the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA).

The two proposed amendments that will apply to the ADF will ensure Part XI clients benefit from an increase to the maximum statutory perma-nent impairment amount payable and allow them to combine multiple inju-ries resulting from a single incident, in order to meet minimum permanent impairment threshold requirements.

CDF ACM Mark Binskin said the

government had also agreed to excise Part XI from the SRCA into a stan-dalone act.

“This will be done in consultation with Defence and the veteran com-munities to provide an opportunity for closer alignment with other military compensation schemes administered by DVA,” he said.

For more information, visit www.dva.gov.au

The ADF has a comprehen-sive rehabilitation program, with members covered by either the SRCA and MRCA.

The changes to the SRCA will ensure Part XI clients receive the benefit of a pro-posed increase in the maxi-mum permanent impairment amount payable.

Part XI clients will also be able to combine multiple injuries resulting from a single incident to meet mini-mum permanent impairment threshold requirements.

AT A GLANCEFlt-Lt Michael Moroney

ALMOST 200 Afghan women have graduated from the International Police Training Academy in Sivas, Turkey, as the newest Afghan National Police (ANP) recruits.

The class is only the second group of Afghan women to graduate from the academy, bringing the total number of females in the ANP to more than 3000.

Col Amanda Fielding attended the event as the Gender Adviser to the NATO-led Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan and said it was a signif-icant day for the progress of women’s rights in Afghanistan.

“It’s really motivating to see these women march out and it’s just the beginning of what’s to come for

women participating in the secu-rity force in Afghanistan – it’s about women protecting women,” Col Fielding said.

“It highlights an incredible amount of progress for the integration and par-ticipation of women within the secu-rity forces in Afghanistan.”

Senior Afghan officials from the Ministry of Interior also attended the event. The Director of the Gender and Human Rights Department, Brig Hekmat Shahi, addressed the class.

“In the last 10 years we have had great achievements in the field of female Afghan police,” she said.

The International Police Training Centre is funded under NATO and the UN Development Program, with Japan providing a significant contribution to the project.

Moment of pride

Female Afghan National Police recruits at their graduation ceremony at the International Police Training Academy in Sivas, Turkey. Inset, Col Amanda Fielding, the Gender Adviser to the NATO-led Resolute Support Mission. Photos by Sgt Ray Vance

Army April 9, 2015 CENTREPIECEwww.defence.gov.au/news/armynews16 17

DECADES OF SERVICEAfter four years of organisation-

al changes and evolution, 4 regt rAA, which celebrates its 55th birthday next month, will revert to

the traditional structure of an artillery regi-ment.

the recent trial of the three observation post batteries supported by a single gun bat-tery was unsuccessful.

the arrival of eight upgraded guns in July will mark the end of the trial as the regi-ment commences a return to three gun bat-teries each eventually with four M777A2s, a battery commander’s tactical party, joint fires teams and a battlegroup Joint fires and effects Coordination Centre (JfeCC).

Integral logistic support for the regiment will be maintained by the Combat Service Support Battery.

CO 4 regt rAA Lt-Col Damian Hill said the unit identified there might be a better way to do business, experimented, took the find-ings and then made the changes.

“the traditional organisational structure is the best means available to incorporate the regiment’s new capabilities,” Lt-Col Hill said.

“I am very happy – it takes time to work out how modernisation will affect an organi-sation, but what we have done is the right thing.

“A gun battery has been generated for each 3 Bde manoeuvre arms unit, which will help us form relationships and understanding as we train together in combined arms.

“When we do this on operations we don’t

have the friction of trying to integrate our staff or capabilities into a battlegroup.”

Along with Plan Beersheba and changes to the structure of 3 Bde, changes were also made to 4 regt rAA sub-unit structures.

the arrival of 2 Cav regt to townsville meant the re-raising of 106 Bty for the fourth time in its history as its supporting sub-unit.

the battery will receive its four guns by 2016, which will complete the planned Land 17 organisation.

the affiliations of 107 Bty to 1rAr and 108 Bty to 2rAr will remain the same while the relatively newer sub-unit of 109 Bty, raised in 2011, will continue to support 3rAr.

At this stage, 108 Bty do not have guns but have a battery commander’s tactical party, a battlegroup JfeCC and joint fires teams to support the 2rAr Amphibious ready element.

Lt-Col Hill said the regiment had been using the M777A2s for three years and the weapons were approaching its first upgrade.

“the M777A2 Block 2 upgrade will include minor modifications to the battery and digital systems and maintain our compat-ibility to our coalition partners such as the US Marine Corps,” Lt-Col Hill said.

“the M777A2 is an excellent gun and the regiment is maintaining modernisation in stride with available capabilities.

“But it’s not just the gun – it’s the system built around the gun that enables it to contin-uously be at the cutting edge of its capability.

“the Advanced field Artillery tactical

Data System (AfAtDS) command and control system is the backbone of our joint fires capability and is in an ongoing mod-ernisation process. We began with AfAtDS Version 6, are now using Version 6.7 and the software will soon be upgraded to Version 6.8.”

the manning of 4 regt rAA is 20 to 30 gunners more than when the regiment used the L119 Hamel Gun.

the regiment’s strength will increase by about 40 soldiers in early 2016-17 as it grows into a three-gun battery regiment with a post-ed strength of close to 350.

Lt-Col Hill said the regiment was nearly five years away from having a mature capa-bility.

“By then we will have sergeants and bat-tery commanders in the regiment who have only used Land 17 equipment,” Lt-Col Hill said.

“Another significant change for us is the number of females in the unit.

“In 1997, when I was a lieutenant, we had one female soldier in the regiment. We now have nearly 20 female soldiers, including the second rAA field gunner lieutenant.

“We intend to recruit more females from the wider Army into the unit and other parts of the rAA, as I believe we are a very attrac-tive and diverse career option.

“We offer the flexibility of roles from command post functions, gun numbers and forward observers. the regiment is ready, we have vacancies and I would fill them with females today if I could.”

4 Regt RAA reverts to traditional structure and gears up to celebrate 55th birthday milestone, Cpl Mark Doran reports.

The lineage of 4 Regt RAA can be traced to the creation of the St Kilda Rifles in January 1856, which became part of the Victorian Volunteer Artillery Regiment.

The regiment has undergone significant name changes over the years, including 4 Fd Arty Bde, 4 Australian Fd Arty Bde, 4 Fd Bde and 4 Fd Bde Royal Arty Regt (Militia).

Raised on May 4, 1960, 4 Fd Regt comprised 103, 105 and hQ batteries.

In 1962, the regiment was issued the 105mm L5 Pack howitzer and on November 19, 1962, Queen elizabeth II granted the title Royal Regiment of Australian Artillery.

Tasked by Prime Minister Sir Robert Menzies to send a bat-tery with 1RAR to Vietnam, 4 Fd Regt selected 105 Fd Bty, which departed in September 1965.

The regiment completed two tours of Vietnam, in 1968-69 and 1970-71, and provided direct fire support, maintained fire support bases and conducted harass-ment and interdiction missions.

Because of overuse and the inability to maintain high rates of fire, the L5 Pack howitzers were replaced in some operations by the more robust US 105mm M2A2.

In June 1968, Maj D.J. Gilroy led a road party of 40-50 soldiers to move the regiment from its barracks in Wacol, Brisbane, to Lavarack Barracks in Townsville.

The barracks was named Chau Pha Lines to recognise the Battle of Chau Pha Valley in South Vietnam for which forward observer Lt N.J. ‘Nobby’ Clark (106 Fd Bty) was awarded the Military Cross.

On November 28, 1987, 4 Fd Regt, under the command of Col Arthur Burke, was granted freedom of entry to the City of Thuringowa. This was recreated on the regiment’s 50th birthday on May 1, 2010.

The unit changed its name to 4 Regt RAA in January 2011.

The regiment has pro-vided support to operations in Singapore, Cambodia, Somalia, Rwanda, Timor-Leste, Sinai, Solomon Islands, Iraq and Afghanistan.

PROUD HERITAGE

IN 1916, 106 Bty was first raised near Ismalia on the Suez Canal in egypt.

Since then it has seen action in France and South Vietnam, been disbanded four times and re-raised thrice. It served in Singapore and has been garrisoned in hobart, Brisbane and Townsville.

It has been a howitzer battery, a field battery and a trials unit.

The battery has been a part of 22 howitzer Bde, 6 Australian Fd Arty Bde, 28 ANZUK Fd Regt and 4 Fd Regt.

On Saint Barbara’s Day – December 4, 2014 – 106 Bty was re-raised as a gun battery of 4 Regt RAA.

It will be equipped with four M777A2 and take its place as the senior gun battery of the regiment.

LONG HISTORY

B Detachment, commanded by Bdr Aaron Spicer, of 109 Bty, fires a round at the Townsville Field Training Area during Exercise Chau Pha in May 2014. Photo provided by 4 Regt RAA

Left, gunners from then-4 Fd Regt demonstrate the high-charge range of the L118 Howitzer at Townsville’s High Range during Exercise Long Guns 2008. Photo by LCpl Glenn Power

Far left, WO1 Damien Lindsay and WO2 Jason Bourke, of 107 Bty, help conduct the first M777A2 air mobile operation in Australia during Exercise Hamel at Shoalwater Bay in 2012. Photo provided by 4 Regt RAA

“A gun battery has been generated for each 3 Bde manoeuvre arms unit, which will help us form relationships and understanding as

we train together in combined arms ... When we do this on operations we don’t have the

friction of trying to integrate our staff or capabilities into a battlegroup.

– Lt-Col Damian Hill, CO 4 Regt RAA

TIME TO CELEBRATE

GUN races and a formal mounted parade featuring a performance of the 1812 Overture and fireworks will be some of the highlights for 4 Regt RAA’s 55th birthday.

The Townsville-based artil-lery unit will turn 55 on May 4 and will celebrate for two days at Lavarack Barracks on May 1-2.

The regiment marks its birth-day with a parade every five years and 2015 will be the first under the auspices of 4 Regt RAA (as opposed to 4 Fd Regt).

CO 4 Regt RAA Lt-Col Damian hill said every living member of the regiment, includ-ing former COs and RSMs, were invited to attend the unit’s birthday celebrations.

“Our host officer will be the Royal Regiment’s Colonel Commandant Northern Region, Col Steve Goltz, and the parade

will be reviewed by Comd 3 Bde Brig Roger Noble,” Lt-Col hill said.

“The mounted parade will be an excellent way to show off the regiment’s current capabilities.

“Former gunners and even those still serving would not rec-ognise the look of the artillery regiment of today.”

The gunners will join the M777A2s, Bushmasters, Mack trucks, Mercedes Benz G-Wagons and the digital sen-sor suite on the parade ground.

The 1812 Overture will be performed by musicians from Brisbane’s 1 Regt Band RAA and the 1RAR Band.

Sub-unit functions will be held by the batteries on May 1.

The regimental open day, gun races, mounted parade, 1812 Overture, fireworks and a regimental function will be held on May 2.

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Army April 9, 2015PERSONNEL www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews18

ApplicAtions are open for the certificate iV in indigenous leadership.

the course has been designed to develop the capacity of Aboriginal and/or torres strait islander people to take on leadership and senior roles in workplaces and communities.

it will be delivered to Aboriginal and/or torres strait islander ADF and Aps members by the Australian indigenous leadership centre.

the course will be funded by the Defence Directorate of indigenous Affairs and consists of three five-day face-to-face blocks in May, July and August.

Applications close on April 17.Registration forms can be emailed

to indigenous.affairs@defence.gov.au

The application form and more informa-tion can be found at intranet.defence.gov.au/People/sites/diversity/comweb.asp?page=50967&Title=Australian Public Service

A nEW ADF recruiting campaign was launched on March 24.

the campaign is designed to encourage more women to consider the career opportunities available in the ADF.

cn VAdm tim Barrett launched the campaign on behalf of the cDF.

“Women make up 18 per cent of the ADF and it is well understood that this is not a fair representation of the gender balance in today’s working society,” VAdm Barrett said.

“our aim is to create a more inclu-sive work environment and to position Defence as an employer of choice for women and men alike.”

the new campaign features women who are actively serving.

they detail the rewards a mili-tary career has to offer and ask other Australian women if they could do what they love, what would it be?

“the women featured in the cam-paign offer an honest and candid view of life in the ADF,” VAdm Barrett said.

“i think it will be an inspiring con-versation for those women considering a career in the ADF.”

For more information, visit www.defencejobs.gov.au/dowhatyoulove

Leanne Blackmore

ADF and Australian public service (Aps) personnel will have a single Human Resource Management and payroll Administration system under Defence one (D1) Release 1a.

currently, ADF permanent mem-bers are paid through the ADFpAY system, while ADF reserve members and Aps are paid through pMKeys.

With the rollout of Release 1a, all ADF and Aps members will be man-aged through one payroll system, D1.

D1 will give ADF members the ability to submit, modify or delete a range of new absences and allowances through self service, which will make the process faster and without the need to complete paper forms.

these include long service leave, carers leave, leave without pay, mater-

nity leave, part-day travel allowance and district allowance.

Members will no longer need to submit paper forms for leave applica-tions or to ‘start’ or ‘stop’ allowances, such as district allowance.

this can all be done through self service or Home portal.

payslips will still be available in self service, but will be simplified with a better display of adjustments.

Assistant secretary personnel systems Modernisation Brenton searle said there would also be some changes in processes and policies.

“D1 will standardise the mini-mum rank of approvers for ADF absence and allowance applications,” Mr searle said.

“the rank level of approval will depend on the allowance or absence type the member is applying for.”

For example, paid parental leave and absent for convalescence are cur-rently approved by a major or above.

With the introduction of D1, these will be approved at Wo2 or above in the chain of command.

“All allowance applications and more complex absence types, such as leave without pay or long service leave, will continue to be approved by a major or above.”

Members will also need to be aware of changes within the new ADF Absence Request page in self service.

“When D1 goes live towards the end of the year, the current ‘return date’ for absence periods will become the ‘end date’,” Mr searle said.

“the ‘end date’ will reflect the last day of the member’s absence, rather than the date the member returns to work.

Indigenous leadership opportunity

Campaign to encourage an ADF career

Defence One is on the way

“D1 will allow us to move forward with a single HR and payroll system that will be easier to use and more cost effective to run and maintain.”

For more information, visit ciogintranet.defence.gov.au/organisation/HRDD/PSMB or email ‘CIOG HRDP Communications’ on the DRN.

Sgt Dave Morley

ARMY personnel have been recognised in the 12th Defence Work Health and safety Awards.

the ceremony, held in canberra on March 12, recognised contri-butions from 23 individuals and groups across Defence.

Director General WHs Branch lindsay Kranz said the presenta-tion highlighted the achievements of some talented Defence people.

“through these people Defence is also recognised for its outstanding achievements in safety throughout the commonwealth,” he said.

RAAc officer and current stu-dent at capability and technology Management college, capt Matthew King, received a commendation for implementing exceptional ground and aviation safety within 16 Avn Bde.

capt King said although he felt privileged to receive the award, it was a team effort.

“the chain-of-command gave me a lot of rope and resources and i was well supported by a good team, including Wo1 Geoff stoakes and the unit safety staff,” he said.

“i conducted a no-notice full-scale emergency crash exercise with 1 Avn Regt in order to test their level of preparedness and response to an aviation incident off base.

“i also established a 16 Avn Bde

WHs Working Group and helped facilitate changes to the fast-roping standard operating procedures.”

capt King said his posting to an aviation unit was a normal DocM posting, which involved a steep learning curve.

“i conducted aviation safety courses, initial and advanced, and learnt from my peers both within the HQ and from the units,” he said.

in the same award category, cpl lee Anderson received recogni-tion for dedication to the develop-ment of WHs standards, manage-ment and culture.

VcDF VAdm Ray Griggs said there had been significant reduc-tions in injuries among ADF mem-bers in recent times.

“the nature of the work we do in Defence is inherently challeng-ing and as such our focus on safety must be an intrinsic one,” VcDF said.

“What the awards system does is help keep safety at the forefront of people’s minds.

“it’s part of building a proac-tive rather than a compliance-based safety culture.”

Australian Army cadets safety personnel also won an award at the ceremony.

lt-col peter Gavican and Brig Wayne Budd accepted the award for best practice in health and food risk management.

Dedication to safety

Ms Skinner and VAdm Griggs present Lt-Col Peter Gavican and Brig Wayne Budd with the WHS award. Photos by Lauren Larking

Deputy Secretary DPG Rebecca Skinner and VCDF VAdm Ray Griggs present Capt Matthew King with a commendation certificate.

Awards recognise outstanding work

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Sgt Dave Morley

AFTER the success of a pilot 35-day reserve recruit training course last year, the first platoon of reserve recruits for 2015 marched out of 1RTB on March 27.

Platoon Commander Lt Stuart Clark said extending the length of the reserve course by a week had allowed more competencies and learning out-comes to be delivered.

“In the new course we include a navigation package and a medical package,” he said.

“This enables the recruits to learn these new skills in the Kapooka train-ing environment and helps them to better consolidate the skills they have already been taught.

“By giving us an extra week with them in training we are able to gener-ate a better quality soldier marching out at the end of the course.”

CO 1RTB Lt-Col Glenn Ryan said the new course focused the initial training in the one place – Kapooka.

“It takes the burden of units to deliver navigation training and organ-ise civilian medical courses for their members,” Lt-Col Ryan said.

“The 35-day reserve course removes the prerequisites for attend-ance, with those competencies now delivered at Kapooka.

“This removes barriers for attend-ance and should generate more reserve soldiers for Army.”

Lt Clark said what he liked about

the reserve platoons was their diver-sity.

“The youngest members of my pla-toon were 17 and the oldest was 42,” he said.

“This difference in age enables the older members of the platoon to men-tor the younger recruits, particularly through the initial stages where they are still adapting to their new environ-ment.

“Another great aspect of the reserve platoons is the diverse range of skills and qualifications.”

Lt Clark said he had three police officers, one detective, a PhD student, a lawyer, carpenters, panel beaters, musicians and business owners in his platoon.

“It allows my recruits to gain valu-able experience and networking oppor-tunities outside of the course program and many recruits build lasting friend-ships from their five weeks together,” he said.

Recent march-out and PhD student Pte Melissa Bakhurst, of Singleton, said the 35-day recruit course was a good idea because she could organise her life around it.

“I’m flexible with my work hours so I worked really hard in the three months leading up to the course,” she said. “I know when I’ll be finished rather than having to arrange multiple times off.”

Pte Bakhurst said she enjoyed the weapons training and learning how to work as part of a team.

First platoon marches out Reserve recruits complete training

“I joined because I wanted to do something a little bit different and something that would challenge me,” she said.

“I’m at a desk all day and wanted to do something a bit active.”

Pte Bakhurst now parades with

B Sqn, 12/16 HRL, at Muswellbrook in the Hunter Valley.

Another recent march-out, Pte David Cameron, of Sydney University Regiment, said doing the extra seven days wasn’t a problem for him.

“How they fitted all the train-

ing into 28 days I don’t know,” Pte Cameron said.

“The camaraderie was great, as was watching the young blokes grow up, even after just their first week.

“For me the biggest challenge was being away from a family of five kids.”

Recs David Cameron and Melissa Bakhurst at the rifle range at the Army Recruit Training Centre. Photo by Sgt Dave Morley

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Army April 9, 2015FEATURES www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews20 Army April 9, 2015 FEATURESwww.defence.gov.au/news/armynews 21

WHEN Project Digger reached turn nine of the Clipsal 500 Adelaide track on February 27 for its second performance

of the V8 Supercar event, it received an overwhelming reception – and for good reason.

The day before on the same turn, the 1978 Ford LTD gave spectators a show of a differ-ent kind during its track routine when a flash flame shot up through the bonnet.

The transmission overheated due to a slip-ping clutch, causing the transmission fluid to boil and escape from the housing, splashing onto the exhaust, resulting in a quick but visually impressive vapour fire.

It was over in just seconds but caused a buzz among Clipsal 500 spectators and com-petitors and quickly spread onto social media, with many asking if it was the end of the event for Project Digger.

Team Army answered that question less than 24 hours later when the popular green machine rolled back onto the track after a mammoth eight-hour effort to rebuild the gear box to replace the slipping clutch.

Chief mechanic and driver WO2 Tim McDougall said the flare-up looked a lot worse than it was.

“I saw the vision of the fire afterwards and it looked bad in super slow motion, but realistically it was just a second or two of vapour flame and then it was over,” he said.

“I quickly shut the engine down and hit the on-board fire extinguisher and then the fire crew got to the car with the extinguisher.

“There was no smoke in the cabin and we were perfectly safe.

“People who saw the fire thought straight away that it was it the end of the weekend for us, so we were determined to get it fixed up and back out there like nothing had happened.”

Team Army Project Manager Lt-Col Tom Regener said mechanical challenges came with the territory in high-perfor-mance motoring.

“We’re not driving an average fam-ily sedan out on a country road, we are operating in an environment of high performance, which brings with it a host of technical challenges for the chief mechanic and trainees on Team Army,” he said.

“When you’re developing a vehicle to put on a high-performance display, you increase the risk profile so you just have to implement mitigation risk strategies on how to deal with that risk.

“Yes, we had a fire on board, but nobody was hurt and no equipment was damaged, which is a tribute to the high standard of technical skill among the team. Our training worked, the vehicle’s equipment worked, the onboard fire suppression system worked and we repaired the vehicle in time to be back on the track the next day.”

Lt-Col Regener was impressed by the response of Clipsal 500 spectators and the competitors who were full of praise for Team Army’s technical ability to recover and put on a performance display the next morning.

“In the motorsport scene you get great credibility where you suffer a major setback

Simone Liebelt

CFN Michael Hopgood never imag-ined attending the Clipsal 500 V8 Supercars event as anyone but a spectator.

But after nearly nine years as a regular visitor to the event, the Adelaide motorsport fan got his ulti-mate wish this year – to attend as a member of Team Army.

Cfn Hopgood joined the Army as a vehicle mechanic trainee last year after being inspired by his many visits to Team Army’s Clipsal display.

“I’d always come down to look at Team Army, from the very first Clipsal event,” Cfn Hopgood said.

“The big shiny engines jumping out the top of the bonnets [of Project Digger and Armygeddon] gets any guy running over to check it out, and for me, that’s where it all started.

“Seeing Team Army grow and lov-ing the spectacle, it definitely drove me to want a career as an Army mechanic.”

He said his family connections also had something to do with it.

“I’m fourth generation Army so it

was always going to be Army eventu-ally,” he said.

“My dad was a tankie on the APCs and he used to tell me about all the exercises he did back then so the Army was ingrained in my brain.

“I had the hands-on practice with him when I was younger and then seeing the Team Army guys at Clipsal every year gave me something that I wanted to work towards, being part of that team once I joined the Army.”

And that’s what he did last June after starting his vehicle mechanic training at the Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering at Latchford Barracks.

“It was a very good feeling [to join Team Army],” Cfn Hopgood said.

“When you’re going through Kapooka, you think about why you’re doing it and where you want to end up and this is definitely where I want to end up – with Team Army and with the Army.

“There’s a lot of self motivation needed, but you get out what you put in and I’m very glad that I made the decision to join. I wouldn’t mind com-ing back as a chief mechanic for Team Army one day.”

Living the dream

Team Army revs up at ClipsalA flash fire didn’t stop Project Digger delighting crowds in Adelaide, Simone Liebelt reports.

and then the next day the same car with the same branding is out there doing its busi-ness,” he said.

He said Army tradesmen felt the same way about the equipment they maintained to deliver Defence capability, so there was a lot of pride for the team to be able to present the vehicle to the crowd the next day.

“The applause and cheers Project Digger received on track the next day was an acknowledgement of the great effort involved in getting that car back on the track,” Lt-Col Revenger said.

“It’s great admiration for Project Digger and Army for the crowd to say ‘well done guys, you obviously worked through the night to get that car back on the track and we acknowledge with great respect your efforts’.

“That’s a great outcome.”The Clipsal 500 Adelaide was held from

February 26 to March 1 and also featured static displays by 16ALR, 3HSB and 9 Bde.

WO2 Timothy McDougall

hits the track in Project

Digger with co-driver

Sgt Andrew Lynch.

Team Army with Project Digger and Armygeddon at the 2015 V8 Supercars Clipsal 500 Adelaide.Photos by Sgt Pete Gammie

WO2 Timothy McDougall in the driver’s seat of Project Digger with co-driver Sgt Andrew Lynch.

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At LanceLin Range, 110km north of Perth, wind whistles off the indian Ocean over low,

undulating scrubland.Four firing stations face out-

wards to all points of the compass, picking up every nuance of the swiftly changing breeze.

two dozen army snipers and sniper team leaders are consolidat-ing the lessons of a 10-day training concentration under the guidance of Special air Service Regiment (SaSR) personnel.

“this is the third year the regiment has conducted the Sniper concentration, providing develop-ment and training opportunities for battalion snipers outside of their own units,” SaSR sniper cpl L said.

“We achieve that by using a competition-based atmosphere where guys are under self-induced stress – you’re competing, there’s unit pride up for grabs.”

competitors participated in scored range shoots, observational exercises and range estimation exer-cises, both static and live fire, and in live-fire stalks in rural and urban environments.

the Swanbourne Special Range Facility at campbell Barracks and the Lancelin and Bindoon training areas were used.

“these competitors are all com-petent snipers, having passed their basic sniper course and some have gone on to do their team leaders course,” cpl L said.

“now’s the time for them to step up and demonstrate their proficiency and experience within their special-ist skill set.

“there’s nowhere to hide; at the end of the two weeks the scores will tell the story.”

Weapons used are the SR98 7.62mm bolt-action sniper rifle, SR25 semi-automatic 7.62mm rifle, H&K 417 7.62mm semi-automatic weapon, .50 calibre Barrett semi-

automatic anti-materiel weapon, and the primary operational sniper weapon, the Blaser .338, with choice of 7.62mm barrel.

Some are new to the participants.“if they haven’t had an oppor-

tunity to gain a particular weapon qualification we’ll provide the train-ing and assessment for them,” cpl L said.

Darwin-based Pte Ryan Lee, of 5RaR, completed his basic sniper course eight weeks before the con-centration.

“no other soldier in the battalion would get to share something as good as this – this kind of training with these guys in Perth,” Pte Lee said.

cpl Matthew Mack, a sniper for two years, led the 5RaR team.

“it’s a good learning experience, doing a lot of different shooting that we wouldn’t otherwise get to do,” cpl Mack said.

“the ranges are different to what we have in Darwin so it’s good experience to shoot in different envi-ronments.”

Six weapons were in use, com-pared with just three in the battalion, and participants shot more than 600 rounds during the concentration.

“that’s more than we get to shoot in the battalion in a year,” cpl Mack said.

“We are getting exposed to some new techniques that end in being able to engage targets faster. that’s good because we can take back the lessons to the lads in the cell.”

Pte Morgan Preston, of 6RaR, has been a sniper for 18 months and said he learnt a lot.

“as team leaders we learnt how to give orders and brief officers, but here we’ve improved our shooting tenfold,” he said.

“We’ve learnt to engage targets in four-to-six seconds out to 600m, whereas before that would take us a minute.

“there’s stuff we’ll take back to

the battalion that’s incredibly useful that we’d never be aware of unless we came here.”

Pte Simon Lancaster, of 7RaR, recently qualified as a sniper team leader.

“there are a few different drills here that were not taught on course – different ways to solve a problem, more knowledge of ballistics and heaps more rounds downrange than we normally do,” he said

cpl L said the competition rein-forced the same skills taught at bat-talion level.

“it’s a worthwhile exercise for all involved,” he said.

“every member who participated has been exposed to a stressful environment. Sure it’s just a com-petition, but without running or sleep deprivation associated with operations, where else can you be lying prone on a sterile range with a heart rate around 150bpm trying to release that perfect shot. How do you train for that situation?

“i’d rather have an idea of what my body is about to be put through and develop a plan for that, before finding out on operations when it’s just you and your rifle.”

Participants showed some inter-est in progressing to Special Forces, but cpl L said that was not the focus.

“there’s been some pushback from some of the units that we’re trying to poach their best blokes,” he said.

“that’s not the case. it happens to be a happy by-product. the guys see a ‘day-in-the-life’ of the regi-ment, but that’s a secondary effect.

“at the end of the day their unit has to nominate them for selection and there are no free passes. You have to fit the mould at the end of selection.”

in the final tally, SaSR came from behind to win, with 1RaR second and 7RaR third.

Showing skill and precisionBattalion snipers on target at SASR’s Sniper Concentration.

A spotter and sniper work on a reverse

slope during the Sniper Concentration in Western Australia.

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flash and the impact of the round on a steel target

illustrate a sniper’s impact.

A sniper conducts a rural stalk.

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Army April 9, 2015 FEATURESwww.defence.gov.au/news/armynews 23

THE Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) put man’s best friend front and centre at its inaugural K9 Symposium

in Perth late last year. Representatives from Army, Air

Force, civilian police forces, New Zealand Defence Force and US Marine Corps attended the event at Campbell Barracks and the Bindoon Training Area.

The activities covered all roles for general purpose police dogs and military working dogs (MWD).

The canines and their handlers were tested in various activities ranging from search and rescue to explosive detection.

Symposium coordinator Cpl J said the K9 Symposium began with program overviews by SASR and sharing of les-sons from recent operations, including those from Afghanistan.

“This was followed by demonstra-tions on how closely the canines of SASR work beside their handlers and members of the unit they support and the level of control and trust required for high-end MWDs,” Cpl J said.

The symposium encouraged the sharing of ideas and techniques from all attending agencies on their canine programs.

These briefs included handler and canine training, recruitment, operational lessons and future developments.

Of the 12 agencies represented, all were encouraged to bring their own dogs and 14 personnel travelled to Perth, which included several juvenile develop-ment dogs.

Cpl J said there was some initial hesitance among attendees, especially the handlers.

“As the week progressed they [the handlers] became a lot more active in the presentations,” he said.

“I think once they saw that simple changes in how they approached some of their dog training could make signifi-cant improvements, all the handlers were a lot more engaged in the presentations and keen to try out new concepts with their dogs.”

Presentations from Capt Kendall Crocker, of the School of Military Engineering veterinary office, on canine emergency first-aid proved especially popular.

Several agencies, including Queensland Police Special Emergency Response Team and Victoria Police, gave presentations on police training topics.

It was noted that much of the polic-ing work with canines is on-lead track-ing of which many MWDs have limited experience.

This provoked strong discussions on training methodologies and problem-solving ideas.

The last two days at Bindoon Training Area focused on practising drills discussed earlier in the week.

This included getting the dogs to work harmoniously around other team members while staying focused and controlled.

The drills allowed agencies to expose their handlers and dogs to different train-

Military Police Dog Handler Cpl Cassie Radunz with MWD in the tactical time trial.

TacTical Time TrialThe tactical time trial started with the handler engaging several threat targets before removing the dog from the vehicle they were travelling in and scaling a low wall.

They cleared a house and arrested a hidden individual, send-ing the dog to apprehend one fugi-tive from the building and engag-ing a further target while the dog subdued the fugitive.

Finally, dog teams had to run up three storeys to the top of an observation area.

Cpl J said spectators cheered on participants.

“The final activity proved to be

a big hit with teams competing,” he said. “This included two handlers who borrowed SASR dogs to compete and proved the level of multihandling we developed.”

Senior Constable A and police dog Onyx, of the Queensland Special emergency Response Team, placed first in 3min 11sec.

Cpl Shaun Richardson and MWD Siren, of RAAF Base Tindal, closely followed in 3.12, while Gunnery Sgt Chris Willingham, of USMC, and SASR MWD Odin finished third in 3.26.

Cpl Mark Donaldson, VC awarded the winning pair a plaque.

First of its kindSASR runs inaugural K9 Symposium in Perth.

ing environments, including a mock training village constructed for training in the Middle East.

The culminating activity was a tacti-cal time trial, in which handlers com-pleted a set course with their dog and an operator from SASR in full kit with weapons.

“From our perspective, the sym-posium proved invaluable, not just the practical lessons learnt and shared, but the connections made between our unit and the other attendees,” Cpl J said.

“Many of the agencies represented had never worked together before.

“To be able to meet up for a week and talk canine programs was great. We had a lot of good feedback over the week and it was great to see the dogs that attended all improved in different areas.”

SASR plan to run the symposium again later this year.

“To be able to meet up for a week

and talk canine programs was great.

– Cpl J, K9 Symposium coordinator

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THE Strategic Communications Adviser embed, Lt-Col Jim Hunter, advises one of the most influential individuals in

Afghanistan – Commander Resolute Support Mission and four-star US officer Gen John Campbell.

Working in the Commander’s Action Group (CAG) at Headquarters Resolute Support in Kabul, Lt-Col Hunter works with a ‘think-tank’ of officers who per-form strategic analysis on behalf of the commander, which informs decisions relating to the mission.

Lt-Col Hunter also has day-to-day staff work responsibilities.

“We prepare the Commander for all his engagements, whether these are with visiting dignitaries, members of the Afghan government, or we accompany him on trips throughout Afghanistan,” he says.

“I have the privilege of supporting his NATO portfolio, which means assisting with his engagements alongside senior NATO officials on their visits here. I was even fortunate enough to accompany him to NATO HQ in Brussels, Belgium.

“I am in a distinctly privileged posi-tion. It’s largely due to a bilateral agree-ment between the ADF and the US Army that allows me to be here.”

Lt-Col Hunter says his position comes with a degree of responsibility.

“I am exposed to a lot of interest-ing information and particularly serious levels of decision making, which directly influences what is happening here in Afghanistan,” he says.

“As Australians, and a non-NATO partner nation, we are fortunate in being privy to some of the NATO-driven deci-sions.

“We come from a relatively small army and to be a part of such a large enterprise as the Resolute Support Mission, even though it is down to

Army April 9, 2015 FEATURESwww.defence.gov.au/news/armynews 25

Advising top-level decision makers in Afghanistan is all in a day’s work for Lt-Col Jim Hunter, LS Jayson Tufrey reports.

Proud work for adviser

roughly 12,500 personnel from 130,000 under ISAF at its peak, it is still quite big with many moving parts. It’s been very enlightening to be involved.”

While each of the staff members in the CAG have various portfolios to monitor, Lt-Col Hunter spends a lot of time at his desk preparing for and attend-ing meetings.

“I get involved with meetings such as those for the gender adviser group, communications and security force assis-tance. We also get some fairly senior visitors such as foreign ministers and chiefs of defence,” he says.

“I have been fortunate enough to develop ideas and plans that have influ-enced the general in charge of operations in Afghanistan. It’s a small feather in my cap and it’s something of which I am proud.

“I am very positive about where we are going here – this is all helping to get Afghanistan back on its feet.”

“I am very positive about where we are going here – this is all helping to get Afghanistan back

on its feet.– Lt-Col Jim Hunter, Strategic

Communications Adviser to Commander Resolute Support

Mission Gen John Campbell

Lt-Col Jim Hunter at Headquarters

Resolute Support in Kabul, Afghanistan.

Photo by Sgt Ray Vance

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IN LINE with Centenary of Anzac events being held across Australia over the next four years, the Royal Australian

Artillery Historical Company (RAAHC) will be hosting a series of seminars titled Firepower: Lessons from the Great War.

Deputy Director Joint Concepts Lt-Col Nick Floyd has been presi-dent of the RAA Association (ACT) since 2011, and is also a board member of the RAAHC, as well as the project director for Firepower.

“Not only does the RAAHC want to get people to come along to the first event on May 13 at ADFA, we also want to make them aware of the entire seminar series over four years,” he said.

“We’d also like to get some interest from people who can con-tribute material to the series.”

He said the main thrust of the Firepower seminar series would be in Canberra, with 11 events sched-uled.

“One of the other directors of the RAAHC is based in Melbourne and has already started organising a parallel series of events there, and we are looking to organise similar series elsewhere, including Sydney,” he said.

An added highlight of the semi-nars will be the appearance of RAAHC’s recently restored WWI 18-pounder gun at each event.

Lt-Col Floyd said the RAAHC was hoping to get as broad a cross-section of individuals involved as possible to contribute.

“We want to treat each of the dif-ferent topics with as much diversity as we can,” he said. “So people who might be interested in leadership and command will get that, while people who are interested in soldier stories will get that.”

He said some of the more tech-nical topics such as technology in artillery, artillery tactics, com-bined arms tactics, and even tactics involving naval gunfire support and airpower, would be included.

“We will also be looking at the logistic train right through from fac-tory to arsenal to gunline,” he said.

“We recognise the stories that need to be told about all the parts that make up firepower.”

Lt-Col Floyd said a rich and diverse group of experts and aca-demics who were passionate about

Army April 9, 2015 FEATURESwww.defence.gov.au/news/armynews 27

Diverse stories to be toldLearn lessons from WWI artillery battles with the Royal Australian Artillery Historical Company, Sgt Dave Morley reports.

the subject would be needed to cover the large range of topics.

“We already have many people who have come on board from the heavy-hitter top end of town, but equally we’re engaging directly with cadets from ADFA,” he said.

“They have a military history vocational group and we’re quite keen to get the young ADFA stu-dents to start their journey of dis-covery into Australia’s history and heritage.

“Equally, we’d be delighted to see young bombardiers, sergeants or captains from the regiments con-tribute a paper they might think is worthwhile, particularly if it is rel-evant to their unit.

“A lot of today’s batteries claim their lineage from the reorganisation of the Australian Field Artillery in 1916.”

Lt-Col Floyd said stories of an exploit by a gunner, a bombardier, a lieutenant or a forward observer from WWI, if told by a member of a unit that drew its lineage from that time, would be of interest.

“Defence Attachés are also being engaged as it could be a great oppor-tunity for their country to send out an expert to tell their country’s story at the seminars,” he said.

“If an overseas expert is unable to attend in person we’d still be delighted to have a paper submitted by their Australia-based representa-tives.

“Even if we can’t have it present-ed on the day, we can put it into the

collection and add it to the anthol-ogy of the work we’re collecting for this.

“Each contribution we receive will be published on our website.”

Lt-Col Floyd stressed that both officers and soldiers would benefit from attending the seminars because of the lessons focus of the series.

“It’s not just a study of history but, as the name suggests, we’re trying to ensure we’re true to the topic,” he said.

“The aim is to look carefully, objectively and analytically at things that exist in our past and that of our allies and opposition.

“We need to incorporate these lessons in today’s, and even tomor-row’s artillery – that’s our key pur-pose.”

Lt-Col Floyd said young soldiers and young subalterns would get an understanding of context out of the seminars.

“Like every corps or regiment, artillery has a proud tradition, and it’s important to understand why we and our comrades in arms have the pride each of us do in our corps and regimental histories,” he said.

“Where they came from, why they’re important and why we should continue to hold them in high esteem is an important aspect of a soldier’s character and a young officer’s character.”

The seminars will be podcast on the RAAHC website, ADFA website and regimental websites for those unable to attend.

Troops try to get an 18-pounder gun out of the mud in October 1917 during

the Third Battle of Ypres. Photo courtesy Australian War Memorial

“Like every corps or regiment, artillery has a proud tradition,

and it’s important to understand why we and our comrades in arms have the pride each of us do in our

corps and regimental histories.– Lt-Col Nick Floyd,

Deputy Director Joint Concepts

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“That’s the last time he points a laser pointer at an aircraft.”WO2 Grahame WardHQ Forces Command

We also liked:“When the MPs said they were going to enforce speed restrictions on base, they weren’t kidding!”PO Phil CullinanNavy Strategic Command

If you can think of a clever caption for this picture, email captioncomp@defencenews.gov.au with “caption comp April 9” as the subject. Keep entries under 25 words and include your name, rank and unit.

SAY AGAIN, OVER

Last edition’s winner

DIKKO By Bob Dikkenberg

Anjali Skandaraja

AustrAliA’s Federation Guard (AFG) celebrated its 15th birth-day on March 20 with a parade at ADFA.

Governor-General Gen sir Peter Cosgrove (retd) attended the parade to show his appreciation for the cer-emonial support AFG provides.

Australian War Memorial direc-tor Brendan Nelson also attended, while Commander Australian Defence College Maj-Gen simone Wilkie was the reviewing officer.

Guard member Pte Victor O’Keefe said it was a privilege to

be involved in the Guard’s birthday celebrations.

“As a Guard member i have proudly taken part in many major national ceremonial events, includ-ing Anzac Day at the AWM,” he said.

During the celebrations, AFG’s precision drill team performed a new routine, while the Governor-General, Maj-Gen Wilkie and lAC timothy Harcourt cut the birthday cake.

AFG is preparing for its next ceremonial task, providing support for Centenary of Anzac commemo-rations.

AFG celebrates milestone

From left, LAC Timothy Harcourt, Governor-General Gen Sir Peter Cosgrove and Commander ADC Maj-Gen Simone Wilkie cut AFG’s 15th birthday cake at ADFA. Photo by LACW Kat Pearson

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Army April 9, 2015 LIFESTYLE PEOPLEwww.defence.gov.au/news/armynews 29

Maj Rui Freire, of HQ 1 Bde, is joined by his family after the Operation Slipper parade in Darwin. Photo by Cpl Bill Solomou

From left, LCpl Zoey Peppy, Musn Liz Cherry and Musn Nyssa Jewell perform for the crowds at the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Melbourne. Photo by AB James McDougall

Pte Peter Fois, of 5RAR, with RSPCA Darwin volunteers Casey (left) and Mia (middle), and one of many abandoned dogs, at the Welcome to the Top End event hosted by Defence Community Organisation. Photo by LS James Whittle

Soldiers from 11/28RWAR participate in a section attack scenario during the 2 Div military skills competition at Murray Bridge Training Area, South Australia. Photo by Cpl Nicci Freeman

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SOME think it’s a cult, others believe it is a lifestyle choice, but I think it is the only long-term way to

train without getting bored, with continued results.

CrossFit is made up of varied high-intensity workouts. It combines the elements of gymnastics, metabolic conditioning, and power and Olympic lifting.

The training has broadened my views on sport and fitness, as participants are encouraged to try new sports and be more active in general.

Before taking up CrossFit I dabbled in body building.

I was hungry and tired most of the time and felt restricted in a lot of things I could do, both socially and athletically.

I looked good but felt I wasn’t as fit or strong as I could have been.

As a competitive person I needed to find a sport that I could continue to improve in and compete against others – CrossFit gave me this.

Competition ensures people work harder – it’s human nature to want to succeed in a sporting environment.

In the past five years I have represented Australia twice at the World CrossFit Games as well as

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The competition has driven me to be better than I ever thought I could be.

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Leave your ego at the door. No one knows everything. There is always something that can be improved or finessed.

You don’t need to ‘get fitter’ in order to start. Loads and intensity can be scaled for every athlete.

You get out what you put in. All workouts are timed or scored in some way. Even if you are the last to finish a workout you can still beat yesterday’s result.

Find a gym, also called a ‘box’, that is friendly and welcoming. People should want to know your name and have a chat; it’s

definitely a social occasion for many.

Perseverance – the movements can be complicated and muscle memory needs to be developed. Don’t give up on your body’s ability to learn new skills at any age.

Consistency – keep turning up to class. If you don’t like the look of the workout, that’s more of a reason to show up and get the work done.

Record your scores – keep track of what you do, you will improve rapidly at the start and it’s great to see where you have come from.

Sleep – once you start training harder your body needs the time to recover properly.

Nutrition – an average CrossFitter will train once a day for an hour. That leaves 23 hours that you can destroy your hard work, or assist it.

Enjoy it – embrace the buzz you get from learning new skills and improving your fitness.

Contact your local PTI for advice.

In the first of a two-part series on CrossFit, Australian CrossFit representative Flt-Lt Melissa Hill shares tips on getting started.

Quality programming that is enjoyable Constantly varied workouts –

routine is the enemy Community spirit Increased functional fitness –

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nutrition

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NEXT EDITION: PTI Cpl Cobi Head shares his tips for

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Flt-Lt Melissa Hill performs muscle-ups in the women’s relay at the 2014 CrossFit World Games in the US. Photo by Gp-Capt Kirrily Dearing

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SPORTwww.defence.gov.au/news/armynewsArmy April 9, 2015 31

Cpl Mark Doran

ARMY played creative footy to win two trophies at the ADF Futsal Tournament at Sydney University’s Indoor Sports Centre on March 14.

The Army women thrashed Air Force in two games, in Navy’s absence, to claim the trophy, while Army also won the overall service trophy after placing runner up in the men’s tourna-ment.

The women displayed excellent individual talent and implemented fine teamwork to beat Air Force 12-4 and 13-7.

Team captain Pte Lisa Bailey, of

10FSB, scored a number of brilliant goals to earn the tournament’s most valuable player award.

The men were equally as impressive, thrashing Air Force 10-5 in the opening match, but stumbled against Navy.

Lt James Martin, of SME, said Army came up short against Navy in the last game, losing 5-1.

“The team did not show enough determination in the first half and were down 4-0 at the break,” Lt Martin said.

“We did well to launch a fight back, but could only manage one goal against Navy’s rock-solid defence.”

Despite the loss, Pte Joshua Bowman, of ALTC, was awarded the most valuable player trophy.

Creative footy claims trophies

Hard-hitting Thunder wins league title

Pte Mahn Darley converts a try scored by the Thunder. Pte Darley was one of eight Thunder players selected for the ADF team. Photo by LS Yuri Ramsey

Cpl Mark Doran

THE Army Thunder has regained its title lost to Air Force in 2014 by winning the 2015 interservice rugby league competition held in Ipswich from March 7-15.

The Thunder beat Navy 18-10 and Air Force 28-20.

Nine Thunder players were also select-ed for the 2015 Combined Australian Services Rugby League team.

The ADF team representatives are Pte Mahn Darley, Cpl Tavis Nicholson, Pte Dylan McGregor, Sgt Patrick Inskip, Cpl Dylan Buckingham, Sgt Danny Tavita, Pte Siakia King, Cpl Hayden Bell, and Cfn Jesse Jenkins.

Coach Lt Daniel Bligh, of 6RAR, said there was a lot of new talent in the Thunder team, which played strongly

against Navy and Air Force to help Army regain the title.

“Our half-backs, Cpl Hayden Bell and Pte Dylan McGregor, took the play for-ward all day with a dominant pack and our fullback, Pte Mahn Darley, also played extremely well,” Lt Bligh said.

“The team bonded well, but it was their consistency and aggression in defence that outweighed Navy and Air Force.”

The Thunder’s most valuable player was Pte Siakia King, of 6RAR, who was impressive in attack and defence.

Lt Bligh said he was pleased units could release players during the current training and operational tempo.

“It’s hard to let soldiers travel for sport because of these heavy commitments, but it’s greatly appreciated by the team,” Lt Bligh said.

Thunder roars against Navy and Air Force

Capt Dom Sander

THE Australian Services Rugby Union (ASRU) Old Boys won the ‘Battle of Bungendore’ 43-33 against the Silver Foxes compris-ing former Wallaby players.

The match at Bungendore’s Mick Sherd Oval on March 28 was a hard-fought encounter, where the ASRU Old Boys turned back the clock to their glory days to spring an upset on the team of former Wallaby greats.

The Old Boys scored seven tries and four conversions, thanks to the genius of guest player Steve Larkham, who scored two tries and was voted man of the match.

Larkham scored a spectacular solo try close to full-time.

Larkham said he was happy with the performance of the ASRU Old Boys and really enjoyed the opportu-nity to play for a good cause.

“This has been my second time playing with an ADF team. I really enjoyed it and look forward to playing with the Old Boys again,” he said.

Silver Foxes team captain Richard Harry said his team lacked fitness,

which allowed the Old Boys to run away with the game.

“We started the game reasonably well and took the lead early on, but by the end we had run out of breath,” he said.

“The good thing was that no one got injured but I was still a little disap-pointed with the result.”

The match was conducted to raise funds and awareness for the char-ity organisations Mates4Mates and the Black Dog Institute.

The Silver Foxes dominated the first half, but an inspiring speech at the break by Old Boys’ assistant coach Geoff Stokes rallied the team for the decisive second stanza.

Stokes knew what buttons to push in the team to turn the game in favour of the Old Boys.

“It’s always the little things you get your team to focus on, like shutting down the support players and passing on the ball a little bit earlier,” he said.

Stokes was particularly impressed with the team’s defence.

“They did a fantastic job and some of the players were exceptional defence players back in their day,” he said.

Old Boys impress in the Battle of Bungendore

Sgt Zane Mitchell, the brother of former Wallaby fullback and winger Drew Mitchell, makes a break

for the Old Boys against the Silver Foxes in the Battle of Bungendore charity rugby match.

Photo by Capt Dom Sander

April 9, 2015

Thunder triumphs in league PAGE 31

INSIDE

FOUR IN A ROW

Maj Felicity Hamblin

FOR the fourth year in a row the Army women’s team has won the ADF Aussie Rules (ADFAR) National Carnival.

The Kangaroos kept the Geoff Ledger Cup with a comprehensive 7. 3. (54) to 0. 2. (2) thrashing of Navy at Moorabbin Oval in Melbourne.

The Cpl Cameron Baird, VC, best player award recipient, Cpl Rhiannon Busch, of 10FSB, said the women’s team trained hard to ensure they were at their best.

“It’s great to see another win for the team,” she said. “The Navy girls are always a tough side to beat so I’m glad our training has paid off and we can bring the cup home for the fourth year in a row.”

The Army women also annihilated the Kew women’s footy team 15. 20. (110) to 0. 0. (0).

For the men, a sensational first half set Navy up for victory against the talented Army side, with the final score being 14. 6. (90) to Army’s 6. 14. (50).

Although they did not hold on to the Jim

Smail trophy this year, the men’s Army side made amends by thrashing Air Force 16. 20. (116) to 1. 6. (12).

Army’s triumph was largely engineered by Sgt Ben Langham, of 8/9RAR, who was named best Army player for the competition.

ADFAR chairman Brig Matt Hall said this year’s carnival from March 22-28 was a great success, particularly with the introduc-tion of an Indigenous round, during which Indigenous players from all three services compete against a local Victorian side.

The ADF Guyala team played the Fitzroy

All Stars on March 26, but lost 16. 12. (108) to 6. 8. (44).

With the ADFAR Nationals now over, top players from each service have been selected to represent the ADF in All Stars matches to be played in both Melbourne and Adelaide.

The women’s team will take on the tough players of the Victorian Women’s Football League and the men’s team will play at Adelaide Oval against a team of emergency services players. The men’s and women’s All Stars matches will coincide with Anzac Day commemorations.

Aussie Rules players soar to new heights as Army women win ADFAR championship

Army (in red and white) and Navy footballers battle it out during the ADF Aussie Rules National Carnival held at Moorabbin Oval in Melbourne.Inset, LCpl Iliona Mathers punches the ball clear of his opponent during the inaugural Indigenous game against the Fitzroy Stars. Photos by Sgt Christopher Dickson

PROUD HISTORY

SPECIAL LIFTOUT

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF

M113 SERVICE

An M113 APC from 1 Bde during Exercise Hamel at the Townsville Field Training Area. Photo by Cpl Mark Doran

Army April 9, 2015 M113 SERVICEwww.defence.gov.au/news/armynews2 3

HALF A CENTURY’S SERVICEThis year marks the M113’s 50 years of service in the Australian Army, Bill Houston and Paul Handel explain.

From their first service in Vietnam, through to UN deployments and local exer-cises, the m113 family has

protected and transported soldiers for 50 years.

on march 19, 1965, the first m113A1 vehicles were issued to the royal Australian Armoured Corps.

That year the Armoured School and 1 Armd regt were the only regular armoured units. Two Citizen military Forces (CmF) units had one regular squadron each – 4/19 Prince of Wales Light Horse (reconnaissance) and 2/14 Queensland mounted Infantry (Anti-Tank).

1 Tp, A Sqn, 4/19PWLH, was the first unit to receive the new vehicles.

The troop had less than two months to train on the new vehicles before five vehicles departed for Vietnam on may 27, 1965.

The m113A1 family had been ordered in 1963-64, although the vehi-cles were ordered separately from the radio and harness. This led to different delivery times, causing problems in Vietnam.

Vietnam – the M113A1’s first warThe firepower and mobility of the

armoured personnel carrier (APC) element deployed with 1rAr soon proved its worth.

By September 1965, APC num-bers had raised to 13, able to carry an infantry rifle company.

meanwhile, 1 APC Sqn had been raised in Australia and relieved the troop in Vietnam in June 1966 as part of the new 1st Australian Task Force.

1 APC Sqn arrived with only two APC troops, and took over the PWLH vehicles to form 3 Tp.

The squadron’s first major action came on August 18, 1966, when 3 Tp reacted with the task force reserve to relieve D Coy, 6rAr, at Long Tan.

3 Tp had only seven serviceable APCs – the rest of the worn-out PWLH carriers were in repair.

3 Tp was reinforced by three car-riers from 2 Tp, which had no gun shields or intercom.

3 Tp also had outdated radios, which had problems communicating with the infantry and artillery.

The radios and harness ordered with the vehicles still had not all arrived.

Long Tan accelerated a search for a protected station for APC crew com-manders.

The US “bathtub” solution was not accepted and Army sought a turret.

m74C cupolas were acquired and fitted but it was very cramped – only 20 were available and suffered from

spares problems. In 1966, Army start-ed trials with the T-50 turret, which could be fitted with two .30 machine guns or a .50/.30 combination.

This proved an adequate short-term solution, but the decision to fit all APCs with T-50 turrets caused problems for the next 30 years.

In November 1966, all ArA rAAC regiments were numbered sequentially, so 1 Armd regt was joined by 2 and 3 Cav regts.

3 Cav regt was raised in January 1967 with two squadrons – one in Vietnam and one training in Australia.

The m113A1s and their crews per-formed exceptionally well in Vietnam, but the m113A1s were light armoured vehicles.

During operation Bribie, in February 1967, one APC was destroyed by three hits from 75mm recoilless rifle and another destroyed by a mine made from a five-inch shell that blew the engine through the driver’s compartment.

mines were to remain the main threat in Vietnam, requiring a belly armour program.

3 Cav regt began to withdraw from Vietnam in late 1971, with the last APC troop leaving country in may 1972.

Back in Australia, the m113A1 became the Army’s light armoured fighting vehicle (AFV).

From 1967, a unique Australian vehicle had been developed by fitting a Saladin armoured car turret to an m113A1, adopted as the fire support vehicle (FSV).

Specialist tracked light reconnais-sance vehicles (LrV) were rejected and the m113A1 APC became the APC/LrV.

Service in AustraliaAs the ArA adapted to service in

Australia, in 1972 the decision was made to equip all CmF units with the m113A1 vehicles.

The simple and robust m113A1 proved an ideal vehicle for the CmF.

Easy to maintain and drive, it per-mitted part-time soldiers with limited training time an opportunity to focus on tactics.

In 1973, the CmF became the Army reserve.

A new FSV based on the British Scorpion turret was accepted for ser-vice in 1976.

It was the first rAAC AFV fitted with a passive (image intensifying) night sight.

It was soon redesignated the medi-um reconnaissance vehicle (mrV).

As well as ArA reconnaissance squadrons, reserve rAAC units were issued mrV or the Saladin FSV to

reintroduce full bore gunnery to the reserve force.

In 1976, 5/7rAr began trialling mechanised infantry, with such suc-cess that the role became permanent and in 1 Bde the infantry operated its own m113A1 vehicles.

The mechanised role survived the de-linking of the battalions in 2007 but under Plan Beersheba the battal-ions converted back to light infantry in 2013.

Armoured mobility will now be provided by rAAC APC units.

The focus on operations in Australia led to increasing interest in wheeled AFV.

In 1980, Project Waler examined replacing the Army’s fleet of Light AFV. Both wheeled and tracked vehi-cles were considered.

The Defence of Australia paper of 1987 focused on Northern Australia, leading to plans to relocate 2 Cav regt to Darwin and re-equip it with wheeled AFV, leaving a reduced m113 fleet of about 600, some of which would be upgraded.

It was not until 1992 that plans to purchase sufficient ASLAVs to equip 2 Cav regt were announced.

The m113 upgrade project was to see many changes before anything happened.

Exercises such as Kangaroo ’89 involved 1 Armd regt, 2 Cav regt and B Sqn 3/4 Cav regt deploying to northern Australia with m113A1 vehicles, as well as the 1 Armd regt Leopard tanks.

UN deploymentsIn 1992-93, the Australian

Government contributed to UN forces in Somalia. 1rAr Group formed the main part of operation Solace, includ-ing elements of B Sqn, 3/4 Cav regt.

The manning cap meant that only a reduced squadron with two APC troops could deploy.

The m113A1 family performed well once again, albeit the squadron had serious problems with mainte-nance, especially the supply of track link, in conditions where rAN sea transport was limited.

In 1994-95, the government accepted a further UN request for assistance in rwanda.

operation Tamar initially involved a company of 2/4rAr deployed with a section of three APCs, plus a fitters’ vehicle.

This was to be the first time rAAC AFVs were painted UN white.

The second rotation came from 5/7rAr, which took over the vehicles in location.

March 19, 1965

The first M113A1 vehicles are issued to the Royal Australian Armoured Corps. 1 Tp, A Sqn, 8/13 VMR, is the first unit to receive the new vehicles.

May 27, 1965

The first five vehicles depart for Vietnam.

September 1965

APC numbers increased to 13.

June 1966

1 APC Sqn raised in Australia and relieves the troop in Vietnam.

August 18, 1966

Squadron sees first major action at Long Tan, which accelerates the search for a protected station for APC crew commanders.

1966

Army starts trials with the T-50 turret.

November 1966ARA RAAC regiments are numbered sequentially.

January 19673 Cav Regt is raised.

1967A unique vehicle, the FSV, is developed in Australia by fitting a Saladin armoured car turret to an M113A1. The M113A1 APC becomes the APC/LRV.

May 1972The last APC troop leaves Vietnam. The M113A1 becomes Army’s light AFV in Australia.

1972All CMF units are equipped with M113A1s.

1973A new FSV is accepted into service. It is the first RAAC AFV to be fitted with a passive (image intensifying) night sight. It is redesignated the MRV.

19765/7RAR trials mechanised infantry. The role becomes permanent and 1 Bde infantry operate their own M113A1s.

1980Project Waler examines replacing the fleet of light AFV and considers wheeled and tracked versions.

1987The Defence of Australia paper leads to the planned relocation of 2 Cav Regt

to Darwin and its re-equipment with wheeled AFV. It is not until 1992 that plans to purchase sufficient ASLAVs for the regiment were announced.

1992/3M113A1 vehicles deploy with B Sqn, 3/4 Cav Regt, on Operation Solace in Somalia.

1994/5Three APCs and a fitters’ vehicle deploy with 2/4RAR to Operation Tamar in

Rwanda. This is the first time the vehicles are painted UN white. The second rotation from 5/7RAR takes over the vehicles in location.

1994Army agrees to an M113 upgrade consisting of two phases.

1996The MRV is retired, which ends the M113A1’s medium reconnaissance role as 2 Cav Regt equips with the ASLAV.

1998The first four M113A2 vehicles are delivered from the upgrade. The two phases of the upgrade are combined and the new vehicle is renamed the M113AS3.

September 19992 Cav Regt ASLAVs prove to be unsuitable on Operation Warden as part of Interfet in East Timor. They are withdrawn, leaving the M113A1 to secure Dili and its surrounds.

2000Interfet withdraws and 5/7RAR becomes the first Australian battalion on Operation Tanager. Subsequent battalion deployments are supported by RAAC APC elements until 2002.

CurrentThe M113AS3 concept continues to be modified towards M113AS4. The M113AS3/4 is planned to serve until at least 2025.

M113 service timeline

A 5/7RAR M113A1 landing in East Timor shows the Vietnam-era T-50 turret, fitted with .50 and .30 machine guns. The M113A1s in both armoured and infantry units continued to provide sterling service in their last overseas deployment before significant upgrades were undertaken. Photo courtesy Australian War Memorial

M113A1 fitted with the gun shield used by Australian APCs in Vietnam. It offered protection only over the frontal arc, and the gun could not be fired when the crew was closed down. The requirement to fire closed down, reinforced by the experience of enemy mortar fire in support of their attack on Fire Support Base Coral, led to the search for a turret.

Mine damage caused by a 14kg mine that blew the APC onto the engine deck of a Centurion tank. The explosion killed one and wounded 14 soldiers, but the casualties may have been worse without the belly armour.

An M113A1 in Vietnam, showing the front lip of the belly armour plate bolted to the bottom of the vehicle. The thinner plate welded to the bottom of the sponson can just be seen above the first three road wheels. Photos courtesy Australian War Memorial

M113 FleetsM113A1 Family M113AS4 Family

M113A1 APC 476 M113AS4 APC 252

M113A1 APC(A) 46 M113AS3 APC(A) 15

M125A1 APC(M) 22 M113AS3 APC(M) 21

M577A1 ACV 70 M113AS3 ACV 43

APC(F) 41 M113AS4 APC(F) 38

ARVL 19 M113AS3 ARVL 12

M548 TLC 103 M113AS4 ALV 50

FSV (Sal) 15

MRV (Scorp) 48

Soldiers from 7RAR disembark an M113AS4 APC from D Sqn, 1 Armd Regt, during a training exercise. Photo by Cpl David Gibbs

Continued page 4

“There are many things to love and hate about the M113A1. It was an extremely simple and uncomplicated vehicle that

was asked to undertake tasks way beyond what it was originally designed for ... Its gun was described as ‘steam

age’, but good crews could out-shoot the computer-assisted Leopard AS1. It was a slow vehicle, but a good crew could just about drive it anywhere. It was unforgiving and very hard on the body, but if you needed to do some serious cross-country

driving, you knew the wagon would get you there. – Maj Stephen Cassidy,

2IC 2 Cav Regt and former crew commander

“Communication in outposts [in Somalia during Operation Solace] were for the most part non-existent, relying on the corporal’s ability to take independent action ... This ability to operate almost seamlessly ... was highly regarded and led to the successes achieved by the

battalion group. – Sgt Clive Clarkson,

Training Sgt 2 Cav Regt and former B Sqn, 3/4 Cav Regt

APC section commander

Army April 9, 2015 M113 SERVICEwww.defence.gov.au/news/armynews 4

Upgrades to the fleetFrom page 3

More planningIn 1994, Army agreed on a M113

upgrade to consist of:

• Phase 1 – suspension and engine cooling modifications to M113A2 standard. New turret with power traverse and elevation with single. M2HB QCB .50 machine gun. Spall liners and a cooled drinking water system were to be fitted, and the crew commander and driver provided with night-vision goggles.

• Phase 2 – to move to M113A3 standard. This included a new engine and transmission, external fuel cells, appliqué armour and climate control system for crew compartment.

In 1996, the MRV was retired. 2 Cav Regt was already equipping with the ASLAV, signalling the end of the M113A1 in the medium reconnaissance role.

In 1998, the first four M113A2 vehicles were delivered from upgrade.

At this point, the Phase 1 upgrade was halted and combined with Phase 2, the new vehicle to be known as the M113AS3.

One more operation for M113A1In September 1999, the Australian

Government sent a force to East Timor to secure the country while the UN

prepared a peacekeeping force to take over. The Australian component of Interfet on Operation Warden included 2RAR and 3RAR, supported by B Sqn, 3/4 Cav Regt.

After securing Dili, Australian forces moved to the area of the border.

2 Cav Regt ASLAVs were deployed but had problems with the narrow streets, tending to damage buildings when going around corners.

The M113A1, being shorter and, when necessary, able to skid-turn, had no such problems.

The ASLAVs were withdrawn – they were to have their turn in Iraq and Afghanistan – and the M113A1 soldiered on.

With the two Australian battalions on the border, a third battalion was required to secure Dili and its surrounds.

5/7RAR (Mech) deployed with its M113A1s and proved the advantages of armoured mobility in the security role.

When Interfet withdrew, 5/7RAR became the first Australian battalion on Operation Tanager.

Subsequent Australian battalion deployments were supported by RAAC APC elements until 2002.

Towards M113AS4The M113AS3 concept was further

modified, with a lengthened version to be called the M113AS4, while the short version remained the AS3.

CO 2 Cav Regt Lt-Col James Davis said 259 M113AS4 variants were procured as APCs, fitters vehicles and Armoured Logistics Vehicles.

“The unstretched A3 versions

are used as ambulance, command, recovery and mortar vehicles,” he said.

“The upgraded M113 family have a new engine, drive train, electrical and fuel systems, as well as a redesigned internal layout to accommodate safe stowage in a variety of situations.

“The APC version has a new

electrically operated turret with day/night weapon sights. The AS4 vehicle is lengthened, with the six, rather than five, pairs of road wheels each side providing an instant identification feature.”

The M113AS3/4 is planned to serve until at least 2025.

An M113AS4 APC. The new power-operated turret and the sixth pair of road wheels, indicating its extra length, are clearly visible. Photo by Nick Dowling

Celebrating 50 years of M113 service

SinCe the Bushmaster PMV fleet transitioned to B Sqn, 2 Cav Regt, at the end of last year, the squadron has grown and developed into a formida-ble organisation with a total of 60 M113AS4s.

This year, the squadron will qualify and train 40 crews while continuing to build on its relationship with 3 Bde.

OC B Sqn, 2 Cav Regt, Maj Chris iodice is leading the charge to provide 3 Bde with a robust and adaptable combat mobility capability prepared for the full suite of combined arms operations.

in February, the squadron dedicated a significant amount of training and time to simula-tion using Virtual Battlespace 3 software and computer systems available at the Ralph Honner Battlefield Simulation Centre at Lavarack Barracks.

The virtual battlespace allows section commanders to test their soldiers in scenarios that would be near impossible to replicate in a live training environment.

The simulation prepared crew commanders and section commanders for dry and live-fire training in the Townsville Field Training Area.

This included individual crew drills, vehicle craft, sec-tion manoeuvre against static enemy and troop manoeuvre against a human-controlled doctrinal enemy force struc-ture.

“Simulation has allowed the squadron to hit the ground running, shake out and set a solid foundation of tactical training with minimal risk to personnel or equipment at a stage of the year normally associated with barracks rou-tine,” Maj iodice said.

The simulation scenarios were designed to tie directly into the tasks and training outcomes the squadron was assessed on during the first field exercise in March.

“Advantages of simulation include the rapid rate that scenarios can be designed, briefed and fought with the ability to conduct detailed

after action reviews using the recorded simulated scenario,” Maj iodice said. “This is excel-lent for highlighting areas that can be improved and reinforc-ing good performances.

“As we all know, resources and time are finite, and while there is no real replacement to conducting the actual job on the ground, simulation allows sections and troops to enter into confirmatory training immediately when deployed to the field with a reduced shake-out period, which usually would take weeks.

“This provides the squad-ron more time to focus on advanced tactics and com-bined arms training outcomes and opportunities.”

A full troop’s complement of drivers and crew commanders were qualified in March, while the rest of the squadron, a full troop and squadron HQ, con-ducted section and troop-level live-fire manoeuvres.

The squadron will also sup-port demolition and floating support bridging serials with

3CeR, “all arms call for fire” with 4 Regt RAA and integral combat mobility operations during 3RAR’s Combat Team Warfighter.

By the end of March, B Sqn integrated a troop with 3RAR conducting a range of combined arms tasks, forging the nucleus of the “opposing force” for exercises Hamel and Talisman Sabre.

in April and May, B Sqn, 2 Cav Regt, will continue to develop its relationship with units in 3 Bde.

exercises Kapyong Warrior (3RAR) and eagle Walk (2 Cav Regt) will strengthen Armoured Cavalry Regiment fundamentals and foundations by maintaining a close train-ing relationship with 3RAR and pursuing other training opportunities with 4 Regt RAA, 3CeR and 3CSSB.

This will result in a sub-unit that is practiced in armoured combat mobility and manoeu-vre, with a full breadth of expe-rience as part of a combined arms organisation.

Squadron goes from strength to strength

B Sqn, 2 Cav Regt.