CONTENTS
(Numbers are linked to chapters as listed.
1: The Great Adventure - Joe Vezgoff
This experienced Infantryman’s contribution to the Book, rightly deserves to be its pipe opener, thanks to his rather delightfully philosophical treatment of his vast experiences both in war and peace.
2: Battle of the Apple Orchard - David Butler
The distinguished General has honoured this Book by giving us a most professionally portrayed picture of the initial operation conducted by Australian troops in Korea under extremely complex and dangerous condition. He participated in the action as a junior officer and has not only given us ‘ the big picture’ but also effectively shared his personal observations from the perspective he experienced at the time
3: Trials and Tribulation - Pat Knowles
Pat invites the reader to participate in his experiences as a young Digger posted from his unit in the Occupation of Japan to 3RAR where he took part in a number of operations including the battle of Kapyong and Hill 317 (Maryang San) His descriptions of the most intimate aspects concerning individual Officers NCOs and various Diggers, most certainly deserve our attention.
4: Patrol to lchon and Kapyong Revisited - Ben O'Dowd
Ben was an outstanding officer, who greatly contributed to the success of 3 RAR’s operation at Kapyong. His reminiscences make excellent reading
5: Bulldust Baffles Brains - Algy Clark
Algy displays a delightful sense of humour and gives us a brief report how he was able to bring down the vast firepower from all supporting arms in order to thwart a Chinese offensive during the latter part of 1951.
6: The Military Team - Frank Hassett
The General commanded 3RAR during a most busy time in Korea which, among other actions saw our troops in fighting the battles for Hills 355 and 317.
General Hassett gives us a most important insight into his evaluation of the Australian Infantryman, his officers, Warrant Officers and NCOs In a brief, but succinctly structured Chapter, we can easily visualise how he appreciates the soul and spirit which prevails throughout the ranks of our battalions.
7: Operation Commando - Bill Keyes
Bill Keyes , an experienced WWII officer, has illustrated the events of the major operations of 3 RAR as part of ‘Operation Commando’ during his service in Korea. He does so with only a few words, but with excellent effect.
8: Maryang San - Charlie Company - Jack Gerke
An experienced Company Commander gives his report on one of the most significant operations conducted by 3RAR in Korea He gives well-earned praise to every one of his officers and men, who impressed him with their professionalism and courage. Jack Gerke’s contribution deserves careful study by all those interested in how Infantry Operations ought to be conducted and what is entailed in the concept of ‘man management’. It is also recommended to read General Hassett’s Review of Jack Gerke’s submission, in which the General took it upon himself to give Jack Gerke the accolades he so rightfully deserved!
9: Quick Thinking - Dennis Robinson
Dennis, a former British Army soldier, took part in the Battle of Maryang San (Hill 317). He briefly, but most graphically gives us an insight into the frantic actions a soldier must experience when face to face with a determined enemy. Should such phenomena not be understood, we most certainly cannot comprehend what can occur in the ‘fog of war.’
10: Recollections of War - Maurie Pears
The co-author of this Book gives us a most interesting and detailed insight into almost every aspect concerning the Australian involvement in the Korean War. His reflections on his personal experiences and observations deserve to be studied in some detail.
10A: Front-line Korea - Mark Young
As a WWII veteran, Mark took part in ‘Operation Commando’ as a Platoon Sergeant. He has given us a brief, but effective narration of his various experiences. He particularly highlights his impression concerning the high standard of team work permeating the Australian battalions as seen in contrast to his experiences during WWII.
10B: Frozen Chosen - Slim Cotton
Slim was a Platoon Sergeant in C Company of 3RAR. He was known for his keen sense of humour and recalls his service under Major Jack Gerke during the height of the battalion’s military operations. His brief contribution deserves to be viewed with interest.
10C: Casualty Evacuation - Looking Back - Digger James
James was himself a serious casualty as a platoon commander in Korea and later graduated as a medical practitioner serving as a commander of a Field Hospital in Vietnam and later rising to the Rank of General
10D: Duty First - Arthur Stanley
This seasoned Infantryman of WWII and Company Sergeant Major in 3RAR during the battles for Hill 355 and 317 the introduces the reader into what actually happens during a well-planned and executed military operation . He displays the art of capturing the human side of an infantry operation as it manifests itself under the most dire situations.
10E: Wilco Out - Jim McFadzean
As a signalman for his Company Commander during 3RAR’s operations against Hill 355 and Hill 317, Jim has successfully allowed us to be able to appreciate the importance of his tasks under fire particularly when involved in attacks of that demanding nature He was Mentioned –in- Dispatches for his sterling efforts
10F: Niner Niner - Bushy Pembroke
Pembroke, as a young platoon commander, earned his Military Cross with great distinction during the attack against Hill 317 also named Pyramid and Maryang San. He has given us a most worthwhile narration of those important events in the history of the Australian campaign in Korea.
10G: 'The Hinge'- Ted Bosworth, Jack Park, Curly Lamb.
The ‘triumvirate’ of Diggers treats us to a detailed and lively insight into their experiences during a most volatile period of operations in Korea. They have, individually, told us of their various experiences under fire and in close combat. A most valuable contribution to this Book!
11: Off to War - Jim Pashen
The outstanding features of Jim’s contribution are to be found in his reporting of the many and various characteristics and behaviour of his fellow diggers under arduous and risky combat conditions.
12: Operation Fauna - December 1952 - Gus Breen
Gus Breen treats us to a graphically presented insight into one of the most significant operations conducted by Australian troops in the Korean War.
13: The FOO Recalls Operation Fauna - John Salmon
As young Artillery Officer, Salmon saw his baptism of fire as a Forward Observation Officer in close combat during this operation. He rose to the rank of Brigadier after a long and illustrious career.
14: Life in the Trenches, Korea 1952 and 1953 - Alan Limburg
The text of Alan's story says it all!
15: Minefields and Other Escapades - John Hutcheson
An Engineer Officer seconded to 3RAR tells of his experiences as a Pioneer Platoon Commander on operational service in Korea where his battalion relied heavily on the protection of an effective mine field
16: My Korean Adventure Snow Dicker
'Snow' was already a battle hardened soldier of WWII when he arrived in Korea , where he was involved in the initial operations against the Korean Army well North of the 38th Parallel. He vividly describes his experiences as a Vickers Machine Gunner which sadly ended in his becoming a rather serious casualty when his gun crew had been put out of action from enemy mortar bombs.
16a: Man on the Skyline - Peter 'Doc, Wesley
'Doc' has given us a most amusing anecdote stemming from his life in the front line in Korea However his rather light hearted approach to his subject, cleverly conceals the reality of the life with which soldiers are faced in the trenches and on patrols into no-man's land. He is true to the Australian soldiers' reputation of maintaining a rare sense of humour in adversity.
17: A Lust for Travel - Keith Mildner Keith
describes his service with the Australian Army in a most delightful way and takes us into his life with 3 RAR in the front line sharing his experiences as one under heavy artillery and mortar fire in the line where he also came into contact with some of the better-known identities of the battalion
18: Last Days on'The Hook'- 1953 - Ron Walker
Walker describes the final battle and desperate efforts by the Chinese to gain ground before the Armistice came into effect
19: Recollections of Korea, July 1953 - Brian Cooper
Brian’s contribution to this book is one not to be overlooked. The Military Medal winner allows us to share his various ‘adventures’ of an Infantry NCO in Korea and later as a Warrant Officer Class I.
20: To be a Soldier - Snowy
‘Snowy’ has insisted to be able to maintain his anonymity for reasons of his own. He treats the reader to a most lively and interesting segment abundant in rather a lighthearted portrayal of his multitude of impressions gained on active service as an infantryman. He was seriously wounded in action and hospitalised for a lengthy period. His somewhat philosophical remarks will doubtless delight the reader.
21: The Mosquitoes of Korea - Gus Breen
Gus Breen (see also Chapter 12 ) was seconded to the US Air Force after , (among other achievements )such as commanding an infantry platoon during a major operation. Gus was involved in rather hazardous operations over enemy lines whilst pin-pointing sites of tactical significance His exploits as an observer make most interesting reading.
For his courage and skills he was decorated with the Distinguished Flying Cross (USA) and the Air Medal(USA)
22: The Static War - Ron Hughes
General Hughes commanded 3RAR when the battalion was tasked with the defence of a vitally important sector as part of the 150-mile line held by the Allied forces in Korea.
He gives the reader an accurately described insight into the manifold duties of patrolling in order to dominate no-man’s-land as well as the need to cope with the constant maintenance of an effective and secure defensive system all of which required an enormous strain on manpower resources….not to speak of the bitterly cold winters. !
23: I was a Prisoner in North Korea - Eric Donnelly
Eric was taken POW by the Chinese whilst his patrol was engaged in an intensely fought close-quarter contact during which he was seriously wounded in his leg. His vivid description of his fate from the moment of his being taken prisoner and throughout his horrendous ordeal until his release, is most captivating and readable.
24: Australian Prisoners of War in Korea - Phil Greville
Like John Hutcheson( Chapter 15) Phil Greville , a Royal Australian Engineer officer, was seconded to 1RAR for the Korean campaign. His narrative concerning his experiences as a POW of the Chinese serves as an important insight into an aspect of war seldom discussed. He has illustrated in a succinct manner, how the Chinese resorted to psychological and physical torture in order to dominate the mind of non-cooperative and recalcitrant prisoners.
His article is also worthwhile accessing, as it contains reference to another Australian 3RAR Army officer as well as to an RAAF. officer both having been captured as POWs.
25: Chongin ... North Korea - Tom Hamilton
Tom has submitted a short , but most interesting account of his experiences as a sailor with the RAN on active service off the Korean coast in support of minesweeping duties and other related operations.
26: The ANZAC Tradition and Korea - A Sailor, ex-HMAS ANZAC
This anonymous sailor has given us a vivid picture of operations off the Korean West Coast. He successfully reminds the reader of the vulnerability of ships in hostile waters. He effectively impresses us with his personal pride in having been a part of perpetuating the Anzac tradition.
27: HMAS CONDAMINE - Vince Fazio
Vince Fazio was a ships carpenter (Chippy) whist serving on the Condamine during operations in Korean Waters. His narrative of the various operations involving his ship, is a stark reminder to the readers of this fine Book, that much, much more occurred off shore during the conflict than ever imagined by those involved in operations on land.
"The Silent Service" May the Lord bless them!
28: HMAS SYDNEY Alan Zammit
Alan Zammit portrays the many operational involvements of his ship on patrol duty in Korean waters in a most refreshing style. He leaves the reader in no doubt as to the many hazards experienced by those at sea during a war…not to speak of the unforgiving moods of Mother Nature.
29: Mustangs and Meteors - Ray Trebilco
Air Vice-Marshal Ray Trebilco came through the ranks and distinguished himself as a young officer in aerial combat during the Korean conflict. He presents a most vivid account of action as a fighter pilot in close contact with a determined enemy.His contribution to this Book is a ‘gem’ deserving particular attention Unfortunately Ray passed away last year, after the publication of this Book ,at a relatively young age.
30: RAAF Transport - Leon Murtagh
Leon has aptly succeeded in describing the various problems and achievements of those entrusted with giving support to those engaged in the actual combat. He has done this by giving us a rare insight into the vital role that is being played behind the scenes of actual combat operations. not that he himself was always far from the 'sho'!
31: In the Air - Dinny O'Brien
As a fitter, Dinny was entrusted with the refueling, rearming and repair of aircraft. He gives the reader a most worthwhile explanation of what actually occurs in the area of support under difficult conditions.
32: Memories of Korea - Kenneth'Black'Murray
Kenneth ‘Black’ Murray, was already an experienced fighter pilot of WWII, when introduced to the Korean War where he distinguished himself by having flown a record number of missions against Russian as well as Chinese pilots, He has given us most worthwhile statistical and personally experienced information relating the Australian Air War in Korea.
32a: Wings 77 - Pat Melican
Pat was yet another most dedicated young ground staff Airman in support of the Australian Fighter Squadron. His contribution to this Book is most welcome as it covers s aspects not generally focused upon in publications covering a war.
32b: Korea Recalled - Ted Moore
Ted Moore tells us, that as a projectionist and organiser of concert parties, he never saw an angry enemy face. Nevertheless his story is most certainly worthwhile for inclusion in this Book, as we are tacitly reminded of the importance of morale in war.
33: Lamp Ladies - Dita McCarthy
Brigadier Dita McCarthy was and continues to be a well-known and popular member of the Army Nursing Service having brought to the Korean theatre her extensive experiences ranging from WWII in Papua New Guinea to Japan, and Malaya. (After her Korean tour she also served in the Vietnam conflict) Her contribution to this Book is a most valuable one when seen in the light of her compassion toward the wounded and deep understanding and appreciation of what is required of her under all circumstances, ranging from succoring the wounded to counseling returned POW. Her brief but action-packed narrative deserves the readers close attention.
34: MEDAIR - Gay Halstead
Gay Halstead was a well known and admired officer of the Australian Airforce who dedicated her life in the service to the wounded and maimed ,often under extremely uncomfortable and dangerous situations. She always put the safety and well-being of those under her care before those of her own needs An experienced professional lady, she has painted a most gripping picture portraying her many experiences and observations in the Korean War. She brings her contribution to this Book to life, by mentioning a large number of those who were fortunate to have been associated with her directly or indirectly and by her generous remarks concerning her peers as well as those under her control. There is an enormous lot in Gay’s account which should be studied in some detail lest we tend to lose important themes which can only be found in war.
35: Blue Capes - Patricia Oliver
A most dedicated Airforce Nursing Sister, Patricia Oliver, spent two years and 684 flying hours during the Korean War involving her in tending the wounded under trying conditions. which she describes in a most professional manner with vivid explanations of the various types of casualties she had to tend
36: What’s Up,Doc? – Nathalie Wittman
Nathalie Wittman (nee Sister Oldham) gave valuable service in tending the wounded being conveyed by air from the battle area to hospitals in Japan during the Korean War. Her high qualifications in a number of specialties proved to be of great value, standing her in good stead for the demanding duties. Her anecdotes make most interesting reading and give a lively picture of what occurred in those hectic days.
37: Korea Remembered – compiled by Maurie Pears
Maurie Pears, the co-author of Korea Remembered , has compiled a most important and interesting collection for this fine Book. His pages abound in most relevant details explaining the various stages of the conflict as it affected the Australian involvement in the Korean War. He lists and explains the various battles and operations fought by the Australian troops and makes excellent use of information given by a number of officers and other ranks who supplied brief, but most meaningful articles relevant to the various aspects of the campaign. His contribution calls for serious attention by all those wanting to enrich their knowledge of the war or, where applicable, for those wanting to reminisce.