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3rd Battalion |
The Royal Australian Regiment |
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A brief history of
the
3rd Battalion Royal Australian Regiment |
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FORMATION |
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In 1945, with the unconditional surrender of Japan, the necessity arose for the occupation of the country to enforce the terms of surrender. When it became known that Australian forces were to assist, preparations commenced to raise a volunteer force. Known as the ‘Interim Army’, the force was built around the newly created and designated 34th Australian Infantry Brigade, itself comprising the 65th, 66th, and 67th Battalion.
These new battalions inherited the traditions and manpower from the entirety of the existing Australian wartime Army. The 65th Battalion was formed from volunteers from 7th Australian Division and the 2/40th Australian Infantry Battalion; the 66th drew its men from 9th Division and 1st Australian Corps troops whilst the 67th comprised volunteers from the 3rd, 6th and 11th Divisions. Thus the predecessor battalion to 3 RAR, the 67th Battalion, consisted of men who had the wide, collective experience of service in the Middle East, Greece, New Guinea and the Pacific Islands. The 34th Infantry Brigade was assembled at the island of Morotai in the North Moluccas making itself ready for service with the British Commonwealth Occupation Force (BCOF) in Japan.
The importance of this new force can not be underestimated. For the first time in Australia’s history, the Army had raised a full-time, professional infantry force in peacetime. Previously, the Defence Act had not allowed regular troops in peacetime with the exception of some garrison artillery units and cadre staff to train the part-time militia. This full-time infantry force would play crucial roles in the coming Cold War conflicts and form the nucleus of the Australian Regular Army.
Japan 1946 - 1950
The main body of 67th Australian Infantry Battalion arrived at Kure, Japan on 21 February 1946 and throughout its time in Japan, the Battalion served at Kahachi, Okayama, Haramuri, Kure, Hiro and Tokyo.
The Battalion's tasks during this period included the screening of returning Japanese soldiers, the destruction of arms caches, the supervision of general elections, guard duties on various important buildings and installations, internal security, as well as normal military operations. It should be noted that the situation in Japan was far from guaranteed and the Brigade Training Instruction emphasized the need “to maintain the high standard of the discipline and fighting efficiency of the last years of the war.” Thus one can see that the new force inherited the ethics and proficiency of the wartime soldiers.
In September 1947, the post-war defence planners determined that the erstwhile Permanent Military Forces would be known as the Australian Regular Army. Recruiting began for this new force began and those members of the Interim Army that wished to transfer across to the new force did so. After much debate, it was decided that the infantry battalions would adopt the British regimental system and thus the 67th Battalion was re designated the 3rd Battalion, The Australian Regiment. On 10 March 1949, HM King George VI approved the title ‘Royal’. |
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Korean War
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Korea up to Kapyong.
On 25 June 1950, the Communist North Korean Army invaded South Korea to unify it under communist rule. On the outbreak of war, 3 RAR was still serving in Japan and preparing to return home to Australia. Due to the rapidly deteriorating situation, 3 RAR, due to its proximity to the theatre, was chosen for the task of assisting in the United Nations effort in Korea. After a short period of intensive training and reorganization, the battalion sailed in the USNS 'Aiken Victory', landing at Pusan, Korea on 28 September 1950 and then moving to join the 27th British Commonwealth Brigade at Taegu.
On 5 October 1950, the battalion deployed to take part in the 8th Army offensive to break out of the Pusan pocket. During the ensuing advance to the Yalu River, 3 RAR performed with great credit, covering some 400 miles and accounting for approximately 450 enemy killed, 1900 prisoners taken and 15 armoured vehicles destroyed. The battalion's casualties were 13 killed and 34 wounded.
By late October, the Battalion had reached the Pakchon-Chongju area, which also represented the northernmost extent of 3 RAR’s advance in the war. However it was here on 30 October 1950, that the CO, LTCOL Charlie Green was killed by a shell fragment exploding near his tent. Green was a highly competent and well-regarded CO and he remains the only CO of the RAR killed in action.
In November 1950, the Chinese Communist Forces (CCF) entered the war. This resulted in the a reversal of the successes enjoyed over the last months; during the harsh winter of November and December 1950 the Allies were forced to withdraw across the 38th Parallel. On 4 January 1951, Seoul fell once again to the Communists. During the withdrawal, 3 RAR was employed in tasks ranging from rear guard actions to the defence of Corps HQ. |
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Kapyong
Visit Korea Video for documentry of The Battle of Kapyong here.........
The Chinese winter offensive was eventually halted and in February/March 1951, UN forces began to push the CCF slowly back. Seoul was recaptured by US troops on 14 March 1951.By 22 April 1951, 3 RAR and advanced as far as Kapyong where it was held in reserve while 50 km to the front, 6th Republic of Korea (ROK) Division held the frontline.
On the night of 22 April 1951, the Chinese launched their Spring offensive and the 6th ROK Division withdrew in disorder through the battalion's position.
On the evening of 23 April 1951, the main Chinese force reached the battalion's perimeter. During the 23 and 24 Apr 51, in the face of continuing attacks, the battalion held its position, exhausting and demoralising the Chinese and gradually blunting the offensive. The battalion's cost was heavy: 31 killed, 58 wounded and three PWs. For its fine display of courage and steadfastness, the battalion was awarded the United States Presidential Citation. Today, the Battle of Kapyong is the cornerstone of the Battalion’s commemorative calendar; the Kapyong Citation Streamer is attached ceremonially to the Regimental Colour during the Kapyong Parade and the US Unit Presidential Citation is on display in Battalion Headquarters. |
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Kapyong to the Cease Fire
After the collapse of the Chinese offensive, 3RAR joined 28th British Commonwealth Infantry Brigade. During the following six months, by a series of deep patrols and probes, the battalion captured all its objectives in a UN drive to a position overlooking the strategically important Imjin River.
During 2-8 October 1951,as part of ‘Operation Commando’, the battalion assisted in the capture of Point 355 and played a leading part in the capture of Maryang San (Point 317). In five days of heavy fighting, 3 RAR dislodged a numerically superior enemy from a position of great strength. This classic offensive action is acknowledged as an RAR battle honour and is studied by staff cadets at RMC as the acme of offensive operations and a textbook example of battlefield command at all levels.
During this phase of operations, 3 RAR killed at least 280 Chinese soldiers and took 50 prisoners at the cost of 20 killed and 104 wounded.
In the period from November 1951 to the Armistice, 3RAR occupied various positions in ‘Jamestown Line’ between 'The Hook' and Point 355 with brief periods in brigade and corps reserve. The role of the unit, like that of all UN forces, became one of defence; the holding of a strong defensive line extending across Korea just north of the 38th Parallel. During this period, 3RAR became known for the aggressive spirit displayed by its patrols and the procedures evolved by it were accepted as the basis of the Division's policy for the organisation and control of patrols.
At the cessation of hostilities on 27 July 1953, the battalion was occupying Point 146. On 3 August 1953, it moved from there to its post-hostilities location at Area 6, on the ‘Jamestown Line’
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Return to Australia
Despite the cease fire, 3 RAR remained in Korea for another 14 months improving its defensive position on the Kansas Line and conducting unit and sub-unit training.
Eventually, however, on 12 October 1954, after serving continuously overseas since its formation in 1945, 3 RAR embarked in MV 'New Australia' for its return home. During the Korean War, 3 RAR casualties were 198 killed, 892 wounded and 38 missing in action. Perhaps because the Battalion was the first Australian Army unit in action in Korea and was still in the frontline when the fighting stopped, it became as 'Old Faithful' among other units serving there and is still referred to affectionately as such today.
The Korean War blooded the newly created ARA and the battalions of the Regiment. It tested Australian infantry in both mobile operations and in defence; in both maintained the standards inherited from the Second World War veterans and provided experience to a new group of officers and men for future operations. |
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Australia 1954 - 1957
The Battalion arrived in Brisbane on 20 October 1954 and paraded through the city. This was followed by similar parades through Sydney and Melbourne. Finally, the unit concentrated at Ingleburn on 1 February 1955.
On Kapyong Day 1956, 3 RAR received the Queen's and Regimental Colours from the Governor General, Field Marshall Sir William Slim, GCB, GCMG, GCVO, GBE, DSO, MC, KStJ.
From Ingleburn the Battalion moved to Holsworthy to undergo three months of intensive training in preparation for its deployment to Malaya and with this training completed embarked on the 'New Australia' in Sydney on 24 September 1957. |
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Malaya 1957 - 1959
The next major conflict that the RAR was involved in was the Malayan Emergency. The Australian Government first committed a battalion in 1955 to assist Malayan Government counter incursion of ‘Communist Terrorists’ (CTs). However, it was not until October 1957 that 3 RAR arrived in theatre; it then commenced a period of acclimatisation at the FARELF Training Centre Kota Tingi (later to become the Jungle Warfare School). 3 RAR then moved to company base camps at Kuala Kangsar (BHQ), Lasah, Sungei, Siput, Penang and Lintang.
The unit was engaged on anti-communist terrorist operations in northern Malaya. Operations began in November 1957 and as a result many terrorist camps and food dumps were located and destroyed. 3 RAR was accredited with killing 14 terrorists and was responsible for the capture of 32 others. Battalion casualties over the two years were two WIA and four who died of non-battle casualties.
The Emergency was a section-level war that was different to the set piece battles of the Korean War. It gave the infantry soldiers a taste of low-level, jungle operations that would develop procedures and techniques later used in Vietnam. |
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Australia 1959 - 63
On its return to Australia in October 1959, 3 RAR established itself at Enoggera. It remained there for four years during which time it carried out routine training and barracks duties.
In July 1960, the battalion was organised on the ‘Pentropic’ establishment, with five rifle companies and an enlarged headquarters. Based on the US ‘Pentomic’ model that was designed to counter the effects of tactical nuclear weapons on unit cohesion, the new organisation was probably the first real attempt to realise a combined arms battle group. Training as a battalion and a battle group was carried out culminating in divisional exercises in 1961 and 1962. The Pentropic model, which was fraught with problems pertaining to command and control, amongst others, since its inception, was discarded in 1964..
In this interregnum, the Battalion adjusted to peacetime soldiering at a time when the Army was adjusting to the new realities of possible ‘Cold War’ scenarios and slowly modernising itself. In early 1961, company groups conducted recruiting drives throughout Queensland. Later in 1961 companies conducted armoured/ infantry training at Puckapunyal, Victoria. In 1962, the Aslt Pnr Pl cleared an old wartime minefield in Darwin. During 1961 and 1962 the battalion participated in the Northern Command Army Week celebrations with mechanised parades, assault river crossings and with helicopters demonstrating the mobility of the infantryman. In 1963, E Company moved to Cape York Peninsula to take part in Exercise BLOWDOWN, an exercise simulating the effects of an atomic blast and the subsequent fall-out under tropical conditions.
July and August saw the battalion being air-lifted to Malaya for its second tour of duty there. Boeing 707 jets were used - a far cry from the troopship days of Korea. |
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Malaya and Borneo 1963-1965
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Malaya and Borneo 1963 - 1965
Australian troops were again deployed to Malaya after deterioration in the regional situation. At this time, there was growing concern about the spread of Communism in South-East Asia but Australia’s immediate worry was Indonesia. It opposed the creation of the Federation of Malaysia and soon Indonesian backed rebels began infiltrating across the border into Sarawak and Sabah. Thus began the Indonesian Confrontation or Konfrontasi.
Therefore the second tour of Malaya began on July 1963 and 3 RAR again joined 28th Commonwealth Infantry Brigade, this time at Terendak near Malacca. Training for anti-terrorist operations began immediately and the Battalion was honoured to serve for the first time with the Scots Guards, its affiliated British Regiment.
Acclimatisation and training were begun immediately and the first unit exercise was held in October 1963. Brigade exercises were held on the east coast of Malaya near Kuantan. The battalion moved to the Thailand-Malaya border on 20 February 1964 and was again involved in counter-insurgency operations against the communist terrorists. There it was under the command of a Malaysian, BRIG Syed Mohamed Bin Syed Ahmed Alsagolf Amn Pjk. Many old and new terrorist camps were discovered together with communist propaganda and stores. Illegal immigrants and smugglers were also apprehended.
In late October 1964, an aggressive force of Indonesian troops landed at Kesang slightly south of Camp Terendak. The unit was alerted and a force went into action capturing more than 50 enemy without loss to the Battalion.
The next major and distinct phase of the conflict, was the decision to conduct Operation ‘CLARET’, aimed at ambushing Indonesian troops and supply parties close to the border as they infiltrated. Thus during March 1965, a serious threat developed in the Borneo states and the unit was once again alerted and on this occasion deployed in the state of Sarawak relatively close to the capital Kuching. This operation lasted some five months with the unit returning to Terendak at the end of July. The unit acquitted itself very well on this tour killing approximately 30 enemy troops for the loss of three of our own troops and an Iban tracker.
The operations on the Indonesian border tested and honed the Battalion’s small level jungle skills and the ability to plan sustained complex operations in the jungle. The operations served as an excellent training ground for junior officers and NCOs for the forthcoming Vietnam conflict. |
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Australia 1965 - 1967
During this time, the situation in South East Asia had worsened and realising that the small Australian Army could not meet a number of commitments, the Australian Government introduced Selective National Service Scheme in October. This would eventually allow the RAR to expand to nine battalions- a far cry from the original three. The newly raised 7 RAR was built around a cadre of 3 RAR veterans.
In September 1965, the Battalion returned to Woodside, South Australia. The official date of 3RAR's occupation of Kapyong Lines, Woodside, was 14 October 1965 .The Battalion was reformed after leave in 1966 and began training for operational service in South Vietnam.
3 RAR's advance party arrived in Saigon on 12 December 1967.The main body followed on HMAS Sydney departing from Outer Harbour, Adelaide on 16 December 1967. The main body of the Battalion arrived at Nui Dat, Phuoc Tuy Province on 27 December 1967. |
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Vietnam 1st Tour 1967 / 68
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Vietnam 1967 - 1968
Australia’s entry into the Vietnam War had been gradual and grew from the initial commitment of the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV) in 1962 to the deployment of an initial infantry battalion, 1 RAR in April 1965. This grew again in May 1966 when the two battalion-strong 1st Australian Task Force (1 ATF) was committed; when 3 RAR arrived in December 1967, 1 ATF consisted of three battalions.
3 RAR’s entry coincided with a new phase of the war. When 1 RAR first deployed it worked with the US forces in Bien Hoa. With the establishment of the 1 ATF, operations had been aimed at pacifying and securing the Phuoc Tuy province. With the launching of the Tet Offensive in January 1968, Australians would enter a new phase of the war where they would often work outside the Phuoc Tuy Province against main force and regular North Vietnamese troops.
After a short period of acclimatisation allowed the Battalion to feel its way in the theatre and to familiarise itself with the operational techniques of the Americans and Vietnamese. The Battalion's first operation against the Viet Cong began with A Company deploying to Baria, the provincial capital, at the start of the Tet Offensive.
Subsequent operations were undertaken in and out of Phuoc Tuy province with the Battalion employed on mine clearing, counter mortar and rocket tasks and on numerous reconnaissance-in-force operations. During 26 and 28 May 1968, 3 RAR, while in a battalion defensive position, withstood two determined assaults by regimental sized units of the North Vietnamese Army at Fire Support Base (FSPB) 'Balmoral'. This symbolised the first concerted ground assault against an Australian FSPB.
The battalion's tour in South Vietnam was the first time National Servicemen had served with 3 RAR on active service. Their devotion to duty was in the highest traditions of the Australian Army and helped to maintain the proud reputation and esprit de corps of 'Old Faithful'. 3 RAR casualties as a result of the year’s fighting were 24 KIA and 93 WIA.
While in Vietnam, 3 RAR once again formed many close ties with supporting arms and services and the RAAF. The Battalion was proud to be associated with 161 Field Battery, RNZA, a 105mm Howitzer battery of the 16 Field Regiment, RNZA that supported 3 RAR during the Battle of Kapyong. |
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Australia 1968 - 1971
After a period of leave, the Battalion reformed at Woodside in Jan 1969. Here, although remaining under strength, the Battalion continued training in preparation for a possible second tour of Vietnam. Major training activities included exercises at Puckapunyal, Canungra, Shoalwater Bay and the Flinders Ranges.
Other incidents of note included Terence Cuneo completing the painting of the Kapyong Battle, which now hangs in the Officers' Mess and the battalion celebrated its 25th birthday on 15 October 1970.
3 RAR Pipes and Drums raised under the direction of Pipe Major SGT Des Ross. Royal Stewart tartan was chosen due to the Battalion's affiliation with the British Scots Guards. The Queen gave her approval on 19 Nov 74 and the traditional uniform has been worn on ceremonial occasions since. |
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Vietnam 2nd Tour 1971
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Vietnam 1971
The second and last tour conducted by 3 RAR was undertaken in and out of the Phuoc Tuy province, with the main emphasis was placed on operations east and north east of Nui Dat to prevent enemy infiltration and attacks around the Zuyen Moc District. During this time 3 RAR had a number of day-long bunker contacts with D445 VC Battalion and local guerilla forces.
On 6-7 June, in southern Long Khanh Province, the Battalion located and attacked an extensive bunker complex occupied by 3rd Battalion, 33rd North Vietnamese Regiment. After a long battle involving artillery, armour, Australian and United States helicopter gunships, the system was found to contain 47 bunkers as well as training areas and kitchens.
In August, the Prime Minister of Australia announced the withdrawal of 1ATF combat troops. Following a commemorative service and farewell parade on 5 October 1971, 3 RAR sailed for Port Adelaide, South Australia on 6 October 1971. During this tour four 3 RAR soldiers were killed in action.
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The Defence of Australia Period 1973 - 1999
After Australia withdrew from Vietnam, defence policies revolved around defending the continent and retreating from the ‘forward defence’ stance that characterised the 1950s and 1960s. The most immediate and visible impact on the battalions of the RAR was the decision by the Labor Government in 1972 to abolish the Selective National Service Scheme. This meant that the nine battalions that existed would have to be reduced in number without the flow of national servicemen to swell the ranks. In the end, the Army decided to link battalions in order to preserve colours and traditions.
3 RAR returned to Woodside where it was to stay for the next ten years. On its return, 3 RAR found itself limited to low level training activities. The year 1973 began with 3 RAR being given a temporary role supporting the Army Reserve in South and Western Australia and being reduced to a strength of only 200 men comprising mainly officers and senior NCOs.
The second half of 1973 saw a change of role for 3 RAR. In the Army reorganisation, 3 RAR was designated as a Field Force unit with a proposed strength of 560 all ranks. It was further planned that 3 RAR should make its future home in the Holsworthy area in Sydney, in barracks made vacant by the linking of 5 RAR and 7 RAR. This move was subsequently deferred due to a lack of married quarter accommodation.
In December 1974, the battalion assisted in the task of housing Cyclone Tracy victims evacuated from Darwin to Adelaide. In 1975 saw the battalion receive priority for training and a gradual build up in strength began. The major activities during this time were aimed at developing infantry/armoured cooperation skills.
Major ceremonial parades were held that year. A Trooping of the Colour was conducted at Torrens Parade Ground on 20 April 1975 to celebrate the 24th Anniversary of the Battle of Kapyong. The parade was reviewed by MAJGEN A.L. MacDonald, CB, OBE. The trooping was the first since the presentation of the Colours in 1956. The Pipes and Drums also paraded for the first time in the dress of the Scots Guards.
Other historically significant ceremonial activities that year included the opening of a memorial stone at the camp entrance on 13 November 1975 and a 30th Birthday Parade on 14 November 1975. His Excellency, the Governor of South Australia, Sir Mark Oliphant, KBE unveiled the plaque on the stone commemorating 10 years residence of the Battalion at Woodside. The following morning the Colonel Commandant, LTGEN Sir Thomas Daly, KBE, BD, DSO reviewed the birthday parade; this parade was the Colonel Commandant's formal farewell from the Regiment prior to handing over his duties to MAJGEN C.M.I. Pearson, AO, DSO, OBE, MC.
During this long period it conducted normal training activities and was often involved in providing assistance to the civil community. Perhaps the highlight of this peacetime soldiering was the provision of a Royal Guard for HM The Queen’s visit to Adelaide in 1977. After the parade, which went well, a small group of protesters tried to threaten the colours but were dissuaded when the colour escorts assumed the ‘On Guard’ position!
Throughout 1976-1979, the battalion trained extensively in conventional operations and including tours by sub-units to Air Base, Butterworth in Malaysia. A highlight of 1979 was the Kapyong Parade held at Woodside for the first time in many years. The parade was conducted in the format of the 1950’s and the battalion paraded by platoons.
3 RAR’s training continued in mounted infantry, combat team and battle group tactics. This period was marred by the untimely loss of the CO, LTCOL Paul Mench, who died in a cliff fall in June 1980.
1981 proved to be a significant year in the history of the battalion. Finally, after it had first seriously contemplated a move in 1973, the unit moved to Holsworthy, NSW from Woodside, South Australia, ending a long association with that state. On 4 December 1981, a small but moving farewell parade was held at Kapyong Lines and by February 1982 the last elements of 3 RAR had been relocated in Holsworthy.
3 RAR's new barracks were formally designated Kapyong Lines during the Kapyong Day Parade, held at Holsworthy on 24 April 1982. The parade was reviewed by the CGS, LTGEN Sir Phillip Bennett, KBE, AO, DSO. This had special significance, as LTGEN Bennett was a platoon commander at the Battle of Kapyong.
However it was in 1983 that 3 RAR received news that would have the most dramatic impact on its future and role. Following a period where the Army sought to maintain specialist skills within the RAR, its seemed that 3 RAR would join its sister unit in 1st Brigade, 5/7 RAR, and become mechanised. However around 1980s there was talk of an airborne trial with the objective of expanding the current airborne capability. (6 RAR had formed an airborne company in 1974).
In 1981, 3 RAR had begun sending soldiers to PTS for parachute training and by June 1983, Army Headquarters had approved 3 RAR becoming an airborne battalion. In October 1983, the battalion was designated a 'Parachute Infantry Battalion' and in December 1983, assumed responsibility for the Australian Army's conventional parachute capability.
On 29 August 1985 the battalion was granted permission to wear the dull Cherry Beret, common to all parachute units worldwide. On 12 December 1985 approval was granted to wear parachute wings identical to those worn by the 1st Australian Parachute Battalion during the Second World War.
Work developed on airborne scenarios and possible roles. Soon it became apparent that to be effective, 3 RAR would also need a supporting arms and services with it. To this end, the nascent '‘Parachute Battalion Group” began to be developed. During 1989 the battalion participated in its first Parachute Battalion Group (PBG) exercise to practice SPE/SAE, operations, under the direction of HQ 1 BDE commanded Brigadier Frank Hickling.
1989 also saw C Company deployment rotation of Rifle Company Butterworth, Malaysia. For the period 1990 to 1999, 3 RAR continued to hone its parachute skills and firmly establish the requisite Parachute Battalion Group affiliations. During this period, the battalion also continued to ensure that training did not lose sight of an operational focus and that it was significantly challenging and diverse in order to ensure the capability for which 3 RAR had been created was maintained. |
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East Timor
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NTERFET/East Timor
On 22 September 1999, 3RAR deployed as part of the INTERFET group to East Timor. This was preceded by an initial deployment of the B Coy group from Sydney to Darwin as part of Operation Spitfire. B Coy remained within Australia but deployed with the remainder of the battalion group, to East Timor, on Operation Warden. 3RAR remained in East Timor until March 2000 and its sub-units operated in all locations of the force, initially in Dili, in the Bobonaro District and finally into the Oecussi Enclave. Following the battalion's return to Australia in April 2000, the unit again found itself in a training and readiness role. In August/September the battalion participated in the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games as part of Operation Gold. In November 2000, 3RAR participated in Ex SWIFT CANOPY, a PBG parachute exercise under the command of HQ 3 BDE. Throughout 2001 the battalion participated in further parachute exercises, deployed a Rifle Company to Butterworth, Malaysia, and assisted in the security provisions for CHOGM held in Brisbane. It was also warned for a return deployment to East Timor. 3 RAR returned to East Timor in April 2002, as the Australian Battalion (Group) Six (AUSBATTVI), on Operations TANAGER and CITADEL. It witnessed the declaration of Independence of East Timor on 20 May 2002 and provided security overwatch along the Tactical Control Line until handing over to 5/7 RAR (AUSBATTVII) in Oct 02. In July 2002 the battalion officially came under-command of HQ 3BDE as part of the Ready Deployment Force.
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Iraq
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Iraq 2003
In late 2003, 3RAR was warned to provide a Company Headquarters and a four rifle section platoon for security duties in IRAQ on Operation CATALYST. This group was deployed to Baghdad from December 2003 to May 2004. It provided specific local protection to the Australian Diplomatic Mission in Baghdad. After a period of nearly four years involvement on operations, 2003 and 2004 saw 3RAR continue to focus on 'warfighting' and 'airborne-insertion' skills. This was successfully achieved through the reintroduction of the annual Airborne seminar, regular parachute continuation training, and both company and battalion group tactical insertion training during Exercises Arnhem, Crocodile and Swift Eagle respectively. The unit also saw the reintroduction of sub-unit deployments to Jungle Training Wing - Tully, and the assessed company activities at the Combat Training Centre (Live) - NQLD.
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Solomons
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Solomon Islands 2005
In January 2005, Bravo Company was called to deploy to the Solomon Islands on OP ANODE to restore order after the shooting of an Australian Federal Police officer. The company quickly established a presence and restored order. The deployment was marred by the accidental death in March 2005 of one of its soldiers, PTE Jamie Clark - 3 RAR's first operational casualty since the Vietnam War.
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2006 – 2007
2006 and 2007 were some of the busiest years in the battalion's history with, in a period of 18 months, the Battalion seeing continuous operational service across three separate theatres over six deployments. From February 2006 until March 2007 the Battalion returned companies to Baghdad as SECDET IX (C Coy) and SECDET X (A Coy). Both tours were eventful with several contacts, a rocket attack that injured four soldiers, and the death PTE Jake Kovco in a non-battle accident in April 2006 – Australia’s first casualty in Iraq and the subject of intense media attention.
In March 2006 A Coy was sent to reinforce 1 RAR as violence broke out in the Solomon Island’s capital Honiara. They returned in May 2006 after a successful mission to restore law and order. At Kapyong Parade in 2006 the Commanding Officer lost his voice on parade and called the RSM to him to give the words of command, including during the march around in slow time. The following year the RSM was called forward intentionally to march with the CO at the head of the parade a symbol to honour the service that RSMs give to their COs and the then CO decalred that this honour would be preserved for all RSMs on Kapyong Day into the future.
In May 2006 East Timor (now known as Timor Leste after Independence) again descended into violence between Army and Police political factions fuelled by ethnic divisions and public discontent. Despite having companies already deployed to the Solomon Islands on OP ANODE and Iraq on OP CATALYST, the Bn took command of a composite Battlegroup reinforced by infantry companies from 1 RAR (A Coy) and 2 RAR (C and D Coys). This was the first time in Regimental history that companies from three different infantry battalions had been battlegrouped under one commander. 3 RAR contributed B Coy, Spt Coy, and Admin Coy and also commanded B Sqn 3/4 Cav Regt, a re-rolled artillery battery from 4 Fd Regt (G Coy), D Coy 2/1 RNZIR, and other attachments including Blackhawk helicopters.
Called "Battlegroup Faithful" the group comprised 930 soldiers from 23 units across the Army, put together with less than two weeks notice. The Battlegroup deployed by air and sea on 26 May 2006 and quickly re-established law and order in Dili as part of the JTF631, commanded by Commander 3rd Brigade. By August the security situation had stabilised enough to begin handing over to UN police and by the time the Battlegroup redeployed to Australia, after relief by the ANZAC Battlegroup led by 6 RAR on 19 Sep 2006, the Battlegroup had captured 1380 firearms, 1440 bladed weapons, and 428 detainees for the cost of no soldiers killed and only a few seriously injured.
Unfortunately the violence did not abate and on the 2nd of March 2007 C Coy was sent to Timor Leste to reinforce the ANZAC Battlegroup and were in turn replaced by B Coy in June 2007. In August, after relatively calm elections, B Coy returned to Australia. Their arrival marked the return of all 3 RAR forces from operations for the first time since February 2006. |
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Afghanistan
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Afganistan 2008
2008 saw Support Coy deploy to Uruzgan Province, Afghanistan as the Security Task Group (Combat Team Dagger) component of the Reconstruction Task Force – 4. The rotation commenced in March 2008 with a valuable lead-in training period in Kuwait prior to receiving the handover from RTF-3. Highlights of the deployment include the establishment of a Patrol Base in the Baluchi Valley and the short-notice, high-priority deployment beyond the RTF AO to construct key bridges over the Andar and Moqur Rivers in Zabul and Ghazni Provinces. The challenging operation, known as OP ZABUL ASSIST, was successful, demonstrating the capability of the Combat Team and Task Force as a whole, and providing the opportunity to work with many coalition partners, including Dutch, Romanian, Canadian, US, UK and Afghan personnel.
3 RAR maintains a high readiness state as part of the ADF Ready Deployment Force. The Battalion is scheduled to move to Townsville in 2011 to join the rest of 3 Brigade, where it will maintain its Parachute capability, in the form of a smaller high-readiness Airborne Combat Team in place of the Parachute Battalion Group maintained up until this point.
Whatever the future holds for the Battalion, ‘Old Faithful’ will serve on and uphold the motto of the Royal Australian Regiment- ‘Duty First.’ |
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3rd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment
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Theatres Of Service |
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From |
To |
Country |
Base |
BDE / Div / TF |
Oct 45 |
Dec 46 |
Dutch East Indies |
Morotai |
34 Aust Inf Bde |
Feb 46 |
Sep 50 |
Japan |
Kaitachi/Hiro |
34 Aust Inf Bde |
Sep 50 |
Apr 51 |
Korea |
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(BRITCOM) Bde |
Apr 51 |
Oct 54 |
Korea |
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BRITCOM Bde/1
COMWEL Div |
Oct 54 |
Sep 57 |
Australia |
Ingleburn/Holsworthy |
1 Inf Bde Gp |
Oct 57 |
Oct 59 |
Malaya |
Perak State |
28 COMWEL Indep Inf
Bde Gp |
Oct 59 |
Jul 60 |
Australia |
Enoggera |
1 Inf Bde Gp |
Jul 60 |
Sep 63) |
Australia |
Enoggera |
1 Div (Pentropic) |
Sep 63 |
Sep 65 |
Malaysia |
Terendak 28 |
COMWEL Indep Inf
(Sarawak Mar - Jul 65) Bde Gp |
Sep 65 |
Dec 67 |
Australia |
Woodside |
1 Div |
Dec 67 |
Nov 68 |
Vietnam |
Nui Dat |
1 ATF |
Nov 68 |
Feb 71 |
Australia |
Woodside |
1 Div |
Feb 71 |
Oct 71 |
Vietnam |
Nui Dat |
1 ATF |
Oct 71 |
Dec 81 |
Australia |
Woodside |
1 Div |
Jan 82 |
Aug 99 |
Australia |
Holsworthy |
1 Div |
Sep 99 |
Apr 00 |
East Timor |
Dili-Bobonaro- Oecussi |
INTERFET |
May 00 |
Apr 02 |
Australia |
Holsworthy |
1 Div |
Apr 02 |
Oct 02 |
East Timor |
|
Australian Battalion (Group) Six (AUSBATTVI) |
Oct 02 |
Dec 03 |
Australia |
Holsworthy |
3 Bde |
Dec 03 |
May 04 |
Iraq |
Baghdad |
SECDET |
May 04 |
Jan 05 |
Australia |
Holsworthy |
3 Bde |
Jan 05 |
Apr 05 |
Solomon Islands |
Honiara |
OP ANODE |
Apr 05 |
Feb 06 |
Australia |
Holsworthy |
3 BDE |
Feb 06 |
Mar 07 |
Iraq |
Baghdad |
SECDET IX/X |
Mar 06 |
May 06 |
Solomon Islands |
Honiara |
OP ANODE |
May 06 |
Sep 06 |
Timor Leste |
Dili |
“Battle-group Faithful” JTF631 |
Mar 07 |
Aug 07 |
Timor Leste |
Dili |
ANZAC BG |
Aug 06 |
Mar 08 |
Australia |
Holsworthy |
3 Bde |
Mar 08 |
Nov 08 |
Afghanistan |
Uruzgan |
RTF-4 |
|
| |
*************************
3rd Battalion Royal Australian Regiment |
| |
|
Commanding Officers |
| 67 Australian Infantry Battalion |
| Oct 45 - Mar 47 |
LTCOL D.R. Jackson, DSO |
| Mar 48 - Aug 48 |
LTCOL T.F. McAdie, DSO, OBE |
| |
| 3 AR (from 23 Nov 48) / 3 RAR (from 10 Mar 49) |
| Aug 48 - Aug 49 |
LTCOL K. McKay, MBE |
|
|
| |
|
| 3 RAR |
|
| Aug 49 - Sep 50 |
LTCOL F.S. Walsh |
| Sep 50 - Oct 50 |
LTCOL C.H. Green, DSO (KIA) |
| Oct 50 - Nov 50 |
LTCOL F.S. Walsh |
| Nov 50 - Jul 51 |
LTCOL I.B. Ferguson, DSO, MC |
| Jul 51 - Jul 52 |
LTCOL F.G. Hassett, DSO, OBE |
| Jul 52 - Mar 53 |
LTCOL R.L. Hughes, DSO |
| Mar 53 - Feb 54 |
LTCOL A.L. MacDonald, OBE |
| Feb 54 - Feb 55 |
LTCOL S.H. Buckler, OBE |
| Feb 55 - Sep 55 |
LTCOL R.A. Hay, MBE |
| Sep 55 - Mar 57 |
LTCOL J.R. Watch |
| May 57 - Nov 59 |
LTCOL J.F. White, OBE |
| Mar 60 - Jul 60 |
COL K.A. Peddle |
| Jul 60 - Dec 62 |
COL W.J. Morrow, OBE |
| Jan 63 - Apr 63 |
COL O.D. Jackson, DSO, OBE |
| May 63 - Jan 66 |
LTCOL B.A. McDonald, OBE, MC |
| Jan 66 - Feb 67 |
LTCOL G.J. Leary |
| Feb 67 - Feb 69 |
LTCOL J.J. Shelton, DSO, MC |
| Feb 69 - Jan 72 |
LTCOL F.P. Scott, DSO |
| Jan 72 - Sep 73 |
LTCOL T.R. Sullivan, MBE |
| Oct 73 - Jan 76 |
LTCOL P.R. Phillips, MC |
| Jan 76 - Jan 78 |
LTCOL B.W. Howard, MC |
| Jan 78 - Dec 79 |
LTCOL M.J. Bindley |
| Jan 80 - Jun 80 |
LTCOL P.A. Mench (Died in Service) |
| Jul 80 - Jan 82 |
LTCOL S. Krasnoff |
| Jan 82 - 13 Dec 83 |
LTCOL J.M. Connolly |
| 14 Dec 83 - 16 Jan 86 |
LTCOL K.G. Gallagher, AM |
| 17 Jan 86 - Dec 87 |
LTCOL P.J. Abigail |
| Dec 87 - Dec 89 |
LTCOL S.V.L. Willis |
| Dec 89 - Aug 91 |
LTCOL G.R. Hill, AM |
| Aug 91 - Dec 93 |
LTCOL G.A. Bornholt |
| Dec 93 - Dec 95 |
LTCOL R.A. Tiller |
| Dec 95 -Dec 97 |
LTCOL R.M. Boyd |
| Dec 97 - Nov 99 |
LTCOL N.W. Welch, DSC (Interfet) |
| Dec 99- Dec 01 |
LTCOL P.K. Singh |
| Dec 01- 29 Oct 03 |
LTCOL Q.L. Flowers, AM |
| 30 Oct 03 - 01 Dec 05 |
LTCOL A.G. Findlay |
| 02 Dec 05 - 04 Dec 07 |
LTCOL M. Mumford, CSC |
| 05 Dec 07 - Dec 09 |
LTCOL W. Stothart |
| Dec 09 - |
LTCOL T. Scott |
Note: awards are only listed if awarded before, or at the time, a CO was in command |
*****************
|
3rd Battalion Royal Australian Regiment
|
Regimental Sargent Majors |
| |
|
| 67th Aust Inf Bn / 3 AR (from 23 Nov 48) / 3 RAR (from 10 Mar 49) |
| Oct 45 - May 50 |
WO1 J. Harwood |
| |
|
| 3 RAR |
|
| May 50 - Feb 51 |
WO1 W. Harrison, MM |
| Feb 51 - May 51 |
WO1 D. Ryan |
| May 51 - Jul 51 |
WO2 P.C. Smeaton |
| Jul 51 - Nov 51 |
WO2 G.E. Chinn |
| Nov 51 - Sep 52 |
WO1 G.L. Hart |
| Sep 52 - Sep 53 |
WO1 L. McCombe |
| Sep 53 - Dec 54 |
WO1 M. Armstrong |
| Dec 54 - Mar 55 |
WO2 J.B. O'Sullivan |
| Mar 55 - Mar 56 |
WO1 W. Adams |
| Mar 56 - Mar 57 |
WO1 G. Perry |
| Mar 57 - Oct 59 |
WO1 L.C. Griffiths |
| Oct 59 - Jul 62 |
WO1 J.B. O'Sullivan, MBE |
| Jul 62 - Apr 63 |
WO1 E. Bradley |
| Apr 63 - Jun 66 |
WO1 A.G. Stanley, MBE, MM |
| Jun 66 - May 69 |
WO1 V. Murdock |
| May 69 - Feb 72 |
WO1 W.J. Hill |
| Feb 72 - Jan 75 |
WO1 B.T. Waters, MBE |
| Jan 75 - May 76 |
WO1 B.W. Foster, OAM |
| Jun 76 - Jan 78 |
WO1 A.B. Keech |
| Jan 78 - Apr 79 |
WO1 N. Smith |
| Apr 79 - Oct 80 |
WO1 N. Huish |
| Oct 80 - Jul 81 |
WO1 R. Boyce |
| Jul 81 - Dec 83 |
WO1 M.B. Martin |
| Jan 84 - Dec 85 |
WO1 A.R. Francis, OAM |
| Jan 86 - Dec 87 |
WO1 C.N. Lee |
| Dec 87 - Dec 89 |
WO1 J. Selmes |
| Dec 89 - Dec 91 |
WO1 S.J. Walker |
| Dec 91 - Dec 93 |
WO1 K.E. Rundell, OAM |
| Dec 93 - Dec 95 |
WO1 M.A. Caughey |
| Jan 96 - Dec 98 |
WO1 M.D. Dunn,OAM |
| Jan 99 - Dec 00 |
WO1 M.J. Hill |
| Dec 00 - Dec 02 |
WO1 P.F. Tyrrell,OAM |
| Dec 02 - Dec 04 |
WO1 G.A. Cochrane,OAM |
| Jan 05 – Dec 06 |
WO1 G.S. McFarlane |
| Dec 06 – Dec 08 |
WO1 D. Welsh |
| Dec 08 - |
WO1 T. Logan |
| |
|
| Note: awards are only listed if awarded before, or at the time, an RSM was posted to the Battalion. |
| |
|
| . |
| |
|
3rd Battalion Royal Australian Regiment |
|
|
Allied Regiment - The Scotts Guards |
| History: |
|
1. In 1642, Charles I ordered the Marquis of Argyle to raise in Scotland a regiment for service in Ulster, where the local Irish were in rebellion against the Scottish colonists. Argyle's Regiment returned from Ireland in 1650 following Charles I's execution, and known as the Irish Companies, became Charles II's 'Lyfe Guard of Foot'. The Regiment took part in the disastrous Battles of Dunbar and Worcester against Cromwell and afterwards was scattered. |
| |
|
2. After the restoration, Charles II issued orders for the re-raising of companies of Scottish Foot Guards. In 1662 these companies were expanded to a full regiment. In 1686 The Scottish Regiment of Foot Guards was put on the establishment of the English Army. In 1711 Queen Anne changed the name to Third Regiment of Foot Guards. In 1831 the Regiment became Scots Fusilier Guards until in 1877 Queen Victoria restored the original title of Scots Guards. |
| |
|
| Battle Honours: |
|
| 3. The following Battle Honours are those carried on the Queen's and Regimental Colours: |
| a) |
Namur 1695, Dettinggen, Lincelles, Talavera, Barrosa, Fuentes d'Onor, Salamanca, Nive, Peninsula, Waterloo, Alma, Inkerman, Sevastopol, Tel-el-Kebir, Egypt 1882, Suakin 1885, Modder River, South Africa 1899-1902. |
| b) |
Retreat from Mons, Marne 1914, Aisne 1914, Ypres 1914 and 1917, Festubert 1915, Loos, Somme 1916 and 1918, Cambrai 1917 and 1918, Hindenburg Line, France and Flanders 1914 - 1918. |
| c) |
Quarry Hill, Rhineland, North West Europe 1944-45, Gazala, Madenine, Djebel Bou Aoukaz 1943, North Africa 1941-43, Monte Camino, Anzio, Italy 1943-45. |
| |
|
| Alliance |
|
4. The alliance with the Scots Guards was approved by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in August 1952. Evidence of this alliance can be seen in the 3 RAR Pipes and Drums, raised in 1969 and officially approved to wear the uniform of the Scots Guards since November 1974. |
| |
|
. |
| |
|
3rd Battalion Royal Australian Regiment |
| |
|
Allied Regiment - The Queens Royal Hussars |
(Mottos: 'Mente et Manu' - 'With Might and Main', and
'Pristinae Virtutis Memores' - 'In Memory of Former Valour') |
| History |
|
1. The Queen's Royal Irish Hussars (now the Queen's Royal Hussars) was formed on 24 Oct 1958 by the amalgamation of the 4th The Queen's Own Hussars and the 8th The King's Royal Irish Hussars. Both regiments were raised as dragoons in 1685 and 1693n respectively, but were redesignated as Hussars in 1861. |
| |
|
2. The roll of battle honours of the Hussar Regiments commences with Dettingen, 1743. They fought subsequently in the Peninsular War and the Crimea, with the 4th The Queen's Own Hussars forming part of the Light Brigade at Balaclava. Campaigns followed in South Africa, 1899-1902 and in World War I and II. The 8th The King's Royal Irish Hussars fought with 3RAR in the Korean War. |
| |
|
| Battle Honours |
|
| 3. The following Battle Honours are those that are the equivalent of those carried on the Colours of Infantry units: |
| a) |
Dettingen, Leswaree, Hindoostan, Talavera, Albuhera, Salamanca, Vittoria, Toulouse, Peninsula, Ghuznee 1839, Afghanistan 1839, Alma, Balaklava, Inkerman, Sevastopol, Central India, Afghanistan 1879-80, South Africa 1900-02. |
| b) |
Mons, Marne 1914, Ypres 1914 and 1915, Givenchy 1914, Somme 1916 and 1918, Cambrai 1917 and 1918, Bapaume 1918, Amiens, Albert 1918, France and Flanders 1914-18. |
| c) |
Villers Bocage, Roer, Rhine, Gazala, Alam el Halfa, El Alamein, North Africa 1940-42, Coriano, Proasteion, Greece 1941. |
| d) |
Imjin, Korea 1950 - 51 |
| |
|
| Alliance |
|
4. The alliance with QRIH occurred in Korea when the present unit, then designated 8th Kings Royal Irish Hussars, was a Centurion tank regiment supporting the Battalion. The CO 8 KRIH, LTCOL Sir William G. Lowther-Bart, OBE, entered the 3RAR Officers' Mess on 4 Dec 51 and drove a lance into the floor declaring, 'We are now affiliated'. |
| |
|
5. The alliance was approved by Her Majesty The Queen in Jun 53. On 1 Sep 93 it was transferred to the Queen's Royal Hussars (Queen's Own and Royal Irish). |
| |
|
. |
| |
|
3rd Battalion Royal Australian Regiment |
|
|
Distinguished Unit Citation |
| |
|
1. The below US presidential Unit Citation was awarded to the 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (23 and 24 April 1951), the 2nd Battalion Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry (24 and 25 April), and Company A, 72nd Heavy Tank Battalion (United States), (24 and 25 April 1951) for their actions at Kapyong on the 23rd and 24th of April 1951. |
| |
|
2. The original text of the Citation reads:
The above units are cited for extraordinary heroism and outstanding performance of combat duties in action against the armed enemy near Kapyong, Korea, on the dates indicated. The enemy had broken through the main line of resistance and penetrated to the area north of Kapyong. The units listed above were deployed to stem the assault. The 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment moved to the right flank of the sector and took up defensive positions north of the Pukhan River. The 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry defended in the vicinity of Hill 677 on the left flank. Company A, 72 Heavy Tank Battalion, supported all units to the full extent of its capacity, and in addition, kept the main roads open and assisted in evacuating the wounded. Troops from a retreating division passed through the sector which enabled enemy troops to infiltrate with the withdrawing forces. The enemy attacked savagely under the clangor of bugles and trumpets. The forward elements were completely surrounded going through the first day into the second. Again and again the enemy threw waves of troops at the gallant defenders, and many times succeeded in penetrating the outer defences, but each time the courageous, indomitable and determined soldiers repulsed the fanatical attacks. Ammunition ran low and there was not time for food. Critical supplies were dropped by air to the encircled troops, and they stood their ground in resolute defiance of the enemy. With serene and indefatigable persistence, the gallant soldiers held their positions and took heavy toll of the enemy. In some instances when the enemy penetrated the defences, the Commanders directed friendly artillery fire on their own positions in repelling the thrusts. Toward the close of 25 April, the enemy break through had been stopped. The seriousness of the break through on the central front had been changed from defeat to victory by the gallant stand by these heroic and courageous soldiers. The 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment; 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry; and A Company, 72nd Heavy Tank Battalion, displayed such gallantry, determination and esprit de corps in accomplishing their mission under extremely difficult and hazardous conditions as to set them apart and above all other units participating in the campaign, and by their achievements they brought distinguished credit on themselves, their homelands, and all freedom loving nations. |
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|
. |
| |
|
3rd Battalion Royal Australian Regiment |
|
|
Miscellanous Information |
| Battle Firsts |
|
1. 3RAR has the honour of being the: first into action, Korea Sep 50; First ten Regimental Battle Honours won by the RAR (Sariwon to Maryang-San); first to be awarded the US Presidential Distinguished Unit Citation (Kapyong); and first RAR battalion into Sarawak during the Indonesian Confrontation, Mar 65. |
| |
|
| The Colours |
|
2. On Kapyong Day 1956 at the Sydney Domain, The Queen's and Regimental Colours were presented by His Excellency The Governor-General of Australia, Field Marshal the Viscount Slim, KG, GCB, GCMG, GCVO, GBE, DSO, MC. New Queen's and Regimental Colours were presented to 3RAR by His Excellency the Governor-General Sir Ninian Stephen AK, GCMG, GCVO, KBE at Holsworthy on 24 Apr 85, during the Kapyong Parade. |
| |
|
3. The Colours serve as a constant reminder to all members of 3RAR of their duty to their Sovereign and their Country. Although the battle honour Kapyong is a regimental honour, 3RAR is the only unit which celebrates Kapyong Day, 24 April, and is the only battalion authorised to carry the Kapyong Streamer. The Kapyong Streamer is of blue silk with the word 'Kapyong' emblazoned in white on it. It is the symbol of the granting of the Distinguished Unit Citation by the President of the United States. The Streamer is flown from the colour pike of the Regimental Colour, at all times when uncased. The only exception to this is on Kapyong Day when the Streamer is affixed by a dignitary invited to do so by the Commanding Officer. |
| |
|
| The Presidential Distinguished Unit Citation |
4. The Distinguished Unit Citation was presented to 3RAR by the President of the United States of America. It is worn at all times by those who served with the battalion in the Battle of Kapyong, and by others whilst actually serving with the unit. The Citation is represented by the blue pennant on the Regimental Colour and by the blue rectangle which is worn above the right breast pocket. |
| |
|
| Battle Honour - Maryang San |
5. The 3RAR action to capture Hill 317 (Maryang San) as part of operation Commando, was recognised in April 1994 by the granting of Maryang San as a Regimental Battle Honour. |
| |
|
| Individual Award |
6. The highest individual award for a soldier serving as a member of the Battalion is the George Cross, awarded posthumously to Private H.W. (Slim) Madden whilst a prisoner of war in Korea. His memory is perpetuated by the naming of the soldiers' club at Holsworthy - The Madden Club. |
| |
|
| Unit Affiliations |
|
| 7. The Battalion has special bonds with the following units/organisations although not formally allied |
| a) |
2nd Battalion Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry (2PPCLI); |
| b) |
16th Field Regiment Royal New Zealand Artillery (16 RNZA); |
| c) |
A Field Battery 8th/12th Medium Regiment; |
| d) |
2nd/3rd Australian Infantry Battalion Association; and |
| e) |
Korea and South East Asia Forces Association. |
| |
|
8. The affiliation with 2 PPCLI and 16 RNZA are of note as they date from the Battle of Kapyong, where 3RAR was also associated with Coy A 72nd Heavy US Tk Battalion now designated 1st Battalion 72nd US Armour. The affiliation with A Field Battery continues to be close as that battery is in direct support of the Battalion and previously supported the Battalion in Morotai, Malaysia and Vietnam. |
| |
|
| Band |
|
9. The band was used as stretcher bearers from Kapyong onwards in Korea and only six returned alive. The band was reformed in 1955 but disbanded in 1967 prior to service in Vietnam. The present Scottish pipes and drums were raised in 1969. Royal Assent was obtained in 1974 for the 3RAR Pipes and Drums to wear the Royal Stewart Tartan, and band dress similar to the Scots Guards. |
| |
|
| RSM's Piper |
|
10. The senior pipe corporal is appointed RSM's piper and as such plays at all Sergeants' Mess functions and other functions as directed. |
| |
|
| Regimental Marches |
11. The Battalion regimental march is 'Our Director'. It has always been with the Battalion although the official march from 1955 to 1960 was 'Kapyong', written by the Australian composer Alfred Hill. Company inspection tunes (Brass Band) were introduced in 1960, and company pipe tunes were introduced with the raising of the Pipes and Drums in 1969. 'Highland Laddie', the quick march of our allied Regiment and Scots Guards, is played to march on the colours. Other marches are: |
| |
|
Brass Band |
Pipes and Drums |
Slow Time |
| RAR |
Our Director |
Our Director |
|
| A Coy |
Skye Boat Song |
Green Hills of Tyrol |
Westering Home |
| B Coy |
With a Little Bit Of Luck |
When the Battle's O'er |
Skye Boat Song |
| C Coy |
By Land and Sea |
Cock of the North |
>My Lodgings in The Cold, Cold Ground |
| D Coy |
Oh! What a Beautiful Morning |
Bonnie Dundee |
My Home |
| SPT Coy |
Greensleeves |
Black Bear ; Horn Pipe |
Road to the Isles |
| >Admin Coy |
Toledo |
Wi’ a Hundred Pipers |
Wi’ a Hundred Pipers |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| Regimental and Battalion Ties |
12. The Regimental tie is of rifle green woven silk with a repeating miniature gold regimental badge motif. It may be worn by all present and past members of the RAR. The battalion tie is woollen and is a miniature of the Royal Stewart Tartan, identical to the kilts of the Battalions' Pipes and Drums and the tartan of the Scots Guards. The Battalion tie may be worn by all present and past members of 3RAR. |
| |
|
| Kapyong Day Parade |
13. The Kapyong Steamer is ceremonially affixed to the Regimental colour each Kapyong Day by a Kapyong veteran, and the Kapyong citation and Kapyong Prayer, are read by appropriate persons selected by the Commanding Officer. A copy of the Kapyong Prayer is attached at annex H. |
| |
|
| Honorary Member of 3 RAR |
| 14. Mr Choi Yung Kil, the Korean who served for so many years with 3RAR in Korea, was made an 'Honorary Member' of the Battalion on 24 Apr 69. |
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|
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|
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|
Kindly supplied by:
MAJOR D.J. HARRISON
OC Spt Coy, 3rd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (Para)
HOLSWORTHY NSW 2173
February, 2011 |
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