Remembering RAAF Wing Commander Louis T Spence, DFC & Bar

---- We have 69 members. Will you be next? ----

Every year at this time I remember the service and sacrifice of Wing Commander Louis Spence whose name on a drinking fountain at Thornburgh College, Charters Towers, captured my attention when I was a school boy so many decades ago.

WGCDR Spence Receives a US Medal

WGCDR Spence had for a short while been Commanding Officer of 77 Squadron that played a significant role in the Korean War, becoming one of the most recognized and celebrated units of the conflict. Here’s a more detailed look at their involvement: 

Initial Deployment and Early Missions When the Korean War broke out in June 1950, No. 77 Squadron was based in Iwakuni, Japan, as part of the British Commonwealth Occupation Force.

The squadron was initially equipped with P-51D Mustang fighters, which had been used during World War II. 

Upon the North Korean invasion of South Korea, 77 Squadron was rapidly deployed to assist United Nations (UN) forces. First Combat Missions: On 2 July 1950, No. 77 Squadron became the first RAAF unit to see action in Korea. Their initial missions involved ground attack operations, close air support, and escort duties. The squadron’s Mustangs were particularly effective in attacking North Korean ground forces, supply lines, and infrastructure, disrupting the enemy’s advance. 

Transition to Jet Aircraft 

As the war progressed and the North Koreans began to receive more sophisticated aircraft from the Soviet Union, the squadron’s Mustangs became increasingly outclassed. In response, No. 77 Squadron transitioned to Gloster Meteor jets in April 1951, making them the first RAAF unit to operate jet fighters in combat.

Jet Operations: The Gloster Meteors were primarily used for air-to-ground operations, but they also engaged in air-to-air combat. However, they were soon outclassed by the faster and more manoeuvrable MiG-15s flown by the North Koreans and Chinese. This led to a shift in the squadron’s role from air superiority to ground attack missions. 

Battle of Sunchon: One of the most famous engagements involving 77 Squadron occurred on 1 December 1951, during the Battle of Sunchon. Four Meteors were lost in a dogfight with MiG-15s, highlighting the challenges faced by the squadron in air combat. Despite the losses, the pilots displayed exceptional bravery and skill. 

Louis Spence in his Mustang

77 Squadron focused on close air support and interdiction missions. They played a crucial role in supporting ground troops, attacking enemy positions, and disrupting supply lines. Their operations were instrumental in several key battles, including the defence of the Busan Perimeter and the Inchon Landing. 

Casualties and Achievements:  The squadron suffered significant losses during the war, with a total of 41 pilots killed and 7 taken as prisoners of war. Despite these losses, No. 77 Squadron was credited with destroying numerous enemy vehicles, trains, and infrastructure targets. 

The squadron’s achievements earned them a reputation for professionalism and effectiveness, and they were highly respected by their UN allies. By the end of the war, they had flown over 18,872 sorties, dropping nearly 10,000 tons of bombs and firing over a million rounds of ammunition. Their contribution to the Korean War was significant, and their efforts were recognized with multiple awards and commendations, including the US Presidential Unit Citation. 

The squadron’s involvement in the Korean War marked a significant chapter in the history of the RAAF, demonstrating Australia’s commitment to international security and its ability to adapt to new forms of aerial warfare. No. 77 Squadron’s legacy continues to be honoured in both Australia and South Korea.

"At the going down of the sun and, in the morning we will remember them. Lest we forget."

Photo credit: Australian War Memorial

Ukraine community farewells SA-based Soldiers

---- Come and visit us Fridays from 5 pm commencing 9 February. Everyone is welcome ----
Soldiers from the 7th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (7RAR), 2nd Health Brigade and Land Combat College were farewelled in a ceremony at Defence Precinct Edinburgh, Adelaide, as they prepared to deploy on Operation Kudu in the United Kingdom. 

Deploying soldiers from 7RAR on parade during
 their farewell ceremony at Edinburgh Defence Precinct, Adelaide. 

The 90-strong contingent will continue Australia’s assistance in training the Armed Forces of Ukraine in response to sustained Russian aggression. 

Alongside family, friends and local and federal politicians, members of South Australia’s Ukrainian community participated in the proceedings on 8 January, which included a Ukrainian Orthodox blessing and traditional Ukrainian customs. 

 Acting Defence Minister Matt Thistlethwaite said Australians were proud of the troops who heading to the UK because they were standing up in the defence of the Ukrainian people and helping with the assistance of the training of Ukrainian soldiers. “They’re standing up to Russia’s illegal act of aggression and illegal invasion of Ukraine and, most importantly, they’re standing up to the important principles of freedom of liberty,” Mr Thistlethwaite said. 

President of the Association of Ukrainians in South Australia, Frank Fursenko stressed the importance of the strong ties that exist between Australia and Ukraine. “This war has had a devastating impact,” Mr Fursenko said. “Without Australia’s support, Ukraine would be in a very difficult situation.” 

This deployment is the fifth rotation of Australian troops, and the first from 7RAR, to participate in the UK-led multinational training mission. Focusing on basic infantry tactics, leadership and small-team training, contingent commander Major Michael Jack said he was ready to lead his soldiers. “7RAR soldiers are physically and mentally tough, professional, compassionate and courageous,” he said. “We take immense pride and humility in being able to be a small part in these people’s lives.” 

Commander 9th Brigade Brigadier Tim Orders reminded the troops of the significance of the task ahead. “Your presence signifies hope and solidarity in a time of need,” Brigadier Orders said. “Your efforts will not only strengthen our coalition’s resolve, but uphold the values of democracy and peace throughout the world.”

Acknowledgement: Story and photos by Captain Peter March and shared with permission from Contact 

Announcing a Veterans Organisation with a Difference

---- We open on Friday 9 February 24 from 5 pm. Everyone is welcome ---- 

There are now dozens of organisations supporting veterans and our families.

In the editor's view, this is both positive and negative. Let me explain. It's positive because veterans have many options to choose from and may choose what best meets their needs.

The negative comes from the fact that limited government funding is now spread across dozens of organisations, some of which provide similar or identical services. This leads to inefficiency in service delivery.

Having said that, Due South is different in that it states it is, "Australia’s leading self-funded organisation for veterans and first responders."

So, not only does it intend to assist veterans, but also first responders. This means Due South is a unique organisation and does not rely on government funding. This is what has been said about itself in an article from Frontline:

"Our team is very proud to announce our ambassador … Doug Baird OAM, an Australian rules footballer and a devoted ambassador for Due South. Born on 16 November 1950, Doug’s journey encapsulates not only the thrill of the game but also an enduring commitment to honour, sacrifice, and the well-being of those who have served.

In his prime, Doug graced the football fields as a formidable player with Carlton Football Club in the Victorian Football League (VFL) leaving an indelible mark with statistics correct to the end of 1970. Doug played an impressive 130 games for Cooee Football Club, including pivotal roles in the 1978 and 1982 premiership sides also was captain/coach of Ulverstone Football Club 1983/84 before returning to Melbourne. This extraordinary feat speaks not only to his skill on the field but also to his enduring commitment to excellence. 

Doug’s son, Cameron Baird VC MG, emerged as an Australian soldier of exceptional courage, posthumously receiving the Victoria Cross for Australia – the highest military decoration. 

As the ambassador of Due South, Doug Baird brings his passion for supporting veterans and emergency responders to the forefront. His dedication to recognising and honouring the sacrifices of these heroes aligns seamlessly with Due South’s commitment to fostering a community that supports those who served and protected. 

Doug Baird’s involvement with Due South is not just a title it’s a heartfelt endeavour to bridge legacies, Cameron Baird’s rare honour of being one of two individuals to receive both the Victoria Cross and the Medal of Gallantry propels Doug to champion a cause that is deeply personal. 

In ceremonies and events, Doug proudly wears his son’s medals, symbolising the continuation of legacy defined by courage and selflessness. Through Due South, Doug amplifies his voice and influence to advocate for the well-being of veterans and emergency responders, ensuring that their sacrifices are acknowledged, and their stories are told. Doug Baird stands as a beacon, illustrating that the passion for honouring heroes extends far beyond the football field. His ambassadorship is a testament to the enduring spirit of those who serve and commitment to building a community that recognises, supports, and uplifts the brave individuals who have given their all. 

Join Doug Baird in the honour with Due South, where legacies meet, and the heart-felt service beats strong. Doug also holds the following positions: -Patron of the Victoria Cross Trust England -Vice Paton Australian Bravery Association -Ambassador Commando Association Queensland -Vice Ambassador T.P.I Victoria -Ambassador for ANZAC and Yellow Ribbon Australia"

Committee Meeting Feedback

---- Veterans Health Week Event - Port Parham 29 SEP 23 ----At our Management Committee meeting on Monday, 11 September 23 we discussed numerous routine matters of little interest to members and a few issues that may be of interest. Details follow:

Our new Honour Board Wall

We're delighted to say that after years of wishful thinking, the Honour Board Wall has been completed to stage one. 

This was a long-term wish of President Trevor Klose and I know he's delighted to see it eventually come true during his presidency. It's the most significant change to the Hut since the kitchen revamp several years ago. Stage two promises to be even more exciting.

Thanks to a grant from the Department of Veteran's Affairs via its "Saluting their Service" program and with a small amount of our own funding, we've been able to get stage one completed.

Liddy Building has done an exceptional job constructing this wall for us. The brickwork on the bottom looks amazing and when you look through the door in the middle, in the background is our cross on which we focus during our ode. There is some work to do on the background wall and in the two boxes shown as black backgrounds, we'll have the names of our fallen heroes.

At the rear of the wall are some open spaces in which we intend to build storage spaces.

When next you visit, take a good look at our Honour Board Wall and tell us what you think. We'd love to hear from you.

Veterans Health Week - Port Parham

The Committee has arranged for a Veterans Health Week crabbing and Mental Wellness event on 29 September 23. Everyone on our mailing list would have received an invitation. If you didn't and you'd like one, please email us, but be fast, there are limited spaces.

Donation to Legacy

In keeping with our policy to give back to our community who so generously give to us, the Committee has approved for a $250 donation to Legacy Barossa-Light in support of their recent Legacy Week fundraising campaign. The money goes towards supporting veterans families.

Flooring Replacement

Funds have been approved to replace the linoleum flooring between the main hall and the kitchen which is in a sorry state of repair. That will be replaced by Carpet Court on 10-11 October 23.

Fathers' Day Raffle

Thanks largely to Committee members Jan and Denis Tompkins, our raffle was a huge success. It exceeded all expectations and reflected on the quality of the prizes on offer. All prizes were donated by local businesses.

Barossa Regional Gallery Meetings

Meetings between our Executive Committee members and staff at the Gallery are continuing with a view to having a permanent display of ADF memorabilia placed there on our behalf.

Grant for Audio System

A grant application has been submitted to Mr Tony Pasin MP for the purchase of an audio system we can use in-house and also at the Tanunda Memorial Garden on our two commemorative days annually.

Remembrance Day Planning

Remembrance Day planning has commenced and Charmane Klose is seeking volunteers to staff our memorabilia sales kiosk outside Foodland Tanunda on 8-9 November respectively. If you would like to help out, please let us know.

Veterans Health Week

---- The next Committee Meeting is on Monday, 11 Sep 23 ----Every year we hold a Veterans Health Week in conjunction with the Department of Veterans Affairs who fund our activity.

Every year there is a different theme. As you can see on the image at left, the theme this year is "Mental Wellness Matters." It's all about mental health, which is an important matter for veterans, many who experience Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) from the many horrors they experienced during their service.

Those of us who have never experienced combat will never understand how they feel, but we are here to help and that is what these type events are for. To help the healing process and to let our fellow veterans know that we are here for them. They aren't forgotten.

Your committee is working on an activity for this year and the event will occur on 29 September 23, an earlier alternative date than that shown on the image.

Bookmark this space and we'll let you know all the details about what we have planned in the next week or two.

Committee Meeting Feedback

---- We open most Fridays from 5 pm. Everyone is welcome ----

Your committee had its most recent meeting on 14 August and some of the highlights are as follows:

Veterans' Health Week is being planned to be held on or about 29 September 23. The theme this year is mental health. We'll provide more details about the exact timing and content as we get nearer to the date.

Work on the Cannon Cover is progressing well with the recent preparation of the ground on which our cannon will stand. The structure will be built soon and we can replace the cannon juxtaposed with the existing shed which will ensure it is more visible to the public.

Our Annual General Meeting will be held at The Clubhouse, MacDonnell Street, Tanunda at 11 am, Sunday, 26 November 23. This year, the meeting will be held before our traditional dinner. We anticipate some significant changes in the committee and ask that you consider nominating for one or more of the positions which will all become vacant at the AGM. Nomination forms will be distributed to all members well before the meeting. 

Arrangements are being made with the Barossa Council to install a permanent RSL display at the Barossa Regional Gallery. This will increase awareness of our sub-branch and also the need for everyone to remember our fallen heroes.

The Father's Day Raffle is ongoing and tickets are available. You can see the array of excellent prizes here. Don't miss out, get your tickets before they run out. 

We are working on two Government Grants that are available that will benefit our club should we be successful in our endeavours. During the past few years we've been successful in obtaining substantial funding through the Department of Veterans Affairs, Barossa Council, and SA Veterans.

The next committee meeting is on Monday, 11 September 23. If there is something you'd like your committee to consider, please let one of the committee members know or email Secretary, Dawn Klose.

 

Graphic designed by sentavio / Freepik

Fair Treatment for Special Forces Soldiers

Click image to increase size.

A Remembrance Day of Sunshine and Reflection

---- We open most Fridays from 5 pm. Meals on the first Friday of the month however, The Hut access has been suspended until further notice due to construction works ---- 

Remembrance Day turned out to be warm and sunny - perfect for our outdoor commemorative service. It was also a great relief following weeks of intermittent rain.

Although the attendance was what I would call 'moderate', Friday of course is a workday, so many people who may have attended on a weekend weren't available at 10:30 am when our commemorative service commenced. A few people turned up shortly before 11 am.

Priest and currently serving Army chaplain, Mark Sexton again did an excellent job throwing in a couple of anecdotes based on military service. Our President, Trevor Klose was the Master of Ceremonies and similarly did a respectable job taking attendees through the order of service.

Several wreaths were laid and all of us who attended had time to reflect on those who served and made the ultimate sacrifice and thousands of others whose service we honour, including those now in the Australian Defence Force.

Preparing for ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day begins a few months ahead of the scheduled events and requires quite a lot of work from committee members. 

Close to the events, we're fortunate and most appreciative to have the help of Faith Lutheran College students to install our crosses. Each cross bears the name of one of our fellow Australians who died in service to our country and is placed in alphabetical order according to the theatre of war in which they served.

The photo above shows several students and their teacher supervised by our member Neville Jaeschke who volunteers to do this job twice per year. The teacher told us these year-eleven students are going to be college leaders in their final year at the college.

The finished job looks very impressive as you can see in this photograph.

In previous years we have invited people to have lunch at our Hut following the service but unfortunately, due to the construction work currently being undertaken in the Tanunda Recreation Park, it wasn't possible to do so this year.

By ANZAC Day 2023 we expect the construction work to have been completed and we'll be back to normal.

A Successful Remembrance Day Appeal

---- We open most Fridays from 5 pm. Meals on first Friday of month ---- Once again the generosity of our fellow Barossans and some visitors came to light during our Remembrance Day Appeal we held outside Foodland Tanunda.

Two lovely ladies agreed to pose

For those of us who volunteered at the memorabilia tables, it was a wintery experience as the front of Foodland is like a wind tunnel. But being the devoted and hardy souls we are, we beavered on and made a healthy amount for our sub-branch on behalf of those who serve and have served in the Australian Defence Force, their families, and our community.

We handed out 500 or more free poppies to young and old to wear on Friday, 11 November 22 or as often as they wish. I believe more will be available at the Tanunda Memorial Gardens where we hope we'll see you at 10:15 am for a 10:30 am commencement.

We were delighted to hear some parents telling their youngsters about the RSL and military and why we hold Remembrance Day.

As always, we are most grateful for the ongoing support we receive from our community.

As an afterthought, if you didn't get that badge, cap, mug or something from our memorabilia collection you really wanted, if you click on Military Shop link in the right hand column, you can visit their site to check out the vast array of militaria available.

Military Brotherhood Group Visits

---- We open most Fridays from 5 pm. Meals on first Friday of month ----

Our sub-branch was pleased to have a visit from a group of the Military Brotherhood Military Motorcycle Club (MBMMC) (Hills Murraylands Sub-Branch) members last Sunday.

Committee member, Marcus Beckett was approached by a member of the club and subsequently arranged this visit which included a barbecue and presentation from the group about its activities in helping veterans and their families with household chores. The club also has advocacy and counselling capacity.

The MBMMC is for serving and ex-serving members of the Australian Defence Force, Commonwealth and Allied forces, their families, friends and their supporter base. The MBMMC is open to both male and female members, whether service members or supporters and you don't have to own a motorcycle.

During the presentation, members, "Polly" and "Quey" told us that they are well equipped with resources including a log splitter and work tools they transport in a trailer so they can do helpful odd-jobs for people who need help with their home maintenance. This could include tree-trimming, gutter cleaning, wood stacking, and a variety of other jobs.

They work only on weekends and would attend Tanunda on maybe two occasions during the year as they travel to many other locations in South Australia where they provide similar support.

President Trevor suggested that before the team members attended Tanunda, we could canvass members to determine who needed help and what they required. 

You can read more about the MBMMC at the DVA site here or at the MBMMC site here.