PURE Massacre - Kevin O'Halloran
On 22 April 1995, at a displaced persons’ camp in Kibeho, in full view of Australian UN peacekeepers, over 4,000 unarmed men, women and children died in a hail of bullets, grenades and machete blades at the hands of the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA). Constrained by the UN peacekeeping Rules of Engagement, these Australians could only watch as atrocities they’d never imagined where carried out in front of them knowing that they could not — would not — interfere with these brutal acts.
Author Kevin “Irish” O’Halloran, a Platoon Sergeant at the time, has not only drawn on his own personal experiences, but others who served with him. It was a daunting picture.
Author Kevin “Irish” O’Halloran, a Platoon Sergeant at the time, has not only drawn on his own personal experiences, but others who served with him. It was a daunting picture.
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NEW ZEALAND’S VIETNAM WAR - Ian McGibbon
New Zealand’s Vietnam War provides a comprehensive and authoritative account of New Zealand’s involvement in the Vietnam War, one that will remain the standard reference work on the subject for decades.
This work focuses on what New Zealand did in South Vietnam, as the reasons for this country’s involvement and opposition to it have already been covered in book form. It traces in detail the operations carried out by New Zealand forces in Vietnam and seeks to illuminate the experience of New Zealand soldiers fighting in a guerrilla war.
This work focuses on what New Zealand did in South Vietnam, as the reasons for this country’s involvement and opposition to it have already been covered in book form. It traces in detail the operations carried out by New Zealand forces in Vietnam and seeks to illuminate the experience of New Zealand soldiers fighting in a guerrilla war.
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COMBAT MEDIC - Terry Pickard
Combat Medic is a personal account of one Australian soldier who found himself at the centre of events that shocked the world, and the personal toll that he paid.
On the 22nd of April 1995 more than 4,000 Rwandans were massacred and thousands more injured in a place called Kibeho. No one who walked away from that day was ever the same again. Author Terry Pickard, a seasoned soldier and medic, was one of a 32-strong force of Australian UN peacekeepers in Kibeho on that terrible Saturday. The massacre continues to haunt him and has condemned Terry to more than a decade of recurring nightmares and debilitating flashbacks.
Combat Medic details the lead up to Kibeho, the massacre and Terry’s long struggle with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in an honest, open and emotional account of this dark day in history.
Combat Medic details the lead up to Kibeho, the massacre and Terry’s long struggle with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in an honest, open and emotional account of this dark day in history.
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SOLDIERS' Tales - Danny Neave
Soldiers’ Tales is a treasure trove of some of the most personal events and insights told by Australian soldiers in their own words. From World War I to the modern day conflicts, their stories are sometimes touching, often funny but always entertaining.
Soldiers’ Tales is a wonderful tribute to the Aussie Digger. A collection of stories that range from heart-wrenching accounts of heroism and courage to entertaining adventures and pranks.
With its stylish design and easy reading Soldiers’ Tales is the perfect gift book for all ages.
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Spanning a long history of wars, battles, and peacekeeping missions around the world, Aussie Soldier is a collection of anecdotes of life in military uniform.
In a flood of heart-warming, confronting and humorous stories, it gathers ever-before-published diary extracts and personal perspectives that shed light on the Australian soldier’s experience.
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A Pogo's Perspective - Greg Smith
Greg Smith served as the Orderly Room Corporal in A Sqn 3 Cav Regt in VietNam 1970/71. He walks the reader through his call-up, training and discipline. He then details his role and experiences as a Pogo, which may be an eyeopener for some.
For 35 years he worried about acceptance by his mates because of his different role. He writes of his lack of support and understanding on his return to a hostile Australia. With absolute honesty, he details his emotional decline and the subsequent recognition / diagnosis of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Finally he shares the treatment that has benefitted him and that what is available to all veterans.
Greg is very generously donating a significant portion of the proceeds from each book to the APPVA.
For 35 years he worried about acceptance by his mates because of his different role. He writes of his lack of support and understanding on his return to a hostile Australia. With absolute honesty, he details his emotional decline and the subsequent recognition / diagnosis of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Finally he shares the treatment that has benefitted him and that what is available to all veterans.
Greg is very generously donating a significant portion of the proceeds from each book to the APPVA.
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A Pogo's Perspective
ISBN 978 1 74051 372 2
Narelle Biedermann interviewed thirteen members of the Australian Defence Force who have been awarded medals in the last twenty-five years. Narelle will share how these Australians performed feats of remarkable courage and bravery in military zones including in Rwanda, the Blackhawk disaster, East Timor, Afghanistan and the Gulf War. The medals awarded to these soldiers include the Medal of Gallantry, the Star of Courage and the Bravery Medal.
Biedermann illustrates this history with background factual data and personal stories from those men and women who detail individual accounts of their bravery.
ISBN : 0-646-19395-3
The book profiles a number of stories of Australian police and ADF personnel involved in the mission.
The back of the book includes a list of all those who served in Cambodia.
As there are still some copies of this book available for sale the APPVA would like to ensure that the Cambodian peacekeepers know how to obtain this publication.
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ISBN : 0-522-85171-1
FORGED BY WAR - Gina Lennox
In Forged By War, Australian veterans and their families talk about the experience of war and how it has changed their lives. These unvarnished first-hand accounts go to the concrete detail of military action and its personal consequences.
Sometimes the reader is in lockstep with a soldier on patrol, watching as a land mine explodes, spraying shrapnel and killing troops, or a local militiaman points a missile launcher at Australian peacekeepers.
At other times, the reader is inside a returned veteran's head, feeling their edgy tension, their superfluous adrenalin, their need to control their environment, even at home.
Underpinning it all is the question: where does family fit in a soldier's life?
Sometimes the reader is in lockstep with a soldier on patrol, watching as a land mine explodes, spraying shrapnel and killing troops, or a local militiaman points a missile launcher at Australian peacekeepers.
At other times, the reader is inside a returned veteran's head, feeling their edgy tension, their superfluous adrenalin, their need to control their environment, even at home.
Underpinning it all is the question: where does family fit in a soldier's life?
ISBN : 0732282306
Both men were part of the 80 member team led by the U.S. 10th Mountain Division during Operation Anaconda. This operation ended up being one of the fiercest battles high in the mountains of Afghanistan against the Taliban and Al-Qaeda.
The participation of the Australian SAS in the battle proved invaluable and resulted in Jock being awarded the Medal of Gallantry.
This book is available through most book stores
THE LONG ROAD TO RWANDA - Simon Kelly
This story takes you on a journey through 16 years of service with the Royal Australian Infantry; everything that you read actually happened:
The SAS, the AATPT PNGDF and Rwanda – where the massacre of over 4,000 took place in 1995. Many questions are answered and others still remain unclear, such as the truth behind the atrocities of Bougainville, handed out by the hand of the PNG military.
The community in general will be shocked, motivated and excited. You are provided with a complete picture; you will become acquainted with the soldiers of the Royal Australian Infantry, the Grunts, the salt of the earth, drawn into the very day-to-day life of the infantry soldier.
The SAS, the AATPT PNGDF and Rwanda – where the massacre of over 4,000 took place in 1995. Many questions are answered and others still remain unclear, such as the truth behind the atrocities of Bougainville, handed out by the hand of the PNG military.
The community in general will be shocked, motivated and excited. You are provided with a complete picture; you will become acquainted with the soldiers of the Royal Australian Infantry, the Grunts, the salt of the earth, drawn into the very day-to-day life of the infantry soldier.
The books below are from a broader range being reviewed by APPVA.
BENEATH THE PALE BLUE BURQA - Kay Danes
Kay Danes knows what it is like to live dangerously. In June 2001, Kay and her husband Kerry, an Australian Special Forces soldier were illegally held hostage in Laos where they endured brutal interrogations, mock executions, torture, other violations of their human rights and separation from their three children. Nine years on, Kerry has continued his Defence career, including several tours of Afghanistan, while Kay, inspired by her ordeal to help stop the suffering of others, has become a leading international humanitarian.
In November 2008, burying the haunting memories of her Laos ordeal in a plight to ease the suffering of Afghan women and children, Kay embarked on a humanitarian aid mission into war-torn Afghanistan.
Beneath The Pale Blue Burqa is Kay’s incredible story of travelling the ancient silk route through Taliban strongholds in a dusty Toyota Hiace with her four fellow humanitarians, ordinary people from diverse backgrounds, determined to do whatever it took to deliver life changing opportunities and aid to people devastated by war.
In November 2008, burying the haunting memories of her Laos ordeal in a plight to ease the suffering of Afghan women and children, Kay embarked on a humanitarian aid mission into war-torn Afghanistan.
Beneath The Pale Blue Burqa is Kay’s incredible story of travelling the ancient silk route through Taliban strongholds in a dusty Toyota Hiace with her four fellow humanitarians, ordinary people from diverse backgrounds, determined to do whatever it took to deliver life changing opportunities and aid to people devastated by war.
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Willingly into the Fray - Edited by Catherine McCullagh
The role of the Army Nursing Officer is unique. They serve close to the fighting, often in harm’s way and in extreme
conditions. Whether posted overseas with deployments and humanitarian assistance missions or within Australia
our nurses are integral to the Australian Defence Force.
Willingly into the Fray, published in conjunction with the Australian Army History Unit, uncovers what it’s really like to be an Army Nurse from the early days of our first nurse Lady Superintendent ‘Nellie’ Gould in 1899 in the Boer War through to subsequent conflicts including World Wars I and II, Korea, Malaya, Vietnam right up to the current conflict in Iraq.
These are ordinary Australians who are taken far from the comfort zones of their normal lives. What they experience abroad is often a life-changing experience. This book is a collection of first-hand accounts from sixtyfive Australian male and female nurses. Many of the stories are told for the first time, particularly those of the more recent campaigns such as the second Gulf War. Their stories are sometimes confronting but always showcase the great Aussie spirit.
Willingly into the Fray, published in conjunction with the Australian Army History Unit, uncovers what it’s really like to be an Army Nurse from the early days of our first nurse Lady Superintendent ‘Nellie’ Gould in 1899 in the Boer War through to subsequent conflicts including World Wars I and II, Korea, Malaya, Vietnam right up to the current conflict in Iraq.
These are ordinary Australians who are taken far from the comfort zones of their normal lives. What they experience abroad is often a life-changing experience. This book is a collection of first-hand accounts from sixtyfive Australian male and female nurses. Many of the stories are told for the first time, particularly those of the more recent campaigns such as the second Gulf War. Their stories are sometimes confronting but always showcase the great Aussie spirit.
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CRUMPS AND CAMOUFLETS - Damien Finlayson
Crumps and Camouflets is the first complete history detailing the amazing story of the unseen and largely unknown
war that was fought by Australian tunnelling companies on the Western Front in World War I.
In amazing acts of bravery Australian miners or ‘tunnnellers’, set out to destroy the Germans front line, blowing mines, carefully placed in dark, treacherous tunnels under no mans land. Completely aware that at any moment, and without warning, they could die slowly and alone in the dark, their lives extinguished by hundreds of tonnes of collapsed earth and debris.
Damien Finlayson spent ten years researching the topic, and is widely regarded as a leader in this field of military history. He has a Bachelor and Masters degree in Science (Major in Geology) and was involved as a technical consultant during the making of the Australian film Beneath Hill 60.
In amazing acts of bravery Australian miners or ‘tunnnellers’, set out to destroy the Germans front line, blowing mines, carefully placed in dark, treacherous tunnels under no mans land. Completely aware that at any moment, and without warning, they could die slowly and alone in the dark, their lives extinguished by hundreds of tonnes of collapsed earth and debris.
Damien Finlayson spent ten years researching the topic, and is widely regarded as a leader in this field of military history. He has a Bachelor and Masters degree in Science (Major in Geology) and was involved as a technical consultant during the making of the Australian film Beneath Hill 60.
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ISBN 9781921640063
COUNTER INSURGENCY - David Kilcullen
David Kilcullen is one of the world’s most influential experts on counterinsurgency and modern warfare. A senior adviser to General David Petraeus in Iraq, his vision of war powerfully influenced America’s decision to rethink its military strategy in Iraq and implement ‘the Surge’, now recognised as a dramatic success.
At the heart of the book is his legendary ‘Twenty-Eight Articles’, in which he shows company leaders how to practise counterinsurgency in the real world. The other pieces in this book include Kilcullen’s pioneering study of counterinsurgency in Indonesia, his ten-point plan for ‘the Surge’ in Iraq, and his frank look at the problems in Afghanistan. He concludes with a new strategic approach to the ‘War on Terror’, arguing that counterinsurgency rather than traditional counterterrorism may offer the best approach to defeating global jihad.
Counterinsurgency is a picture of modern warfare by someone who has had his boots on the ground in some of today’s worst trouble spots — including Iraq and Afghanistan — and who has been studying the topic since 1995. Filled with down-to-earth, common-sense insights, this book is indispensable for all those who are interested in making sense of our world in an age of terror.
At the heart of the book is his legendary ‘Twenty-Eight Articles’, in which he shows company leaders how to practise counterinsurgency in the real world. The other pieces in this book include Kilcullen’s pioneering study of counterinsurgency in Indonesia, his ten-point plan for ‘the Surge’ in Iraq, and his frank look at the problems in Afghanistan. He concludes with a new strategic approach to the ‘War on Terror’, arguing that counterinsurgency rather than traditional counterterrorism may offer the best approach to defeating global jihad.
Counterinsurgency is a picture of modern warfare by someone who has had his boots on the ground in some of today’s worst trouble spots — including Iraq and Afghanistan — and who has been studying the topic since 1995. Filled with down-to-earth, common-sense insights, this book is indispensable for all those who are interested in making sense of our world in an age of terror.
ISBN 9781921640063
THE GOOD SOLDIERS - David Finkel
It was the last-chance moment of the war. In January 2007, President George W. Bush announced a new strategy for Iraq. It became known as ‘the surge’. ‘Many listening tonight will ask why this effort will succeed when previous operations to secure Baghdad did not. Well, here are the differences’, he told a sceptical nation. Among those listening were the young, optimistic army infantry soldiers of the 2-16, the battalion nicknamed the Rangers. About to head to a vicious area of Baghdad, they decided the difference would be them.
Fifteen months later, the soldiers returned home forever changed.
What is the true story of the surge? And was it really a success? Those are the questions that the Pulitzer Prize-winning Washington Post reporter David Finkel grapples with in his remarkable report from the front lines. He was with Battalion 2-16 in Baghdad almost every gruelling step of the way.
The Good Soldiers is an unforgettable work of reportage telling the story of the heroes and the ruined. Finkel has produced an eternal tale — not just of the Iraq War, but of all wars, for all time.
Fifteen months later, the soldiers returned home forever changed.
What is the true story of the surge? And was it really a success? Those are the questions that the Pulitzer Prize-winning Washington Post reporter David Finkel grapples with in his remarkable report from the front lines. He was with Battalion 2-16 in Baghdad almost every gruelling step of the way.
The Good Soldiers is an unforgettable work of reportage telling the story of the heroes and the ruined. Finkel has produced an eternal tale — not just of the Iraq War, but of all wars, for all time.
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THE COAST WATCHERS - Patrick Lindsay
Could you imagine hiding deep in the jungle for years on end, trying to radio home information about an overwhelming enemy? You don’t have access to any regular food source, the company you keep is a teleradio weighing more than you, and the enemy hunts you to behead you…
This was the reality of the Coast Watchers, a small band of men – and one woman – who changed the course of the Pacific War. Aided by loyal Islanders, they survived and worked. Their impact on the war was extraordinary – far in excess of their numbers.
Patrick Lindsay – author of The Coast Watchers – learnt about their plight on journalistic assignment in Rabaul. He resolved then to tell their story. “The locals spoke of them with great respected and pride and told tales that, I confess, I thought were greatly embellished,” he said.
“I know now that, if anything, they failed to do justice to these remarkable individuals and their equally outstanding comrades.”
This was the reality of the Coast Watchers, a small band of men – and one woman – who changed the course of the Pacific War. Aided by loyal Islanders, they survived and worked. Their impact on the war was extraordinary – far in excess of their numbers.
Patrick Lindsay – author of The Coast Watchers – learnt about their plight on journalistic assignment in Rabaul. He resolved then to tell their story. “The locals spoke of them with great respected and pride and told tales that, I confess, I thought were greatly embellished,” he said.
“I know now that, if anything, they failed to do justice to these remarkable individuals and their equally outstanding comrades.”
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ISBN 9781921640063
Looking Forward Looking Back - Christopher Jobson
Many of the Australian Army’s customs and traditions are derived from the battle tactics and fighting attire of old. Some of the drill movements seen on today’s parade ground, were originally practiced by soldiers in battle. Various elements of the Aussie soldier’s uniform had practical uses in combat and some customs retain their original use as they did hundreds of years ago.
While the ever-changing modern military environment means that soldiers continue to look forward, looking back to the Australian Army’s customs and traditions serves as a constant and reassuring reminder of past victories and how far we have travelled.
Looking Forward, Looking Back was written by Christopher Jobson, a Vietnam Veteran who discharged after 30 years of professional soldiering. His fascinating compilation of customs and traditions is complimented with a wonderful array of photographs and illustrations.
While the ever-changing modern military environment means that soldiers continue to look forward, looking back to the Australian Army’s customs and traditions serves as a constant and reassuring reminder of past victories and how far we have travelled.
Looking Forward, Looking Back was written by Christopher Jobson, a Vietnam Veteran who discharged after 30 years of professional soldiering. His fascinating compilation of customs and traditions is complimented with a wonderful array of photographs and illustrations.
ISBN 9781921372766
TAG - Barry Heard
As a lad in the high country of eastern Victoria, Tag Wardell shows an extraordinary gift with animals and his rapport with his horse, Dimble, becomes the talk of the district. Later, when he becomes a blacksmith, locals are amazed at his ability to calm the meanest of nags. But 1914 brings war, and the government’s patriotic fervour entices Tag and his mates to join the Light Horse Brigade.
War begins as an adventure for Tag. On the convoy to Egypt, he is quickly singled out to help distressed horses. Then, while on leave in Cairo, he meets Jill, a nurse, but their brief romance is cut short as Gallipoli looms. In the years that follow, Tag’s life spirals into one of survival in the day-to-day madness of the trenches and he discovers the hardship and joy that come with wartime love. In the face of it all, his unique abilities bring about essential changes in handling of horses under fire.
Barry Heard, author of Vietnam War bestseller Well Done Those Men, has produced a deeply moving, fiercely anti-war novel that blazes with authenticity. Based on the experiences of a WW1 veteran whom the author knew, it brings new insights to the Gallipoli legend and Australia’s battles on the Western Front.
War begins as an adventure for Tag. On the convoy to Egypt, he is quickly singled out to help distressed horses. Then, while on leave in Cairo, he meets Jill, a nurse, but their brief romance is cut short as Gallipoli looms. In the years that follow, Tag’s life spirals into one of survival in the day-to-day madness of the trenches and he discovers the hardship and joy that come with wartime love. In the face of it all, his unique abilities bring about essential changes in handling of horses under fire.
Barry Heard, author of Vietnam War bestseller Well Done Those Men, has produced a deeply moving, fiercely anti-war novel that blazes with authenticity. Based on the experiences of a WW1 veteran whom the author knew, it brings new insights to the Gallipoli legend and Australia’s battles on the Western Front.
The Search for the SYDNEY - David L. Mearns