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Period: to
Vietnam War
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First of Australia's advisors arrive in Vietnam
The first members of the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV) arrive in South Vietnam. -
First Australian to die in action
Warrant Officer Class 2, Kevin Conway becomes the first Australian to die as a result of enemy action in South Vietnam. -
Australia send ground troops to Vietnam
The Prime Minister announces the dispatch of an infantry battalion to South Vietnam, with an armoured personnel carrier (APC) troop, a signals troop and a logistic support company. -
Kevin Wheatley earns the Victoria Cross
WO2 Kevin "Dasher" Wheatley refuses to leave his mate, WO2 Bob Swanston, and is killed. His actions earned him Australia’s highest honour, the Victoria Cross. -
The Battle of Long Tan
During the battle D Company 6 RAR, despite being heavily outnumbered, fought off a large Viet Cong assault of regimental strength. Eighteen Australians were killed and 24 wounded, while at least 245 Viet Cong were killed. It was a decisive Australian victory and is often cited as an example of the importance of combining and coordinating infantry, artillery, armour and military aviation. The battle had considerable tactical implications as well, being significant in allowing the Australians to g -
Increase of troops in Vietnam
The Prime Minister announces an increase of 1700 to Australia’s commitment in South Vietnam, including a third infantry battalion and a tank squadron. -
My Lai Massacre
Massacre of civilians by US soldiers at My Lai village. At least 450 unarmed people are killed. -
The Battle of Binh Bah
Two companies from 5 RAR, supported by APC and Tank troops and Australian helicopter gunships, engage in house-to-house fighting to clear the town of a strong force of NVA regulars. The fighting destroys much of the town and costs the NVA more than 100 dead for the loss of one Australian. -
Australian Labor Party elected to Government
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Consciption ends
Conscription ends, draft resisters are released from jail and pending prosecutions for draft resistance are dropped. -
Australia’s military commitment in South Vietnam ends
Australia’s military commitment in South Vietnam ends, although controversy about the precise end date of the war continues. -
Ceasefire begins.
