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Us provides military and economic aid to the French in Indochina.
Nationalist leader Ho Chi Minh, who had trained in the Soviet Union but received aid from the US to fight the Japanese during World War II, declares that the Democratic Republic of Vietnam is the only legal government. This is recognised by the Soviet Union and China, but Australia supports the French-sponsored government of Emperor Bao Dai. Us provides military and economic aid to the French in Indochina. -
Army Advisor sent to Vietnam
The Minister for Defence (Reginald Townley) announces intention to send 30 army advisers to South Vietnam (SVN). -
First Australian soldier- dead!
Advisor, Sergeant William Hacking becomes the first Australian to die in Vietnam when his weapon accidentally discharges after being caught in vegetation. -
Vietnamese president is dead
Vietnam's President Diem and his brother Ngo Dinh Nhu are murdered in a military coup, with the foreknowledge of the US Government. -
Defence in action
Warrant Officer Class 2, Kevin Conway becomes the first Australian to die as a result of enemy action in South Vietnam. -
HMAS Sydney arrives in Vietnam
HMAS Sydney arrives at Vung Tau, South Vietnam, carrying the bulk of the Australian force. -
The battle of Long Tan
D Company, 6 RAR, strength of 108 men, battles North Vietnamese Army (NVA) and Viet Cong (VC) forces estimated at between 1500 and 2500 until relieved by A Company, carried in by armoured personnel carriers of 3 Troop, 1 APC Squadron. The enemy leaves 245 bodies on the battlefield while 17 Australian infantrymen and one APC crewman are killed. The Company earns the US Presidential Citation. -
Increase of men 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. -
The end of conscription
Conscription ends, draft resisters are released from jail and pending prosecutions for draft resistance are dropped. -
Ceasefire begins