RAAF Vietnam Veterans

Association (Vic) and

Air Force Association (Vic)

Vietnam Veterans Branch

NEWSLETTER

June 2013

www.raafvva.org.au

www.raafavic.org.au

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NEWSLETTER of RAAFVVA and Air Force Association VV Branch

The official journal of RAAF Vietnam Veterans Association (Vic), a Sub-Branch of the VVAA Vic Branch Incorporated

(Reg. No. A0029247G. ABN 34 750 672 219)

and RAAF Association (Vic Div) Vietnam Veterans Branch – (ABN 96 091 342 304)

Patron: Air Vice Marshal E. M. Weller AM

PRESIDENT Lee Scully Phone (03) 9827-8313

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Nick LeRay-Meyer AM Phone (03) 9386-6961

VICE PRESIDENT Gareth Davis Phone (03) 9878-7940

SECRETARY Rick Holmes PO Box 462

Ascot Vale Vic 3032 Phone (03) 9317-7304

rickh12@bigpond.com

TREASURER Maree Jongkryg PO Box 73

Melton Vic 3337 Phone (03) 9743-1273

maree.jongkryg@bigpond.com

WELFARE OFFICER Lee Scully Phone (03) 9827-8313

ASST SEC/MEMBERSHIP Gareth Davis Phone (03) 9878-7940

garkaydavis@bigpond.com COMMITTEE MEMBER Alan White Phone (03) 9598-1007

COMMITTEE MEMBER Pieter Jongkryg Phone (03) 9743-1273

COMMITTEE MEMBER Bob Brackin Phone (03) 5261-2630

COMMITTEE MEMBER Andy Lapins Phone (03) 9511-4693 COMMITTEE MEMBER Geoff Rose Phone (03) 9372-7709

COMMITTEE MEMBER Neil Morgan Phone (03) 9687-8871

COMMITTEE MEMBER Peter Raymant Phone (03) 9583-1053

COMMITTEE MEMBER Rob O’Brien Phone 0418 531 984

WEBMASTER Anthony (Tony) Pahl OAM bushranger@internode.on.net

RAAF REGIONAL ADVOCACY, WELFARE AND PENSIONS OFFICERS

Lee and Ellen Scully (Welfare) Melbourne Metro Area Phone (03) 9827-8313

Andy Lapins (Welfare) Melbourne Area Phone (03) 9511-4693

Alan White (Welfare) Melbourne Area Phone (03) 9598-1007

Gill Coughlan (Welfare) Melbourne Area Phone 040 850 3986 Bill Wiltshire (Advocacy, Pensions & Welfare) Melton Phone (03) 9746-9582

John Meldrum Kilmore Phone (03) 5783-3923

Rhonda Austin Kilmore Phone (03) 5782 2905

VETERANS’ CENTRES SUPPORTED BY RAAFVVA and Air Force Association (Vic)

Western Suburbs Veterans and Services Centre Phone (03) 9746-9582 Fax (03) 9746-9583

Melbourne Veterans and Services Centre Phone (03) 9282-4957 Fax (03) 9282-7089

DISCLAIMER

The material, comments and/or extracts of articles appearing in the “RAAFVVA and AFA VV Branch NEWSLETTER” are of a

general nature only and neither purport to be, nor are intended to be, advice on any particular matter. No person should act on the

basis of any material contained in the “NEWSLETTER” without considering, and if necessary, taking appropriate professional advice upon their circumstances. The Committee, the authors and publisher expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, in

respect of anything done or omitted to be done by any such person in reliance, whether whole or partial, upon the whole or part of the

contents of the “RAAFVVA and AFA VV Branch NEWSLETTER”. Any member of the RAAFVVA, AFA VV Branch, or other

veteran organisation or any interested party may submit articles, letters, and advertisements for publication in the NEWSLETTER. The Committee and Publisher reserve the right to veto any such article, letter or advertisement.

EDITOR: RAAFVVA and RAAFA (Vic Div) VV Branch Committees PUBLISHER: Geoff Rose

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PRESIDENT’S REPORT

We were all saddened by the recent passing of WOFF (Ret’d) Snow Coughlan CGM (Air), one of the founding members of the RAAF Vietnam Veterans Association (Victoria), and a Life Member of the Association. Snow made a big contribution to the RAAF during his 29 years of service, and in his own quiet way in “civvy street” made a similar contribution to the ex-RAAF veteran community here. Snow received the Military Funeral his service warranted, and the current Air Force News has a fitting “In Memoriam” tribute. He is sorely missed, and our condolences go out to his wife, Gill, and remaining family. ANZAC Day 2013 in Melbourne was a big success, helped no doubt by the pleasant weather. It is pleasing to note the increasing public involvement with the March to the Shrine.

Significantly, the numbers of family groups and young people lining the route and showing their appreciation to veterans marching appears to be growing. This year some 50 plus joined us on the March, and we had a good roll up of 61 members/family at the Orient East restaurant reunion lunch following the March.

Our invitation to State Air Force Association members to join us was taken up, and we appreciated both their company at lunch and generous financial contribution towards its costs. Photos by Andy Lapins, ace photographer/Huey “expert” appear elsewhere in the Newsletter.

As requested by our members, we remain a viable member of the State Vietnam Veterans Association. Andy and I attended the State Council Meeting at Ballarat on 18 May 2013. We continue to have both regular input and financially contribute to the VVAA (Victoria) and National Vietnam Veterans Museum on your behalf. This will continue until the VVAA in Victoria “turns out the lights” at some future date.

Our welfare activities, while primarily geared towards Vietnam veteran members/families is also accessible to ex-RAAF and veterans from other ADF Conflicts. As the Vietnam Veterans Branch of the Air Force Association, we are working in tandem with the State Division on welfare issues, and remain committed to providing necessary assistance to our veterans. A phone call to Barbara Stallard, Office Manager AFA Victoria at the Hawthorn HQ - (03) 9813 4600 – will start the ball rolling.

To the “Grey Nomads” intending to head off to warmer climes now that the Victorian Winter is upon us, please travel safely and enjoy your trip. For us others stay warm and well this winter.

Kind regards,

Lee

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NOTICE BOARD

BADGE WEEK

Three selling points will be active during the week prior to Vietnam Veterans Day:

Sunbury Square Shopping Centre Thursday 08th and Friday 09th August (Evans St Entrance) Bunnings, Maribyrnong Store Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th August (Cnr White & Rosamond Rds) Bunnings, Mentone Store Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th August (3 Nepean Hwy, Mentone)

Again, we are seeking volunteers to assist with badge selling at the above RAAFVVA stalls. No need to stay all day – any time you can spare would be greatly appreciated. Further information may be obtained by contacting Rick Holmes on 9317 7304.

Next Of Kin yet to be located regarding the Vietnam Veterans Education Centre

In 2011 the Prime Minister announced that Australia would contribute $3.3m to the development of the Veterans’ Education Centre (VVEC) in Washington DC. On 27 November 2012 there was a ceremonial ‘ground-breaking’ at the site, where US Defence Secretary Leon Panetta made special mention of Australian service in the Vietnam War. Construction of the Centre will begin in 2013 and the Centre will open in 2015.

The central feature of this high tech centre will be a ‘Wall of Faces’, a digital display of the images of those who died, including the images of the 521 Australians who died in Vietnam.

Through 2012 OAWG staff have worked to collect over 330 images of our war dead. The assistance of parents, widows, siblings, children, unit associations and other Ex Service Organisations has been extraordinary. These personal images, chosen by families, are very different from those in service records and will make for a poignant commemoration of their service.

Despite the success to date, the task is unfinished. OAWG is yet to locate a living relative for 185 of our servicemen who died in Vietnam.

RAAF personnel are:-

HEWITT Ronald David – 21/6/1972 - A118817 LAC Airfield Defence Guard (Grade 2) No 2 Squadron: 25/02/1970 – 02/08/1970

KNIGHT Peter Raymond - 15/12/1970 - A318937 LAC (Not in Vietnam Vet Nominal Roll)

LA GRASTA Gaetano – 19/6/1967 - A222023 LAC Cooks Assistant Base Support Flight: 28/10/1966 – 19/06/1967

WOOLLEY Ivan Alfred – 11/12/1969 - A118435 LAC Airfield Defence Guard (Grade 4) No 2 Squadron: 25/02/1969

If you can help please contact Office of Australian War Graves at:

(02) 6225 4487 or

Email: vvec@dva.gov.au

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RAAFVVA Monthly Luncheon

The next monthly luncheon is planned for Wednesday, 19th June at the Mail Exchange Hotel -

located at 688 Bourke Street, City, (corner of Bourke St and Spencer St).

Generally, our monthly luncheons are planned for the third Wednesday of each month. However, dates, and any changes, will be posted on our website blog as soon as available.

*Air Force Association Vietnam Veteran Branch member, Dan Nebauer, offers discount to all

current and ex ADF members. Dan has specialized in Asian travel for more than 23 years, but assures his experienced staff will cater for all travel needs - international and/or domestic.

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OUT AND ABOUT

The outstanding efforts of Mitchell Sub-branch’s Commemorative Walk Committee were rewarded with beautiful springtime weather and positive and enthusiastic responses from all who attended the Opening Ceremony in Seymour on Saturday 9th March. The large number of veterans, guests, and onlookers created an atmosphere similar to V.V. Day. Sentiments were further enhanced as veterans lined up behind their Banners, and paraded through the streets to King’s Park. A display of historic military vehicles welcomed the marchers and the tone quickly changed to party mode as the Mitchell Shire Band and Melbourne Army Band struck up their music. As the day progressed, a number of Vietnam era entertainers joined the concert, which culminated in a spectacular fireworks display at 2100 hrs. Planned activities ended with a public screening of the recently released movie, “The Sapphires”.

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The Long Tan Cross replica was blessed by Padres of various denominations.

Wreaths were laid at the ‘Lest We Forget’ Memorial, in honour of those who lost their lives.

A trip to Seymour to visit the Vietnam Veterans Commemorative Walk is highly recommended. (A very interesting article about history of The Luscombe Bowl is in ‘DID YOU KNOW?’ section.)

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ANZAC DAY 2013

What a relief to finally have a sunny ANZAC Day (vastly superior to the wet, windy and freezing conditions we have endured over recent years). No doubt the pleasant weather encouraged the larger number of Melbournians into the city to participate in, or witness this year’s parade. Noticeably, more spectators lined the streets, and reportedly, a record 45,000 attended the Dawn Service at the Shrine.

Marchers suffered none of the disruption that was caused by last year’s tram works in St Kilda Rd. RAAFVVA also enjoyed an increase in numbers as our total swelled to around 60 participants – although somehow, separated into one large, and one rather small contingent. The main group, without the audible assistance of a nearby marching band, struggled to keep in step, and to make matters worse, ex WOD, Ron Douglas, with his usual step-keeping words of encouragement, was happily marching along in the smaller group.

The larger RAAFVVA contingent marching past Flinders St Station.

AAFC Cadets carried the Banner. Fine weather brought out the spectators.

The south side of the Shrine is undergoing extension and renovation – work commenced the month before ANZAC Day! Consequently, the fenced off area prevented a quick dash down to St Kilda Rd, and members were forced to trek to Domain Rd, (building up a rather hefty thirst and appetite) as they navigated their way back to Orient East restaurant for after-march buffet lunch.

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Gareth Davis: “THE GATE KEEPER” Cheryl and Kay Davis

Our Patron, Mac Weller, and wife Bev, travelled from Canberra to attend ANZAC Day.

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DID YOU KNOW?

Rumours about DVA: set straight by VVAA State Secretary

Rumour No 1. DVA is reviewing TPI’s to see if they are taking medications and if they are not taking medications then they might have their entitlements removed.

FALSE! DVA are not reviewing entitlements and have no intentions of doing so.

Rumour No 2. DVA are checking up on volunteers who are TPI working more than 8 hours.

FALSE! DVA are not checking up on TPI’s doing voluntary work - excerpts from the following documents clearly indicate the department’s position:

Document - National Manager Compensation Policy, 31 Jan 2008: Clarifying the definition of voluntary work for policy purposes and its impact on the special rate pension:

“Under the VEA, the Repatriation Commission has the general policy approach that voluntary work does not have the same pressure or stress that is inherent in paid employment......” “NOTE: There is no defined upper limit to the hours of voluntary work a person may undertake, and the hours worked are not linked at all to the eight hour limit imposed on remunerative work”.

Document - Training and Information (TIP) National Training Advice 2008: Volunteering & DVA Pensions (Distribution of the current Minister for Veterans Affairs decision on the subject)

“Voluntary work for an ex-service organisation does not mean that the person has a capacity to do paid work”. “No Special Rate (T&PI) Pensioner undertaking voluntary work has been affected by action taken by the DVA-confirmed by a review of the department’s records back to July 2005”. “Unpaid work for family, friends or a business enterprise formed for the purposes of making a profit is not classified as voluntary work”. “Where a person has been reviewed both medically and undertaken a rehabilitation assessment and is subsequently seen as capable of undertaking paid work, a decision to undertake voluntary work in lieu of paid work is not seen as a way of diminishing the intent of the rehabilitation process or as a way of preserving incapacity payments”.

Document - Repatriation Commissioner Feb 2009: Voluntary work under the VEA, SRCA and

MRCA

“DVA regards voluntary work in the same way for all three Acts it administers”. “DVA encourages veterans and members of the ex-service community to volunteer to assist community or welfare groups”.

The department position is clear: A person in receipt of Special Rate (T&PI) payments may engage in voluntary work. Restrictions do apply to the amount of paid work a recipient of Special Rate (T&PI) Payments may undertake.

Peter Bright

Secretary Victorian State Branch (VVAA) (03) 9747 8125 0438 597 932 secretary@vvaavic.org.au

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No 37 SQN was formed on 15th July 1943 and is celebrating its 70th Anniversary on Friday 19th July 2013. The squadron now operates 12 x C130J-30 aircraft, a vast techno-logical advance on the C130E aircraft operated between 1966 and 2000. The squadron function comprises:

1100 or 1300 hrs – Squadron Parade. Evening – 37Sqn 70th Anniversary and Mid-Year Function,

Australian Brewery – Rouse Hill. The CO, WGCDR Darren Goldie, has extended an invitation to all of our ‘Eric in the Loadmasters Room’ attendees.

Cost: 37 Squadron social club members plus partner, free. Non-members - $80.00 per person.

As an adjunct to the official squadron function, all past C130E aircrew and maintenance personnel are invited to:

'Eric in the Loadmaster's Room’ at the Windsor RSL 37 Squadron Aircrew and Maintainers celebrating

the squadron's 70th Anniversary.

1600hrs Friday 19th July 2013

Function Timings and Locations

1130hrs – BBQ Lunch at Sergeants' Mess. 1300hrs – Tour of No 37 Squadron Headquarters. 1400hrs - Display of C130J-30 (includes power-up

displays on the flight deck). C130E A97-167 will be open for inspection. 1600hrs ‘til late - Windsor RSL.

The purpose of the function is to provide a venue for former C130E Pilots, Navigators, Flight Engineers, Loadmasters and Maintenance Personnel to gather and reminisce before the memories of our 'E' model exploits are forever lost into the annals of history.

More information about the reunion is available from the Airman Aircrew website on:-

http://www.airmanaircrew.com/htm/homepage_02.html

If you are interested in attending the function, please contact Col Coyne on:-

colcoyne49@bigpond.com.

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2013 SWAC Dates For Your Diary

Opening date - Monday 1 April 2013

Closing date - Wednesday 31 July 2013

Delivery of entries - 9 to 13 September 2013, between 10am – 3pm

Would you like to know more about the RAAF’s Caribous?

Then connect to the following link:

http://www.cariboucargo.com.au/44/peek-a-bou.html

and read until your heart’s content.

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LUSCOMBE BOWL - THE CONCERT STAGE - AT NUI DAT

Until now, the history of the Luscombe Bowl has never been recorded, its importance almost forgotten. With the help of veterans all over Australia, I have been able to piece together the story of the Luscombe Bowl for the Vietnam Veterans Commemorative Walk here in Seymour, and I'd like to take this opportunity to thank every one of those veterans for assisting me so enthusiastically with their information, memories and photos. I could not have achieved this without you. Please share it, add to it, and never let the history be lost again.

Cheers, Carolynne Burgess

VIETNAM VETERANS COMMEMORATIVE WALK,

High Street, Seymour, Victoria, Australia www.vietnamvetswalk.org.au

A replica of the Luscombe Bowl was completed in March 2011 as part of Stage One of the Vietnam Veterans Commemorative Walk in Seymour. In wanting to find out more about The Bowl, I discovered that its history hadn't been recorded. And so the search for information began....

EXCAVATION OF THE LUSCOMBE BOWL AMPHITHEATRE

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Luscombe Airfield was constructed in 1966, with allowance being made for an over-run at the eastern end which could later be converted to extra runway, should it be required. The airfield was named after Captain Bryan Luscombe (RAA), who was one of the early post WWII Army aviators. He was killed in action in Korea on 5 June 1952 whilst flying an air observation post mission as a member of 1903 (Indep) Air Op Flight - RAF.

In the first half of 1967, the plant operators of 21 Engineer Support Troop, attached to 1 Field Squadron, RAE, excavated the eastern end of Luscombe Airfield to create a massive amphitheatre which was to be used as an aircraft over-run and turning circle. Under orders from Task Force HQ, Maj Brian Florence, OC of 1 Field Squadron, had the amphitheatre enlarged during the excavation to allow for the building of a concert stage on its southern perimeter, and requested that the embankment be specifically shaped in order to accommodate an audience of more than 1,000 troops. 1 Field Squadron's diaries note the airfield over-run as being 100% completed on 23 July 1967. The amphitheatre soon came to be known as Luscombe Bowl.

BUILDING OF THE LUSCOMBE BOWL STAGE

During April/May 1967 Capt Graeme Hellyer, Florence's 2IC and a qualified engineer, did the structural design for the stage then handed this on to Sapper Jim Collett, a qualified architectural designer and draftsman, to produce the working drawings for the construction of the stage. (Hellyer was never to see the stage completed - he was severely injured in a helicopter accident on 2 June 1967 and medevaced home to Australia.) Under the supervision of S/Sgt "Darby" Munro, 9 and 10 Troops of 17 Construction Squadron, as well as tradesmen from 1 Field Squadron when available from operational duties, began building the concert stage in late July 1967, with the pine and oregon timbers being supplied by the US Military. 1 Field Squadron's diaries first mention the stage in their work sheets on 27 July 1967 as "Concert Stage 5%" (complete)”.

"... the construction was boxed beamed portal frame at the front with boxed beams spanning from rear to front. Timber purlins went across the beams to take the corrugated iron sheeting. The intermediate wall gave mid-span support to the beams."

Fred Abbot, 9 Tp, 17 Const Sqn

The frame was then lined with ply, weatherboards used to finish the exterior, and the stage floorboards polished until they shone like mirrors.

"... I remember standing on the roof of the stage when two gunships 'buzzed' us. We nearly fell off the roof in fright."

Alan Rothwell, 17 Const Sqn

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"The stage took awhile to build", Peter Allen recalls. "We had many other jobs to complete during that time at the Dat". Alan Rothwell also remembers the stage being low priority, to be used as a "filler" when other jobs couldn't be carried out.

Brian Florence recalls that the entertainers had certain requirements for their acts: special lighting and some other amenities had to be flown out from Australia via the Engineers in Vung Tau, in order to put the finishing touches to the Luscombe Bowl concert stage. As a result, it took almost eight weeks to build the stage, with 1 Field Squadron's diaries recording it completed on 18 September 1967. The water tank and toilet facility were added at a later date.

The concert stage very quickly came to be named after the Luscombe Bowl amphitheatre in which it resided, although the troops promptly nick-named it "The Dust Bowl" due to the thick red clay dust which blanketed the area during summer.

The first concert was held on the stage the very next month – October 1967.

THE ENTERTAINERS

Hundreds of Australian entertainers volunteered to go to South Vietnam and they brought a few hours of normality, and a taste of home, to our troops. Although the entertainers received security, transport and basic accommodation, their time in Vietnam could be very difficult. Conditions were often dirty and uncomfortable, the humidity rotted their clothes and equipment and the pace was arduous, with several performances each day interspersed with long trips by road or air. In addition, travel orders had to be correct and were rigidly enforced by the Vietnamese Military Police, who were in charge of all civil matters. The concerts, however, were greatly appreciated by the troops, giving them badly needed respite from the stresses of war. They could be sure to see a variety of acts, including bands, dancing girls, comedians, jugglers and singers.

Prior to the building of the Luscombe Bowl stage, most concerts at Nui Dat were held on the back of flatbed trucks or on a canvas-covered, impromptu stages. A number of Col Joye/Little Patti concerts were held on the 18th August 1966 when the Battle of Long Tan took place. Adrian Roberts, OC of 3 Tp, 1APC Squadron at the time, recalls:

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"... heavy artillery fire beginning just to the right, and almost over the top of, the troops in the concert audience". He then slipped away to find out what was going on. He remembers having to pull his men away from the concert when he was ordered to pick up A Coy, 6RAR in his APCs and go to the aid of D Coy, 6RAR on the battlefield.

Some of the other famous performers of the time include Johnny O'Keefe, the ABC Show Band and

Dinah Lee. A couple of the more popular songs with the troops were 'These Boots Were Made for

Walking' and 'We Gotta Get Outta This Place', and Lorrae Desmond was well-known for her soulful

rendition of 'Leaving On A Jet Plane'. The entertainers also made time to give small, intimate

performances to the sick and injured in the hospitals.

"One of the interesting things I remember about The Bowl was that everyone took a chair... and their rifle!"

Gordon Taylor, 104 Sig Sqn, 1968

OTHER USES OF THE LUSCOMBE BOWL

Luscombe Bowl also served other purposes, as well. It was used for the awarding of military medals and citations at the end of tours, and many veterans have memories of Christmas Mass held at the Luscombe Bowl by the Task Force Chaplains. Vin "Jerry" Neale remembers Christmas '69 when hundreds of men attended, weapon in one hand, folding chair in the other and a couple of cold ones, as well.

"What a sight! There were drunken diggers all over the stage and all around the altar (... taking communion). Some were serious in their befuddled intent, and others just following the crowd. But it was all goodhearted...the Spirit of Christmas in all its forms was in ample supply."

Luscombe Bowl, the concerts, the entertainers... hold wonderful memories for Vietnam Veterans. By their very presence, the entertainers lifted the morale of the Australian troops and reminded them that they were supported by their families and friends back home.

The photo above shows just a small part of the 80 metre long, 6 feet high, double-sided curving digi-glass wall which showcases a photographic history of the Vietnam War along with the name of every Australian veteran who served in Vietnam. The Wall is framed by trees and gardens representative of rubber plantations and rice paddies, with winding paths and various interesting artefacts and storyboards throughout.

We'd love to have you visit!

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HEALTH and WELFARE

Lifestyle Choices and Healthy Ageing - the Evidence

Like most western world countries Australia's population may be described as "ageing". Australians are living longer and birth rates have declined. With this increase in the country's median age, comes an increase in morbidity and disability. Australians are living for longer but not necessarily in a state of health and wellbeing. Ninety-nine percent of Australians aged fifty-five years and over report living with a long-term health condition. Health-related disabilities become more severe and profound with age, and chronic disease is the major contributing factor to mortality in this country.

While modern medicine has contributed significantly to the longer life expectancy of Australians in the 21st century, it is limited in its capacity to effectively manage chronic health conditions, and contributes only minimally to the prevention of chronic diseases. Furthermore it is expensive and by 2040 ageing alone will increase Government health expenditure by twenty-five percent.

Approximately seventy-five percent of national health care costs are for the management of chronic disease and seventy percent of chronic diseases are lifestyle-related and can be prevented by lifestyle modification. One of the six principles of naturopathic medicine is Prevention. The prevention of disease and illness and the attainment of optimal health in patients are primary objectives of naturopathic practice. In practice, these objectives are accomplished through education and the promotion of healthy lifestyle choices.

Modification of lifestyle is the most effective and cost-efficient approach to preventing and managing chronic disease, and the evidence is there to prove it.

Lifestyle medicine addresses the aspects of our lives that affect vitality, wellbeing and health, the factors that ultimately increase or decrease our risk of chronic disease. The most influential lifestyle factors on our health are those that we make choices on each and every day. They include food and diet, physical activity, sleep and rest, interaction with the natural environment, positive psychology and mindfulness. There is a substantial and increasing body of evidence that demonstrates the health benefits of making positive and healthy choices in relation to these lifestyle factors.

Ageing isn't something that begins when we turn sixty. Who we become in our later years is determined by the choices we make throughout our whole life - how we manage our life - physically, emotionally, intellectually, socially & spiritually. The day-to-day choices we make influence whether we maintain wellness and vitality as we age or develop life-shortening illnesses and disabling conditions like heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and stroke. Evidence is also showing that it’s never too late to influence the quality of our life as we age. Even if we've made poor choices throughout most of our life, changing our habits through positive lifestyle choices can still significantly influence our prospects for the future.

It’s not just a matter of playing the genetic cards you are dealt. We have the power to shape our own lives. The reality is a much more optimistic scenario than if it were just a matter of picking the right parents.

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SECRETARY'S SNIPPETS

Hi all,

Once again a limited edition due to the massive volume that Newsletter Ed is now putting in to this publication.

ANZAC Day was, for a change, a great weather day so many turned out to join us, some 60 odd marched and some 70 odd ventured to Orient East for a buffet lunch. Hopefully the works around the Shrine will be completed by next year and we won’t have to do a compass swing around Domain Road again. Compliments to Orient East for a magnificent buffet lunch!

Pictured below are Dan Nebauer and John Smith, surveying the scene prior to partaking in the lunch. It was also good to see some of the Air Force Association members joining us although some did struggle with the route march to the lunch venue.

A reminder to all members if any of your details change, i.e. email address or you are heading off on a grey nomads tour please let us know. Newsletter, emails and phone calls are the only way that we know that things are ok in your camp, so please keep us informed. Regards,

Rick Holmes Secretary

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THE PADRE’S PAGE

THE CHRISTIAN’S PROMISE

The 1989 Armenian earthquake needed only four

minutes to flatten the nation and kill thirty thousand

people. Moments after the deadly tremor ceased, a

father raced to an elementary school to save his son.

When he arrived, he saw that the building had been

levelled. Looking at the mass of stones and rubble,

he remembered a promise he had made to his child:

“No matter what happens, I’ll always be there for

you.” Driven by his own promise, he found the area

closest to his son’s room and began to pull back the

rocks. Other parents arrived and began sobbing for

their children. “It’s too late”, they told the man.

“You know they are dead. You can’t help.” Even

a police officer encouraged him to give up.

But the father refused. For eight hours, then sixteen,

then thirty-two, thirty-six hours he dug. His hands

were raw and energy gone, but he refused to quit.

Finally, after thirty-eight wrenching hours, he pulled

back a boulder and heard his son’s voice. He called

his boy’s name, “Arman! Arman!” And a voice

answered him, “Dad, it’s me!” Then the boy added

these priceless words, “I told the other kids not to

worry. I told them if you were alive, you’d save

me, and when you saved me, they’d be saved too.

Because you promised, “No matter what, I’ll always

be there for you.”

God has made the same promise to us. “I will come

back.....” He assures us. Yes, the rocks wil tumble.

Yes, the ground will shake. But the child of God needn’t fear – for the Father has promised

to take us to be with Him.

We have all lost a good friend in “Snow” Coughlan, CGM. We extend our love and

sympathy to his wife Gill, and family, Colleen, Teresa and Michelle, assuring them of our

prayers for God’s comfort and support at this time.

God bless you and your family.

As ever,

George G.

(Rev) George G. Ashworth, OAM

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VALE

WE WILL REMEMBER THEM

RAAF VVA FOUNDING MEMBER and AFA VV BRANCH MEMBER

Served No 9 Squadron Vietnam – Apr 67 to Apr 68

LEST WE FORGET

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ON THE LIGHTER SiDE

Now ‘ear this!

A young Pilot Officer was severely wounded in the head when flak burst beside his cockpit,

during an air raid, but the only visible, permanent injury was that both his ears were

amputated. Since his remaining hearing was sufficient, he was able to stay in the Air Force.

Many years later he eventually rose to the rank of Air Commodore. He remained, however,

very sensitive about his appearance. One day the officer was interviewing three servicemen

who were candidates for a position on his headquarters staff.

The first was an Army Captain, an Infantry Officer, and it was a great interview. At the end

of the interview the Air Commodore asked him, 'Do you notice anything different about me?'

The young officer answered, 'Why, yes, Sir, I could not help but notice that you have no

ears.' The Air Commodore was displeased with his lack of tact and threw him out.

The second interview was with a Navy Lieutenant, and his interview was even better. The

Air Commodore finally asked him the same question, 'Do you notice anything different about

me?' The Lieutenant replied sheepishly, 'Well, sir, you have no ears.' The Air Commodore

threw him out also.

The third interview was with a long serving, staff trained RAAF WOE. He was smart,

articulate, fit, looked sharp, and seemed to know more than the two officers combined.

The Air Commodore liked this guy, and went ahead with the same question, 'Do you notice

anything different about me?' To his surprise the Warrant Officer said, 'Yes, sir, you wear

contact lenses. ‘ The officer was very impressed and thought, 'What an incredibly observant

man, and he didn't mention my ears.' He asked, 'Warrant, how do you know I wear contacts?'

'Well sir,' he replied, 'it's pretty hard to wear glasses when you haven’t got any ears!'

The Haircut

A teenage boy had just passed his driving test and inquired of his father as to when they

could discuss his use of the car. His father said he'd make a deal with his son, "You bring

your grades up from a C to a B average, study your Bible a little, and get your hair cut. Then

we'll talk about the car”.

The boy thought about that for a moment, decided he'd settle for the offer, and they

agreed on it. After about six weeks his father said, "Son, you've brought your grades up and

I've observed that you have been studying your Bible, but I'm a bit disappointed you haven't

had your hair cut."

The boy said, "You know, Dad, I've been thinking about that, and I've

noticed in my studies of the Bible that Samson had long hair, John

the Baptist had long hair, Moses had long hair, and there's even

strong evidence that Jesus had long hair."

"Did you also notice they all walked everywhere they went?"

29

Pearls of Wisdom - from an Irishman!

Here's something to think about..................

I recently picked a new G.P. doctor. After two visits and exhaustive tests, he said I was

doing 'fairly well' for my age. (I've just reached 65). A little concerned about that comment, I couldn't resist asking him, 'Do you think I'll live to

be 85?' He asked, 'Do you smoke tobacco, or drink beer, wine or spirits? 'Oh not much beer these days and I don't smoke' I replied. 'I'm not doing drugs, either!' Then he asked, 'Do you eat rib-eye steaks, fatty roasts or

barbecued Ribs? I said, 'Not much.... my former doctor

said that all red meat is very unhealthy!'

'Do you spend a lot of time in the sun, like playing golf,

boating, sailing, surfing, hiking, or bicycling?' 'No, I

don't,' I said.

He asked, 'Do you gamble, drive fast cars, or have a lots

of sex?' 'No,' I said. He looked at me and said........

'Then, why the Hell do you want to live to 85?

30

TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATIONS TO VIETNAM VETERANS ASSOCIATION

VICTORIAN BRANCH INC. AND AIR FORCE ASSOCIATION VICTORIA

WELFARE PATRIOTIC FUNDS

DONATIONS

Donations made by members of the RAAF VVAA Victoria Sub-Branch or the Vietnam Veterans

Branch of the Air Force Association Victoria are tax deductible. Donations made to either

Association Sub-Branch/Branch must indicate the gift is specifically for welfare. (Renewal

membership forms allow members to note their donation is for this purpose).

Donations received on this basis must be used for the welfare and support of veterans, and receipts

will be issued for all donations over $2.00 received. All money gifted for welfare purposes is

welfare/veteran support directed, with your Associations and State Government accounting

requirements strictly adhered to, and subject to annual audit.

If you wish to adopt either/both Associations as your family charity, just make your cheque

donation payable to the preferred Welfare Patriotic Fund. For the RAAF VVAA Sub-Branch,

forward your cheque to the Sub-Branch Treasurer. For the AFA Vietnam Veterans Branch,

forward the cheque direct to the Association Office Manager, PO Box 1038, Hawthorn BC, Vic

3122. Your tax-deductible receipt will then be promptly returned. Remember, even the smallest

donation is appreciated.

BEQUESTS AND LEGACIES

Making a Will is recommended, and is good asset planning. It provides you and those for whom

you care with financial peace of mind, ensuring security for your family, and enables bequests to be

made to Charities/Associations representing your on-going interests.

Bequests and Legacies are gifts of specified identified possessions or specified amounts of money

gifted to an individual, group of people, or a charitable Organization or Association. Please

consider the Vietnam Veterans Branch or Sub-Branch of your member Association as a preferred

charity. Remember, it is possible that at some future time assistance sought from your Association

will be for the benefit of yourself or your family.

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VVCS - VETERANS and VETERANS FAMILIES COUNSELLING SERVICE

(A Service Founded by the Vietnam Veterans) Normal Hours: 8640 8700

Crisis Line (after hours) 1800 011 046

DVA VICTORIA

Normal Hours: 133 254

Country/Regional: 1800 555 254 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In Hospital or Convalescing at Home? Like us to know about it and/or have someone to visit to assist or just chat? Name:…………………………………………………………………………………..….................. Address:……………………………………………………………………………………................ Preferred Contact details:……..………………………………………………………….................

Post or Email your request to the Secretary or give him a call on 9317 7304 and we will try

and arrange a visit on your behalf.