In the Anzac Spirit' vividly describes the conditions under which 4RAR/NZ fought, and demonstarted the co-operation received from the other arms and forces involved in the war.
Few books have so successfully described the constant routine of patrolling, ambushing and endless contacts undertaken by the ordinary infantryman.
Written by Brian Avery, who served with 1RAR and 3RAR in Malaya, 4RAR in Borneo, and commanded 4RAR/NZ Mortar Platoon in Vietnam. The constant themes of the book are the military skills, endurance, and gallantry of the Diggers and Kiwi soldiers as they tracked down and fought a determined Viet Cong foe in Phuoc Tuy province.
Contains many photos and maps illustrating the campaign, plus a full Nominal Roll of those men who served with 4RAR during the Battalion's first tour in Vietnam. The excellent and realistic descriptions in this book on operations in South Vietname make compelling reading. The author takes the reader into every aspect of each operation so that the reader feels the reality of war.
Contents:
Foreword by Brigadier the Hon. David Thomson
Glossary
Preface
1. The Long Night to Nui Dat
2. Training Prior to Departure
3. The ANZAC Battalion Concept
4. Embarkation
5. A Background to Operating in Phuoc Tuy Province
6. Settling in at Nui Dat
7. Operation Toan Thang II (Final Victory)
8. Operation Merino: 18-25 July 1968
9. Operation Lyrebird: 1 August-4 September 1968
10. Operation Innamincka: 7-12 September 1968 and Operation Hawkesbury: 12-24 September 1968
11. Operation Capital: 13 October-30 November 1968
12. Operation Goodwood: 11 December 1968-19 February 1969
13. Operation Federal: 19 February-24 March 1969
14. Operation Overlander: 8-17 April 1969 and Operation Stafford: 17 April-1 May 1969
15. Winding Down: May 1969
Poem 'I Was There' by C.C. Thompson
Appendix 1. Roll of Honour
Appendix 2. Honours and Awards
Appendix 3. Nominal Roll
End Notes
Acknowledgments and Bibliography
Index
