As an a US combat vet (88-10) this song hits hard in so many ways. While I was not in Vietnam, the men that trained me were the survivors of that place. I have not forgotten what those men taught men, for the time when when my own life was changed by the horror of combat. To my brothers from that war, please do hesitate to reach out. We are here. We will listen. We want you to stay with us. We need you to teach us. There will always be more that have to hear what we have to say.
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old; Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them. Lest We Forget
Hi veterans. My uncle was a 17 year old Aboriginal Ward of the State. When he ran away from the boys home, the Australian government gave him 3 choices. Back to the boys home, jail, or Vietnam. He chose Vietnam. He is now 76 years old, a very strong willed man. As much as I don't like or respect war. I love and respect his story. Much love and respect to you all.
No Australian Federal (or State) Govt. has the Constitutional power or right, to tell a person that they have to go to war or to jail. Especially not at the age of 17. The age of Conscription in Australia was 19. I was a 'Ward Of The State' also, though I am not Aboriginal. I spent 8 years in the Salvation Army Boys' Home, at Indooroopilly, Brisbane, from the age of 8 until I was 16 (1956 - 1964). At the age of 17 I joined the Australian Regular Army, for six years, to get an adult wage. I ended up doing two tours of Vietnam, as an Infantry soldier, in 3RAR. I hope your uncle is doing well, but no government could force him to go to Vietnam. Once he was in the Army however, the Army could post him to wherever they wanted to.
Oops! Sorry, my mistake. The age of conscription in Australia for the Vietnam War was 20, not 19. as I stated in my previous comment. I knew better than that. I don't know why I wrote '19'. It won't happen again. Dennis Moore.
@@dennismoore1134 Dennis, I turned 18 in Jan 1972 and I remember being aware that the next year when I was 19 that I was ging to be included in the conscription draft. Then Labor won the Federal election in Nov 1972 and Gough Whitlam abolished the draft and officially declared our withdrawal from Vietnam. I just remember that I was so young that I has zero understanding of what it might have meant for me, none whatsoever. Years later, when did finally realise what it could have meant for me, I was angry and also felt so sad that so many people had to endure just because of a date of birth.
My father was a man's man, he was a bricklayer and a hard drinker and in his youth, a fighter. My mother came home one day and he was standing in the kitchen crying, she ran to him and cuddled him asking what's wrong, what's happened because clearly something terrible must have occurred for him to be in such a state. His response... I don't know. He felt sick inside and didn't know what it was, it took years for him to get help here, and he was one of the first soldiers in Australia to get a TPI pension and gold card. I'm so proud that he was willing to say something is wrong, when men were seen as weak for speaking out, his strength led the way for other's to say they needed help too.
I thank your father for a service. It does take a real man to admit that you need help. I’m glad that he is getting help now. And thank you for sharing.
@@marieantoinette1360 he was clearly, to have such a compassionate wife and children. We owe so much to our serving members, whether they see action or not. They are among the very best of us. I worked as a civilian engineer, alongside crews in all services.
As an Aussie I want to thank you for your service. And thank you for your kind and honest reaction to this song. It truly means a lot to all Aussies and kiwis alike. Lest We Forget.
You are welcome and thank you for your support. I will always have Australia in my heart, and my aunt is from New Zealand, so I feel a little connection there as well ❤️❤️
I'm an American Vietnam Veteran who after 9 years US Army with one combat tour (2/502 Inf, 101st Airborne Division) left the USA in 1979 and took up "permanent residence" as a teacher in Australia. I ended up with most friends here being Vietnam Veterans. I was at the "Sydney Entertainment Centre" with 7 close Australian Vets when "Red Gum" put on a private show. The people and Government here treated my brothers shamefully. The average life span of an Australian Vietnam Veteran was 57 years of age! I sat with them through the royal commission on Agent Orange in the early 80's. My brothers are now all DEAD, mostly from cancers, I just got lucky as my Doctor caught my cancer right after a blood test and 5 days later I was in treatment. Last week was ANZAC DAY and sadly just home (AGAIN) from the hospital with another medical issue from Dioxin Poison exposure.
airbushken5339, you would certainly understand the lyrics & the heart & meaning behind the words - thoughts & prayers with you as you battle your next medical condition. My parents were relieved when my brother missed the 'ball lottery' for National Service/Conscription, & therefore wasn't sent to Vietnam. Thank you for your service for another country
@@lisajessup6615 I was an Infantry Training NCO at Fort Polk after I graduated Leadership Academy ... the reality (which surprised me) was only 20 something percent of the American Forces in Vietnam were draftees and over 70% volunteered to go. I have many friends from that time who served in the US Military and only one I knew went to combat in VN, beside myself. Sadly, his health is failing do to his exposure to Dioxin (Agent Orange), I've just been lucky ... had to retire from teaching as I'm 100% disabled according to both the Australian and the USA Veterans administrations. You be safe...
I thank you for your service. I appreciate your sharing. I am sorry about your health and the loss of your friends and battle buddies .. Respect and love from South Carolina 🌴💙
@@libatalklieb5793 I'm sorry, my team was on the DMZ and we spent just over 330 days in the jungle, as we had NO BASE CAMP that we worked out of. We would sometimes fly into Camp Eagle for 2 day stand downs; shots, clothing and new gear. There were no Villages, villagers, rice paddies or roads ... just North Vietnamese Regulars crossing into South Vietnam. I only saw civilians on two trips through Hue. I did see the grave sites of the over 2,000 South Vietnamese civilians (men, women and children) the NVA killed during the Tet Offensive for not joining them in their assault. The spraying program "Operation Ranch Hand" was started by JFK in 1961, the same year he started the Peace Corps. Over 400,000 Australian and American solders have died from Dioxin (Agent Orange) related health issues AFTER they came home. As a Sniper and also I walked Point most days, I remember every personal kill, every detail to this day. I just sign myself out of hospital after 4 weeks ... I was wounded in battle and 50 odd years later it was torn open in a fall. The hospital brought back all those memories/nightmares. Thank God I have a caring partner of 30 years who understands.
It's a wonderful song. The young man the song was written about, was my neighbour for 30 years. It's a privilege to have known him. His life has not been easy, what with the physical disabilities he carries not to mention the PTSD, yet he gives and gives to his community and mentors youth with grace and understanding. A wonderful human-being!
Frank Hunt (Frankie in the song) was my public speaking teacher when I was a high school kid in the 80's. He seemed to be a beautiful soul - always giving to the community and striving to make our little town a better place. I think he is still around. Knowing this song was about him gave me enough context to learn some empathy and respect - which was not easy for teenage me to do. It helped me respect soldiers and understand the shit they our governments' put them through. They were literally kids. And so many of them were conscripted. They had no choice. This song has a huge impact - across generations. It builds empathy and understanding.
I played this song for my dad in 2010. He is an American WWII vet. He was silent, both during the song and afterward. He had tears in his eyes and thanked me for it. He never spoke another word about it since.
Thank you for preparing this video. I was an Australian soldier, and I appreciate your comments. With our New Zealand Brothers and Sisters, we continue to consider and respect troops from the USA as great friends; God bless you.
It's funny that in the U.S., we only think that the only vets in the world are here. It's not true...they are everywhere in the US, and the U.S. has been at war. It's called NATO...
My dad was in The Battle of Long Tan 18 Aug 1966 10pl DCoy 6RAR . On the 50th Anniversary of the battle I walked the same route D Coy did on the day of the battle , with a tour of kids and Long Tan veterans . As part of our tour we went to the area from this song where Frankie kicked a mine and stood there while it played , We were all silent and this song was so emotional for me before brings me to tears , now its on a whole new level . This song is so important in Australia. 18th August is now known in Australia as Vietnam Veterans Day , Please thank a Vietnam Veteran on that day ,god knows they didn't get it back then. Vietnam Veterans Daughter and damn proud of it. Lest We Forget
Im ex army too, but hate American government, they should be compensating our vets for the agent orange. America are quick to call war crimes on any country, but don't own up to their own war crimes. The definition of a bully. Wake up America u start wars then claim ur the saviour. U guys are absolute rats.
My Dad grew up in Nazi occupied Paris then as an adult came to Australia and joined the army. He was deployed to Korea and then Malaya. This song allways makes me cry, I think of my Dad.
This right here is why Anzac Day is so important- an annual reminder for all of us to never forget. This song reminds us whenever we hear it, and does the same vital job as Anzac Day does.
Thank you for sharing your experience. This song had been part of my life and will always be a song that represents the pain still being felt by all our veterans. Thank you every one of you for your service. Without you we., The rest of the world would not have survived
@@Tully_23_32 are you serious???? They are trying to get rid of ANZAC day?? What steps are they taking to do that? Do you think they really might have a chance of it happening? 🤯🤯🤯
Please be reminded that it is ARMY and not Army They sound the same but they are used in different contexts ARMY is MILITARY Army is is non-military group of people working together for a cause - such as The Salvation Army / an Army of workers. And it takes an AIR FORCE PILOT with a Law degree to teach it to you In the same way AIR FORCE is MILITARY Air Force is what comes out of your hair dryer All CORPORATE legal names including Vessels ( SHIPS) have the name in the ALL CAPS iteration The word CORPORATION derives from the Latin ' CORPUS ' meaning CORPSE - DEAD - BODY it is from there we also derive the term BODY CORPORATE CORPORATIONS are DEAD ENTITIES that have ' Legal Status ' The ARMY word CORPS is also related to that Pronouncing it are Core is a deliberate deception In any case - I cannot teach you Law in five minutes - no more than I could teach you to fly jet aircraft - it takes quite a few years - minimum five years. Now explain in your essay - why do you often see a name that sounds like yours - except that it is written in ALL CAPS - and under what conditions is it written as such - and other times it is written in Mixed case Letters -- It all began in the year 1302 - being further expanded in the late 15th Century - and passed into WESTMINSTER Law - in 1666 - during the False Flag Attack what was the Great Fire of London -when the Law was rushed through Parliament. It now stands as UCC - Uniform Commercial Code
@@andrew_koala2974 You're wrong. Etymology. From (1386) Middle English armee, borrowed from Old French armee (cf. modern French armée), from Medieval Latin armāta (“armed force”), a noun taken from the past participle of Latin armāre (“to arm”), itself related to arma (“tools, arms”), from Proto-Indo-European *h₂er- (“to join, fit together”).
@@smeary10 Actually you are incorrect You have yet to learn correct grammatical Legal English Study Law as I have and you will be better educated. The Etymology. is irrelevant What is relevant is the way that it is written - The way many of these words are written became relevant in the late 15th century as a result of one fundamental aspect - and that is ' commerce ' in respect to Law and vice-versa Tell me : How many types of English are there ? I am assuming that you understand the question To become aware - one must first learn to pay attention to detail. Start doing that first. Make sure your brain sees exactly what your eyes are looking at.
@@andrew_koala2974 The moment you refer to your qualifications in a debate as to the reason why you are correct, you've just lost. I've served as an officer in the Australian Regular Army. That is how it is spelt and printed on everything except hardware like choppers where the single word ARMY is in capitals. I should know -0 I flew them. Capitals are used on the side of aircraft for a reason and are aesthetically pleasing to the eye. They also project strength and boldness of a country and its armed forces. That is where it ends. I don't give two fucks about your law degree, boy. Go and get shot at and then come back see me. Until then, good day to you and your attitude and please, please go and annoy someone else.
As a vet, that song tears my guts out everytime I hear it. John Schumann is an incredible human being, it's not just his work with the Veteran community, but also the farming community. 2015 we had massive bushfires around here, 2 lives lost, hundreds of homes destroyed, 1000's of acres of farmland destroyed, the district was devastated. A week later Schumann and his band were on a flat bed trailer, performing at the local football ground, it was an opportunity for the whole community to get together and talk about what we'd been through. He played that song, of course he played that song, he had to didn't he. Many tears were shed, but thanks to John our sense of community was never stronger, 320 people in the town, more like a really extended family. I salute you, you're doing good work.
Thank you so much for sharing. John seems like he is an incredible human being. I think he used to be a music teacher for high school many years ago actually. Love and respect from South Carolina 🌴💙🙏
I’m Australian and this song always brings me to tears. The Aussie accent and spirit shines through. The other song that has this affect on me is “And The Band Played Waltzing Matilda”, which about our soldiers at Gallipoli in WW1 and the devastation that they suffered. It was there that the term ANZAC was coined. It is the ANZAC legend that Redgum refers to in “I Was Only 19”.
If you listen to "and the band played waltzing matilda" make sure you have some tissues close by you. It hits hard. "waltzing matilda" is a song about a man who sleeps in a swag and moves around the outback of Australia.. In the old days if you were going "waltzing matilda" it meant you were one of many farm hands going from place to place looking for work (walking, often for days). The number of men looking for work would increase in the drought years and during the great depression. Often they were paid with just enough food to move to the next farm and would follow the harvest work around (waltzing) and their swag got the nickname "matilda" for some reason. Waltzing matilda has become to symbolise "going bush", escaping the city life and government controls, living off the land, etc. Many returning veterans of the earlier wars were given a piece of land to live on called "a soldiers block/lot". Most soldiers blocks were mapped out by government officials that had never seen the land, many were not able to be farmed so the soldiers became homeless and had to travel to get enough food. Whhen we look back at the "help" that has been offered to veterans it is most often a shameful attempt to support them. We have had soo much talk about what needs to be done but nothing is actually done. We lose veterans every week from injuries, ptsd or self harm. We as a society, as a world need to honour our veterans with less words, more helpful actions. One of my mates was injured years ago. He is still having operations and waiting for more operations and treatment to help with injuries sustained in his service. Red tape, political points and "value for money" seem to be more important than helping people who could to return to work. Every year so much money is spent celebrating ANZAC DAY and remembrance day, etc but our veterans are left to suffer. It's not good enough. Blessings from South Eastern Australia, Dot
@@JustAnotherArmyVet Dot is a nickname if I am not mistaken. It's a shortened version of Dorothy. Forgive me @dotcassilles1488 for jumping in, if I am incorrect I do apologise. Your recommendation of And the Band Played Waltzing Matilda was one I was going to add myself. I always cry when I hear it. John Williamson playing Waltzing Matilda on the harmonica in his live version adds another layer to the song too. :)
The Australian Government and the civilians owe the Vietnam vets a huge apology. They were heroes and legends. Remember, the government made them go, it was not their choice!
they did not deserve how they were treated and know that public stands with them! i and all us fellows owe our freedom to those brothers! know they will never be forgotten! we stand with them for eternity!!
My grandpa was a Scottish immigrant who served as an Aussie soldier in Tobruk, New Guinea, etc, in WWII and rarely spoke of it, but when he did, it was horrifying and immeasurably sad. Said the happiest day of his life was when his youngest son (my uncle) failed the medical to go to Vietnam. We/Australia used a Birth-date Lottery system for drafting soldiers and my uncle was chosen. Never found out why he failed the medical but Pops said he didn't care why, he just rejoiced. Thankyou for your service.
Well they actually did have a choice - conscious objector springs to mind; bugger off to Timbuktu or elsewhere; medical. But I suspect they feared being labelled with cowardice more than the trials and tribulations that awaited them. This is not a judgement on those who served or those who chose not to.
I cry everytime I hear this. Message to all veterans: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is a normal reaction to an extraordinary situation. Talk to someone. We all care
My brother-in-law [ BIL ] suffered from PTSD for many years - and after serving in the ARMY for 12 years - he found it difficult to settle into a civilian work environment. MILITARY life is a life within a Life
congratulations on your beautiful, honest emotional response to our important cultural song, i'm glad you've had the opportunity to listen to it on our commemorative day
After half a century - this song still tugs the heart strings and brings a tear to my eyes --- Some experiences cannot be forgotten. and no thanks to that sex-edict - womanizer - traitor LBJ
Aussie ex-serviceman here. Didn't go to war or serve overseas. This song tears me up .. every time. Just like now. Thank you for your meaningful comments and thank you for your service.
My father was an Australian combat vet in Vietnam. I served 6 years, and my son is on a submarine right now. I live in Townsville, just a few minutes walk from Flinders Street, where "Townsville lined the footpath as we marched down to the quay". I can never walk along that stretch of road without taking off my hat and sending a silent prayer of thanks into the air. Lest we forget.
We have just had ANZAC Day in Australia and there is another song that was written for our returned soldiers called “ The Band Played Waltzing Matilda” it really rips at the heart strings. My family has a long history of military service and I’m grateful for what all service men and women sacrifice for their country. Thanks for showing this clip.🦋🙏🇦🇺
I'm a Desert Shield and Desert Storm vet. I had symptoms of what we now call Gulf War Syndrome. In the beginning, we were all told our symptoms and subsequent chronic medical issues were "in our heads" , all psychological. It's frightening how the suits in office truly believe they know how it is and what veterans need and don't need. Thank God we do have more veterans in office who are trying to be advocates for their brothers and sisters in arms. Thank you for doing this and sharing. I'm an Army Nurse and have nothing but respect for my medics. This is important stuff you're doing.
Thank you so much for commenting and for your support ma’am. I’m imagining that you’re close to retirement? But yes, I remember watching the war on tv when I was a kid. And I do remember the news coverage on Gulf War Syndrome. I feel like that could’ve been a perfect topic to actually bring up in this video. It just slipped my mind…Does the US government and the VA now recognize GWS?
My partner was in that unit. He and Jake were best mates. I can see the shared trauma expressed. It's important for you to know that you did your very best under that particular circumstance. And it is my hope that I can connect you to some of these Aussie soldiers from that unit. ❤
Aussie here. Thank you. That and a song from cold chisel called khe sahn are both songs that make you stop and think. I was in the navy. I also worked for John Shuey Shuman. He was a great guy, and not shy of playing "I was only 19" for people in a bar, as we sang along loudly and cried proudly.
@@josephrourke4669 thanks for sharing. He seems like he’s amazing man. I’ve yet to listen to Khe San, but it is on my list. Thank you so much for your support. 💙
@@JustAnotherArmyVet Another call out for Cold Chisel's Khe Sanh. It's more up-tempo, but very much also captures the difficulties a lot of Vietnam vets went through when they came home.
Thank you mate, for recognition of our efforts and history forgotten by America despite the fact we were gave our lives and alliance for America in every war. LEST WE FORGET
"Their duty was to serve. Our duty is to remember them." Dad was NZ Artillery in the Pacific, in support of the Marines. Recently found out I have a Grand Uncle who died at Gallipoli. Both this song and "The Band Payed Waltzing Matilda", by Eric Bogle, stir the emotions like nothing else. The ANZAC Parade, April 25th, is as well-attended, here in NZ, now as ever. Many of the kids and grand-kids of vets show up 0600hrs, wearing Grandpa's medals. Your profound, honest reaction resonates strongly with the melancholy that always grips me when the flag lowers and the trumpet sounds "Last Post". Our vets served out of loyalty, duty and courage, yet were sidelined without a thought, by those who sent them. And Australia dished out one of the worst treatments. Is that price too high to pay? Not when brave men and women still deploy today. And we will remember them.
I thank your family for Service. It is a shame how the Vietnam veterans were treated. I really do appreciate you taking the time to type all that. My respect and love from South Carolina!! 🌴💙🙏
@@JustAnotherArmyVet And, as a by-the-way, I was also ten years NZ Air Force. It's an irony to me, that those with the highest discipline, morals, duty and dedication to service are used by those in office with questionable morals, sometimes the lowest ethics and no idea of service but to their own careers. Only vets can care for vets.
My Great grandfather survived the Boer War, Gallipoli but The Somme got him. He was always there to serve his country until his final battle. I can't imagine what he would have had to endure and what sights he saw. I was too young when Vietnam was happening but only by a couple of years. I like to think that I would have been able to do my duty if called upon. To all our vets ANZAC and US, thank you for your service and if you are suffering, please take the therapeutical services offered. This song has helped to enlighten those of us who didn't go through it and at least understand some of the trauma you have experienced. Your homecomings were tainted by the anti-war hippies of the times who gave you bad labels, you were doing the goverments' bidding as expected. ANZACS have a good rep for good reason, they get the job done.
Hi I'm an Australian, I want to say thank you for this video and sharing your shared insights on this. When I first heard this song was actually at school when we were learning about the Vietnam war and I just remember how solemn everyone was. I think it's very important for us to confront how we have treated our veterans in the past and move forward and support past, present and future veterans and their families. ❤ Thank you. Lest We Forget
Fellow Aussie here. Thank you for reviewing this wonderful song that still gives me goosebumps everytime I hear it. I want to thank you for your service and wish you a happy healthy life ❤
Thank you for your beautiful and honest reaction to this heart hitting song. I come from a military family in Australia. My Father was a Nasho (conscript) in Nam in 69/70. His card was pulled on his Birthday. He served in a covert unit in Nui Dat. He has a rash on his left leg. Most likely from agent orange. My Dad was a metallurgist at a steelworks. He had to lie about the war on his return for fear of retribution. The Aussie Vietnam vets didn't get an official welcome home parade until 1987. As a young kid at the time, I couldn't understand why. As an adult, neither could my Mum or her parents of which her Father served as 1st officer in Royal Navy shortly after Pearl Harbor was attacked by JIF. The treatment of our Vietnam Vets was reprehensible and despicable! This song gives clarity, distinction, and above all, vindication.
I served in the Australian Army at that time, and I can say without a doubt what you have said about our Vietnam Vets is absolutely true, they were treated like lepers for many years after, even the RSL refused to regognise their contribution for many years, and in my own way of protest, even though I am eligible to join the RSL, I refuse to do so to this day, because of that treatment. I'm 73 years old, and even to this day this song still reduces me to tears.
My husband is a Vietnam Vet and it took years for the VA to begin to acknowledge the health issues they were experiencing. But we're just grateful that they have. Thank You for your service ❤️🇺🇲
It is the thing that frustrates me the most. I have never served, but can not understand the attitude of sending these kids to war, and not wanting to deal with the human wreckage that comes back
@@glenchapman3899 Having served in the MILITARY for 30 years - a career that began with the RAF - having entered with a private Pilots License since age 16 ( including 2 years on attachment ti the USAF (1974-1976) I look back and wonder where all those years disappeared to ) Time passes rapidly. Many I serve with have already departed this earth.- and it gives me great pain. In the MILITARY I made life-long friends - including some who served with the RN [ ROYAL NAVY ] and AUSTRALIAN NAVY These days I would not recommend anyone to join the MILITARY All wars are bankers Wars - they are commercial enterprises - generating huge profits for the elite rulers and bankers.
My Dad was with 104 Signal Squadron in Vietnam.My Dad wasn""t the same after he got back.Respect for you for serving your Country.My Dad died of Agent Orange Related Lymphoma.He fought till he died to try and get full benefits.I loved my Dad,Im 59.
This song was released in 1983 and is still revelant today. It still has an emotional impact on me today like it did when it was released. I didn't go to Vietnam but I knew guys that did, they were never the same again.
If the Yanks had not covered us in Iraq we would have been toast. I'll never forget their support which was freely given - air support from 82 Abn to just about anywhere,, the CASH and Witchdoctor out of Talil, all the team in Taji and out at Kirkush.
@@robhamilton4373 what year was that? I was deployed to Baghdad in 2005-2006 with the majority of the 10th CSH (Combat Support Hospital). We were called Task Force North. We also had a smaller contingent called Task Force South, who were based out of Talil.
@@JustAnotherArmyVet 06. Moved around alot so I spent a lot of time passing through Bagdhad . Preferred to stay with the other Aussie Inf guys who operated out of FOB Union rather than the shiny bums in the HQ at the Palace :).
@@robhamilton4373 I served with the Diggers that were stationed at the Australian Embassy, which was adjacent to our hospital. We did guard duty with them at our back gate. We shared the ECP 🙂
Before I deployed to Iraq, we marched through the streets of Townsville, that morning, the soul of my boot peeled off, so I asked the Padre and he said, what size are ya Blue? 8 Padre. He said, give me a sec. Bang a new boot right on the spot, that wouldn't happen every day, but it happened for me and when I took the boot, I realised the Padre had given me his boot. They were high shines, like parade boots that we don't have to spit and polish like I used to do. I love this song, love this story and we're still fighting the government to give a shit.
@@JustAnotherArmyVet That would have been 2007, I was a signaller (comms dude) attached to 2 RAR and we were AMTG 3. That's just one experience. Was either 07 or 08, I'm not sure these days lol
Thank you so much for your response to this video and song, I cried with you! I knew a woman who always worked hard but was always rushing to leave! I asked her why the hurry and she said "my husband was badly affected by Agent Orange in Vietnam and so both my children are disabled! I am all they have, so I must hurry home to make sure they are all ok, and also work"! The video is very Australian, I doubt many Americans have heard it, I hope they do too! Bless you! 🤗
@@JustAnotherArmyVet It is important that these things are openly discussed, every story may be unique, but the stressors are the same! An old man may go back to war times during dementia, a young man may self medicate in his room and avoid human contact, another may deflect from their pain by helping others - these are all normal reactions in the animal world! We are able to help each other as humans, and we should, wherever we are! 🙋🙏
Aussie GWOT vet here. It's quite natural to need a moment to collect yourself from this song. I remember the first time hearing it was when our training platoon staff put it on speakers on our last day of basic and it impacted a number of us greatly. Two decades and three warzones later, I'm driving down a country road and this is played on radio, I had to stop the car as the lyrics meant so much more and it was still timeless. There are also a number of references in the song that remain consistent to the Australian Army experience even with soldiers now: - Verse 1: "Mum and Dad and Denny saw the passing out parade at Puckapunyal" and "We did Canungra and Shoalwater before we left" Pucka is a large military training area and is still the location of where Armour and Artillery corps soldiers do their initial employment training (or what you call MOS in the States) after basic. Canungra is still a site for jungle warfare and JNCO training while Shaolwater is a small country sized training area in Queensland for large maneuvers. Actually we train a lot with USMC there. - Verse 1: "The Sixth Battalion was the next to tour, and it was me who drew the card" The Sixth Battalion Royal Australian Regiment (6RAR) is one of the most distinguished infantry battalions in the Australian Army. It earned a Meritorious Unit Citation in the Battle of Long Tan in 1966 and 6RAR distinguished itself again in the heavy fighting decades later in mid-2010 in Afghanistan where in Battle of Derapet, 6RAR was the only unit with a member to earn a Victoria Cross not from a Special Operations Task Group unit. Like in the US, the Vietnam War also killed conscription, so the 'drawing the card' bit can be lost on modern audiences. - Verse 2: "And Townsville lined the footpaths as we marched down to the quay" Townsville in northern Queensland has always been a military town. Many Australian Army soldiers have been based there at one time or another.
Aussie Lady here. Ray was only a child too. He passed from the effects of Agent Orange. The Cancer on his legs was heartbreaking to see worsen .. my daughter developed CRPS ; Resulting in her disability. She is 20 now. Her Grandpa passed when she was 9 .. He forever lives in our heart 💜.. and we have one of his 💜 here with us 🙏 🥹 🌺
@@AussieSusan1 I’m so sorry for the pain in the loss you and Your family have experienced. My respect goes out to all the veterans. Thank you for sharing. 💙🙏
Stop spreading disinformation! NOT a single 19 year old was conscripted! registration for "national service'" happened at age 20! All 19 years old who served in Vietnam were volunteers.
Conscription was based on your 20th birthday not 19. Only some 15,000 of us National Servicemen were sent to Vietnam being roughly a quarter of the total.
Conscripts were not eligible for conscription until they turned 20. While a significant number of these did serve in Nam, the majority of those serving there were regulars. I lost two mates in that war. I was also in the draft.
I had the privilege of seeing John perform with his band 4 days ago. Amazing. His voice is hypnotic. When he sang this, there were tears throughout the venue.
Thank you, thank you, I'm an Aussie, now 73, missed call up by one day. Have spoken to many Vets, but they keep mostly to themselves. Many were despised for fighting where the Government sent them i'm sure you have had and still do have the same in America. I was only 19 is an emotional song and still is. I cried when i heard you play that song, long forgotten by many, but very emotional, again thank you for your own service to the armed forces and doing the best to assist the Anzacs you served beside. You are one special lady (Vet).
@@alancraven7667 American vets faced the same thing when they came home 😢…You are so sweet. Thanks for your kind words and support. Love and respect from South Carolina 🌴🙏💙
Just watching your reaction ti I Was Only 19. My late brother-in-law was a Vietnam Vet, he was in the most well known Australian battle, Long Tan, and on Anzac Day I always take the time to watch this song and end up with tears in my eyes.
@@JustAnotherArmyVet Yes you should look it up, hopefully an Australian version. It's an incredible example of Anzac bravery and endurance under impossible odds!
Bill Akell is a member of my local RSL and a mate . He was just a kid but ran around the battlefield with the radio and fetching ammo. I also served with 6 RAR but in 2000 in East Timor. We won our Vietnam war with the help of our mates the NZ artillery.
I am one of the youngest firstborn of a WWII Vet. My father was on HMAS Australia, the first naval ship hit by Kamakazes. The ship was taken to Port Vila, where the Americans had a naval dock. The ship was repaired, and more modern US systems were installed (e.g. new Radar systems). When the ship returned, HMAS Australia, the Battleship of the fleet, was attached to the American 5th Fleet for the liberation of the Philippines. The Japanese once again attacked the ship, being hit by 5 Kamakeze over three days. It was in this secondary attack that my father was injured. In the Adelaide Paper, he was recorded as being injured but not seriously. There was no knowledge of PTSD at the time. Many Australian vets went bush. My father returned to the railways and immediately took a posting at the Bordertown station, quite a way from any city. There is so much intergenerational PTSD in Australia. My grandfather (who died before I was born) was in WWI and on the second wave to Gallipoli, and he returned in not a good state, which caused my father trauma. He also serves in Australia in WWII. My father’s experience caused my mum and me significant trauma, and I tried to break the cycle with my kids, but I only partially succeeded. The world can not have WWIII because of the current Israeli atrocities.
Thank you so much for sharing your story. I’m sorry about all the trauma that your family‘s been been through. I’m glad that you are trying to break the cycle. I have a friend close to me that is also trying to break the cycle. When he feels like he’s about to burst, he just removes himself from the situation. Anyway, thank your family for service. Love and respect from South Carolina 🌴💙🙏
Israeli atrocities? You mean the attack on Israel by Hamas was warranted and they have no right of response, or that they should just accept continuous terrorist attacks until they manage to wipe Israel off the map? Not to forget that Hamas is deliberately putting its own people in direct line of fire and not letting them leave, using them as human shields? I agree any war is atrocious, the Palestinians or Israel don't deserve this, but Hamas, not Israel, is to blame.
My family also suffered from the effects of war. It was mainly my 2 uncles. My granddad went to WWI when his son was only 2.5 years old. He didn't return until the month that son turned 7. That uncle was jealous of his 2 younger brothers who both had their dad around for all their lives and sometimes treated them badly. He was also violent towards his own wife and children. My other uncle volunteered for WWII and served in the bomber command who didn't get recognised for their service for many years after the war. He was shot down and was a POW for 18 months until the end of the war. He came home with ptsd and while he went to the Melbourne veteran's mental health hospital, they didn't know how to treat ptsd at that time. He suffered from depression all his life. We do not want another world war! I hate to think what damage is being done to the soldiers in Ukraine and those in Gaza! Having bad mental health is an awful thing!! Both for the person and those around them. It isn't well understood by the community at large and it is hard to describe to another.
I'm an Aussie. My birthday was next on the conscription lists when the Labor Government pulled us out of Vietnam and scrapped conscription. I've blessed them ever since. This song is the closest I've come to being in a war. It brings me to tears when I listen to it. You did a fine job. It's the best of its kind that I've seen. Thank you.
The title is actually "I was only 19 (A Walk in the Light Green)" John Schumann from a live recording of this track says "It's a song about two mates of mine who went to Vietnam, came back Agent Orange victims. The title "A Walk in the Light Green" stems from the fact that when the Australian soldiers in Vietnam were given their missions, they looked at the areas where they'd be working in on the map and if it was dark green on the map, then there was cause for some consolation, because dark green meant thick jungle, lots of cover, and there were no mines. If they were working in areas that were light green on the map, that meant light jungle, not much cover, and heaps of mines. This is a song for Mick and Frankie. It's called "A walk in the light green". Thank You for your service. I'm an Aussie, so you didn't serve for my country, but you served for my freedom as well.
A couple of other points, Canungra (jungle training) and Shoalwater (corrected) are training areas. Townsville is a city and port they left from. Someone else also made the point that "he was going home in June" meant that he should not have been there, his rotation out a month before had been delayed. I wish you luck in your quest for calm. For those of us who never joined forces, we should never forget that though we may disagree with choice to engage, that that is a political choice of our nation. Be angry at that choice, not at those who stepped forward to serve, and we owe care to them and theirs for doing so.
@@bemusedbilby3409 "the day that mankind kicked the moon" was in July, if he truly was "going home in June", that meant he had been deployed for less than a month, or for 13 months. Neither is the case. John Schumann said it as simply to rhyme with "moon", not to be taken literally.
Thank you for your understanding & compassion. I did two tours of Vietnam, as an Infantry soldier, in the Australian Regular Army ( 1967-1968; 1971) & even all these years later I am still suffering. It is not only the Australian governments that have been ignorant & unfeeling, but my family - brothers & sisters - don't want to know. I wish this great insightful song could gain more exposure. Thank you.
I thank you. I’m a 30 year Navy veteran wife and Defence industry professional. I and my colleagues are dedicated to supporting you and we are behind you.
You talk and I’d listen. Family may not wish to hear the reality of war, but there are many out there that would listen to what you have to say. I hope you get that opportunity. Thank you for your sacrifices.
Hello Just Another Army Vet, thank you so much for your service and for posting this emotional video. My father is a Vietnam ANZAC vet and listening to your own and Red Gum’s experiences and having recently completed mental health first aid, I’ve realised that my father’s eccentric and controversial behaviour is not because he’s different, but he’s suffering in silence with PTSD. The lyrics in the song describe his mental and physical ailments perfectly. On behalf of all Australians, I wish to convey our sincerest and heartfelt thanks to you and all US defence personnel. Without the sacrifices of your wonderful vets our way of life could have been considerably different. We appreciate your individual contributions and your gallant efforts to save Jake Kovco. I recall hearing the news and felt immense sadness at the time. I’m so glad to have the opportunity to thank you unconditionally. You are a wonderful human and your messages touch us all Down under.
Thank you my friend! I think your father for his service! I do salute you as well for doing that mental health training. I really do appreciate your support. Australia will always be in my heart. Respect and love from South Carolina 🌴❤️.
Im a child of a Korean Veteran Special Forces. He was stationed in Hiroshima a couple of months after they dropped the bomb. They use to lay in the burnt paches for photos, he came back with radation in his DNA. We, his children all have health issues long lists of them, absolutely nothing from the government not even a public house, nothing. A child of a veteran doesn't understand, we were never allowed to speak of it. But we understood he was a soldier and was our heart.
Cunugra and Shoal water are jungle training centres, unlike the USA, Australia sent battalion units over to Vietnam not individuals on year tours. It means units train and serve with mates they trust and rely on, not untrained replacements.
Thank you for clarifying that. I wonder why the US sent soldiers over individually, instead of as whole battalions and units 🤔. Currently, that is how the US operates. But I just don’t know why they didn’t do that in Vietnam.
@@JustAnotherArmyVet I think it may have been a hangover from WW2 where US reinforcements came through replenishment depots to be assigned on an as-needed basis to front-line units that needed fresh troops. I think British Commonwealth forces learned in WW1 that it was better for overall unit morale to withdraw a whole unit after a preset time or casualty level had been reached for rebuilding and retraining. The US Army didn't make that change until after Vietnam as part of the switch to an all-volunteer force as best I can tell.
@@JustAnotherArmyVet I read also that US soldiers served fro 12 months (as part of the adhoc replacement policy) and officers served 6 months to expose as many young officers to combat as possible. The effect on respect for leadership and cohesion can be imagined. I'm very glad to see US Army has lifted its game big time since the low point of Vietnam.
@@waratahdavid696 I never heard that officers only had a six-month tour and soldiers had a 12 month tour. That may be the case though . I just never heard that. Maybe that was for the Air Force 🤔. I will have to do more research on that
Shoal water bay is outside Rockhampton. It is a military Training centre. Basically bush so it is there to try and prepare forces for actual combat conditions.
So true ... I just left the hospital after just over three weeks. MY PTSD Doctor called me in the ward and asked me; if I "could leave yet". Three nights I was back (in my head) at 95th EVAC, Da Nang while at St George Hospital, Sydney. The Nurses and my Doctors were all too young to even know anything about that war. The Hospital wanted me to stay another 4 weeks ... pass, and I checked myself out. Even my GP of 20 plus years agreed I should leave, so my partner has been my nurse as I still can't walk without help. Thanks for the reality check mate. So true.
@@airbrushken5339 I salute you. Just keep on doing what you are doing. Lean on your partner and seek out help when you need it. That is how you will survive. Have you ever looked into a PTSD therapy dog?
@@JustAnotherArmyVet Great suggestion, I got an Australian Kelpie, in the end I gave him to my eldest. All my three sons were born with disabilities ( I had no idea that Dioxin illnesses could be passed on). I sadly have no contact with them, even though I raised them, as they blame me for their health issues. I'm dying anyway, but the cancer caused me to no longer to be able to help them other than money. Thanks for the suggestion mate.
What you said is correct. As I was thinking earlier, it is anti war. I do not support war unless it absolutely needed. However these people fought for us, died for us, suffered for us, so we can live free. They 100% deserve our respect and love and support. They are heroes, regardless of Government politics and the reason they are sent. They suffered tremendously for us. 🇦🇺🇳🇿 LEST WE FORGET! 🇦🇺🇳🇿
To be honest, they were fighting for the preservation of US hegemony, Vietnam was no threat to Australia, as neither was Korea, Afghanistan, Iraq etc. And neither is Russia, say no to US Imperialism, don’t be fooled again
You said you do not support war unless it is necessary. How was the American invasion of Vietnam necessary ? Please explain because my University Degree in Australian History & Politics didn't cover how or why it was necessary for us to send young men to fight, to die, to become incapacitated & to, in many documented cases, rape & kill innocent Vietnamese, to wipe out villages, homes, livelihoods. To make innocent people homeless. To use Napalm on innocent men, women, children, babies. How was all that necessary ? What good did it do ? How did our military in Vietnam fight for OUR freedom ? How did they help OUR way of life ? We lost the Vietnam Invasion/War. That might be something you're unaware of. We lost. America lost. The people of Vietnam lost. Everyone lost. All those lives lost & ruined were for NOTHING. A big fat NOTHING. Just like Iraq & Afghanistan. The problem we all had with Vietnam is that it was WRONG. We know it was wrong. We knew then that it was wrong. We still know it was wrong. It was not our business to be there. Conscription was WRONG & it was the only time Australia had it. In 1915 Prime Minister Billy Hughes visited The Western Front & then tried to push Conscription. The Australian people & his own Party rejected it overwhelmingly & it split the Australian Labor Party. A major rift. If you studied Australian Politics you'd know that was one of the 3 major splits of the Australian Labor Party. It was a major event in Australian History & Politics, the opposition to Conscription. Australians rejected Conscription in 1915 & we rejected in again during the Vietnam invasion but it was forced on us. No-one should be sent to war because their birthday came up in a raffle. Our Defence Force should be professional & trained. Not Conscripts. Conscription is wrong. It always will be. We don't disrespect the Conscripts who were forced to go, but we disrespect the concept of Conscription. If we didn't agree to it in 1915 when there was perhaps just cause because extra forces were needed on The Western Front, why was it forced on us during the Vietnam invasion ? What is important to remember is that it was the anti-war movement & Gough Whitlam's pledge to withdraw troops from Vietnam that saw the Labor Party win govt in 1972 after 23 years out of power. The Australian people spoke, at the ballot box & they voted to withdraw from Vietnam. That was the sole reason for the 1972 win by Labor. I have done tours of The Western Front, The Somme, Flandres, Fromelles, Pheasant Wood with a French historian who specialises in ANZAC history. That is where we made a difference but still not for us or OUR way of life. Our sacrifices in France, Belgium were purely to protect Great Britain but in doing so we freed France & Belgium & they have never forgotten. In places like Villers-Bretonneux you see more Australian flags than you see in Sydney. Our Commonwealth War Cemeteries are kept in pristine condition. Those who fell in France & Belgium are remembered even if they have no known grave. They have never forgotten what the real ANZACS did. As an Australian I was respected everywhere I went in the north of France & Belgium because they have never forgotten what the ANZACs did for them. That wasn't our war either. WWI didn't affect us. Our lives & lifestyles were never at threat during WWI. We did that for Great Britain. So we need to get over this idea that ANZACs fought for us. They fought for the UK & to free occupied European countries.. Only in WWII when our military were in The Pacific did they fight to protect us. My late father-in-law served in New Guinea & Darwin. He spoke to me about his time there & only after his death did I find out that I was the only one he ever talked to about it. He never talked to his own family about his service. The two World Wars were different. We must never compare them to the invasions of Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan. What good came out of the Vietnam invasion ? Who won ? No-one won. Everyone lost especially the Vietnamese. It is not that we disrespect veterans. We don't. The increasing attendance at ANZAC Day dawn services & Remembrance Day commemorations proves we respect veterans. What we don't respect is unnecessary wars ( invasions) for American economic reasons. If we really cared about people's freedom we'd be in Occupied Palestine helping the poor, the oppressed, homeless, starving, sick Palestinians being shelled & dying every day by Israel, but we're not. Why aren't we ? Because the US not only supports Israel they supply them with the shells & other ammunition including ( illegal) phosphorus being used on Palestinians in their occupied country. If ever there was just cause to go to war, occupied Palestine is where we should be. Free Palestine. Free Gaza. From the river to the sea.......
SLR - self loading rifle. Basically same as FN in UK service, similar to its contemporary US 7.62mm M14. Greens - Jungle Green uniform. I was still in cadets in 1973, our training cadre were on rotation from Vietnam. We still trained with Brens and Lee Enfields in .303 calibre. VB - Victoria Bitter (beer). US equivt would be Budweiser. I worked in the DVA (Dept of Veterans Affairs) in the 90s, figuring out disability from Agent Orange, Asbestos and Nuclear Test exposure, following court cases. The culture was changing from the WWII "don't give em an inch" philosophy to "pay unless there is absolute proof of no injury".
Thank you for your heartfelt reaction. This song always bring a tear to my eyes. Thank you to you and all the brave men and women who served their countries in time of war.
As an Australian coping with PTSD and RV travelling around this country Australia I love with a passion, only finding my peace when being 'offgrid' in the outback. I've met many of our Vietnam Veterans, plus a one family member who has served. He still suffers from Malaria, Agent Orange fallout, and FLASHBACKS. Our 'HEROES' who can't deal with /face the demands of modern day society. After listening to their combined, heartfelt and horrendous memories, and the LIFELONG BONDS they have with their combat teams. I could see the devastation of detachment and the mental wounds that war has left them facing. And unfortunately their PERSONALITY changes effects their family and friends. Thankyou John Schuman for your words and your TRUTH, a song that reaches every atom in my body and so many others touched by your words.. TRUE BLUE AUSSIES HEROES everyone of them. # RESPECT 🥰👍🇦🇺
Bullshit, agent orange was a defoliant, used on thick vegetation, the RAN didnt come near it. Im sorry, but people like you claiming crap like that degrades those who where truly exposed to the chemicals used.
ANZAC Day just gets harder without you, Dad. I miss you so much. Thanks for being so much more than a member of the RAE & a veteran of the war in Vietnam, but nothing less.
I joined the Royal Australian Army 6 months after graduating from high school when I was 18, literally the day after my 18th birthday. I was off on a plane from Brisbane airport to start my training. I got within 2 weeks of marching out when I injured my lower back, which broke me. I knew that my journey was over, and I cried because it was and still is my dream. 15 years later, at the age of 33, it still calls to me. I wish I could join again, but my back has only gotten worse since and now I struggle to get out of bed every morning. Thank you to all previous and current service members I love you for everything you've sacrificed for this great country we all get to call home.
Thank you so much for your support. And I am sorry that you were not able to fulfill your dream. I know it must be hard. I do wish you the best. Love and respect from South Carolina. 🌴🙏💙
I don’t know what you do now but Defence Industry is a way to continue to serve . It’s a great way to support those who serve and when you know what they give it makes work meaningful xxxx
I too went through training at 17, I turned 18 during training. We loved this song as it gave us strength together that we would battle together - like a war song. When I got to my first unit with no professional PTI we did stupid things for exercise not done before and I injured my lower back and for the next 3 years the unit treated me like shit. It took me 30 years to get the ARMY to recognise the improper training was the cause of my injury. I struggle to get out of bed every morning as well. Nothing would have changed if you got through, and it happened to me. Just wanted to let you know, if you are injured you are worthless.
My Dad was an Australian Vietnam veteran. He couldn’t stand this song for decades, but one day it came on the car radio when he was driving with my son, David. David went to change the station, but Dad said “No. Leave it on.” They listened to the song together in silence. Dad told his grandson “It’s a pretty good song.” Dad had been receiving treatment for his PTSD for a few years by that time, you see.
That starter video with John explaining his brother in law’s (and other vets experiences) in Vietnam + his own experience with trying to help our vets deal with PTSD post deployment is just beyond…where did you dig that up? I Was Only 19 is a tribute to all vets and listening to that song and your reaction today, ANZAC day, our day of respect for veterans of all external conflicts, is very special. Thank you. ❤ Also…thank you for YOUR service to your country and helping our guys in their line of duty. You have seen things nobody should ever see and please believe that we thank you and respect you for doing your duty! ❤BTW… that rash “that comes and goes” has been been proved to be a form of cancer, Mycosis Fungoides, a cutaneous T cell lymphoma that originally presents as a rash similar to a fungal infection of the skin and progresses to untreatable skin tumours over many, many years (30+ years) that is caused by exposure to Agent Orange and similar chemicals. (According to my Dad’s Heamatologist) This cancer is being experienced by not just Vietnam vets but also by our farmers who delt with these same sort of chemicals in the 60’s-80’s. I lost my father to this disease last year. 😢 He was not a vet as he was exempt from service as a farmer, but he always made sure we had respect for those who served in his stead and always felt guilty he was not allowed to serve.
I am so sorry for your loss! I know that must be hard. I do appreciate your insight. I just hope that these vets get the help that they need. My respect goes out to all Vets! I got the introduction video from someone who just pointed me to the video on RUclips. I’m pretty sure I have it linked down in my description box. Love and respect from South Carolina 🌴💙!
Aussie veteran with PTSD here my self, thx you for your kind words, I got all the way to the end without tears until you showed PTE kovco, thank you so much for bringing his name to light. Lest we forget
I’m a daughter of an Australian Vietnam vet. My father was in the worst battle in Vietnam. I’m not whining at all but the agent orange has ( as the next generation) given me health problems- extra morphed bones in my feet for example. My father and I became estranged due to his complex ptsd. We are better now . Thank you SO much for this post. May you and your loved ones be safe and happy and well. Thank you again
The absolute worst year for the ARVN was 1973 -- the year I returned home (March 25) they lost 40 thousand men - after the U.S. GOVERNMENT cut funding to the ARVN - what followed over the following two years was horrific - with many ARVN Officers committing suicide - as a better option to being taken prisoner by the VC - It is too painful to talk about
Im an Aussie and I really love your analysis on the song. It is a song that always brings tears to my eyes, and it was really insightful to hear you break it down and hear your views on it
As an Australian who has a very strong relationship with our vets this review is just awesome and I thank you and thank you for your service. For decades successive governments in Australia took the stance "we didn't spread or drop agent orange so it's not our problem". Thankfully things are changing and our governments of recent years have recognised our Vietnam Vets, their service and their complex medical problems. Any vet in Australia who served in any war zone, no matter his/her age or rank is eligible for a "Gold Card", upon discharge, this card covers the cost of any medical condition, these vets are not required to pay one red cent for medical attention, procedures and medications and they are now revered in our society, except maybe for the activists who will whine about anything. My Grandfather was an ANZAC, he landed in Gallipoli on 15 August 1915. My Father served also, he did two tours of New Guinea post WWII to build military infrastructure. My uncle served in the Pacific in WWII in a specialist role, to this day his file is sealed. Me, I tried to enlist but bad lungs stopped me.
Thank you so much for your insight and your support. I appreciate it. I also wanted to thank you for family for its service. I’m sorry you’re unable to invest. I hope you were able to do d another career that you enjoy 💙
My M dad was in WWII and he was caught by the Japanese when he was riding to pass on the info that Singapore had been invaded, he was hit by a sniper and ended up in a paddy field, then taken prisoner. When he came home he eventually married my mother and had my sisters and I, mum said he used to drink heavily and told her stories of what he saw and they were horrific, he was my dad and we loved him dearly, I remember many things from my childhood, but I was 5 yrs old when he died and it broke my heart. They buried him in a war cemetery and I visit his grave every year. He was an amazing man that still worked to provide for us but his demons were always there. I miss my dad everyday and I am now 60 yrs old, this brought tears to my eyes. Thank you for sharing this.
I’m sorry you lost your dad so young. I know that must be hard. My respects out to him. I know life being a prisoner of war by the Japanese was 😢. But your father was strong and survived and he is a hero 💙🙏
My Grandfather was captured in Singapore too. He went home to his wife after he was fed after starving for 3 years. My Grandmother had my dad nine months laters. He became a bank manager in various places in Australia. He was a stoic fucker. He smoked at least 20 a day in his seventies. Based on raises in taxes, he quit....over night. never smoke again after just one night. I attribute this to his time in the camps, made him the man he was. For good and bad. He loved my grandmother and the past didn't make him bitter. For him it seemed to just be a thing that happened and it ended. He never spoke of it if not asked. He died aged 86.
married my mother ? She was NOT your mother then What you should have written : he married the woman who became my mother - You need to get it right and use correct English and be accurate and specific. Avoid ambiguity at all costs. My father born in Kent County MI - served in the U.S. ARMY and was based in England ( Cholesterol - in the county of Essex ) He went riding north on his INDIAN motorcycle when on R&R He met a young Russian girl ( born in UKRAINE of Russian parents } She was waiting at the Bus Terminus on the way home after finishing work ( work days were then 10 hours ) knowing that young women like G.I. Joe - he approached her and started a conversation - The young girl - thinking - " What are you talking to me for " answered him in Russian. One problem there - He was taught Russian by the U.S. ARMY school of languages - which if I remember correctly was in CA and he answered her in Russian --- The rest is history - and that is how this Russian girl (who spoke 8 languages ) became my mother. ( now deceased ) and I had learned 5 languages by age 5 - learning others since then. I wish you Good luck and good bye
@andrew_koala2974 I don't think you should be telling others "You need to get it right and use correct English and be accurate and specific. Avoid ambiguity at all costs." when you seem barely able to do so yourself. Here are some tips to improve your writing skills. 1. Capitalise the first letter of a new sentence. 2. Put a full stop (period) at the end of a sentence. 3. Don't use dashes in place of commas. Commas are used to indicate a natural pause when the sentence is spoken. Dashes are used to mark the beginning and end of a series. 4. There is no space between the enclosing brackets and first or last letters of the text contained within them. e.g. "( work days were then 10 hours )" should be (work days were then 10 hours). 5. When quoting someone's words you should have enclosed them in speech marks. e.g. When quoting kimfarragher342 saying "married my mother". 6. The name of book, building, institution, and the like should be capitalised. e.g. "U.S. ARMY school of languages" should be wrtten as U.S. ARMY School of Languages. 7. Since they are not acronyms, but proper nouns, "UKRAINE" should be written as Ukraine and "INDIAN" as Indian. 8. When referencing a number in a sentence, the correct way of doing it, is to spell it out, not write the figure. e.g. "age 5 " should be written "age five". 9. If using an abbreviation that not everyone is likely to be familiar with, or may have more than one meaning, it is usual to write it in full the first time, followed with the abbreviation in brackets immediately after. From then onward, it is acceptable to just use the abbreviation. This will, to use your own words, "Avoid ambiguity". e.g. The "CA" in your narrative could plausibly be either California or Central America.
Another Aussie anti-war song “The Band Played Waltzing Matilda” ruclips.net/video/2rM8GgpsGw0/видео.htmlsi=Ee-5WS0qEZrSJl9e
If you're ever in an Australian pub and this song comes on, you will notice an instant silence.
@@orielism I can imagine.
Yep…it’s an iconic song that just goes straight to the heart 😢
@@kelbell275 😢
As an a US combat vet (88-10) this song hits hard in so many ways. While I was not in Vietnam, the men that trained me were the survivors of that place. I have not forgotten what those men taught men, for the time when when my own life was changed by the horror of combat. To my brothers from that war, please do hesitate to reach out. We are here. We will listen. We want you to stay with us. We need you to teach us. There will always be more that have to hear what we have to say.
@@CavTanker88 thank you for your service 💙
I’m a proud Aussie I never served but this song always brings me to tears
🇦🇺💙
same mate.
Absolutely, pal. Cheers.
Same Mate. The "Last Post" on ANZAC Dawn also brings me to tears thinking about what our Diggers went thru. Lest We Forget.
@@sinistra328 Diggers?
They shall grow not old,
as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them,
nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun
and in the morning
We will remember them.
Lest We Forget
Beautiful poem
Lest We Forget.
Lest we forget
Lest we forget
Lest we forget.
Hi veterans. My uncle was a 17 year old Aboriginal Ward of the State. When he ran away from the boys home, the Australian government gave him 3 choices. Back to the boys home, jail, or Vietnam. He chose Vietnam. He is now 76 years old, a very strong willed man. As much as I don't like or respect war. I love and respect his story. Much love and respect to you all.
@@lyndawebb6867 thank you so much for sharing! And Thanks for your support! Love and respect to you and your uncle from South Carolina 🌴🙏👍
No Australian Federal (or State) Govt. has the Constitutional power or right, to tell a person that they have to go to war or to jail. Especially not at the age of 17. The age of Conscription in Australia was 19. I was a 'Ward Of The State' also, though I am not Aboriginal. I spent 8 years in the Salvation Army Boys' Home, at Indooroopilly, Brisbane, from the age of 8 until I was 16 (1956 - 1964). At the age of 17 I joined the Australian Regular Army, for six years, to get an adult wage. I ended up doing two tours of Vietnam, as an Infantry soldier, in 3RAR. I hope your uncle is doing well, but no government could force him to go to Vietnam. Once he was in the Army however, the Army could post him to wherever they wanted to.
Oops! Sorry, my mistake. The age of conscription in Australia for the Vietnam War was 20, not 19. as I stated in my previous comment. I knew better than that. I don't know why I wrote '19'. It won't happen again. Dennis Moore.
@@dennismoore1134 🙂👍
@@dennismoore1134 Dennis, I turned 18 in Jan 1972 and I remember being aware that the next year when I was 19 that I was ging to be included in the conscription draft. Then Labor won the Federal election in Nov 1972 and Gough Whitlam abolished the draft and officially declared our withdrawal from Vietnam. I just remember that I was so young that I has zero understanding of what it might have meant for me, none whatsoever. Years later, when did finally realise what it could have meant for me, I was angry and also felt so sad that so many people had to endure just because of a date of birth.
My father was a man's man, he was a bricklayer and a hard drinker and in his youth, a fighter. My mother came home one day and he was standing in the kitchen crying, she ran to him and cuddled him asking what's wrong, what's happened because clearly something terrible must have occurred for him to be in such a state. His response... I don't know.
He felt sick inside and didn't know what it was, it took years for him to get help here, and he was one of the first soldiers in Australia to get a TPI pension and gold card.
I'm so proud that he was willing to say something is wrong, when men were seen as weak for speaking out, his strength led the way for other's to say they needed help too.
I thank your father for a service. It does take a real man to admit that you need help. I’m glad that he is getting help now. And thank you for sharing.
@@JustAnotherArmyVet he's gone now sadly, but I think of him often, as do my sisters, he was a wonderful man and father.
@@marieantoinette1360 i’m sorry for your loss. 😢🙏💙
@@marieantoinette1360 he was clearly, to have such a compassionate wife and children. We owe so much to our serving members, whether they see action or not. They are among the very best of us. I worked as a civilian engineer, alongside crews in all services.
I'm so happy to read your father surrendered to the truth of how life was for him and leaned on your mother, that, takes strength. Bless him.
As an Aussie I want to thank you for your service. And thank you for your kind and honest reaction to this song. It truly means a lot to all Aussies and kiwis alike.
Lest We Forget.
You are welcome and thank you for your support. I will always have Australia in my heart, and my aunt is from New Zealand, so I feel a little connection there as well ❤️❤️
Yes, let's not forget our Kiwi cousins in ANZAC 🇦🇺🇳🇿
@@becounted763 exactly 👍
@@JustAnotherArmyVetthey were places where they trained troops before they sent them to Vietnam
@@JustAnotherArmyVetpuckapunyal is an army base in my home state Victoria
I'm an American Vietnam Veteran who after 9 years US Army with one combat tour (2/502 Inf, 101st Airborne Division) left the USA in 1979 and took up "permanent residence" as a teacher in Australia. I ended up with most friends here being Vietnam Veterans. I was at the "Sydney Entertainment Centre" with 7 close Australian Vets when "Red Gum" put on a private show. The people and Government here treated my brothers shamefully. The average life span of an Australian Vietnam Veteran was 57 years of age! I sat with them through the royal commission on Agent Orange in the early 80's. My brothers are now all DEAD, mostly from cancers, I just got lucky as my Doctor caught my cancer right after a blood test and 5 days later I was in treatment. Last week was ANZAC DAY and sadly just home (AGAIN) from the hospital with another medical issue from Dioxin Poison exposure.
airbushken5339, you would certainly understand the lyrics & the heart & meaning behind the words - thoughts & prayers with you as you battle your next medical condition. My parents were relieved when my brother missed the 'ball lottery' for National Service/Conscription, & therefore wasn't sent to Vietnam. Thank you for your service for another country
@@lisajessup6615 I was an Infantry Training NCO at Fort Polk after I graduated Leadership Academy ... the reality (which surprised me) was only 20 something percent of the American Forces in Vietnam were draftees and over 70% volunteered to go. I have many friends from that time who served in the US Military and only one I knew went to combat in VN, beside myself. Sadly, his health is failing do to his exposure to Dioxin (Agent Orange), I've just been lucky ... had to retire from teaching as I'm 100% disabled according to both the Australian and the USA Veterans administrations. You be safe...
I thank you for your service. I appreciate your sharing. I am sorry about your health and the loss of your friends and battle buddies .. Respect and love from South Carolina 🌴💙
hey legend, from one vet to another - thank you.
@@libatalklieb5793 I'm sorry, my team was on the DMZ and we spent just over 330 days in the jungle, as we had NO BASE CAMP that we worked out of. We would sometimes fly into Camp Eagle for 2 day stand downs; shots, clothing and new gear.
There were no Villages, villagers, rice paddies or roads ... just North Vietnamese Regulars crossing into South Vietnam. I only saw civilians on two trips through Hue. I did see the grave sites of the over 2,000 South Vietnamese civilians (men, women and children) the NVA killed during the Tet Offensive for not joining them in their assault.
The spraying program "Operation Ranch Hand" was started by JFK in 1961, the same year he started the Peace Corps. Over 400,000 Australian and American solders have died from Dioxin (Agent Orange) related health issues AFTER they came home. As a Sniper and also I walked Point most days, I remember every personal kill, every detail to this day. I just sign myself out of hospital after 4 weeks ... I was wounded in battle and 50 odd years later it was torn open in a fall. The hospital brought back all those memories/nightmares. Thank God I have a caring partner of 30 years who understands.
Im a Australian Veteran, this song is still powerful to me now.
@@MattBrazier-yi7mh even as an American veteran, this song is powerful to me as well. Thanks for your service 💙
It's a wonderful song. The young man the song was written about, was my neighbour for 30 years. It's a privilege to have known him. His life has not been easy, what with the physical disabilities he carries not to mention the PTSD, yet he gives and gives to his community and mentors youth with grace and understanding. A wonderful human-being!
@@garrymallard8335 That is good to hear that he is still alive. He sounds like an amazing member of the community and a good person 🤗
Lest we forget.
@@garrymallard8335 I'll take $50 for things that aren't true
Frank Hunt (Frankie in the song) was my public speaking teacher when I was a high school kid in the 80's. He seemed to be a beautiful soul - always giving to the community and striving to make our little town a better place. I think he is still around.
Knowing this song was about him gave me enough context to learn some empathy and respect - which was not easy for teenage me to do. It helped me respect soldiers and understand the shit they our governments' put them through. They were literally kids. And so many of them were conscripted. They had no choice.
This song has a huge impact - across generations. It builds empathy and understanding.
@@user-yp2jz9rx3m thank you so much for sharing 💙
I played this song for my dad in 2010. He is an American WWII vet.
He was silent, both during the song and afterward.
He had tears in his eyes and thanked me for it.
He never spoke another word about it since.
My respect and thanks to your father. I appreciate you sharing that. 💙🙏
To all vets thankyou for all you did and for your service and to those who never made it back R.I.P
@@chrisclapham5031 thank you for your support 💙
My Dad is a Vietnam Vet. He cannot listen to this song, nor can he talk about the war. He still has nightmares.
@@jenb8697 my thanks to your father 💙🙏
Thank you for preparing this video. I was an Australian soldier, and I appreciate your comments. With our New Zealand Brothers and Sisters, we continue to consider and respect troops from the USA as great friends; God bless you.
@@michaelgalea4386 thanks so much for your support. Respect! 🇳🇿💙🇦🇺❤️🇺🇸. God bless 🙏
It's funny that in the U.S., we only think that the only vets in the world are here. It's not true...they are everywhere in the US, and the U.S. has been at war. It's called NATO...
My dad was in The Battle of Long Tan 18 Aug 1966 10pl DCoy 6RAR . On the 50th Anniversary of the battle I walked the same route D Coy did on the day of the battle , with a tour of kids and Long Tan veterans . As part of our tour we went to the area from this song where Frankie kicked a mine and stood there while it played , We were all silent and this song was so emotional for me before brings me to tears , now its on a whole new level . This song is so important in Australia. 18th August is now known in Australia as Vietnam Veterans Day , Please thank a Vietnam Veteran on that day ,god knows they didn't get it back then. Vietnam Veterans Daughter and damn proud of it. Lest We Forget
Least we forget. Thanks for sharing . My respect and thanks to your father and all the Vietnam vets 💙🙏
From a proud Australian Veterans Wife, THANK YOU for service. This song is probably our most important Australian song.
My respect to your spouse and to you. I know it can be hard life with a spouse in the military. Thanks for your support 💙
Im ex army too, but hate American government, they should be compensating our vets for the agent orange. America are quick to call war crimes on any country, but don't own up to their own war crimes. The definition of a bully. Wake up America u start wars then claim ur the saviour. U guys are absolute rats.
If it was hand to hand combat instead of ur hit em fr9m 100 miles away tactics , u would be flogged by most countries. U r pussies
@gme273
Have a listen Brocken Soldier by Beccy Cole an Australian artis. ruclips.net/video/3no_pZdZ_yE/видео.htmlsi=k6tmXA-zC2s1tQVv🦘AU
My Dad grew up in Nazi occupied Paris then as an adult came to Australia and joined the army. He was deployed to Korea and then Malaya. This song allways makes me cry, I think of my Dad.
This right here is why Anzac Day is so important- an annual reminder for all of us to never forget. This song reminds us whenever we hear it, and does the same vital job as Anzac Day does.
A very important day and song 💙🙏🇦🇺🇳🇿
ANZAC not Anzac
it's an acronym not a word
make an effort to write it correctly
it's not difficult - s please pay attention to detail
Thank you for sharing your experience. This song had been part of my life and will always be a song that represents the pain still being felt by all our veterans. Thank you every one of you for your service. Without you we., The rest of the world would not have survived
@@Tully_23_32 are you serious???? They are trying to get rid of ANZAC day?? What steps are they taking to do that? Do you think they really might have a chance of it happening? 🤯🤯🤯
@@kathleenmills8272 thank you for your support! Love and respect from South Carolina 🌴🙏💙
I'm an Australian ex-Army officer. I appreciate your feedback, JAAV. Your emotion is highly respected, Ma'am. Thank you. 🇦🇺🇺🇸
Thank you for your service and for your support! Respect and love from South Carolina 🌴💙🙏
Please be reminded that it is ARMY and not Army
They sound the same but they are used in different contexts
ARMY is MILITARY
Army is is non-military group of people working together for
a cause - such as The Salvation Army / an Army of workers.
And it takes an AIR FORCE PILOT with a Law degree to teach it to you
In the same way AIR FORCE is MILITARY
Air Force is what comes out of your hair dryer
All CORPORATE legal names including Vessels ( SHIPS)
have the name in the ALL CAPS iteration
The word CORPORATION derives from the Latin ' CORPUS '
meaning CORPSE - DEAD - BODY
it is from there we also derive the term BODY CORPORATE
CORPORATIONS are DEAD ENTITIES that have ' Legal Status '
The ARMY word CORPS is also related to that
Pronouncing it are Core is a deliberate deception
In any case - I cannot teach you Law in five minutes - no more than
I could teach you to fly jet aircraft - it takes quite a few years -
minimum five years.
Now explain in your essay - why do you often see a name that
sounds like yours - except that it is written in ALL CAPS -
and under what conditions is it written as such - and other times
it is written in Mixed case Letters --
It all began in the year 1302 - being further expanded in the late
15th Century - and passed into WESTMINSTER Law - in 1666 -
during the False Flag Attack what was the Great Fire of London
-when the Law was rushed through Parliament.
It now stands as UCC - Uniform Commercial Code
@@andrew_koala2974 You're wrong. Etymology. From (1386) Middle English armee, borrowed from Old French armee (cf. modern French armée), from Medieval Latin armāta (“armed force”), a noun taken from the past participle of Latin armāre (“to arm”), itself related to arma (“tools, arms”), from Proto-Indo-European *h₂er- (“to join, fit together”).
@@smeary10
Actually you are incorrect
You have yet to learn correct grammatical Legal English
Study Law as I have and you will be better educated.
The Etymology. is irrelevant
What is relevant is the way that it is written - The way
many of these words are written became relevant in the
late 15th century as a result of one fundamental aspect -
and that is ' commerce ' in respect to Law and vice-versa
Tell me : How many types of English are there ?
I am assuming that you understand the question
To become aware - one must first learn to pay attention
to detail. Start doing that first.
Make sure your brain sees exactly what your eyes are looking at.
@@andrew_koala2974 The moment you refer to your qualifications in a debate as to the reason why you are correct, you've just lost. I've served as an officer in the Australian Regular Army. That is how it is spelt and printed on everything except hardware like choppers where the single word ARMY is in capitals. I should know -0 I flew them. Capitals are used on the side of aircraft for a reason and are aesthetically pleasing to the eye. They also project strength and boldness of a country and its armed forces. That is where it ends. I don't give two fucks about your law degree, boy. Go and get shot at and then come back see me. Until then, good day to you and your attitude and please, please go and annoy someone else.
As a vet, that song tears my guts out everytime I hear it.
John Schumann is an incredible human being, it's not just his work with the Veteran community, but also the farming community.
2015 we had massive bushfires around here, 2 lives lost, hundreds of homes destroyed, 1000's of acres of farmland destroyed, the district was devastated.
A week later Schumann and his band were on a flat bed trailer, performing at the local football ground, it was an opportunity for the whole community to get together and talk about what we'd been through.
He played that song, of course he played that song, he had to didn't he.
Many tears were shed, but thanks to John our sense of community was never stronger, 320 people in the town, more like a really extended family.
I salute you, you're doing good work.
Thank you so much for sharing. John seems like he is an incredible human being. I think he used to be a music teacher for high school many years ago actually. Love and respect from South Carolina 🌴💙🙏
thank you and everyone of you for the freedom that we get to live! we will never forget you!
Thanks for your service mate
I’m Australian and this song always brings me to tears. The Aussie accent and spirit shines through. The other song that has this affect on me is “And The Band Played Waltzing Matilda”, which about our soldiers at Gallipoli in WW1 and the devastation that they suffered. It was there that the term ANZAC was coined. It is the ANZAC legend that Redgum refers to in “I Was Only 19”.
Very emotional song. I do appreciate your insight. I will definitely check out that song. 💙
If you listen to "and the band played waltzing matilda" make sure you have some tissues close by you. It hits hard.
"waltzing matilda" is a song about a man who sleeps in a swag and moves around the outback of Australia.. In the old days if you were going "waltzing matilda" it meant you were one of many farm hands going from place to place looking for work (walking, often for days). The number of men looking for work would increase in the drought years and during the great depression. Often they were paid with just enough food to move to the next farm and would follow the harvest work around (waltzing) and their swag got the nickname "matilda" for some reason.
Waltzing matilda has become to symbolise "going bush", escaping the city life and government controls, living off the land, etc. Many returning veterans of the earlier wars were given a piece of land to live on called "a soldiers block/lot". Most soldiers blocks were mapped out by government officials that had never seen the land, many were not able to be farmed so the soldiers became homeless and had to travel to get enough food.
Whhen we look back at the "help" that has been offered to veterans it is most often a shameful attempt to support them. We have had soo much talk about what needs to be done but nothing is actually done.
We lose veterans every week from injuries, ptsd or self harm. We as a society, as a world need to honour our veterans with less words, more helpful actions.
One of my mates was injured years ago. He is still having operations and waiting for more operations and treatment to help with injuries sustained in his service. Red tape, political points and "value for money" seem to be more important than helping people who could to return to work.
Every year so much money is spent celebrating ANZAC DAY and remembrance day, etc but our veterans are left to suffer. It's not good enough.
Blessings from South Eastern Australia, Dot
You were the first person to really explain that. I do appreciate it. Yes. More needs to be done to help these veterans …May I ask: what is Dot?
Dot is her name. If you look at the top of the comment you will see it. It is short for Dorothy.
@@JustAnotherArmyVet Dot is a nickname if I am not mistaken. It's a shortened version of Dorothy. Forgive me @dotcassilles1488 for jumping in, if I am incorrect I do apologise. Your recommendation of And the Band Played Waltzing Matilda was one I was going to add myself. I always cry when I hear it. John Williamson playing Waltzing Matilda on the harmonica in his live version adds another layer to the song too. :)
The Australian Government and the civilians owe the Vietnam vets a huge apology. They were heroes and legends. Remember, the government made them go, it was not their choice!
You know what ... i think thats an apology that needs to happen
they did not deserve how they were treated and know that public stands with them! i and all us fellows owe our freedom to those brothers! know they will never be forgotten! we stand with them for eternity!!
The Australian people owe all the veterans who have served us a massive big hug 🫂. Just to say, welcome home boys. 😊
My grandpa was a Scottish immigrant who served as an Aussie soldier in Tobruk, New Guinea, etc, in WWII and rarely spoke of it, but when he did, it was horrifying and immeasurably sad. Said the happiest day of his life was when his youngest son (my uncle) failed the medical to go to Vietnam. We/Australia used a Birth-date Lottery system for drafting soldiers and my uncle was chosen. Never found out why he failed the medical but Pops said he didn't care why, he just rejoiced. Thankyou for your service.
Well they actually did have a choice - conscious objector springs to mind; bugger off to Timbuktu or elsewhere; medical.
But I suspect they feared being labelled with cowardice more than the trials and tribulations that awaited them.
This is not a judgement on those who served or those who chose not to.
I cry everytime I hear this. Message to all veterans: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is a normal reaction to an extraordinary situation. Talk to someone. We all care
Well said! That’s a very important message
My brother-in-law [ BIL ] suffered from PTSD for many years -
and after serving in the ARMY for 12 years - he found it difficult
to settle into a civilian work environment.
MILITARY life is a life within a Life
@@andrew_koala2974 yes, it is.. I hope he is doing better
I also wanted to thank you for your support 💙
I'm an Australian vet. 14 years infantry. Congratulations on your comments and feelings, I'm with you.
I appreciate you watching and you commenting. And thanks for your service 💙🙏
Thanks for ya service mate
as an Australian in the ADF, I just wanted to say thank you for your words.
And I wanna thank you for your service!! Love and respect from South Carolina 🌴💙
Thank you for your service and that of all your colleagues.
@@davidnelson7786 🙏💙
congratulations on your beautiful, honest emotional response to our important cultural song, i'm glad you've had the opportunity to listen to it on our commemorative day
Aw, thank you kindly. I really do appreciate your support. Let’s not forget the Anzacs on this important day. 🙏❤️
Lest we forget 🇦🇺💟🇳🇿
@@Granmabarb 💙
Thank you, from Australia 🇦🇺.
@@way2dumb thanks for watching and I love your user name BTW 🤣👍
We will remember them. ❤ From Australia.
❤️ from South Carolina!
We Australians owe our soldiers and veterans so much every one should say thanks whenever we meet our service people
Thanks for your support. It means a lot to all veterans 💙
Fantastic response to a song that most if not all Australians react emotionally to. Many thanks
You are welcome. Thank you for the kind words and support . #NeverForget
After half a century - this song still tugs the heart strings and brings a tear to my eyes --- Some experiences cannot be forgotten.
and no thanks to that sex-edict - womanizer - traitor LBJ
I cried during the monologue before the song even began...
"Lest we forget"...
Lest we forget… 💙🙏
I did too! I've heard the song many, many times as an Australian, but never heard that monologue.
@@bec9696 it was a good monologue
Aussie ex-serviceman here. Didn't go to war or serve overseas. This song tears me up .. every time. Just like now. Thank you for your meaningful comments and thank you for your service.
I thank you for your service and for watching! Respect and love from South Carolina. 🌴💙🙏
thank you for your service! it means alot more to us than you would know!
My father was an Australian combat vet in Vietnam. I served 6 years, and my son is on a submarine right now.
I live in Townsville, just a few minutes walk from Flinders Street, where "Townsville lined the footpath as we marched down to the quay". I can never walk along that stretch of road without taking off my hat and sending a silent prayer of thanks into the air. Lest we forget.
Thank you and your family for its service! Lest we forget. ❤️🙏
Is that Jezzine barracks on the strand?
@@kristinmartin2899 most of the departure marches went along Flinders St.
We have just had ANZAC Day in Australia and there is another song that was written for our returned soldiers called “ The Band Played Waltzing Matilda” it really rips at the heart strings. My family has a long history of military service and I’m grateful for what all service men and women sacrifice for their country. Thanks for showing this clip.🦋🙏🇦🇺
That song is on my list to check out. Thank you for your support. Love and respect from South Carolina. 🌴💙
@@JustAnotherArmyVet Check out " Dust of Uruzgan", "Derapet" and "Sappers Lullaby" all by Fred Smith
@@JustAnotherArmyVet Make sure you have a box of tissues ready, The Band Played Waltzing Matilda REALLY does get to you in a big way.
@@brigitmurray7793 yes, will do 💙
all gave some and what have you done for australia both written by col elliot himself a navy vet during the nam era
I'm a Desert Shield and Desert Storm vet. I had symptoms of what we now call Gulf War Syndrome. In the beginning, we were all told our symptoms and subsequent chronic medical issues were "in our heads" , all psychological. It's frightening how the suits in office truly believe they know how it is and what veterans need and don't need. Thank God we do have more veterans in office who are trying to be advocates for their brothers and sisters in arms. Thank you for doing this and sharing. I'm an Army Nurse and have nothing but respect for my medics. This is important stuff you're doing.
Thank you so much for commenting and for your support ma’am. I’m imagining that you’re close to retirement? But yes, I remember watching the war on tv when I was a kid. And I do remember the news coverage on Gulf War Syndrome. I feel like that could’ve been a perfect topic to actually bring up in this video. It just slipped my mind…Does the US government and the VA now recognize GWS?
My partner was in that unit. He and Jake were best mates. I can see the shared trauma expressed. It's important for you to know that you did your very best under that particular circumstance. And it is my hope that I can connect you to some of these Aussie soldiers from that unit. ❤
You are so sweet. Thank you. I am sorry about Jake’s loss. That was a horrible day.
Aussie here.
Thank you. That and a song from cold chisel called khe sahn are both songs that make you stop and think. I was in the navy. I also worked for John Shuey Shuman. He was a great guy, and not shy of playing "I was only 19" for people in a bar, as we sang along loudly and cried proudly.
@@josephrourke4669 thanks for sharing. He seems like he’s amazing man. I’ve yet to listen to Khe San, but it is on my list. Thank you so much for your support. 💙
@@JustAnotherArmyVet Another call out for Cold Chisel's Khe Sanh. It's more up-tempo, but very much also captures the difficulties a lot of Vietnam vets went through when they came home.
@@neilcam a lot of people recommended that song. 💙
Thank you mate, for recognition of our efforts and history forgotten by America despite the fact we were gave our lives and alliance for America in every war. LEST WE FORGET
I appreciate you watching and for your support! #NeverForget
@@JustAnotherArmyVet 👍
"Their duty was to serve. Our duty is to remember them."
Dad was NZ Artillery in the Pacific, in support of the Marines. Recently found out I have a Grand Uncle who died at Gallipoli.
Both this song and "The Band Payed Waltzing Matilda", by Eric Bogle, stir the emotions like nothing else.
The ANZAC Parade, April 25th, is as well-attended, here in NZ, now as ever. Many of the kids and grand-kids of vets show up 0600hrs, wearing Grandpa's medals.
Your profound, honest reaction resonates strongly with the melancholy that always grips me when the flag lowers and the trumpet sounds "Last Post".
Our vets served out of loyalty, duty and courage, yet were sidelined without a thought, by those who sent them. And Australia dished out one of the worst treatments.
Is that price too high to pay? Not when brave men and women still deploy today.
And we will remember them.
I thank your family for Service. It is a shame how the Vietnam veterans were treated. I really do appreciate you taking the time to type all that. My respect and love from South Carolina!! 🌴💙🙏
@@JustAnotherArmyVet And, as a by-the-way, I was also ten years NZ Air Force.
It's an irony to me, that those with the highest discipline, morals, duty and dedication to service are used by those in office with questionable morals, sometimes the lowest ethics and no idea of service but to their own careers.
Only vets can care for vets.
@@TheLoneHaranger yes…. Thanks for your service! My aunt is actually a Kiwi 🙂
Great words all so true we will remember them
My Great grandfather survived the Boer War, Gallipoli but The Somme got him. He was always there to serve his country until his final battle. I can't imagine what he would have had to endure and what sights he saw. I was too young when Vietnam was happening but only by a couple of years. I like to think that I would have been able to do my duty if called upon. To all our vets ANZAC and US, thank you for your service and if you are suffering, please take the therapeutical services offered. This song has helped to enlighten those of us who didn't go through it and at least understand some of the trauma you have experienced. Your homecomings were tainted by the anti-war hippies of the times who gave you bad labels, you were doing the goverments' bidding as expected. ANZACS have a good rep for good reason, they get the job done.
I cry everytime I hear it. Young people today have no idea what veterans went through, no bloody idea how tough life can really be.
@@notaclu6911 well said. Thanks for your support 💙🙏
Hi I'm an Australian,
I want to say thank you for this video and sharing your shared insights on this. When I first heard this song was actually at school when we were learning about the Vietnam war and I just remember how solemn everyone was. I think it's very important for us to confront how we have treated our veterans in the past and move forward and support past, present and future veterans and their families. ❤
Thank you.
Lest We Forget
Thank you, well said!!! 🙏💙
Fellow Aussie here. Thank you for reviewing this wonderful song that still gives me goosebumps everytime I hear it. I want to thank you for your service and wish you a happy healthy life ❤
You are so sweet. I wish the same for you as well. Thank you for your support!! 💙
Thank you for your beautiful and honest reaction to this heart hitting song. I come from a military family in Australia. My Father was a Nasho (conscript) in Nam in 69/70. His card was pulled on his Birthday. He served in a covert unit in Nui Dat. He has a rash on his left leg. Most likely from agent orange.
My Dad was a metallurgist at a steelworks. He had to lie about the war on his return for fear of retribution. The Aussie Vietnam vets didn't get an official welcome home parade until 1987. As a young kid at the time, I couldn't understand why. As an adult, neither could my Mum or her parents of which her Father served as 1st officer in Royal Navy shortly after Pearl Harbor was attacked by JIF.
The treatment of our Vietnam Vets was reprehensible and despicable!
This song gives clarity, distinction, and above all, vindication.
I thank your family for his service. And I really do appreciate you sharing 🙏❤️. Respect from South Carolina 🌴!
I served in the Australian Army at that time, and I can say without a doubt what you have said about our Vietnam Vets is absolutely true, they were treated like lepers for many years after, even the RSL refused to regognise their contribution for many years, and in my own way of protest, even though I am eligible to join the RSL, I refuse to do so to this day, because of that treatment. I'm 73 years old, and even to this day this song still reduces me to tears.
@@bushranger51 I do thank you for your service! And I can understand your feelings. The RSL should have been there for its people .
Yeah i was young but in the that crowd that day
@@JustAnotherArmyVetthank you so much. I thank you too for your service
My husband is a Vietnam Vet and it took years for the VA to begin to acknowledge the health issues they were experiencing. But we're just grateful that they have. Thank You for your service ❤️🇺🇲
It is the thing that frustrates me the most. I have never served, but can not understand the attitude of sending these kids to war, and not wanting to deal with the human wreckage that comes back
Exactly!
I I’m glad the VA is finally giving him help and support. I do thank him for Service and I thank you for your support. 💙🙏
@@glenchapman3899
Having served in the MILITARY for 30 years -
a career that began with the RAF - having entered
with a private Pilots License since age 16
( including 2 years on attachment ti the USAF (1974-1976)
I look back and wonder where all those years disappeared to )
Time passes rapidly. Many I serve with have already departed
this earth.- and it gives me great pain.
In the MILITARY I made life-long friends - including some
who served with the RN [ ROYAL NAVY ] and AUSTRALIAN NAVY
These days I would not recommend anyone to join the MILITARY
All wars are bankers Wars - they are commercial enterprises -
generating huge profits for the elite rulers and bankers.
My Dad was with 104 Signal Squadron in Vietnam.My Dad wasn""t the same after he got back.Respect for you for serving your Country.My Dad died of Agent Orange Related Lymphoma.He fought till he died to try and get full benefits.I loved my Dad,Im 59.
My respect to your father and I am so sorry for your loss 😢🙏💙
it was absolutly disgrace ful how they fought that and denied the possibility. My thanks to your Dad
Wish I could hit the like button a million times for you and your dad much love to you ❤❤❤
This song was released in 1983 and is still revelant today. It still has an emotional impact on me today like it did when it was released. I didn't go to Vietnam but I knew guys that did, they were never the same again.
I appreciate you sharing 💙👍
I agree. Still very relevant
Thank you for looking after our boys in Iraq.
It was my honor to serve with them 🙏💙🇦🇺
If the Yanks had not covered us in Iraq we would have been toast. I'll never forget their support which was freely given - air support from 82 Abn to just about anywhere,, the CASH and Witchdoctor out of Talil, all the team in Taji and out at Kirkush.
@@robhamilton4373 what year was that? I was deployed to Baghdad in 2005-2006 with the majority of the 10th CSH (Combat Support Hospital). We were called Task Force North. We also had a smaller contingent called Task Force South, who were based out of Talil.
@@JustAnotherArmyVet 06. Moved around alot so I spent a lot of time passing through Bagdhad . Preferred to stay with the other Aussie Inf guys who operated out of FOB Union rather than the shiny bums in the HQ at the Palace :).
@@robhamilton4373 I served with the Diggers that were stationed at the Australian Embassy, which was adjacent to our hospital. We did guard duty with them at our back gate. We shared the ECP 🙂
Before I deployed to Iraq, we marched through the streets of Townsville, that morning, the soul of my boot peeled off, so I asked the Padre and he said, what size are ya Blue? 8 Padre. He said, give me a sec. Bang a new boot right on the spot, that wouldn't happen every day, but it happened for me and when I took the boot, I realised the Padre had given me his boot. They were high shines, like parade boots that we don't have to spit and polish like I used to do. I love this song, love this story and we're still fighting the government to give a shit.
When was that? And where do you deploy? That is a really memorable story. I really do appreciate you sharing that. 💙🙏
@@JustAnotherArmyVet That would have been 2007, I was a signaller (comms dude) attached to 2 RAR and we were AMTG 3. That's just one experience. Was either 07 or 08, I'm not sure these days lol
I Deployed as a combat medic ‘05-‘06
@@JustAnotherArmyVet I was at Almathana (probs spelt wrong) with the poms, it was called Camp Smitty, before we moved to Talil.
@@bluedog1052 about 80% of my unit deployed to Baghdad. And the other 25% actually deployed Talil. I was in Baghdad
Thanks for your service to all you Veterans in this world . LEST WE FORGET .
@@MaryanneDixon-wd4qi thank you for your support! Lest we forget
Thank you so much for your response to this video and song, I cried with you! I knew a woman who always worked hard but was always rushing to leave! I asked her why the hurry and she said "my husband was badly affected by Agent Orange in Vietnam and so both my children are disabled! I am all they have, so I must hurry home to make sure they are all ok, and also work"! The video is very Australian, I doubt many Americans have heard it, I hope they do too! Bless you! 🤗
Thank you for sharing!l and for watching! I certainly hope that that family and others families are doing better. God bless them and you as well. 🙏💙
@@JustAnotherArmyVet It is important that these things are openly discussed, every story may be unique, but the stressors are the same! An old man may go back to war times during dementia, a young man may self medicate in his room and avoid human contact, another may deflect from their pain by helping others - these are all normal reactions in the animal world! We are able to help each other as humans, and we should, wherever we are! 🙋🙏
First responders and medical personnel have the closest understanding of the trauma the soldiers go through❤
True ❤️💙
Aussie GWOT vet here. It's quite natural to need a moment to collect yourself from this song. I remember the first time hearing it was when our training platoon staff put it on speakers on our last day of basic and it impacted a number of us greatly. Two decades and three warzones later, I'm driving down a country road and this is played on radio, I had to stop the car as the lyrics meant so much more and it was still timeless. There are also a number of references in the song that remain consistent to the Australian Army experience even with soldiers now:
- Verse 1: "Mum and Dad and Denny saw the passing out parade at Puckapunyal" and "We did Canungra and Shoalwater before we left"
Pucka is a large military training area and is still the location of where Armour and Artillery corps soldiers do their initial employment training (or what you call MOS in the States) after basic. Canungra is still a site for jungle warfare and JNCO training while Shaolwater is a small country sized training area in Queensland for large maneuvers. Actually we train a lot with USMC there.
- Verse 1: "The Sixth Battalion was the next to tour, and it was me who drew the card"
The Sixth Battalion Royal Australian Regiment (6RAR) is one of the most distinguished infantry battalions in the Australian Army. It earned a Meritorious Unit Citation in the Battle of Long Tan in 1966 and 6RAR distinguished itself again in the heavy fighting decades later in mid-2010 in Afghanistan where in Battle of Derapet, 6RAR was the only unit with a member to earn a Victoria Cross not from a Special Operations Task Group unit. Like in the US, the Vietnam War also killed conscription, so the 'drawing the card' bit can be lost on modern audiences.
- Verse 2: "And Townsville lined the footpaths as we marched down to the quay"
Townsville in northern Queensland has always been a military town. Many Australian Army soldiers have been based there at one time or another.
Thank you for your service and I do appreciate you commenting all that. I do thank you for your service. Love and respect from South Carolina. 🌴🙏💙
Aussie Lady here. Ray was only a child too. He passed from the effects of Agent Orange. The Cancer on his legs was heartbreaking to see worsen .. my daughter developed CRPS ; Resulting in her disability. She is 20 now. Her Grandpa passed when she was 9 .. He forever lives in our heart 💜.. and we have one of his 💜 here with us 🙏 🥹 🌺
@@AussieSusan1 I’m so sorry for the pain in the loss you and Your family have experienced. My respect goes out to all the veterans. Thank you for sharing. 💙🙏
@@JustAnotherArmyVet Thank you 🙏 💜☮️ ❤️ Respect and Humbled Amen
@@AussieSusan1 🙏❤️
Most of those 19 year olds were conscripted into the army for this war, but they still had the Anzac spirit.
Respect!
Stop spreading disinformation! NOT a single 19 year old was conscripted! registration for "national service'" happened at age 20! All 19 years old who served in Vietnam were volunteers.
Conscription was based on your 20th birthday not 19. Only some 15,000 of us National Servicemen were sent to Vietnam being roughly a quarter of the total.
@@johnnichol9412 unfortunately they made up 38% of those killed
Conscripts were not eligible for conscription until they turned 20. While a significant number of these did serve in Nam, the majority of those serving there were regulars. I lost two mates in that war. I was also in the draft.
I had the privilege of seeing John perform with his band 4 days ago. Amazing. His voice is hypnotic. When he sang this, there were tears throughout the venue.
That must’ve been a very memorable experience!!
Thank you for perspective on this song, it means a lot to me and to most Australians.
“Lest We Forget”
And I thank you for listening and for your support. Love and respect from South Carolina 🌴!
Thank you, thank you, I'm an Aussie, now 73, missed call up by one day. Have spoken to many Vets, but they keep mostly to themselves. Many were despised for fighting where the Government sent them i'm sure you have had and still do have the same in America. I was only 19 is an emotional song and still is. I cried when i heard you play that song, long forgotten by many, but very emotional, again thank you for your own service to the armed forces and doing the best to assist the Anzacs you served beside. You are one special lady (Vet).
@@alancraven7667 American vets faced the same thing when they came home 😢…You are so sweet. Thanks for your kind words and support. Love and respect from South Carolina 🌴🙏💙
Just watching your reaction ti I Was Only 19. My late brother-in-law was a Vietnam Vet, he was in the most well known Australian battle, Long Tan, and on Anzac Day I always take the time to watch this song and end up with tears in my eyes.
My respect to your brother-in-law for his service. I’m sorry for his loss. I’ll have to look up that battle.
@@JustAnotherArmyVet Yes you should look it up, hopefully an Australian version. It's an incredible example of Anzac bravery and endurance under impossible odds!
@@JustAnotherArmyVet The movie " Danger Close" is a fair description of events. Good film.
Bill Akell is a member of my local RSL and a mate . He was just a kid but ran around the battlefield with the radio and fetching ammo. I also served with 6 RAR but in 2000 in East Timor. We won our Vietnam war with the help of our mates the NZ artillery.
@@samphillips2360 They had vets that were in the battle consulting on set for that movie. You cant get much more real than that .
I am one of the youngest firstborn of a WWII Vet. My father was on HMAS Australia, the first naval ship hit by Kamakazes. The ship was taken to Port Vila, where the Americans had a naval dock. The ship was repaired, and more modern US systems were installed (e.g. new Radar systems). When the ship returned, HMAS Australia, the Battleship of the fleet, was attached to the American 5th Fleet for the liberation of the Philippines. The Japanese once again attacked the ship, being hit by 5 Kamakeze over three days. It was in this secondary attack that my father was injured.
In the Adelaide Paper, he was recorded as being injured but not seriously.
There was no knowledge of PTSD at the time. Many Australian vets went bush. My father returned to the railways and immediately took a posting at the Bordertown station, quite a way from any city.
There is so much intergenerational PTSD in Australia. My grandfather (who died before I was born) was in WWI and on the second wave to Gallipoli, and he returned in not a good state, which caused my father trauma. He also serves in Australia in WWII. My father’s experience caused my mum and me significant trauma, and I tried to break the cycle with my kids, but I only partially succeeded.
The world can not have WWIII because of the current Israeli atrocities.
And Ukraine - lest the world forgets.
Thank you so much for sharing your story. I’m sorry about all the trauma that your family‘s been been through. I’m glad that you are trying to break the cycle. I have a friend close to me that is also trying to break the cycle. When he feels like he’s about to burst, he just removes himself from the situation. Anyway, thank your family for service. Love and respect from South Carolina 🌴💙🙏
Israeli atrocities? You mean the attack on Israel by Hamas was warranted and they have no right of response, or that they should just accept continuous terrorist attacks until they manage to wipe Israel off the map? Not to forget that Hamas is deliberately putting its own people in direct line of fire and not letting them leave, using them as human shields? I agree any war is atrocious, the Palestinians or Israel don't deserve this, but Hamas, not Israel, is to blame.
My family also suffered from the effects of war. It was mainly my 2 uncles. My granddad went to WWI when his son was only 2.5 years old. He didn't return until the month that son turned 7. That uncle was jealous of his 2 younger brothers who both had their dad around for all their lives and sometimes treated them badly. He was also violent towards his own wife and children.
My other uncle volunteered for WWII and served in the bomber command who didn't get recognised for their service for many years after the war. He was shot down and was a POW for 18 months until the end of the war. He came home with ptsd and while he went to the Melbourne veteran's mental health hospital, they didn't know how to treat ptsd at that time. He suffered from depression all his life.
We do not want another world war! I hate to think what damage is being done to the soldiers in Ukraine and those in Gaza!
Having bad mental health is an awful thing!! Both for the person and those around them. It isn't well understood by the community at large and it is hard to describe to another.
@@fionamcwilliam8703 well said. Thank you for sharing your story. I’m sorry about your family trauma. 💙🙏
ANZAC day remembering are fallen and our returned soldiers 😢
Australian New Zealand Army Corps.
Lest we forget
Adelaide South Australia
Lest we forget! Respect and love from South Carolina 🌴❤️!
I'm an Aussie. My birthday was next on the conscription lists when the Labor Government pulled us out of Vietnam and scrapped conscription. I've blessed them ever since. This song is the closest I've come to being in a war. It brings me to tears when I listen to it. You did a fine job. It's the best of its kind that I've seen. Thank you.
@@garrysinclair9767 you are blessed 🙏. thank you so much for sharing and for your insight. And I really do appreciate your support and kind words. ❤️🙏
The title is actually "I was only 19 (A Walk in the Light Green)" John Schumann from a live recording of this track says "It's a song about two mates of mine who went to Vietnam, came back Agent Orange victims. The title "A Walk in the Light Green" stems from the fact that when the Australian soldiers in Vietnam were given their missions, they looked at the areas where they'd be working in on the map and if it was dark green on the map, then there was cause for some consolation, because dark green meant thick jungle, lots of cover, and there were no mines. If they were working in areas that were light green on the map, that meant light jungle, not much cover, and heaps of mines. This is a song for Mick and Frankie. It's called "A walk in the light green". Thank You for your service. I'm an Aussie, so you didn't serve for my country, but you served for my freedom as well.
Thank you so much, my friend for your insight. I had no idea. And I do thank you for your support as well. 💙
A couple of other points, Canungra (jungle training) and Shoalwater (corrected) are training areas. Townsville is a city and port they left from. Someone else also made the point that "he was going home in June" meant that he should not have been there, his rotation out a month before had been delayed.
I wish you luck in your quest for calm.
For those of us who never joined forces, we should never forget that though we may disagree with choice to engage, that that is a political choice of our nation. Be angry at that choice, not at those who stepped forward to serve, and we owe care to them and theirs for doing so.
@@bemusedbilby3409 "the day that mankind kicked the moon" was in July, if he truly was "going home in June", that meant he had been deployed for less than a month, or for 13 months. Neither is the case. John Schumann said it as simply to rhyme with "moon", not to be taken literally.
@@bemusedbilby3409 Question the law makers but always support our troops.
@@SomeRUclipsGuy generlly they don't. Lambie being a current noticable exception.
Luv and peace from Tasmania, Australia.
Love and respect from South Carolina 🌴!
Thank you for your understanding & compassion. I did two tours of Vietnam, as an Infantry soldier, in the Australian Regular Army ( 1967-1968; 1971) & even all these years later I am still suffering. It is not only the Australian governments that have been ignorant & unfeeling, but my family - brothers & sisters - don't want to know. I wish this great insightful song could gain more exposure. Thank you.
I thank you for your service!! My respect to you and your battle buddies. I also hope that this song could gain more exposure, especially in the US.
Welcome home digga,"duty first",I thank you for your service!
I thank you. I’m a 30 year Navy veteran wife and Defence industry professional. I and my colleagues are dedicated to supporting you and we are behind you.
@@feralpossum6529 Thank you so much for tour continued understanding & support. They mean the world to us,
You talk and I’d listen. Family may not wish to hear the reality of war, but there are many out there that would listen to what you have to say. I hope you get that opportunity. Thank you for your sacrifices.
I'm again in tears. This song never fails!
😢😢💙🙏
Thank you for this. My dad is an Aussie Vietnam vet.
You are welcome! And thank you father for his service ❤️
Hello Just Another Army Vet, thank you so much for your service and for posting this emotional video. My father is a Vietnam ANZAC vet and listening to your own and Red Gum’s experiences and having recently completed mental health first aid, I’ve realised that my father’s eccentric and controversial behaviour is not because he’s different, but he’s suffering in silence with PTSD. The lyrics in the song describe his mental and physical ailments perfectly.
On behalf of all Australians, I wish to convey our sincerest and heartfelt thanks to you and all US defence personnel. Without the sacrifices of your wonderful vets our way of life could have been considerably different. We appreciate your individual contributions and your gallant efforts to save Jake Kovco. I recall hearing the news and felt immense sadness at the time. I’m so glad to have the opportunity to thank you unconditionally. You are a wonderful human and your messages touch us all Down under.
Thank you my friend! I think your father for his service! I do salute you as well for doing that mental health training. I really do appreciate your support. Australia will always be in my heart. Respect and love from South Carolina 🌴❤️.
This is the song politicians should not be allowed to forget.
Yes!
@@nevyn_karres The Politicians don't care their Pious Platitudes mean nothing. They are order Following Puppets.
Im a child of a Korean Veteran Special Forces. He was stationed in Hiroshima a couple of months after they dropped the bomb. They use to lay in the burnt paches for photos, he came back with radation in his DNA. We, his children all have health issues long lists of them, absolutely nothing from the government not even a public house, nothing. A child of a veteran doesn't understand, we were never allowed to speak of it. But we understood he was a soldier and was our heart.
@@kristinenorrie150 thank you so much for sharing and thank your father for his service. I know he must have seen a lot of horrible things. ❤️🙏
Sending you a warm hug from Western Australia and to anyone who served 🙏❤️
Respect from South Carolina 🌴!❤️💙🙏
Cunugra and Shoal water are jungle training centres, unlike the USA, Australia sent battalion units over to Vietnam not individuals on year tours. It means units train and serve with mates they trust and rely on, not untrained replacements.
Thank you for clarifying that. I wonder why the US sent soldiers over individually, instead of as whole battalions and units 🤔. Currently, that is how the US operates. But I just don’t know why they didn’t do that in Vietnam.
@@JustAnotherArmyVet I think it may have been a hangover from WW2 where US reinforcements came through replenishment depots to be assigned on an as-needed basis to front-line units that needed fresh troops. I think British Commonwealth forces learned in WW1 that it was better for overall unit morale to withdraw a whole unit after a preset time or casualty level had been reached for rebuilding and retraining. The US Army didn't make that change until after Vietnam as part of the switch to an all-volunteer force as best I can tell.
@@danwincen1 ahh okay. Thanks for your insight!
@@JustAnotherArmyVet I read also that US soldiers served fro 12 months (as part of the adhoc replacement policy) and officers served 6 months to expose as many young officers to combat as possible. The effect on respect for leadership and cohesion can be imagined. I'm very glad to see US Army has lifted its game big time since the low point of Vietnam.
@@waratahdavid696 I never heard that officers only had a six-month tour and soldiers had a 12 month tour. That may be the case though . I just never heard that. Maybe that was for the Air Force 🤔. I will have to do more research on that
The City was Townsville North Queensland, Shoal Bay and Puckapunyal down in Victoria where my Dad was mentioned early in the song.
Your dad?
Korean War that is still a training base
Shoal water bay is outside Rockhampton. It is a military Training centre.
Basically bush so it is there to try and prepare forces for actual combat conditions.
As an Aussie, thank you for your service. Americans are our brothers and sisters always, and especially in war time. ❤
@@mattstan6601 thanks for your support! Love and respect from South Carolina 🌴🙏❤️
Unless a person has lived our lives, they will never understand the nightmares we are living with.
Well said 🙏💙
So true ... I just left the hospital after just over three weeks. MY PTSD Doctor called me in the ward and asked me; if I "could leave yet". Three nights I was back (in my head) at 95th EVAC, Da Nang while at St George Hospital, Sydney. The Nurses and my Doctors were all too young to even know anything about that war. The Hospital wanted me to stay another 4 weeks ... pass, and I checked myself out. Even my GP of 20 plus years agreed I should leave, so my partner has been my nurse as I still can't walk without help. Thanks for the reality check mate. So true.
@@airbrushken5339 I salute you. Just keep on doing what you are doing. Lean on your partner and seek out help when you need it. That is how you will survive. Have you ever looked into a PTSD therapy dog?
@@JustAnotherArmyVet Great suggestion, I got an Australian Kelpie, in the end I gave him to my eldest. All my three sons were born with disabilities ( I had no idea that Dioxin illnesses could be passed on). I sadly have no contact with them, even though I raised them, as they blame me for their health issues. I'm dying anyway, but the cancer caused me to no longer to be able to help them other than money. Thanks for the suggestion mate.
@@airbrushken5339 my heart and prayers are with you and your family 💙🙏
What you said is correct. As I was thinking earlier, it is anti war. I do not support war unless it absolutely needed. However these people fought for us, died for us, suffered for us, so we can live free. They 100% deserve our respect and love and support. They are heroes, regardless of Government politics and the reason they are sent. They suffered tremendously for us.
🇦🇺🇳🇿 LEST WE FORGET! 🇦🇺🇳🇿
Well said!
To be honest, they were fighting for the preservation of US hegemony, Vietnam was no threat to Australia, as neither was Korea, Afghanistan, Iraq etc. And neither is Russia, say no to US Imperialism, don’t be fooled again
You said you do not support war unless it is necessary.
How was the American invasion of Vietnam necessary ?
Please explain because my University Degree in Australian History & Politics didn't cover how or why it was necessary for us to send young men to fight, to die, to become incapacitated & to, in many documented cases, rape & kill innocent Vietnamese, to wipe out villages, homes, livelihoods. To make innocent people homeless.
To use Napalm on innocent men, women, children, babies.
How was all that necessary ?
What good did it do ?
How did our military in Vietnam fight for OUR freedom ?
How did they help OUR way of life ?
We lost the Vietnam Invasion/War.
That might be something you're unaware of.
We lost.
America lost.
The people of Vietnam lost.
Everyone lost.
All those lives lost & ruined were for NOTHING.
A big fat NOTHING.
Just like Iraq & Afghanistan.
The problem we all had with Vietnam is that it was WRONG.
We know it was wrong.
We knew then that it was wrong.
We still know it was wrong.
It was not our business to be there.
Conscription was WRONG & it was the only time Australia had it.
In 1915 Prime Minister Billy Hughes visited The Western Front & then tried to push Conscription.
The Australian people & his own Party rejected it overwhelmingly & it split the Australian Labor Party.
A major rift.
If you studied Australian Politics you'd know that was one of the 3 major splits of the Australian Labor Party. It was a major event in Australian History & Politics, the opposition to Conscription.
Australians rejected Conscription in 1915 & we rejected in again during the Vietnam invasion but it was forced on us.
No-one should be sent to war because their birthday came up in a raffle.
Our Defence Force should be professional & trained. Not Conscripts.
Conscription is wrong.
It always will be.
We don't disrespect the Conscripts who were forced to go, but we disrespect the concept of Conscription.
If we didn't agree to it in 1915 when there was perhaps just cause because extra forces were needed on The Western Front, why was it forced on us during the Vietnam invasion ?
What is important to remember is that it was the anti-war movement & Gough Whitlam's pledge to withdraw troops from Vietnam that saw the Labor Party win govt in 1972 after 23 years out of power.
The Australian people spoke, at the ballot box & they voted to withdraw from Vietnam. That was the sole reason for the 1972 win by Labor.
I have done tours of The Western Front, The Somme, Flandres, Fromelles, Pheasant Wood with a French historian who specialises in ANZAC history.
That is where we made a difference but still not for us or OUR way of life.
Our sacrifices in France, Belgium were purely to protect Great Britain but in doing so we freed France & Belgium & they have never forgotten. In places like Villers-Bretonneux you see more Australian flags than you see in Sydney. Our Commonwealth War Cemeteries are kept in pristine condition.
Those who fell in France & Belgium are remembered even if they have no known grave.
They have never forgotten what the real ANZACS did.
As an Australian I was respected everywhere I went in the north of France & Belgium because they have never forgotten what the ANZACs did for them.
That wasn't our war either. WWI didn't affect us.
Our lives & lifestyles were never at threat during WWI. We did that for Great Britain.
So we need to get over this idea that ANZACs fought for us.
They fought for the UK & to free occupied European countries..
Only in WWII when our military were in The Pacific did they fight to protect us.
My late father-in-law served in New Guinea & Darwin. He spoke to me about his time there & only after his death did I find out that I was the only one he ever talked to about it. He never talked to his own family about his service.
The two World Wars were different. We must never compare them to the invasions of Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan.
What good came out of the Vietnam invasion ?
Who won ?
No-one won.
Everyone lost especially the Vietnamese.
It is not that we disrespect veterans. We don't. The increasing attendance at ANZAC Day dawn services & Remembrance Day commemorations proves we respect veterans.
What we don't respect is unnecessary wars ( invasions) for American economic reasons.
If we really cared about people's freedom we'd be in Occupied Palestine helping the poor, the oppressed, homeless, starving, sick Palestinians being shelled & dying every day by Israel, but we're not. Why aren't we ?
Because the US not only supports Israel they supply them with the shells & other ammunition including ( illegal) phosphorus being used on Palestinians in their occupied country.
If ever there was just cause to go to war, occupied Palestine is where we should be.
Free Palestine.
Free Gaza.
From the river to the sea.......
You can absolutely disagree with war in general, specific conflicts and the politics that surround them, yet still support and respect veterans.
@@jacquimott386 exactly. I completely agree. I wish more people understood that
SLR - self loading rifle. Basically same as FN in UK service, similar to its contemporary US 7.62mm M14. Greens - Jungle Green uniform.
I was still in cadets in 1973, our training cadre were on rotation from Vietnam. We still trained with Brens and Lee Enfields in .303 calibre.
VB - Victoria Bitter (beer). US equivt would be Budweiser.
I worked in the DVA (Dept of Veterans Affairs) in the 90s, figuring out disability from Agent Orange, Asbestos and Nuclear Test exposure, following court cases. The culture was changing from the WWII "don't give em an inch" philosophy to "pay unless there is absolute proof of no injury".
I do appreciate your insight and I think that’s great that you worked at the VA helping Veterans 💙
It really is such a powerful song. I've heard it a million times but it hits me every single time.
@@falsealaska very powerful 😢❤️
Thank you for your heartfelt reaction. This song always bring a tear to my eyes.
Thank you to you and all the brave men and women who served their countries in time of war.
We thank you for your support 💙
As an Australian coping with PTSD and RV travelling around this country Australia I love with a passion, only finding my peace when being 'offgrid' in the outback.
I've met many of our Vietnam Veterans, plus a one family member who has served. He still suffers from Malaria, Agent Orange fallout, and FLASHBACKS.
Our 'HEROES' who can't deal with /face the demands of modern day society.
After listening to their combined, heartfelt and horrendous memories, and the LIFELONG BONDS they have with their combat teams.
I could see the devastation of detachment and the mental wounds that war has left them facing.
And unfortunately their PERSONALITY changes effects their family and friends.
Thankyou John Schuman for your words and your TRUTH, a song that reaches every atom in my body and so many others touched by your words..
TRUE BLUE AUSSIES HEROES everyone of them.
# RESPECT
🥰👍🇦🇺
I’m glad that you have found peace. I do hope that others with PTSD can also find piece… love and respect from South Carolina!! 🌴🙏💙
Hi from Australia thank you for sharing that son that song will never die
Thank you so much for your support! Love and respect from South Carolina 🌴💙
Lest we forget 😢It brings tears everytime I hear it ❤
Lest we forget ❤️😢🙏
Agent Orange was in the water that the Navy guys drank and showered in. Australian Navy. This song makes everyone cry❤
💙❤️
Bullshit, agent orange was a defoliant, used on thick vegetation, the RAN didnt come near it.
Im sorry, but people like you claiming crap like that degrades those who where truly exposed to the chemicals used.
Lest we forget
🙏
Lest we forget. Amen.
Lest we forget
Lest we forget they will never be forgotten 😢
Lest we NEVER forget
ANZAC Day just gets harder without you, Dad. I miss you so much. Thanks for being so much more than a member of the RAE & a veteran of the war in Vietnam, but nothing less.
🙏💙🇦🇺🇳🇿
fantastic song our diggers were brave young men who really should not have been in a situation like a war
@@robertwanty8065 true ….It is beautiful and emotional song about the brave Digger heroes 🙏💙
"Agent Orange is unique to Vietnam"
Toxic Burn Pits has entered the conversation
True…
Your face is so moving. I can feel your pain and empathy. It is people like yourself who bring it home so strongly. 🙏🏻
Thank you so much for your support and thanks for watching. 🙏💙
I joined the Royal Australian Army 6 months after graduating from high school when I was 18, literally the day after my 18th birthday. I was off on a plane from Brisbane airport to start my training. I got within 2 weeks of marching out when I injured my lower back, which broke me. I knew that my journey was over, and I cried because it was and still is my dream. 15 years later, at the age of 33, it still calls to me. I wish I could join again, but my back has only gotten worse since and now I struggle to get out of bed every morning. Thank you to all previous and current service members I love you for everything you've sacrificed for this great country we all get to call home.
Thank you so much for your support. And I am sorry that you were not able to fulfill your dream. I know it must be hard. I do wish you the best. Love and respect from South Carolina. 🌴🙏💙
I don’t know what you do now but Defence Industry is a way to continue to serve . It’s a great way to support those who serve and when you know what they give it makes work meaningful xxxx
I too went through training at 17, I turned 18 during training. We loved this song as it gave us strength together that we would battle together - like a war song. When I got to my first unit with no professional PTI we did stupid things for exercise not done before and I injured my lower back and for the next 3 years the unit treated me like shit. It took me 30 years to get the ARMY to recognise the improper training was the cause of my injury. I struggle to get out of bed every morning as well. Nothing would have changed if you got through, and it happened to me. Just wanted to let you know, if you are injured you are worthless.
@@digitaldame2672 I’m sorry you had a hard time. I hope you are better now.
My Dad was an Australian Vietnam veteran. He couldn’t stand this song for decades, but one day it came on the car radio when he was driving with my son, David. David went to change the station, but Dad said “No. Leave it on.” They listened to the song together in silence. Dad told his grandson “It’s a pretty good song.” Dad had been receiving treatment for his PTSD for a few years by that time, you see.
@@kathyheyne6030 thank you so much for sharing that. My upmost respect to your father. I hope he’s doing better better now. 💙🙏
That starter video with John explaining his brother in law’s (and other vets experiences) in Vietnam + his own experience with trying to help our vets deal with PTSD post deployment is just beyond…where did you dig that up? I Was Only 19 is a tribute to all vets and listening to that song and your reaction today, ANZAC day, our day of respect for veterans of all external conflicts, is very special. Thank you. ❤ Also…thank you for YOUR service to your country and helping our guys in their line of duty. You have seen things nobody should ever see and please believe that we thank you and respect you for doing your duty! ❤BTW… that rash “that comes and goes” has been been proved to be a form of cancer, Mycosis Fungoides, a cutaneous T cell lymphoma that originally presents as a rash similar to a fungal infection of the skin and progresses to untreatable skin tumours over many, many years (30+ years) that is caused by exposure to Agent Orange and similar chemicals. (According to my Dad’s Heamatologist) This cancer is being experienced by not just Vietnam vets but also by our farmers who delt with these same sort of chemicals in the 60’s-80’s. I lost my father to this disease last year. 😢 He was not a vet as he was exempt from service as a farmer, but he always made sure we had respect for those who served in his stead and always felt guilty he was not allowed to serve.
I am so sorry for your loss! I know that must be hard. I do appreciate your insight. I just hope that these vets get the help that they need. My respect goes out to all Vets! I got the introduction video from someone who just pointed me to the video on RUclips. I’m pretty sure I have it linked down in my description box. Love and respect from South Carolina 🌴💙!
Goosebumps................Everytime!
Yes!
Thankyou from an Australian army veteran, God bless America 🇦🇺❤️🇺🇸
@@BrettMerrick-p9c my respect to you from South Carolina 🌴💙🙏! And thanks for your service!
Thank you for showing this, from a grateful Australian, daughter, wife and mother of veterans. I am sure that vets of most countries can relate.
@@SueHerbert-t6x thank you so much for your support and thank your family for its service 💙🙏
You get it. You're a vet. Much respect.❤️
I appreciate your support. Love and respect from South Carolina 🌴❤️
Aussie veteran with PTSD here my self, thx you for your kind words, I got all the way to the end without tears until you showed PTE kovco, thank you so much for bringing his name to light. Lest we forget
💙🙏
He deserved to be remembered. Thank you so much for your support and kind words. I also hope you are getting help 💙🙏
Thankyou ma'am for your meaningful and heartfelt observations and comments , and thankyou for looking after our boys and gals in your service.
You are so sweet. Thanks for your support! Love and respect from South Carolina 🌴💙🙏
God bless all vets
@@lindsayspears5760 thanks for your support. God bless ❤️🙏
Iam Australian thank you and God Bless America
God bless! Respect and love from South Carolina 🌴💙🙏
If it wasn't for the sacrifice and bravery of US forces the Japs would have taken Australia and killed all the Aussie men LEST WE FORGET
I’m a daughter of an Australian Vietnam vet. My father was in the worst battle in Vietnam.
I’m not whining at all but the agent orange has ( as the next generation) given me health problems- extra morphed bones in my feet for example. My father and I became estranged due to his complex ptsd. We are better now . Thank you SO much for this post.
May you and your loved ones be safe and happy and well.
Thank you again
I thank your father for his service and I’m glad that he’s doing better now. I’m sorry that you have problems. Thank you for your support. 💙🙏
The absolute worst year for the ARVN was 1973 -- the year I returned home
(March 25) they lost 40 thousand men - after the U.S. GOVERNMENT
cut funding to the ARVN - what followed over the following two years
was horrific - with many ARVN Officers committing suicide - as a better
option to being taken prisoner by the VC -
It is too painful to talk about
I can’t even imagine…
Im an Aussie who has never been to war. This song still hits me.
@@leinad.s a very emotional song
Great reaction.song brings to tears all the time.salute to all our veterans. U.S.A and your Australian brothers
Respect 💙
Im an Aussie and I really love your analysis on the song. It is a song that always brings tears to my eyes, and it was really insightful to hear you break it down and hear your views on it
@@missjane1403 thank you so much for watching and for your feedback. I appreciate it 💙
As an Australian who has a very strong relationship with our vets this review is just awesome and I thank you and thank you for your service. For decades successive governments in Australia took the stance "we didn't spread or drop agent orange so it's not our problem". Thankfully things are changing and our governments of recent years have recognised our Vietnam Vets, their service and their complex medical problems. Any vet in Australia who served in any war zone, no matter his/her age or rank is eligible for a "Gold Card", upon discharge, this card covers the cost of any medical condition, these vets are not required to pay one red cent for medical attention, procedures and medications and they are now revered in our society, except maybe for the activists who will whine about anything. My Grandfather was an ANZAC, he landed in Gallipoli on 15 August 1915. My Father served also, he did two tours of New Guinea post WWII to build military infrastructure. My uncle served in the Pacific in WWII in a specialist role, to this day his file is sealed. Me, I tried to enlist but bad lungs stopped me.
Thank you so much for your insight and your support. I appreciate it. I also wanted to thank you for family for its service. I’m sorry you’re unable to invest. I hope you were able to do d another career that you enjoy 💙
My M dad was in WWII and he was caught by the Japanese when he was riding to pass on the info that Singapore had been invaded, he was hit by a sniper and ended up in a paddy field, then taken prisoner. When he came home he eventually married my mother and had my sisters and I, mum said he used to drink heavily and told her stories of what he saw and they were horrific, he was my dad and we loved him dearly, I remember many things from my childhood, but I was 5 yrs old when he died and it broke my heart. They buried him in a war cemetery and I visit his grave every year. He was an amazing man that still worked to provide for us but his demons were always there. I miss my dad everyday and I am now 60 yrs old, this brought tears to my eyes. Thank you for sharing this.
I’m sorry you lost your dad so young. I know that must be hard. My respects out to him. I know life being a prisoner of war by the Japanese was 😢. But your father was strong and survived and he is a hero 💙🙏
My Grandfather was captured in Singapore too. He went home to his wife after he was fed after starving for 3 years. My Grandmother had my dad nine months laters. He became a bank manager in various places in Australia. He was a stoic fucker. He smoked at least 20 a day in his seventies. Based on raises in taxes, he quit....over night. never smoke again after just one night. I attribute this to his time in the camps, made him the man he was. For good and bad. He loved my grandmother and the past didn't make him bitter. For him it seemed to just be a thing that happened and it ended. He never spoke of it if not asked. He died aged 86.
married my mother ?
She was NOT your mother then
What you should have written :
he married the woman who became my mother
- You need to get it right and use correct English
and be accurate and specific.
Avoid ambiguity at all costs.
My father born in Kent County MI - served in the U.S. ARMY
and was based in England ( Cholesterol - in the county of Essex )
He went riding north on his INDIAN motorcycle when on R&R
He met a young Russian girl ( born in UKRAINE of Russian parents }
She was waiting at the Bus Terminus on the way home after finishing
work ( work days were then 10 hours )
knowing that young women like G.I. Joe - he approached her
and started a conversation -
The young girl - thinking - " What are you talking to me for " answered
him in Russian.
One problem there - He was taught Russian by the U.S. ARMY
school of languages - which if I remember correctly was in CA
and he answered her in Russian ---
The rest is history - and that is how this Russian girl (who spoke 8
languages ) became my mother. ( now deceased )
and I had learned 5 languages by age 5 - learning others since then.
I wish you Good luck and good bye
@andrew_koala2974
I don't think you should be telling others "You need to get it right and use correct English and be accurate and specific. Avoid ambiguity at all costs." when you seem barely able to do so yourself.
Here are some tips to improve your writing skills.
1. Capitalise the first letter of a new sentence.
2. Put a full stop (period) at the end of a sentence.
3. Don't use dashes in place of commas. Commas are used to indicate a natural pause when the sentence is spoken. Dashes are used to mark the beginning and end of a series.
4. There is no space between the enclosing brackets and first or last letters of the text contained within them. e.g. "( work days were then 10 hours )" should be (work days were then 10 hours).
5. When quoting someone's words you should have enclosed them in speech marks. e.g. When quoting kimfarragher342 saying "married my mother".
6. The name of book, building, institution, and the like should be capitalised. e.g. "U.S. ARMY
school of languages" should be wrtten as U.S. ARMY School of Languages.
7. Since they are not acronyms, but proper nouns, "UKRAINE" should be written as Ukraine and "INDIAN" as Indian.
8. When referencing a number in a sentence, the correct way of doing it, is to spell it out, not write the figure. e.g. "age 5 " should be written "age five".
9. If using an abbreviation that not everyone is likely to be familiar with, or may have more than one meaning, it is usual to write it in full the first time, followed with the abbreviation in brackets immediately after. From then onward, it is acceptable to just use the abbreviation. This will, to use your own words, "Avoid ambiguity". e.g. The "CA" in your narrative could plausibly be either California or Central America.
@@JamoRox75 I’m sorry your grandfather went through that and I’m sorry for your loss 😢💙🙏