Debate resumed, on motion by Mr Neville:

That this House:

(1)

acknowledges the:

(a)

unquestionable bravery of 6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (6RAR) at the Battle of Long Tan in Vietnam on 18 August 1966 and the singular heroism of units in the face of overwhelming enemy numbers, especially that of D Company; and

(b)

well deserved upgrade of a number of decorations:

(i)

Major Harry Smith (from Military Cross to Star of Gallantry, ie, Distinguished Service Order equivalent);

(ii)

Lieutenant Dave Sabben and Lieutenant Geoff Kendall (from Mentioned in Despatches to Medal for Gallantry, ie, Military Cross equivalent); and

(c)

strength of D Company 6RAR (as at 18 August 1966) which has the right to wear the former Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Unit Citation Emblem;

(2)

deplores the loss of documentation which has deprived 12 other Australian combatants from receiving appropriate recognition;

(3)

calls on the Australian Government to convene a further inquiry to assess and document by eye witness reports, cross examination and other sources, the known courageous action of combatants on that day with particular reference to the 12 soldiers involved; and

(4)

seeks appropriate remedy, by way of award, to those unjustly treated.

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