The Long Tan Cross

The original cross that was replaced after it went missing. See photos above.

The Long Tan Cross was conceived by the 6th Battalion Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) WO1 James "Jimmy" Cruickshank during the unit’s second tour of duty in 1969. It was constructed by the unit’s engineers, the Pioneer Platoon.

On the third anniversary of the battle, the Cross was raised at the site of the battle where it remained untouched while the Australians were stationed in the province. Today it is located in the military museum at Bien Hoa.

At that same site on 15 April 2002, the Vietnamese people unveiled a completely renovated Long Tan Cross Memorial. Of most significance was the official recognition and acceptance by the Vietnamese of the importance of this site to Australians.

The Long Tan Cross Memorial Fund Committee, on behalf of all contributors and veterans, extend sincere thanks and gratitude to the AVVRG, Australian Consulate (Ho Chi Minh City)and the Vietnamese officials and workmen for a magnificent result.

The committee also asks that any persons contemplating a visit to the area observe the protocols listed below.

Protocols:

It must be remembered that Vietnam is a communist country and that foreigners cannot change the rules. Even for locals, movement can be restricted. In a nutshell, if you wish to visit the Long Tan Cross, you must have a permit. The fastest way of obtaining the correct documentation is to use a company like VUNG TAU TOURIST COMPANY (vtautour@hcm.vnn.vn). Telephone in country (064) 850110 or Fax (064) 856444. Arrangement can be made from Australia and confirmed prior to travel. This is a virtual door to door service and the company is reputable. There are other companies offering a similar service. The advantage of these tour companies is that they come with an English speaking guide and that generally 24 hours notice is sufficient time for them to arrange permits. Alternatively you can see the Union of Friendship in Vung Tau where a permit will cost about US$5.00 and take 5-7 days to arrange.
Groups should not be larger than 20.
Medals are not appropriate in this environment and should not be worn.

Further information concerning the renovation project can be obtained from The Long Tan Cross Memorial Fund.

Chairman Kel Ryan Mobile 0418 759120
Secretary Graham Smith Mobile 0438 400449

My name is Claire Hill and I am currently an Officer Cadet in the RAAF. I am studying for my Aeronautical Engineering degree at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) here in Canberra. During the recent mid-year break, myself and Rachael Webb (who is here studying Electrical Engineering) took a two-week holiday to Vietnam. During our time there we were lucky enough to undertake a tour of Long Tan and the surrounding region. Whilst we were there, our guide Anh took us to the three rocks in the rubber plantation not far from the Long Tan Cross.

We both very disappointed to see that the painting on the rocks has faded so much that it is barely legible. I have attached a picture of the rock that is in the best remaining condition. Deciphering the writing on the rock tells us that it used to have the 12 Field Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery symbol on it. If you are interested in seeing the very poor condition of the other two rocks, I would be more than happy to send them on. (see below)

On our tour of Long Tan was Ian Fogerty, who was a helicopter pilot for the RAAF during the Vietnam War. He too was most grieved to see that these paintings had not been preserved. Upon the completion of our tour, we returned to the Ettamogah Pub in Vung Tau which was run by our guide, Anh, and her husband, Alan Davis. In their bookshelf, they had a copy of "My Vietnam" by Stephen Lewis; within this book there were photos of the three rocks after they had been freshly painted and 30 years after the war. We were all appalled to notice that not only were the rocks so vibrant when they were first painted but that, less than 5 years ago, all three rocks were clearly legible and had only faded in colour.

Rachael and I are hoping that by bringing this to the attention of all parties concerned that we might collectively be able to bring about a change. We would like to think that together we can all pitch in and do our best to resurrect these rocks to their former glory. This would not only be a mark of respect for those that fought in Vietnam but also a remembrance point for future generations such as Rachael and myself.

Email Officer Cadet Hill at clairhill@diggerhistory.info and I will pass along the message.