Author(s): John Carroll

History

Sea transport and logistical support of the land-based forces was the most significant contribution made by the Navy to the Australian military commitment in Vietnam. However, only brief attention has been paid to the vital part played by HMAS Sydney and other units of the RAN involved in this support role, or to the nature and tactical importance of sea transport and logistical support. The perceived absence of enemy threat was the prime factor influencing the Federal Government's decision to exclude from benefits and entitlements those who served in Sydney, Jeparit and Boonaroo and the warships that escorted them into the war zone. This decision was a flawed one, made on the basis of fallacious information. While Sydney and her escort were at anchor, not only were they vulnerable to an enemy well versed in unconventional guerrilla warfare, but all who served in these ships were also exposed to highly toxic herbicides used to defoliate the nearby landscape. This took place via the residue of this procedure which flowed into the surrounding rivers and streams. Due to the processes used in those times for the production of potable water, the dioxins contained in the distillate were enriched, thereby making them much more potent and deadly. Out of Sight, Out of Mind identifies and dispels various myths which have developed around the importance of sea transport and logistical support, and argues for a new appreciation of the service of the 13,000 members of the RAN who participated in this vitally important task. Many of the illustrations were taking by serving military personnel which gives them an immediacy and poignancy lacking in official photographs.