Makes me both happy and sad

Walking through the streets of Hoi An

Koby Poulton writes:

Going through the photos from our Spirit of the Anzac experience, I can’t believe how much I miss Vietnam. It’s unreal how I have met friends that will hopefully last a lifetime. We have seen some of the most extraordinary places, eaten some of the most exotic food and learnt so much about both sides of war and it’s heroes in only the two weeks we were there.

This photo that I have chosen to share was taken towards the end of the trip on a walk much like the morning walks that we took with Malcolm each day. He really wanted us to explore each area we were staying in and see the people of each city start their day. This photo shows everyone coming together, talking, having a laugh and recollecting on the last two weeks. I specifically love this moment because if a random stranger were to look at this they would probably think that the teenagers in this snap have known each other for a long time, as we all look so close. We look so caught up in our own conversations and it may seem as though we haven’t realised how beautiful the serenity is. But looks can be deceiving and it’s funny to think that before those two weeks most of us were pretty much strangers to each other but the experiences and stories we shared in those two weeks were not only fun times but some of the most serious times I’ve had in my life.

Originally I told the story of Horace Alfred Cadd (Caddy) and once in Vietnam I got to share the story of John Frances Gillespie and pay my respects to his heroic story in the place where he died. Together we all shared a story of a hero, it was sad and we were all affected. This photo for me shows the intense part of the trip was over and we were able to relax and enjoy Vietnam for things other than war.

Looking at this photo with the clean streets of Vietnam, with gorgeous trees hanging over our heads it really is an absolutely amazing place. Thinking back on the trip and the photos that were taken makes me both happy and sad because I feel as though it all went too quick and I worry that I didn’t get to capture every single memory. But each photo from the trip brings me joy knowing that I will remember this for the rest of my life, I mean how could I possibly forget it?

No one will be able to understand how we felt on this day.

Lucy Smith writes: 

I find it hard to write about this trip, because I feel nobody will understand. Nobody but us can understand the sadness yet gratefullness and happiness we felt on those 14 days.

The photo I chose was taken by Malcolm and depicts us trekking 13 km up a hill to Camp Carroll. Camp Carroll was a US Marine Corps Artillery Base located 8 km out of Cam Lao. It was the scene of the largest offensive so far in the war in an attack on the base on March 30^th 1972. On this day more than 200 rounds of rockets and artillary shells were fired in the first hour of the attack. It must have been a gruesome and terrifying battle.

 On the day we were there, it was steamy and hot and we could hear the sounds of people moving around in their houses – living their everyday lives in peace. Dogs would bark as we walked past and soldiers on motorbikes were waving and smiling at us. Butterflies fluttered past our faces as we smelt the freshness of the air around us, it was something completely new.

No one will be able to understand how we felt on this day. The sun was hot, beaming down on our backs and the steady incline was burning our feet. Its insane to imagine how the serenity of the world around us could have been marked by such hatred and grief. Every step we took reminded us of how it would have felt to be standing there 40+ years ago. Thinking about how the soldiers had to fight on this landscape made us feel melancholy.

Never will I be able to forget how good it felt to finally reach the top of that hill. We spent a large amount of time at the top recovering from the hot and steamy 3 km walk we had just completed. But, we also sat there admiring the scenery. The monument was so beautiful to see and really forced us to think about the history of where we were standing. The gruesome nature of the fighting that occurred on this hill is crazy to imagine when you are standing there, right where it all happened, in the peacefulness of 2018.

Seeing history come to life

Holly Wallman writes:

The Premier’s Anzac Spirit School Prize has shown me that history’s impact is not limited to the past, because it is equally integral in shaping our future. When I first entered the competition, having the opportunity to research Matron Ethel Sarah Davidson allowed me to see not just the statistics behind World War One, but also one of the many incredible stories of sacrifice it entailed.

Upon being awarded the amazing opportunity to travel to Vietnam, I did not fathom just how impactful the trip would be for me. From walking the footsteps that Australians walked during the Vietnam War in places such as Nui Dat, to being culturally immersed in Vietnam through walking around its cities, the trip allowed me to walk the path of the very history that I have studied in classrooms.

Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels was particularly valuable to me, because I was able to experience what those during the Vietnam War would have faced in the tunnels first-hand. Seeing those taller than me struggle to even enter the tunnels, as well as feeling the pressures of underground confinement for just a few minutes showed me just how horrific the conditions of war can be, even for those who are not fighting.

The experience of crawling through those tunnels was one that I could never have while reading information in a textbook, and truly brought to life the petrifying situations that conflict can bring. The constant fear of being discovered, facing diseases and the perils of being stuck underground are almost unimaginable for those who have not faced such horrors. Travelling through the tunnels showed me just how much harm war can bring, because it can not only hurt those on the battlefield, but also innocent people.

Imagining so many people with individualised stories in these tunnels, even young children, I truly felt that I witnessed the human impact of war. The idea of considering that other human beings can put each other in such situations is not only frightening, but horrifying. However, I believe that understanding the horrors of war and learning about this aspect of our history is important to our society, not just so that we can learn from our past, but so that we can create a better future.

Researching and learning about the experiences of Graham Leonard Norley and hearing the stories of others who fought in the Vietnam War was incredible. I think that stories are immensely powerful, because they shift our focus from mere numbers to a much deeper, humanised understanding of the world.

From this trip, I have gained many memories which will remain with me forever. I am so lucky to have had the chance to go on a journey not only so educationally rewarding, but also enjoyable through the friendships I have developed and experiences that I have had. I believe that the most valuable part of the Premier’s ANZAC Spirit School Prize was not only learning about history, but seeing history come to life.

I was walking the same footsteps and path

Angelique Dellaney writes:

This captured moment is of former Vietnam Army conscript, Mr T whom accompanied us for several days during our two-week journey. At the moment the photograph is taken, we are located at Nui Dat within the Phuoc Toy Province and standing on what was known as the ‘Kanga Pad’ that was used by the Australians during the Vietnam War. Mr T was holding up a photograph of what this location looked like throughout the duration of the Vietnam War. In the background of this photo, there is a silhouette of a mountain which was known as the SAS (Special Air Service) Hill.

I found it extremely eye opening and overwhelming as Mr T was sharing stories. The emotions I experienced for the majority of the tour were very confusing. They were difficult to grasp initially but once the pieces started fitting together I was able to gain more of an understanding and insight into the war. This insight was created as Mr T began to share stories and information about the Vietnam War.

The statements and thoughts that caused the most emotion in me whilst overseas was that people risked their lives during the war, and some had paid the ultimate sacrifice 50-60 years ago, possibly exactly where I was standing. Right now! I was walking the same footsteps and path of those whom were most courageous and passionate. Anywhere we had travelled, whether it being Saigon, Vung Tau and Nui Dat, Hue, Ha Noi or even Ha Long Bay, these thoughts were always rushing through my head. Questioning and drifting thoughts of what people had experienced, seen and felt in the past was something that I was craving and needing to know more about. Although we had visited all of these amazing, picturesque locations and tourist attractions in Vietnam, I felt as if Vung Tau and Nui Dat, and even Ha Long Bay were the most reflective moments for me throughout the duration of those two weeks. 

When we all look at this photo, with our varied perspectives of the experiences we had whilst on tour, we are all going to have different emotions, thoughts and memories come back to us. This photo, and specifically the expression on Mr T’s face is powerful and evoke emotions. This is why I have selected this photo to share with you. The moment we were introduced to Mr T he instantly gave me and I’m sure many others a very positive and happy vibe. Mr T was always smiling or laughing and was constantly more than happy to share stories and answer any questions we may have had about the experiences and history of the Australians in Vung Tau and Nui Dat, I felt this was one of the most overwhelming and confronting moments of the tour. When talking, the expression on Mr T’s face changed dramatically from being happy to emotional very quickly - every time he delved into the depths of his thoughts and stories from the war. These changed facial expressions were and still are something I found very challenging to accept, and it is the power in this change of expressions that has made me choose this image. This experience will be one I guarantee that I will never forget.

A glimpse of the real Vietnam

The walk up to Camp Carroll

Malcolm McInerney writes about being off the beaten track!

The photograph is not spectacular or iconic in nature but it is my favourite from the trip because it reminds me of a very special time of our group experience and connection with Vietnam, the real Vietnam. It is also in a location that has such a tragic and important place in the history of the American War in Vietnam.

The photograph is of the group walking up the 3 kilometre steep track to Camp Carroll, the US artillery base only 16 kilometres from the DMZ of the war years.The 3rd Marine Division of the US Marines occupied Camp Carroll from 1966 until 1970 when the South Vietnamese Army took occupancy of the camp until they were over-run by the North Vietnamese Army (NVA) in 1972. The camp had 80 artillery pieces, with 175mm guns able to fire a 150-pound projectile 32,690 meters. After being taken in 1972, US B-52 bombers pummelled Camp Carroll in an effort to deny its use to the North Vietnamese. However, the NVA removed the 175mm guns from the camp before the strikes could occur. Ironically, these guns were later used against the South Vietnamese army forces.

On April 2, 1972, Camp Carroll surrendered, and a white flag was raised over the main gate of the camp. Colonel Gerald Turley, the senior U.S. advisor to the ARVN was to say that the “surrender of Camp Carroll to have been one of the most emotional war scenes ever recorded in Vietnamese history”.

Thousands of US Marines and ARVN troops served at Camp Carroll between 1966-1972 and the camp has an important place in story of the Vietnam War. However, today there is nothing there but crops and a Memorial to the NVA troops at the top of a winding country track. 

The extensive Camp Carroll US artillery base during the war - only pepper and rubber trees there today.

Forty six years after the day Camp Carroll fell into the hands of the North Vietnamese, we were there in this beautiful and peaceful place with no evidence of the past traumas and suffering. Yes, it was hot and humid and the walk was exhausting – all good, but what was really amazing was the variety of houses and cropped land that we walked through on the road. People waved, dogs barked, insects buzzed, cows wandered up the track, people passed us carting produce on their shoulders, scooters whizzed past going somewhere in haste and kids came out to play – things that we could only experience in such an atmospheric place because we were finally off the beaten tourist track. It was a glimpse of the real Vietnam that we were experiencing - a glimpse enhanced by the late afternoon sun going down and people heading home on the track after another hot and humid day in the Vietnam countryside. 

We were all so exhilarated when we reached the top (although a few of the adults wore pained expressions) because as a group we had achieved a tough hike to the NVA Memorial. However, once there and reflecting on the history of the area, how could we even consider the walk tough compared to what the soldiers of all sides would have experienced whilst based at Camp Carroll all those years ago. 

Well done to all, not one complaint and a group experience that I will always treasure from this trip.

Yes, I know I have broken the task rules and put in two photographs but ... they are such great photographs of you all!

Sent cold shivers throughout my body and mind

The 2018 Premier's Anzac Spirit School  Prize study tour group at the Long Tan Memorial after the ceremony 
on 4 October, 2018.

A time for Reflection: Cheryl Cates (RSL SA/NT) Vice President and 2018 Premier's Anzac Spirit School  Prize study tour participant writes

I selected this photo as it was one of the most significant times for reflection throughout the trip for me. Although there were many other fun times, fond memories and beautiful places of interest, this wonderful Commemoration sent cold shivers throughout my body and mind.  It is not only the Battle site for D Company 6 RAR on the 18^th August 1966, it has now become a place where many visitors come to pay their respects for all those who not only made the supreme sacrifice in the Vietnam War, but those who also returned home to their loved ones.

It was very surreal being there to conduct a Commemorate Service of which I was very proud to carry out. It was also a way for me personally being able to say goodbye to my Father, a Vietnam Veteran, and have some closure after his passing four years ago. 

It was very poignant for the students, Teachers and RSL members in attendance to be able to place a rose with the name of their Vietnam Soldier they had researched at this Memorial.  This would have been the first time that those soldiers who lost their lives were Commemorated.  The placing of the wreath and roses, the sound of the Last Post playing and Ella reading out the words to ‘Only 19” touched all of us deeply and there was not a dry eye in the place.

Throughout this time in Vietnam, and in particular, Nui Dat, I could feel the presence of my Father with me. I could hear the ‘choppers’ flying over, the voices and rustling in the plantations surrounding us and the vehicles driving around. Some five decades later, it reinforces the values of honour, commitment, decency and courage that is instilled in our Military Personnel, which remains today. 

This time made me very proud to have served my Country.

Thank you for the opportunity to share this with you all.

I will never forget it.

Lila Weidenbach writes:

Every day in Vietnam I learnt something new. I was in a new and interesting place with an amazing group of people, but there was one day in particular that I will treasure for the rest of my life. Visiting the orphanages on the trip was unlike anything else I have done before. I had written an essay and went on a study tour to learn about an important piece of history that cannot be forgotten. But still the most important thing for me was visiting the orphanages. I believe that was because they were real children still being affected by real events.

The children at the orphanages were excited to meet these new and different people. Most of the children were running around and playing. While a few were a little shy, I remember one little girl who I spotted looking at me. I walked over to her and she was very unsure. I sat with her and taught her how to spin to show me her pretty dress. Later, I was sitting on the floor with my legs crossed watching a group of boys playing together when a little two-year-old boy came waddling up to me and sat on my lap. He was quiet. I was wondering if he would have ever seen a phone before and I knew we couldn’t communicate, so I pulled out my phone and showed him the pretty colours on the screen. You could see he was amazed by the colour-changing, bright, flat thing and smiled and looked up every time his tiny finger made it do something. We sat together until it was time to go. Unable to tell him I was leaving I lifted him off my lap and sat him on the floor with the girl in the pretty dress. He watched me as we left and leaving was a very difficult task.

 All I could think about is that these little boys running around are just like my little cousin. He loves playing with balls, they were playing with balls and they were similar in age. Then I thought, I love my cousin to bits, I make him his Halloween costumes, we go on the trampoline together and we love spending time together. This little boy was being looked after by wonderful people but this boy will never have someone just for him, not a cousin, not a brother or sister, not even a mum or dad.

Visiting the orphanages was by far my favourite thing we did on the trip. I will never forget it.

War is a very confusing and conflicting concept

Neva emerging from a tunnel at Cu  Chi 

Neva van Raalte writes: 

It’s impossible to sum up what this trip has meant and done for me in only words. Right now, sitting at home writing this 5 weeks later after returning to Australia, I feel like going to Vietnam is just a bizarre crazy dream. What I do know though is that I met some amazing people from whom, I have made some amazing friends and have had some amazing experiences with.  I also feel as though that in a way, I have found a new sense of clarity within myself and what I believe in.

What I loved about this trip is that it not only gave you one opinion/side of the story, it gave you many, and so you were able to pick and choose and make an informed decision. And the information we received was abundant! Certainty not the type of information that can be found on the internet. No, it was the type of information that could only come through experience, and this I truly valued. Going to the Cu Chi tunnels gave me the experience of not fully knowing, but at least some-what understanding what warfare was like down in those tunnels during the Vietnam war. My Vietnam soldier, Robert Walter Bowtell, was a tunnel rat so crawling through those dark and small tunnels was emotional for me, and was when I really started to realise the horrors that him, and the soldiers from the other side, endured. Whilst we were only experiencing a few aspects of those tunnels, there was a whole other component to it, and that was the fear of wondering whether your enemy was waiting for you around the corner.    

Sometimes after a long day of talking about the Vietnam war, like after the Cu Chi tunnels, I would quietly sit on the bus and look out the window wondering the ultimate why. Why? Why does war happen? And why does it have to be so horrible? The concept of war has always been a very confusing and conflicting concept for me, like I can imagine it has been for many other people. I think at some point, some of us confuse the people who go to a horrible war as horrible people, but keep in mind many people have been forced to go to war. And when has it ever been said that someone has gone to war to fight and kill? The intentions of a person who goes to war are good and pure; to protect their country. Yes, war is bad, but the people who go to war are good. In most cases very, very good people. As human beings, we can only strive to do that; be good people. If anything, this trip has given me clarity and a deeper spiritual connection to myself and my morals. For this I am eternally grateful.

These wonderful moments will forever be remembered.

Jenny Tran writes:

Never had I ever experienced such an abundant amount of intense joy and sense of belonging with a group of people I had only just recently met. Constant laughs and smiles were shared throughout the entire trip, including our interests and love for history - with not a moment of uncomfortable silence. There are so many moments I could recall where we all laughed to the point where our cheeks ached and our stomachs hurt; where the sound of our laughter was the only thing heard as it drowned out the sound of the hustle and bustle of our surroundings.

This photo reminds me of the night we went out for Indian food in Hue. I won’t ever forget that night; a wonderful night filled with just bliss and positive energy throughout the hearts of all my newfound friends. We sang and grooved to the music coming from across the street, with nothing but smiles plastered on our faces and delicious food stuffed into our mouths. The music was great, the food was delectable, and we were having the time of our lives. After finishing dinner, our small party relocated onto the streets. We embarrassed ourselves with our lack of dance skills and atrocious singing, but it was fine, because we were having a great time and most importantly we were all experiencing this trip together.

As we sang and danced on the streets of Hue, immense happiness bloomed within me, feelings of joy engulfed me. Never had I ever experienced such a blissful moment in my life. I knew then, that these newfound friendships I have made on this short trip will last for a lifetime and these wonderful moments will forever be remembered. Just like the whole of this Vietnam trip, I won't ever forget that night; a night filled with blissful energy, a euphoric moment shared.