Inquiry into military honours

Minister for Defence Personnel Dan Tehan has asked for an investigation into the issue of unit recognition for service with the Royal Australian Navy Helicopter Flight Vietnam (the RANHFV), and service at the Battles of Fire Support Bases Coral and Balmoral.

The independent Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal will conduct the investigation.

The fighting at the Battles of Fire Support Bases Coral and Balmoral was some of the bloodiest and intense fighting by Australians in the Vietnam War where 26 Australians lost their lives and many more were wounded.

Mr Tehan said the Royal Australian Navy Helicopter Flight Vietnam had served with distinction over four rotations of about one year each, between October 1967 and June 1971. Mr Tehan said he had asked for an inquiry after listening to veterans, their families and members of the public who believed the unit deserved a decoration for its service.

“The independent tribunal will take submissions and will give careful consideration to both of these matters," Mr Tehan said. "I encourage all of those former members and those with an interest in these matters to take advantage of this opportunity to make a submission. Military honours are a special recognition for service and sacrifice and they are not awarded lightly."

Submissions to both Inquiries are open until Friday 16 June 2017.  Further information is on the Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal website.