4th Field Regiment 'Old Boys' Association Newsletter

The RAP was the domain of the Regimental Medical Officer (RMO) Doctor Ian Elder, his assistant, Sgt Frank Stone, and several assistant medics. His driver was Ian (Johno) Johnson who at times swung more power than the doctor himself. The RAP also had a hygiene section led by then Alge Sukys who were responsible for shower and toilet facilities as well as spraying the whole area for vermin eg mozzies. The RAP kept everyone up to date with the various immunisations required as well as treating more serious medical issues from the batteries. The RMO and his team also visited local villages and treated a variety of medical conditions with locals and their children. Regimental Transport was run by Ray Harper. One of their main tasks was picking up and delivering ammunition to the gun batteries. There was lots of convoy duties picking up food, ammo and stores from various outside agencies as far away as Bien Hua and the port at Vung Tau. They also operated the water truck supplying drinking and shower water to sub units. TST was run by a Captain from the Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (RAEME) with a WO2 Artificer Sergeant Major (ASM) whose names I have long forgotten. Perhaps someone may be able to help me here. TST did the major electrical and mechanical repairs and maintenance for equipment held by all the batteries including the vehicles and guns. They procured parts via the main Q Store or scavenged what they could from other units. It was this ‘black hand gang’ that kept the regiment mobile and able to do its job. TST supported the TST elements attached to each of the gun batteries. The RPs worked directly to the RSM and were led by Ray McGrath. His RPs included Steve Glover, John Allen, Greg Young and Greg Earl. Their involvement included looking after bad bastards and assisting with convoy escort. This team also had a lot to do with resupply of ammunition to the gun batteries. The HQ Bty orderly room was run in similar fashion to the gun battery orderly rooms. It was the domain of the Battery Sergeant Major (BSM) in our case, Syd Farrow, and an orderly room staff, again in our case, Brian Swift and Andrew Murray. They were responsible amongst other things for the personal administration of all members of the