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Student tells story of Battle of Long Tan
23 September, 2004
University of the Sunshine Coast creative writing student, Bob Grandin, has written a book about the Vietnam War's 1966 Battle of Long Tan.
The book was officially launched last month at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra on the 38th anniversary of the attack.
The Battle of Long Tan As Told By the Commanders to Bob Grandin is the first book written by Mr Grandin, a Buderim local and Vietnam Veteran, who began studying creative writing to create a career for himself in retirement.
Mr Grandin, who in 1966 as a RAAF helicopter pilot dropped ammunition to the soldiers at the height of the intense battle, tells the story of young men facing the dangers of war and also offers a revealing insight into Australian men in the 60's.
One hundred Australian soldiers were attacked by 1500 Vietcong guerillas in a rubber plantation at Long Tan in what was to become Australia's biggest battle during the Vietnam War.
Eighteen Australians died and 24 were wounded. The significance of the event has been recognised with its anniversary being marked as Vietnam Veterans' Day.
This is the first book that has focussed on the accounts of the commanders who took part in Australia's most famous Vietnam battle.
"I spoke to each of the commanders and they share their personal experiences," Mr Grandin said.
"Each Commander discusses how Company Commander Harry Smith led Delta Company to become one of the most outstanding fighting units in the Australian forces.
"Their decisions saw 100 Australian soldiers hold 1500 enemy soldiers at bay."
The ongoing fight for recognition for those involved is also covered in the book along with the struggles Vietnam Veterans have faced since the end of the war.
"The book looks at what those seven men have been doing since then," he said.
Mr Grandin returned to study to develop his writing skills and hopes to eventually move into writing for children.
With a Doctorate of Education and a background in teaching he has plenty of experience to call upon.
"Writing will hopefully be my third career after the airforce and teaching."
"Study keeps me occupied and disciplined and I enjoy the ideas of the younger students in the classes and I am also able to bring my experience to the group," Mr Grandin said.
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