The Battle of Long Tan, one of the most significant engagements of the Vietnam War involving Australian forces, holds an important place in the narrative of Australian military service. In the years since, it’s been epitomised in numerous films and documentaries as a defining moment in our military history.
As part of our ongoing efforts to preserve the personal stories of our veterans, the Murwillumbah RSL Sub-Branch recently conducted interviews with two of its members, Kevin Sharpley and Ian Campbell, both of whom played vital roles around to this historic battle.
Kevin Sharpley, a helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War, provides a unique perspective. While not directly involved in the combat in the Long Tan rubber plantation, Kevin was responsible for the task of evacuating the wounded in the hours following the battle. Initially unaware of the full extent of the battle’s intensity, it wasn’t until the days that followed that he realized the gravity of what had occurred.
Ian Campbell, an infantryman and machine-gunner at Long Tan, shares a more direct experience. In 2016, he was awarded a Commendation for Gallantry, a recognition that came after years of advocacy by his commanding officer, Lt Col Harry Smith who recently passed away in 2023. The commendation acknowledged Ian’s bravery, particularly during a critical moment when he stood alone under fire, holding back the advance of North Vietnamese soldiers in torrential rain to allow his platoon to retreat to the safety of a more defensible position.
These interviews with Kevin and Ian serve as a powerful reminder of the different roles played in the war and the collective effort that defined the Battle of Long Tan. For the Murwillumbah RSL Sub-Branch and Services Club, preserving these stories is essential, not just for the historical record but to capture the lived experiences of our veterans.
We invite you to watch the full interview with Kevin Sharpley and Ian Campbell here and to reflect on the profound impact of their service.
