Battalion honours its history at Battle of Kapyong
THE BATTLE of Kapyong in the Korean War has been commemorated by the 3rd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment ( 3RAR) at Lavarack Barracks parade ground.
The parade marked the 67th anniversary and was held on April 24, the day the battle took place. Over 30 Australian soldiers were killed and nearly 60 wounded while halting the advance of the outnumbering Chinese forces.
A veteran from the battle led the parade with armoured vehicles and the sounds of pipes and beating of drums.
The Commanding Officer of 3RAR, Lieutenant Colonel Mick Kearns, said marking occasions in the battalion’s history would maintain the identity of the unit.
“A few things have changed over the 67 years since that battle, but the heart of our unit never will,” he said. “We are able to reflect on those traits that define a 3RAR and Australian Army soldier and see that not a lot has changed.
“Courage to take on a larger foe, initiative to find a way to make it work, trust and respect in the team, and an unmatchable determination to get the job done. We will never let each other down and that is why we’re tagged and remain ‘ old faithful’.”
The 3RAR was awarded the United States Presidential Distinguished Unit Citation for preventing the fall of the South Korean capital Seoul, and the bravery displayed by the troops.
The citation reads: “3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment … displayed such gallantry, determination and esprit de corps in accomplishing their mission under extremely difficult and hazardous conditions.
“As to set them apart and above all other units participating in the campaign, and by their achievements they bought distinguished credit on themselves, their homelands and all freedom loving nations.”
Commander 3rd Brigade Brigadier Scott Winter AM reviewed the parade and was attended by veterans of the battle including Warrant Officer Class Two Joe Vezgoff.