Artillery changeover DPR/TV/1256

At the 1st Australian Task Force Base in Nui Dat, South Vietnam, a colourful parade marked the changeover of artillery field regiments, earlier this week. Pipes and drums of 6th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment led the gunners onto the parade ground for the ceremonial handover. The 1st Field Regiment, after firing more than 200,000 rounds against the enemy in 12 months action, handed over command to the 4th Field Regiment. The newly arrived Commander of the Australian Force, Major-General C. A. Fraser was present at the ceremony. The home-going gunners wore their slouch hats and campaign ribbons denoting their year of active service. The longest serving ANZAC unit in Vietnam - the New Zealand 161st Field Battery was present at the handover. Highlight of the parade was the ceremonial firing of the last round by 1st Field Regiment and the first by 4th Field Regiment. Task Force Commander, Brigadier S. P. Weir performed the firing into the Nui Dinh Hills of the red and blue smoke shells signifying the traditional colours of artillery. Following the parade Major-General Fraser presented a Long Service and Good Conduct Medal to the Regimental Sergeant Major of the 1st Field Regiment, Warrant Officer Sidney Penhaligaon of Hughes, ACT.