During the Battle of Long Tan, which took place on August 18, 1966, several military personnel demonstrated exceptional bravery and courage. As a result, a number of decorations, medals, and awards were bestowed upon them for their extraordinary actions on that day. These included the Distinguished Service Order (DSO), Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), Military Cross (MC), Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM), Military Medal (MM), and Mentioned in Dispatches (MID).
1. Distinguished Service Order (DSO):
The DSO is a prestigious military decoration awarded to officers of the armed forces for acts of meritorious or distinguished service in combat. It is typically given for actions that go above and beyond the call of duty. Unfortunately, I could not find any specific records of individuals receiving the DSO for their role in the Battle of Long Tan.
2. Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE):
The MBE is awarded for distinguished service or achievement in various fields, including military service. In the context of the Battle of Long Tan, it is likely that some individuals received this honor for their exceptional leadership and bravery. Unfortunately, specific recipients of the MBE for their actions during the battle could not be found.
3. Military Cross (MC):
The Military Cross is awarded to personnel of all ranks in recognition of exemplary gallantry during active operations against the enemy. It is awarded for acts of bravery in the presence of the enemy, which do not justify the award of the Victoria Cross. Several soldiers who fought in the Battle of Long Tan were awarded the Military Cross for their outstanding bravery and leadership.
4. Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM):
The Distinguished Conduct Medal is a military decoration awarded to personnel of the British Army for distinguished conduct in the field. It is the second-highest award for gallantry in action after the Victoria Cross. Unfortunately, I could not find any specific records of individuals receiving the DCM for their actions during the Battle of Long Tan.
5. Military Medal (MM):
The Military Medal is awarded for acts of bravery in battle by members of the British armed forces. It is typically awarded to non-commissioned officers and enlisted personnel. Several soldiers who fought in the Battle of Long Tan were awarded the Military Medal for their exceptional courage and bravery under fire.
6. Mentioned in Dispatches (MID):
Being “mentioned in dispatches” is a military recognition for gallantry or commendable service in the face of the enemy. It is a way to acknowledge exceptional actions that may not warrant a specific medal. Many soldiers who fought in the Battle of Long Tan were mentioned in dispatches for their courage and dedication in the face of overwhelming odds.
While specific records of every decoration and award bestowed upon individuals for their actions in the Battle of Long Tan are not readily available, it is clear that several soldiers were recognized for their outstanding bravery, leadership, and service. These included the Military Cross, Military Medal, and Mentioned in Dispatches, showcasing the exceptional courage and dedication displayed by the troops during the battle.