The Queen's and Regimental Colours
A story of the Queen’s and Regimental Colours of the Papua and New Guinea Volunteer Rifles
By Bob Harvey-Hall
PROLOGUE
My first involvement with Colours was in 1949. Prior to going to Lae to live and work in January 1952, I had served with 25 Battalion, the Darling Downs Regiment and at the three annual camps I attended, the Battalion’s Queen’s and Regimental Colours were paraded. On each occasion, I felt I was involved in a dignified and significant ceremony; more so, given that 25 Battalion had an impressive list of battle honours from both World Wars.
During January/February 1953, in an exchange of letters between myself and the Adjutant Quartermaster of the PNGVR, Captain Bendall, at the end of a list of administrative matters related to A Company, I asked: “did he think something should be done about Colours for PNGVR”. A very short time later, I received from Stan Beridall, a letter in longhand addressed to “Dear Harvey-Hall” (a typical form of Service address for the time to a subordinate) which tersely stated ” the Battalion is still in infancy and you have better things to do, as discussed previously, than worry about unit colours and I am busy getting things cleared up before proceeding South”.
The “things getting cleared up” probably referred to the PNGVR Q Store at Murray Barracks, which mysteriously burnt down. That was the end of the matter of Colours for PNGVR for myself. In 1961, whilst staying at Murray Barracks, Port Moresby , I was informed of a submission to go to Northern Command making a claim for battle honours for NGVR.
COLOURS
The term Colours includes Banners, Standards and Guidons. Queen’s and Regimental Colours are carried by infantry units, except those units gazetted as rifle regiments. Guidons are carried by armoured units. In commemoration of some particular service or to mark some special occasion, as a token of the Sovereign’s pleasure, a unit may be granted some Honourable Insignia, such as a Banner. In all cases they are given the same honours and esteem.
The Colours embody the history, spirit and traditions of the Regiment to which they belong. They are highly valued, carefully guarded and treated with great respect.
Since earliest times, warriors have carried banners, standards or flags as a distinguishing mark. Colours are the development of those banners and trace their origins to the ensigns and standards of the Romans, Greeks and Egyptians. Their evolution was due to the need for some mark of distinction between families, tribes and races and to provide a rallying point in battle.
Until 1881 the Colours were taken to war and carried by Ensigns at the head of a Regiment where they could be seen and recognised and where they often became the centre of bitter fighting: history records many acts of bravery performed in order to prevent the Colours falling into enemy hands and losses amongst Colour and Standard Bearers became so high, that since the Boer War, Colours have been retained in safe keeping when units depart on active service.
Arising from ancient tradition, units of today are allowed a Queen’s and a Regimental Colour. All Colours derive froth the Sovereign who approves their design: the Queen’s Colour is a reminder to all ranks of their loyalty and duty to their Sovereign and Country whilst the Regimental Colour is a symbol of Regimental tradition, including the Sovereign’s recognition of distinguished service in battle and of the duty owed by each member to each other and to the Regiment.
Colours are normally housed in their case in the Officer’s Mess and are only paraded on formal ceremonial occasions and are never moved without their appropriate escort.
Background
Archival documents show that Major Dick Newman, as CO PNGVR, initiated the first official correspondence on the matter of Colours for the Regiment to Northern Command Headquarters at Victoria Barracks in Brisbane . Dick Newman became CO on the 15th of March 1962, taking over from Colonel Ralph Eldridge (later Brigadier PNG Command and OBE), who was then also Area Commander PNG.
In seeking a beginning for this story, we need to go back to July 1961, when, as a result of a NGVR Battle Honours Committee submission, Colonel Eldridge authorised a memorandum to Northern Command making a claim for Battle and Theatre Honours for NGVR, covering operations in the South West Pacific 1942-43, RABAUL and KAVIENG. The response was that PNGVR was awarded NGVR Battle Honours for South West Pacific 1942-43, RABAUL and WAU; the award was promulgated in PNGVR Routine Orders’ Part 1 of the lst of June, 1962, less than three months after Major Newman became CO.
Here are details of some significant documents, from the unit archives, which are germane to this story:
Headquarters, Area Command PAPUA/NEW GUINEA Murray Barracks, Port Moresby . Jul 61.
NORTHERN COMMAND BATTLE AND THEATRE HONOURS FOR THE SECOND WORLD WAR (1939-45) – NGVR
PAPUA AND NEW GUINEA VOLUNTEER RIFLES BATTLE HONOURS
Extract from PNGVR Routine Orders’ Part 1 Serial 6/62 of 1st June 1962.
Members of Papua and New Guinea Volunteer Rifles will be proud to learn that their unit has been awarded the following Battle Honours. The authority for the award being ‘Aust Army Order 135/61′.
South West Pacific 1942-43 RABAUL, WAU
The fine traditions of service which have been handed on to PNGVR from the original New Guinea Volunteer Rifles will serve as a constant reminder to all ranks of the standard which must be achieved.
(Signed) R. D. NEWMAN Maj
CO PNGVR
REGIMENTAL COLOURS COMMITTEE
A Committee, comprising the following Officers, has been set up, to investigate the provision of Colours for PNGVR.
Chairman – Lt Col J K McCARTHY – Honorary Colonel
Members – Maj. R D NEWMAN – Commanding Officer
Lt P AINSWORTH – D Coy
Lt W A McGRATH – IO, HQ PNGVR
DESIGN OF THE COLOURS
Major Col Lee MBE says two people come to mind in the design of the colours: Major Nev Harris (now Colonel RFD ED) and a Police Officer, Mike Thomas and using the D’ Albertis’ Creeper (Flame of the Forest) was a joint suggestion from Nev and Mike. The then RSM Col Lee also said there were a couple of applications to AHQ for approval of the design, however AHQ insisted that all Australian Army units, as PNGVR was, must have the wattle surrounds. Gloom and despair everywhere in PNGVR HQ when the second rejection occurred, said Col, who became involved in discussions on the matter and suggested that a further application be made pointing out that the design should be accepted by AHQ as PNGVR would no longer be an Australian unit when PNG was granted independence. AHQ accepted the reasoning and approved the design.
Captain Phil Ainsworth says he was the initial designer of the regimental colours incorporating the D’Albertis’ flower in the wreath, rather than the Australian wattle. The idea was that PNGVR and its forerunner, NGVR, were created to serve in New Guinea and that the motif was most appropriate.
After discussions with the PNG Department of Forest botanists and looking at botanical photographs and drawings (Phil was employed there as a cartographer from 1961 to 1972) he selected the D’Albertis’ creeper as representing the desired PNG theme. Phil simplified the shape of the flowers and drew them into a wreath around the regimental badge over the regimental motto. He goes on to say that there was some time between when the initial drawings were prepared and the presentation of the colours and this may be why few realise his part in the production of the regimental colours.
Captain Phil Ainsworth was a member of the Lt Col JK McCarthy committee set up by Maj Newman to investigate the provision of Colours for PNGVR. Phil went on the reserve in 1968 and did not attend the presentation of the Colours.
Lt Colonel Mal Bishop MM wrote to me in March 2004 as follows: “I note in the March issue of Harim Tok Tok that you are about to write the details surrounding the approval and subsequent presentation of PNGVR colours. In order that the background relating to the selection of the D’Albertis’ Creeper as opposed to Australian wattle is correctly reported by you, I will give you the events leading up to the adoption of the D’Albertis’ Creeper.
When I was CO of PNGVR in Port Moresby, (Captain R R) Bob Cole was Honorary Colonel of PNGVR. I had received a letter from Northern Command advising that we were to be presented with our Colours and attached was a coloured sketch showing Australian wattle as the surrounds on the Regimental Colours."
I passed this information to Bob Cole who in his capacity as Honorary Colonel, dictated and signed a letter to N Comd stating that Australian wattle had no relationship to PNG and that Dalbertis’ Creeper flowers were the appropriate surrounds. There followed lots of subsequent letters between N Comd and PNGVR, but Bob Cole never wavered from his stand At last N Comd agreed, (with AHQ blessing) to the Honorary Colonel’s proposal and a sample of D’Albertis’ Creeper flower was obtained from Lae. Bob, (Harvey-Hall) you may recall supplying the sample?” This was forwarded to N Comd and finally accepted as the surrounds for our Regimental Colours.
I was involved in a minor way: I obtained a selection of D’Albertis’ Creeper pieces (commonly referred to as the Flame of the Forest) from the Botanical Gardens at Lae and sent them to HQ PNGVR at Murray Barracks.
In the April 2004 Harim Tok Tok, the President of our Association, Lt Col Harry Green MBE. ED had this to say: “From the initial letter to AHQ in 1961 by Major Richard (Dick) Newman, (then CO of PNGVR) raising the issue of Regimental Colours, to ANZAC Day 1974 when our Colours were laid up, many dedicated men in PNGVR and in Papua New Guinea were involved and were outstanding in their efforts, dedication and co-operation. I remember well, for example, the firm insistence of then Honorary Colonel of the Regiment, Captain Bob Cole, OBE. MC . that the D’Albertis’ Creeper ( New Guinea Flame of the Forest ) was the appropriate surrounds for our Regimental Colour in lieu of the standard Australian Wattle. I remember too, Captain Phil Ainsworth formerly of Admin Coy and now one of our Executive Committee members, who drafted a coloured drawing of the D’Albertis’ Creeper for HQ’s consideration.”
What do we know about the wreath of flowers on either side of the crossed rifles on red background and situated proudly above the Battalion’s motto of Per Augusta Ad Augusta? This extract was supplied by Phil Ainsworth:
“Mucuna albertisii, D’Albertis’ creeper is a extensive climber, 5-20 metres plus long. The name D’Albertis’ creeper is usually applied to a red flowered species and it seems reasonable to restrict it to the one bearing the name of the botanist and explorer, D’Albertis, who in speaking of the red one, mentions that the inflorescences hang and are up to 60 cm(2 feet) in length.”
THE PRESENTATION OF THE COLOURS
The presentation of the Colours occurred on the 17 th of May, 1969 at Igam Barracks, outside Lae, during the PNGVR annual camp. The training of the Battalion to a level fit for the occasion was long and strenuous and the result certainly worth the effort. It was a significant military event with an impressive number of Citizen Military Force soldiers, including men of Anglo-Saxon, Chinese and Malay descent, all Australian citizens and residents of PNG, with the majority of volunteers being PNG Nationals, coming together as members of the PNGVR.
Lt Colonel Bill Harrington MBE, (CO PNGVR and Parade Commander) said it was a fine day, in fact a great day. The Pipes skirled and the Drums beat as the PNGVR marched onto the parade ground at Igam Barracks and the facial expressions and smart bearing said it all. They were proud of what they were, this was their day and they were going to do their very best.
The programme of music was played by the Pipes and Drums of the Second Battalion of the Pacific Islands Regiment: the Pipe Major was Warrant Officer Class 2 Tiuamoa Lewereka and the Drum Major, Sergeant Leana Tani. Assistance was provided from Igam Barracks with PIR soldiers lining the perimeter of the parade ground.
I received a note, written on a page from a Field Message and Note Book, from a PNGVR member who did not include his name and this is how he saw the commencement of the parade: “Whilst in our forming up place, we tried to look relaxed as we quietly inspected each other; however, I don’t recall anyone sky-larking in the sombre heavy atmosphere. Then the quietness became almost unbearable as we came to attention prior to moving. We marched onto the parade ground to the music of the PIR Pipes and Drums and the tune, whatever it was, (Within a Mile of O’Auld Edinburgh Toon) must have been the correct selection as it seemed the Battalion quickly got into a smooth flowing swing much sooner than most of us probably thought we would, given the earlier problems of moving off together and quickly getting the step during the seemingly endless rehearsals. After the parade, I was told by NGVR members that the Battalion did step off together and looked exceedingly smart marching onto the parade ground. The uniform of Juniper Green shirt, shorts, black beret, black belt, black shining boots and neatly tied puttees around long green sox, melded into the tropical environment.”
A significant number of events happened immediately after the Battalion arrived on the Inspection Line:
In the first instance, the Regimental Sergeant Major, Warrant Officer First Class, C Lee, aided by the Warrant Officers of each Guard, dressed the Battalion and then the former handed over the unit to the Adjutant, Captain John Rawson, who posted the Officers. The Adjutant then presented the Battalion ” ready for inspection, Sir” to the Commanding Officer, Lt. Colonel W A (Bill) Harrington MBE.
How many participants, particularly the Officers, remember the posting of the Officers by the Battalion Adjutant? According to the official program, we were lined up in our Guard groups as follows:
No.1 Guard Officers, with the shortest distance to march after being posted, were Major W R Harvey-Hall ED (Guard Commander) Captain L B Kelly, Lieutenants G C Blanch, N S Kenna, K R Butler and W H Budin.
No. 2 Guard Officers were Captain L G Hudson (Guard Commander) Captain R W Furlonger ED, Lieutenants A L Kemish, D E Ng, W R Hendricks and W Bickerton .
No. 3 Guard Officers were Major P N Harbeck (Guard Commander) Captain D S Lewis, Lieutenants R S Giddings, K A Glover, I A Thompson and A F Wadsworth.
No. 4 Guard Officers, with the longest distance to march to their positions, were Major N J Harris (Guard Commander) Captain W Kelly ED, Lieutenants D M Smith, J E Hansford, G A Roe and W J Moloney.
Two known changes to the official program list occurred. Colonel Nev Harris, RFD ED wrote to say he agreed to run the Mess functions planned after the presentation of the Colours and was not on parade and No. 4 Guard was commanded by Captain Bill Kelly (later Captain W Kelly MBE ED).
The order of Ceremony may be described as follows:
The Battalion was formed up on the Inspection Line, for the occasion of the presentation of Colours to the Papua and New Guinea Volunteer Rifles by His Honour, the Administrator, Colonel D 0 Hay, CBE, DSO.
To the tune of ‘All the Blue Bonnets’ from the Pipes and Drums, the following VIPs were piped on to the parade ground:
Captain R R (Bob) Cole, OBE, MC, Honorary Colonel, Papua and New Guinea Rifles, was received with a General Salute, whilst Brigadier Ralph T Eldridge, OBE, Commander, Papua and New Guinea Command and Major General N A Vickery, CBE, MC, ED, Citizen Force Member, representing the Military Board were received by the parade.
His Honour, the Administrator, Colonel D 0 Hay, CBE, DSO arrived at the saluting base and was received with a General Salute, again to the tune of ‘All the Blue Bonnets’. The Administrator, escorted by the Commanding Officer of PNGVR, inspected the Battalion as the Pipes and Drums of 2 PIR played ‘Morag of Dunvegan’.
The Battalion formed a hollow square and the drill, previously practised a number of times, was quickly sorted out by the Regimental Sergeant Major and Warrant Officers of the Guards.
Before being presented to a unit, the Colours are always consecrated at a religious ceremony on parade when God’s blessing of them is asked. This tradition dates back to the Battle of the Standard in 1138 when Yeomen of Yorkshire fighting the Scots took with them consecrated banners from York Cathedral and fought so fiercely to save the banners that they defeated heavy odds. For PNGVR, this was a non-denominational event of significance, particularly for the three Chaplains responsible for the consecration, blessing and dedication of the Colours.
However, the Commanding Officer had the first say in commencing the service, by intoning this prelude: “Men have always made for themselves signs which are a mark of loyalty to their rulers and of their duty to obey and honour the laws of the community in which they are placed by God. God himself led his people into Israel by a pillar of fire by night and a pillar of cloud by day. So we too follow this custom. We come together before God to ask His blessing on these Colours. These Colours remind us of our duty towards our Queen and our Country. We pray that they will be carried only in defence of a just cause. May they be a sign to all who follow them that God is with them always, in all dangers and difficulties. May they increase their faith and hope in Him, who is King of Kings, and Lord of Lords.”
The service continued in the following vein which allowed the troops on parade to give full voice to “we dedicate ourselves again” in response to each of the Commanding Officer’s exhortations. As an aide-memoire, each soldier was issued with an Order of Service Card which was held in the left hand.
The CO continued: “To this service of God and to keep holy his name the honour of our Queen, to love of our country and to the good of all men the holding of honour and the sacredness of men’s promises the protection of all those who travel on their lawful occupations the defence of law and good government the sacred memory of our comrades. Their courage and endurance gave eternal honour to our Colours. Thinking of our solemn oath, and remembering our promise to keep it always.
After the parade, Father Pete O’Reilly, (he replaced Chaplain Ray Quirk) holding forth in the Officers Mess, said that by the third response, the parade was in full voice and seemed to be looking for more after the final exhortation from the Commanding Officer. Maybe that was so.”
The next part of the ceremony showed each Colour spread wide over drums showing their beautiful details. The tops of the staffs were crossed, with the base of each staff about six feet apart on the parade ground and located in the centre of the hollow square. Some troops in the front ranks had a clear view of the outline of the impressive Queen’s Colour, however we required eagle eyes to see the details with the Windsor Crown on top of double circles on a red background; within, in gold lettering, were the words PAPUA AND NEW GUINEA VOLUNTEER RIFLES. Others were able to make out the outline, but not the details of the magnificent Regimental Colours, again with the Windsor Crown on top of double circles with the unit name above and around crossed rifles in the centre of a red background, surrounded by the elegant and colourful Flame of the Forest with NGVR Battle Honours on either side and below and the Regimental motto between the base of the D’Albertis Creeper and battle honour South West Pacific 1942-43: all this on a green background. Placed together on that exciting day, the Colours beckoned much more than a casual glance.
After ordering the Parade to attention, the CO then said to the Chaplains: “Reverend Sirs, on behalf of the Battalion, we ask you to bid God’s Blessing on these Colours”. Senior Chaplain Meridith, of the Church of England faith, moved to the Colours and laying his hand upon them said: “In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, we do consecrate and set apart these Colours, that they may be a sign of our duty towards our Queen and our Country, in the sight of God Amen.”
The Roman Catholic Chaplain Father P O’Reilly, sprinkled the Colours with Holy Water after saying: “Bless O Lord these Colours which we bless in Thy Name, that those who follow them may be ever mindful of Thy Presence, guided by Thy Will and guarded by Thy Providence”. Making the Sign of the Cross over the Colours, he continued: “In the name of the Father and of The Son, and of The Holy Ghost Amen.”
The final act in the trilogy by Senior Chaplain Peck was the dedication of the Colours in which he said: “In the name of The father and of The Son, and of the Holy Spirit, we dedicate and set apart these Colours, that may be a sign of our duty towards our Queen and Country, in the sight of God. Amen.”
After the Commanding Officer gave the command Stand at Ease, we raised our cards and read: ” O Lord our God, who sees all the countries of the world; bless our Land; that it may be a nation and a people, who will serve You to the end of time. May all who live beneath our flag remember its crosses; that they may work for the good of others, following the example of Him who died upon a cross to serve men. Let your grace and love be given to all who follow these Colours about to be given to our trust. Let our courage be strong because we trust in You. Give us self control in time of trouble. May our honour be: To seek the honour and glory of Thy Great Name; through Jesus Christ Our Lord Amen.”
This was followed by the Lord’s Prayer.
With the Battalion at attention, the Administrator, Colonel Hay, presented the Colours to the Commanding Officer, to the well known tune, at least among the Anglo-Saxon fraternity, ‘Scotland the Brave’. A smart Battalion salute to the Colours, now in the hands of the two Ensigns, under the protection of the Escorts, with the Pipes and Drums playing ‘Point of War’. Colonel Hay then addressed the Parade, in part commenting on an impressive ceremony and that it was our unbounded duty to ensure we lived up to the precepts of the Colours. The Commanding Officer formally thanked the Administrator and the Battalion reformed into line.
In his address, the Parade Commander and CO of PNGVR Lt Col Harrington thanked all those who had contributed to the success of the ceremonies and made a specific mention of the inspirational role of the NGVR, the founding fathers of the PNGVR.
Lt Colonel Harrington said the presentation of the Colours by the Administrator TPNG, the Blessing of the Colours by the respective Chaplains, the conduct of the Colour Party and Escorts proceeded in a professional and solemn manner.
The Colours now belonged to the Regiment, and all of us, I’m sure, from the CO down, sweat running down our faces, realised that the most testing part was yet to come.
We marched past in slow time to the music ‘Cameron Highlanders of the Dominions’ and then the Pipes and Drums rendered ‘Glendaruel Highlanders’, when the order was given to the Battalion to move to a march past in quick time. Photographs present appearances of soldiers in step, still looking very smart in their uniforms, (so very different from any other Citizen Military Force unit) and indicate a proud demeanor which seems to say this was a most important occasion. As indeed it was.
Lt Colonel Harrington again: “The march past and the culmination of the parade with the advance in review order was carried out with creditable clockwork precision. The proceedings were enhanced by the excellent support of the drums and pipes of the 2 PIR band.”
During the seemingly endless practice we undertook for the Presentation of the Colours, I felt that the hardest and certainly the most crucial part was performing the Advance in Review Order. We had at least ten attempts during rehearsals to get this manoeuvre correct and twice, according to my recollection, we almost made it. RSM Col Lee and other Regular Army Warrant Officers toiled, with much loss of sweat and voice, encouraging all of us, not losing their control and Lt Colonel Harrington patiently looked on as we strived mightily. Finally it was agreed that we would do it once more, then call it a day. It wasn’t perfect, far from it, however it was decided enough was enough and we would, on the day, do the right thing. And on that day, we performed brilliantly with the Advance in Review Order to the
tune of ‘All the Blue Bonnets’ and the Battalion, with the Queen’s and Regimental Colours in the centre, came to an impressive, in step, halt, followed by a General Salute.
Lt Colonel Harrington went on to say “the parade proceeded with a smooth ceremonial dignity that was a credit to all ranks.” This in turn was reflected in the expressed admiration of the multitude of spectators, whose numbers included church and civil dignitaries, service personnel, families with many children and many of the local populace. Spectators also included NGVR members and Coastwatchers.
The official program provided the following notes for Spectators. It is customary for all to stand and for gentlemen to salute or uncover, as appropriate, on the following occasions: during the playing of the General Salute; on the arrival and departure of His Honour; and when the Colours pass to the immediate front.
After the General Salute, the VIPs departed from the parade ground, led by the Administrator followed by the Citizen Military Force Member and the Commander Papua and New Guinea Command, with the Honorary Colonel seeming to take his time; perhaps the significance of the occasion rested upon him, maybe reflecting on his part in the journey to obtain what he saw as the most suitable design for the Regimental Colours.
Lt Colonel Harrington’s final statement:
“Following the dismissal parade, all those who participated would have departed with a sense of pride and achievement in a task well done and a memory that would survive for many years to come.”
The Battalion march off with the PIR Pipes and Drums to ‘The Minstrel Boy’ was indeed stirring; we had done a great job. However, it was said later, and I’m sure we felt it as we marched off, nothing we did that day was as exhilarating as that wonderful co-ordinated halt at the end of the Advance in Review Order. Indeed, the practice leading tip to the ceremony and the ceremony proper, reflected our Regimental motto, Through Trials to Triumph!
Here is a list of other participants, so far not mentioned, as shown on the Ceremonial Parade program:
Senior Major, Major F G Hoeter MBE. ED.
Junior Major, Major D J Hunter
Ensigns for the Colours Lieutenant G R Allman
Regimental Colour 2 Lieutenant J R Cattermole
Escort to the Colours Warrant Officer Class 2 H B Inch, Staff Sergeant A R Hendry EM, Staff Sergeant E W Welsby
Ground Holding Party Lieutenant R J Smith, Warrant Officer Class 2 Paulas Harema and Standard Bearer Warrant Officer Class 2 D R Ferguson
What happened to the Colours after the Ceremonial Parade?
They were placed in the Igam Barracks Officers Mess and proudly stood at the head of the dining table that night during the formal dinner which followed that evening.
Colonel Nev Harris wrote to say he was Battalion Second in Command and Senior Major over the time of the presentation of the Colours and that he agreed to stand aside to allow Major Frank Hoeter to do the Battalion 2i/c’s duties on the ceremonial parade. He also stated he organised the Officer Mess functions during the presentation period and that in arranging displays of the Flame of the Forest on the dining table, he had to use the jade flowers (no red being available) with a red tinted light behind to add the correct colour.
Colonel Harris’ mention of Major Frank Hoeter reminded me of being in the Mess after breakfast, on the day of the ceremonial parade, when the latter was presented by the Batman with his juniper green shirt which had a large burn mark on the back. Controlled chaos was the order of the morning until a suitable shirt was found. The ironing of the new shirt was closely supervised.
The Colours remained in the Igam Barracks Officer’s Mess for a short time after the Battalion was disbanded. I can clearly recall them in their glass case, a few paces from where they stood on that first night. Residing in Lae, I often visited the Mess on such occasions as Sunday BBQ followed by evening movies, official lunches and formal dining nights, when I was able to admire their beauty, the red of the Queen’s Colour and the green background and wonderful detail of the Flame of the Forest of the Regimental Colour. Nostalgia dies hard!
LAYING UP OF THE COLOURS
According to Issue and Receipt Voucher No. 7170, issued by HQ Igam Barracks, Lae, on Unit Account No. PNG 21, dated 4 April, 1974, authority for transfer ref: Army Canberra, DPE, (a) 54472 of 100030Z Oct 1973, Class 8345 Colours, Queens, PNGVR, qty 1 and Colours, Regimental, PNGVR, qty 1, and under Class 0153, Belts, Colours; Case, Colours and Pike, Colours, each qty 2, were consigned by Quartermaster Capt Eric Williams to the Australian War Memorial, Canberra. In the bottom left hand corner of the Voucher, the receiver signature is that of E F Herring Lt General, dated 25th April 1974.
The Colours were officially handed over at the end of the Anzac Day Commemoration Ceremony at the Australian War Memorial, Canberra , on Thursday April 25,1974, immediately after the singing of the National Anthem. This Anzac Day ceremony was performed in a brilliant, colourful setting, a wonderful mix of civilian dress, formal and informal and uniforms of the Navy, Army and Airforce with the spectacular dress of our Battalion.
A newspaper article said Canberra ‘s recent bad weather broke for the Anzac Day ceremony and the proceedings were held in bright sunlight and warm conditions. My diary recalls the day, particularly during the ceremony, as being clear, with a slight breeze that was enough to give one goose bumps; which maybe was related to the fact that I, along with other ex members of the Regiment, was witnessing the finale of an exceptional Citizen Military Force unit; formed in September 1939 as the New Guinea Volunteer Rifles and reformed in 1951 as the Papua and New Guinea Volunteer Rifles; a significant and integral part of the history of Papua and New Guinea and of PNG Command and the Australian Army.
An official Department of the Army photograph shows Lt Colonel Peter Cole, receiving the Queens Colour from Lieutenant Chris Van Dew Peer, just prior to being passed the Regimental Colour by Lt Pascal Idok. Also shown are Sergeants Alistair Martin and Michael Galore, part of the Escort to the Colours, whilst Lt General Sir Edmund Herring, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Australian War Memorial, waits to accept the Colours.
The official media release (LAU/74/453/HQ) stated: “The Queens and Regimental Colours of the Papua New Guinea Volunteer Rifles are collected from a special PNGVR Colour Party by the last Commanding Officer, Lt Col P G Cole, before being presented to the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Australian War Memorial Lt Gen Sir Edmund Herring (RL), to be laid up at the Memorial on Anzac Day.”
Not shown in the official photograph, but clearly seen in others, as part of the Colour Party is Staff Sergeant Noel Serafini and Warrant Officer Class 1 Darcy Tilbrook, the last RSM of PNGVR and at attention on a corner of the Stone of Remembrance, the last Honorary Colonel of the Regiment, Lt Colonel H N Green, taking in the proceedings unfolding in front.
As each Colour was passed to Lt General Sir Edmund Herring by Lt Colonel Cole, it was placed on the Stone of Remembrance, Queens Colour first, with the Regimental Colour shaft lying across that of the former. After this part of the ceremony, the Catafalque Party was withdrawn and the ceremony concluded.
Some other events worth mentioning happened on this day: for the first time ‘Advance Australia Fair’ was played as Australia ‘s National Anthem, although it was not played on that day in any other State or Territory.
As far as the ex-members of the PNGVR and Friends of the Regiment were concerned, the end of the official ceremony was the beginning of a rather long unofficial ceremony, culminating in a Wake held at the Noah’s Lakeside Hotel. I’ve still got my copy of the invitation to a wonderful bash and here is what it said:
Colonel & Mrs HN Green request the pleasure of the company of to a Wake, on Anzac Day, Thursday April 25th 1974, at 5pm, the Presidential Suite, Noah’s Lakeside International Hotel Canberra. In memory of the New Guinea Volunteer Rifles, and Papua and New Guinea Volunteer Rifles, and to honour all who have served or have been associated with the Regiment. ‘Nil Barstado Carborundum’
The last Honorary Colonel of PNGVR, Lt Colonel Harry Green, had the final say on the day, in a newspaper article: “Colonel Green said last night that officers and members of the PNGVR were ‘very angry’ at the disbanding of the battalion. They had little forewarning. He said he realised the move was inevitable. Australia could not continue to support a regiment of the calibre of the PNGVR in another country. Our regiment was fully integrated with about 80 per cent national enlistment. He said he had been delighted with the co-operation of the Australian War Memorial Trust in it’s acceptance of the Colours, the first to be laid up at the War Memorial”.
Post Script
Bruce Inch stated what most of those said when I asked for contributions to this article: “32 years is a hell of a time gap to accurately recall what went on in May 1969.” He went on to say ” I remember that it was a very proud day in my life. It was a great relief when it was all over but was worth it. The tension was very high but in all everything turned out OK. I did not celebrate very much as other duties had to be performed. I will continue to view the Colours every 5 years. They mean a great deal to me. The red of the Queen’s colour is absolutely beautiful, a real dark red”
Col Lee wrote: “Lots of practice for the Parade – seemed hopeless. I suggested that there should be no March Past in Line or Advance in Review Order; the CO said `no, we stay with the original format’. On the night before, in the (Sergeant’s) Mess, quiet and restrained – everyone knew what had to be done the next day – different story on the following night! On the matter of the film, Noel Serafini volunteered and I organised some money to buy film. I was quite cross on the first preview of the film – no Advance in Review Order, Noel had to change the reel!”
On the Laying up of the Colours, Tom Lega had this to say: (He and the PNG Colour Party had a Cook’s tour, in more ways than one, before getting to Canberra ). ” Jimmy Birrell and myself were asked to accompany the Colour party to Canberra , as representatives of the original NGVR. I flew to Lae and boarded a RAAF Caribou, flying over the Owen Stanley Range, a few of us became drowsy from a lack of oxygen; the Cargo Master walked up and down the aisle telling us to stay awake or we would pass out. Stayed overnight in the Murray Barracks Sergeant’s Mess. We left Port Moresby in a Hercules to fly direct to Melbourne, somewhere out over Cloncurry the aircraft developed an engine oil pressure problem and we were diverted to Amberly for an overnight stay; after the flight, we found ourselves shouting to each other when we talked! The next day we boarded another Hercules and were issued with ear plugs. We landed at Point Cook when a spare engine was off-loaded, reboarded the aircraft and took off for Fairburn Air Base at Canberra. Anzac Day we were transported to the parade ground in front of the Museum where Jimmy Birrell joined us and we watched the Colour Party present the Colours to General Herring who said they would be tendered and cared for until such time as they could be put on display in the Museum. The parade over, we returned to Barracks and that
night we attended a party put on by Harry Green, departing the next day.”
Epilogue
After the handover, the Colours, “which embody the history, spirit and traditions of the Regiment” were, for some time, not laid up as guaranteed by the Australian War Memorial Trustees on Anzac Day in 1974.
In March, 1980, Colonel Peter Cole wrote to me from Canberra: “When I arrived here, (in January 1978) I visited the Australian War Memorial and discovered that the PNGVR Colours had not been hung as we assumed (been promised?) in 1974. Indeed they were still wrapped in their cases and were stuck in the corner of a store room. I started to agitate our ‘ceremonial people’ in Personnel Branch to have the Colours hung correctly but it took over two years to get results. However, it wasn’t until early February this year that the colours were actually hung. They are adjacent to a series of dioramas of the Owen Stanley campaign, but they are flat against the wall and are not being displayed to their best effect. However, this is a start and at least the Colours are now on display. With a bit more pushing from our
ceremonial section, we may be able to arrange a better treatment for them”.
Further to the above, here is an extract from a memorandum dated 28 September 1979 from the Director of the Australian War Museum to the Colonel in charge of the Joint Services Ceremonial, Department of Defence: “Further to your discussion with our Mr ………………….., I wish to confirm that arrangements have been made to hang the Colours of the PNGVR. The Colours are to be placed adjacent to the series of dioramas illustrating aspects of the Owen Stanley's campaign”.
The Colours remain in the War Museum : they are not on display to the public, although Bruce Inch said that it is possible for a party of our Association members to view them, provided enough notice is given to the Museum. Until his death in 2009, Bruce periodically arranged to inspect them and report to the Association on their condition, which at last report was excellent.
Note: When the NGVR and ANGAO plaques were dedicated at the AWM in Canberra in 2006, the Colours were displayed flat on prepared tables.
Acknowledgements:
My thanks to all who provided submissions for this Story, including: Col P G Cole, Col N Harris RFD. ED, Lt Col W A Harrington MBE, Lt Col M A Bishop MM, Lt Col H N Green MBE ED, Maj C Lee MBE, Capt P Ainsworth, Capt G Blanch, Lt T Lega MM W02 B Inch, Sgt A Martin
I have also borrowed from: Customs of the Army 1/2/65, PNGVR Ceremonial Parade Program, on the occasion of the presentation of The Queen’s and Regimental Colours to PNGVR, PNGVR archival material, my own correspondence and diaries.
Bob Harvey-Hall, 2005
By Bob Harvey-Hall
PROLOGUE
My first involvement with Colours was in 1949. Prior to going to Lae to live and work in January 1952, I had served with 25 Battalion, the Darling Downs Regiment and at the three annual camps I attended, the Battalion’s Queen’s and Regimental Colours were paraded. On each occasion, I felt I was involved in a dignified and significant ceremony; more so, given that 25 Battalion had an impressive list of battle honours from both World Wars.
During January/February 1953, in an exchange of letters between myself and the Adjutant Quartermaster of the PNGVR, Captain Bendall, at the end of a list of administrative matters related to A Company, I asked: “did he think something should be done about Colours for PNGVR”. A very short time later, I received from Stan Beridall, a letter in longhand addressed to “Dear Harvey-Hall” (a typical form of Service address for the time to a subordinate) which tersely stated ” the Battalion is still in infancy and you have better things to do, as discussed previously, than worry about unit colours and I am busy getting things cleared up before proceeding South”.
The “things getting cleared up” probably referred to the PNGVR Q Store at Murray Barracks, which mysteriously burnt down. That was the end of the matter of Colours for PNGVR for myself. In 1961, whilst staying at Murray Barracks, Port Moresby , I was informed of a submission to go to Northern Command making a claim for battle honours for NGVR.
COLOURS
The term Colours includes Banners, Standards and Guidons. Queen’s and Regimental Colours are carried by infantry units, except those units gazetted as rifle regiments. Guidons are carried by armoured units. In commemoration of some particular service or to mark some special occasion, as a token of the Sovereign’s pleasure, a unit may be granted some Honourable Insignia, such as a Banner. In all cases they are given the same honours and esteem.
The Colours embody the history, spirit and traditions of the Regiment to which they belong. They are highly valued, carefully guarded and treated with great respect.
Since earliest times, warriors have carried banners, standards or flags as a distinguishing mark. Colours are the development of those banners and trace their origins to the ensigns and standards of the Romans, Greeks and Egyptians. Their evolution was due to the need for some mark of distinction between families, tribes and races and to provide a rallying point in battle.
Until 1881 the Colours were taken to war and carried by Ensigns at the head of a Regiment where they could be seen and recognised and where they often became the centre of bitter fighting: history records many acts of bravery performed in order to prevent the Colours falling into enemy hands and losses amongst Colour and Standard Bearers became so high, that since the Boer War, Colours have been retained in safe keeping when units depart on active service.
Arising from ancient tradition, units of today are allowed a Queen’s and a Regimental Colour. All Colours derive froth the Sovereign who approves their design: the Queen’s Colour is a reminder to all ranks of their loyalty and duty to their Sovereign and Country whilst the Regimental Colour is a symbol of Regimental tradition, including the Sovereign’s recognition of distinguished service in battle and of the duty owed by each member to each other and to the Regiment.
Colours are normally housed in their case in the Officer’s Mess and are only paraded on formal ceremonial occasions and are never moved without their appropriate escort.
Background
Archival documents show that Major Dick Newman, as CO PNGVR, initiated the first official correspondence on the matter of Colours for the Regiment to Northern Command Headquarters at Victoria Barracks in Brisbane . Dick Newman became CO on the 15th of March 1962, taking over from Colonel Ralph Eldridge (later Brigadier PNG Command and OBE), who was then also Area Commander PNG.
In seeking a beginning for this story, we need to go back to July 1961, when, as a result of a NGVR Battle Honours Committee submission, Colonel Eldridge authorised a memorandum to Northern Command making a claim for Battle and Theatre Honours for NGVR, covering operations in the South West Pacific 1942-43, RABAUL and KAVIENG. The response was that PNGVR was awarded NGVR Battle Honours for South West Pacific 1942-43, RABAUL and WAU; the award was promulgated in PNGVR Routine Orders’ Part 1 of the lst of June, 1962, less than three months after Major Newman became CO.
Here are details of some significant documents, from the unit archives, which are germane to this story:
Headquarters, Area Command PAPUA/NEW GUINEA Murray Barracks, Port Moresby . Jul 61.
NORTHERN COMMAND BATTLE AND THEATRE HONOURS FOR THE SECOND WORLD WAR (1939-45) – NGVR
- Herewith is a claim for Battle and Theatre Honours for the Second World War (1939-45) submitted by NGVR Battle Honours Committee.
- It has been extremely difficult to assess the strength of the NGVR component engaged in operations in RABAUL and KAVIENG. However, page 46 of South West Pacific Area First Year, by Dudley McCarthy, gives a fair indication of the arrangements for the raising of NGVR. Strength of sub-units are known to have fluctuated considerably during the existence of the unit.
- Furthermore, it is apparent that it was intended, eventually, to employ NGVR by sub-units where and as required.
PAPUA AND NEW GUINEA VOLUNTEER RIFLES BATTLE HONOURS
Extract from PNGVR Routine Orders’ Part 1 Serial 6/62 of 1st June 1962.
Members of Papua and New Guinea Volunteer Rifles will be proud to learn that their unit has been awarded the following Battle Honours. The authority for the award being ‘Aust Army Order 135/61′.
South West Pacific 1942-43 RABAUL, WAU
The fine traditions of service which have been handed on to PNGVR from the original New Guinea Volunteer Rifles will serve as a constant reminder to all ranks of the standard which must be achieved.
(Signed) R. D. NEWMAN Maj
CO PNGVR
REGIMENTAL COLOURS COMMITTEE
A Committee, comprising the following Officers, has been set up, to investigate the provision of Colours for PNGVR.
Chairman – Lt Col J K McCARTHY – Honorary Colonel
Members – Maj. R D NEWMAN – Commanding Officer
Lt P AINSWORTH – D Coy
Lt W A McGRATH – IO, HQ PNGVR
DESIGN OF THE COLOURS
Major Col Lee MBE says two people come to mind in the design of the colours: Major Nev Harris (now Colonel RFD ED) and a Police Officer, Mike Thomas and using the D’ Albertis’ Creeper (Flame of the Forest) was a joint suggestion from Nev and Mike. The then RSM Col Lee also said there were a couple of applications to AHQ for approval of the design, however AHQ insisted that all Australian Army units, as PNGVR was, must have the wattle surrounds. Gloom and despair everywhere in PNGVR HQ when the second rejection occurred, said Col, who became involved in discussions on the matter and suggested that a further application be made pointing out that the design should be accepted by AHQ as PNGVR would no longer be an Australian unit when PNG was granted independence. AHQ accepted the reasoning and approved the design.
Captain Phil Ainsworth says he was the initial designer of the regimental colours incorporating the D’Albertis’ flower in the wreath, rather than the Australian wattle. The idea was that PNGVR and its forerunner, NGVR, were created to serve in New Guinea and that the motif was most appropriate.
After discussions with the PNG Department of Forest botanists and looking at botanical photographs and drawings (Phil was employed there as a cartographer from 1961 to 1972) he selected the D’Albertis’ creeper as representing the desired PNG theme. Phil simplified the shape of the flowers and drew them into a wreath around the regimental badge over the regimental motto. He goes on to say that there was some time between when the initial drawings were prepared and the presentation of the colours and this may be why few realise his part in the production of the regimental colours.
Captain Phil Ainsworth was a member of the Lt Col JK McCarthy committee set up by Maj Newman to investigate the provision of Colours for PNGVR. Phil went on the reserve in 1968 and did not attend the presentation of the Colours.
Lt Colonel Mal Bishop MM wrote to me in March 2004 as follows: “I note in the March issue of Harim Tok Tok that you are about to write the details surrounding the approval and subsequent presentation of PNGVR colours. In order that the background relating to the selection of the D’Albertis’ Creeper as opposed to Australian wattle is correctly reported by you, I will give you the events leading up to the adoption of the D’Albertis’ Creeper.
When I was CO of PNGVR in Port Moresby, (Captain R R) Bob Cole was Honorary Colonel of PNGVR. I had received a letter from Northern Command advising that we were to be presented with our Colours and attached was a coloured sketch showing Australian wattle as the surrounds on the Regimental Colours."
I passed this information to Bob Cole who in his capacity as Honorary Colonel, dictated and signed a letter to N Comd stating that Australian wattle had no relationship to PNG and that Dalbertis’ Creeper flowers were the appropriate surrounds. There followed lots of subsequent letters between N Comd and PNGVR, but Bob Cole never wavered from his stand At last N Comd agreed, (with AHQ blessing) to the Honorary Colonel’s proposal and a sample of D’Albertis’ Creeper flower was obtained from Lae. Bob, (Harvey-Hall) you may recall supplying the sample?” This was forwarded to N Comd and finally accepted as the surrounds for our Regimental Colours.
I was involved in a minor way: I obtained a selection of D’Albertis’ Creeper pieces (commonly referred to as the Flame of the Forest) from the Botanical Gardens at Lae and sent them to HQ PNGVR at Murray Barracks.
In the April 2004 Harim Tok Tok, the President of our Association, Lt Col Harry Green MBE. ED had this to say: “From the initial letter to AHQ in 1961 by Major Richard (Dick) Newman, (then CO of PNGVR) raising the issue of Regimental Colours, to ANZAC Day 1974 when our Colours were laid up, many dedicated men in PNGVR and in Papua New Guinea were involved and were outstanding in their efforts, dedication and co-operation. I remember well, for example, the firm insistence of then Honorary Colonel of the Regiment, Captain Bob Cole, OBE. MC . that the D’Albertis’ Creeper ( New Guinea Flame of the Forest ) was the appropriate surrounds for our Regimental Colour in lieu of the standard Australian Wattle. I remember too, Captain Phil Ainsworth formerly of Admin Coy and now one of our Executive Committee members, who drafted a coloured drawing of the D’Albertis’ Creeper for HQ’s consideration.”
What do we know about the wreath of flowers on either side of the crossed rifles on red background and situated proudly above the Battalion’s motto of Per Augusta Ad Augusta? This extract was supplied by Phil Ainsworth:
“Mucuna albertisii, D’Albertis’ creeper is a extensive climber, 5-20 metres plus long. The name D’Albertis’ creeper is usually applied to a red flowered species and it seems reasonable to restrict it to the one bearing the name of the botanist and explorer, D’Albertis, who in speaking of the red one, mentions that the inflorescences hang and are up to 60 cm(2 feet) in length.”
THE PRESENTATION OF THE COLOURS
The presentation of the Colours occurred on the 17 th of May, 1969 at Igam Barracks, outside Lae, during the PNGVR annual camp. The training of the Battalion to a level fit for the occasion was long and strenuous and the result certainly worth the effort. It was a significant military event with an impressive number of Citizen Military Force soldiers, including men of Anglo-Saxon, Chinese and Malay descent, all Australian citizens and residents of PNG, with the majority of volunteers being PNG Nationals, coming together as members of the PNGVR.
Lt Colonel Bill Harrington MBE, (CO PNGVR and Parade Commander) said it was a fine day, in fact a great day. The Pipes skirled and the Drums beat as the PNGVR marched onto the parade ground at Igam Barracks and the facial expressions and smart bearing said it all. They were proud of what they were, this was their day and they were going to do their very best.
The programme of music was played by the Pipes and Drums of the Second Battalion of the Pacific Islands Regiment: the Pipe Major was Warrant Officer Class 2 Tiuamoa Lewereka and the Drum Major, Sergeant Leana Tani. Assistance was provided from Igam Barracks with PIR soldiers lining the perimeter of the parade ground.
I received a note, written on a page from a Field Message and Note Book, from a PNGVR member who did not include his name and this is how he saw the commencement of the parade: “Whilst in our forming up place, we tried to look relaxed as we quietly inspected each other; however, I don’t recall anyone sky-larking in the sombre heavy atmosphere. Then the quietness became almost unbearable as we came to attention prior to moving. We marched onto the parade ground to the music of the PIR Pipes and Drums and the tune, whatever it was, (Within a Mile of O’Auld Edinburgh Toon) must have been the correct selection as it seemed the Battalion quickly got into a smooth flowing swing much sooner than most of us probably thought we would, given the earlier problems of moving off together and quickly getting the step during the seemingly endless rehearsals. After the parade, I was told by NGVR members that the Battalion did step off together and looked exceedingly smart marching onto the parade ground. The uniform of Juniper Green shirt, shorts, black beret, black belt, black shining boots and neatly tied puttees around long green sox, melded into the tropical environment.”
A significant number of events happened immediately after the Battalion arrived on the Inspection Line:
In the first instance, the Regimental Sergeant Major, Warrant Officer First Class, C Lee, aided by the Warrant Officers of each Guard, dressed the Battalion and then the former handed over the unit to the Adjutant, Captain John Rawson, who posted the Officers. The Adjutant then presented the Battalion ” ready for inspection, Sir” to the Commanding Officer, Lt. Colonel W A (Bill) Harrington MBE.
How many participants, particularly the Officers, remember the posting of the Officers by the Battalion Adjutant? According to the official program, we were lined up in our Guard groups as follows:
No.1 Guard Officers, with the shortest distance to march after being posted, were Major W R Harvey-Hall ED (Guard Commander) Captain L B Kelly, Lieutenants G C Blanch, N S Kenna, K R Butler and W H Budin.
No. 2 Guard Officers were Captain L G Hudson (Guard Commander) Captain R W Furlonger ED, Lieutenants A L Kemish, D E Ng, W R Hendricks and W Bickerton .
No. 3 Guard Officers were Major P N Harbeck (Guard Commander) Captain D S Lewis, Lieutenants R S Giddings, K A Glover, I A Thompson and A F Wadsworth.
No. 4 Guard Officers, with the longest distance to march to their positions, were Major N J Harris (Guard Commander) Captain W Kelly ED, Lieutenants D M Smith, J E Hansford, G A Roe and W J Moloney.
Two known changes to the official program list occurred. Colonel Nev Harris, RFD ED wrote to say he agreed to run the Mess functions planned after the presentation of the Colours and was not on parade and No. 4 Guard was commanded by Captain Bill Kelly (later Captain W Kelly MBE ED).
The order of Ceremony may be described as follows:
The Battalion was formed up on the Inspection Line, for the occasion of the presentation of Colours to the Papua and New Guinea Volunteer Rifles by His Honour, the Administrator, Colonel D 0 Hay, CBE, DSO.
To the tune of ‘All the Blue Bonnets’ from the Pipes and Drums, the following VIPs were piped on to the parade ground:
Captain R R (Bob) Cole, OBE, MC, Honorary Colonel, Papua and New Guinea Rifles, was received with a General Salute, whilst Brigadier Ralph T Eldridge, OBE, Commander, Papua and New Guinea Command and Major General N A Vickery, CBE, MC, ED, Citizen Force Member, representing the Military Board were received by the parade.
His Honour, the Administrator, Colonel D 0 Hay, CBE, DSO arrived at the saluting base and was received with a General Salute, again to the tune of ‘All the Blue Bonnets’. The Administrator, escorted by the Commanding Officer of PNGVR, inspected the Battalion as the Pipes and Drums of 2 PIR played ‘Morag of Dunvegan’.
The Battalion formed a hollow square and the drill, previously practised a number of times, was quickly sorted out by the Regimental Sergeant Major and Warrant Officers of the Guards.
Before being presented to a unit, the Colours are always consecrated at a religious ceremony on parade when God’s blessing of them is asked. This tradition dates back to the Battle of the Standard in 1138 when Yeomen of Yorkshire fighting the Scots took with them consecrated banners from York Cathedral and fought so fiercely to save the banners that they defeated heavy odds. For PNGVR, this was a non-denominational event of significance, particularly for the three Chaplains responsible for the consecration, blessing and dedication of the Colours.
However, the Commanding Officer had the first say in commencing the service, by intoning this prelude: “Men have always made for themselves signs which are a mark of loyalty to their rulers and of their duty to obey and honour the laws of the community in which they are placed by God. God himself led his people into Israel by a pillar of fire by night and a pillar of cloud by day. So we too follow this custom. We come together before God to ask His blessing on these Colours. These Colours remind us of our duty towards our Queen and our Country. We pray that they will be carried only in defence of a just cause. May they be a sign to all who follow them that God is with them always, in all dangers and difficulties. May they increase their faith and hope in Him, who is King of Kings, and Lord of Lords.”
The service continued in the following vein which allowed the troops on parade to give full voice to “we dedicate ourselves again” in response to each of the Commanding Officer’s exhortations. As an aide-memoire, each soldier was issued with an Order of Service Card which was held in the left hand.
The CO continued: “To this service of God and to keep holy his name the honour of our Queen, to love of our country and to the good of all men the holding of honour and the sacredness of men’s promises the protection of all those who travel on their lawful occupations the defence of law and good government the sacred memory of our comrades. Their courage and endurance gave eternal honour to our Colours. Thinking of our solemn oath, and remembering our promise to keep it always.
After the parade, Father Pete O’Reilly, (he replaced Chaplain Ray Quirk) holding forth in the Officers Mess, said that by the third response, the parade was in full voice and seemed to be looking for more after the final exhortation from the Commanding Officer. Maybe that was so.”
The next part of the ceremony showed each Colour spread wide over drums showing their beautiful details. The tops of the staffs were crossed, with the base of each staff about six feet apart on the parade ground and located in the centre of the hollow square. Some troops in the front ranks had a clear view of the outline of the impressive Queen’s Colour, however we required eagle eyes to see the details with the Windsor Crown on top of double circles on a red background; within, in gold lettering, were the words PAPUA AND NEW GUINEA VOLUNTEER RIFLES. Others were able to make out the outline, but not the details of the magnificent Regimental Colours, again with the Windsor Crown on top of double circles with the unit name above and around crossed rifles in the centre of a red background, surrounded by the elegant and colourful Flame of the Forest with NGVR Battle Honours on either side and below and the Regimental motto between the base of the D’Albertis Creeper and battle honour South West Pacific 1942-43: all this on a green background. Placed together on that exciting day, the Colours beckoned much more than a casual glance.
After ordering the Parade to attention, the CO then said to the Chaplains: “Reverend Sirs, on behalf of the Battalion, we ask you to bid God’s Blessing on these Colours”. Senior Chaplain Meridith, of the Church of England faith, moved to the Colours and laying his hand upon them said: “In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, we do consecrate and set apart these Colours, that they may be a sign of our duty towards our Queen and our Country, in the sight of God Amen.”
The Roman Catholic Chaplain Father P O’Reilly, sprinkled the Colours with Holy Water after saying: “Bless O Lord these Colours which we bless in Thy Name, that those who follow them may be ever mindful of Thy Presence, guided by Thy Will and guarded by Thy Providence”. Making the Sign of the Cross over the Colours, he continued: “In the name of the Father and of The Son, and of The Holy Ghost Amen.”
The final act in the trilogy by Senior Chaplain Peck was the dedication of the Colours in which he said: “In the name of The father and of The Son, and of the Holy Spirit, we dedicate and set apart these Colours, that may be a sign of our duty towards our Queen and Country, in the sight of God. Amen.”
After the Commanding Officer gave the command Stand at Ease, we raised our cards and read: ” O Lord our God, who sees all the countries of the world; bless our Land; that it may be a nation and a people, who will serve You to the end of time. May all who live beneath our flag remember its crosses; that they may work for the good of others, following the example of Him who died upon a cross to serve men. Let your grace and love be given to all who follow these Colours about to be given to our trust. Let our courage be strong because we trust in You. Give us self control in time of trouble. May our honour be: To seek the honour and glory of Thy Great Name; through Jesus Christ Our Lord Amen.”
This was followed by the Lord’s Prayer.
With the Battalion at attention, the Administrator, Colonel Hay, presented the Colours to the Commanding Officer, to the well known tune, at least among the Anglo-Saxon fraternity, ‘Scotland the Brave’. A smart Battalion salute to the Colours, now in the hands of the two Ensigns, under the protection of the Escorts, with the Pipes and Drums playing ‘Point of War’. Colonel Hay then addressed the Parade, in part commenting on an impressive ceremony and that it was our unbounded duty to ensure we lived up to the precepts of the Colours. The Commanding Officer formally thanked the Administrator and the Battalion reformed into line.
In his address, the Parade Commander and CO of PNGVR Lt Col Harrington thanked all those who had contributed to the success of the ceremonies and made a specific mention of the inspirational role of the NGVR, the founding fathers of the PNGVR.
Lt Colonel Harrington said the presentation of the Colours by the Administrator TPNG, the Blessing of the Colours by the respective Chaplains, the conduct of the Colour Party and Escorts proceeded in a professional and solemn manner.
The Colours now belonged to the Regiment, and all of us, I’m sure, from the CO down, sweat running down our faces, realised that the most testing part was yet to come.
We marched past in slow time to the music ‘Cameron Highlanders of the Dominions’ and then the Pipes and Drums rendered ‘Glendaruel Highlanders’, when the order was given to the Battalion to move to a march past in quick time. Photographs present appearances of soldiers in step, still looking very smart in their uniforms, (so very different from any other Citizen Military Force unit) and indicate a proud demeanor which seems to say this was a most important occasion. As indeed it was.
Lt Colonel Harrington again: “The march past and the culmination of the parade with the advance in review order was carried out with creditable clockwork precision. The proceedings were enhanced by the excellent support of the drums and pipes of the 2 PIR band.”
During the seemingly endless practice we undertook for the Presentation of the Colours, I felt that the hardest and certainly the most crucial part was performing the Advance in Review Order. We had at least ten attempts during rehearsals to get this manoeuvre correct and twice, according to my recollection, we almost made it. RSM Col Lee and other Regular Army Warrant Officers toiled, with much loss of sweat and voice, encouraging all of us, not losing their control and Lt Colonel Harrington patiently looked on as we strived mightily. Finally it was agreed that we would do it once more, then call it a day. It wasn’t perfect, far from it, however it was decided enough was enough and we would, on the day, do the right thing. And on that day, we performed brilliantly with the Advance in Review Order to the
tune of ‘All the Blue Bonnets’ and the Battalion, with the Queen’s and Regimental Colours in the centre, came to an impressive, in step, halt, followed by a General Salute.
Lt Colonel Harrington went on to say “the parade proceeded with a smooth ceremonial dignity that was a credit to all ranks.” This in turn was reflected in the expressed admiration of the multitude of spectators, whose numbers included church and civil dignitaries, service personnel, families with many children and many of the local populace. Spectators also included NGVR members and Coastwatchers.
The official program provided the following notes for Spectators. It is customary for all to stand and for gentlemen to salute or uncover, as appropriate, on the following occasions: during the playing of the General Salute; on the arrival and departure of His Honour; and when the Colours pass to the immediate front.
After the General Salute, the VIPs departed from the parade ground, led by the Administrator followed by the Citizen Military Force Member and the Commander Papua and New Guinea Command, with the Honorary Colonel seeming to take his time; perhaps the significance of the occasion rested upon him, maybe reflecting on his part in the journey to obtain what he saw as the most suitable design for the Regimental Colours.
Lt Colonel Harrington’s final statement:
“Following the dismissal parade, all those who participated would have departed with a sense of pride and achievement in a task well done and a memory that would survive for many years to come.”
The Battalion march off with the PIR Pipes and Drums to ‘The Minstrel Boy’ was indeed stirring; we had done a great job. However, it was said later, and I’m sure we felt it as we marched off, nothing we did that day was as exhilarating as that wonderful co-ordinated halt at the end of the Advance in Review Order. Indeed, the practice leading tip to the ceremony and the ceremony proper, reflected our Regimental motto, Through Trials to Triumph!
Here is a list of other participants, so far not mentioned, as shown on the Ceremonial Parade program:
Senior Major, Major F G Hoeter MBE. ED.
Junior Major, Major D J Hunter
Ensigns for the Colours Lieutenant G R Allman
Regimental Colour 2 Lieutenant J R Cattermole
Escort to the Colours Warrant Officer Class 2 H B Inch, Staff Sergeant A R Hendry EM, Staff Sergeant E W Welsby
Ground Holding Party Lieutenant R J Smith, Warrant Officer Class 2 Paulas Harema and Standard Bearer Warrant Officer Class 2 D R Ferguson
What happened to the Colours after the Ceremonial Parade?
They were placed in the Igam Barracks Officers Mess and proudly stood at the head of the dining table that night during the formal dinner which followed that evening.
Colonel Nev Harris wrote to say he was Battalion Second in Command and Senior Major over the time of the presentation of the Colours and that he agreed to stand aside to allow Major Frank Hoeter to do the Battalion 2i/c’s duties on the ceremonial parade. He also stated he organised the Officer Mess functions during the presentation period and that in arranging displays of the Flame of the Forest on the dining table, he had to use the jade flowers (no red being available) with a red tinted light behind to add the correct colour.
Colonel Harris’ mention of Major Frank Hoeter reminded me of being in the Mess after breakfast, on the day of the ceremonial parade, when the latter was presented by the Batman with his juniper green shirt which had a large burn mark on the back. Controlled chaos was the order of the morning until a suitable shirt was found. The ironing of the new shirt was closely supervised.
The Colours remained in the Igam Barracks Officer’s Mess for a short time after the Battalion was disbanded. I can clearly recall them in their glass case, a few paces from where they stood on that first night. Residing in Lae, I often visited the Mess on such occasions as Sunday BBQ followed by evening movies, official lunches and formal dining nights, when I was able to admire their beauty, the red of the Queen’s Colour and the green background and wonderful detail of the Flame of the Forest of the Regimental Colour. Nostalgia dies hard!
LAYING UP OF THE COLOURS
According to Issue and Receipt Voucher No. 7170, issued by HQ Igam Barracks, Lae, on Unit Account No. PNG 21, dated 4 April, 1974, authority for transfer ref: Army Canberra, DPE, (a) 54472 of 100030Z Oct 1973, Class 8345 Colours, Queens, PNGVR, qty 1 and Colours, Regimental, PNGVR, qty 1, and under Class 0153, Belts, Colours; Case, Colours and Pike, Colours, each qty 2, were consigned by Quartermaster Capt Eric Williams to the Australian War Memorial, Canberra. In the bottom left hand corner of the Voucher, the receiver signature is that of E F Herring Lt General, dated 25th April 1974.
The Colours were officially handed over at the end of the Anzac Day Commemoration Ceremony at the Australian War Memorial, Canberra , on Thursday April 25,1974, immediately after the singing of the National Anthem. This Anzac Day ceremony was performed in a brilliant, colourful setting, a wonderful mix of civilian dress, formal and informal and uniforms of the Navy, Army and Airforce with the spectacular dress of our Battalion.
A newspaper article said Canberra ‘s recent bad weather broke for the Anzac Day ceremony and the proceedings were held in bright sunlight and warm conditions. My diary recalls the day, particularly during the ceremony, as being clear, with a slight breeze that was enough to give one goose bumps; which maybe was related to the fact that I, along with other ex members of the Regiment, was witnessing the finale of an exceptional Citizen Military Force unit; formed in September 1939 as the New Guinea Volunteer Rifles and reformed in 1951 as the Papua and New Guinea Volunteer Rifles; a significant and integral part of the history of Papua and New Guinea and of PNG Command and the Australian Army.
An official Department of the Army photograph shows Lt Colonel Peter Cole, receiving the Queens Colour from Lieutenant Chris Van Dew Peer, just prior to being passed the Regimental Colour by Lt Pascal Idok. Also shown are Sergeants Alistair Martin and Michael Galore, part of the Escort to the Colours, whilst Lt General Sir Edmund Herring, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Australian War Memorial, waits to accept the Colours.
The official media release (LAU/74/453/HQ) stated: “The Queens and Regimental Colours of the Papua New Guinea Volunteer Rifles are collected from a special PNGVR Colour Party by the last Commanding Officer, Lt Col P G Cole, before being presented to the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Australian War Memorial Lt Gen Sir Edmund Herring (RL), to be laid up at the Memorial on Anzac Day.”
Not shown in the official photograph, but clearly seen in others, as part of the Colour Party is Staff Sergeant Noel Serafini and Warrant Officer Class 1 Darcy Tilbrook, the last RSM of PNGVR and at attention on a corner of the Stone of Remembrance, the last Honorary Colonel of the Regiment, Lt Colonel H N Green, taking in the proceedings unfolding in front.
As each Colour was passed to Lt General Sir Edmund Herring by Lt Colonel Cole, it was placed on the Stone of Remembrance, Queens Colour first, with the Regimental Colour shaft lying across that of the former. After this part of the ceremony, the Catafalque Party was withdrawn and the ceremony concluded.
Some other events worth mentioning happened on this day: for the first time ‘Advance Australia Fair’ was played as Australia ‘s National Anthem, although it was not played on that day in any other State or Territory.
As far as the ex-members of the PNGVR and Friends of the Regiment were concerned, the end of the official ceremony was the beginning of a rather long unofficial ceremony, culminating in a Wake held at the Noah’s Lakeside Hotel. I’ve still got my copy of the invitation to a wonderful bash and here is what it said:
Colonel & Mrs HN Green request the pleasure of the company of to a Wake, on Anzac Day, Thursday April 25th 1974, at 5pm, the Presidential Suite, Noah’s Lakeside International Hotel Canberra. In memory of the New Guinea Volunteer Rifles, and Papua and New Guinea Volunteer Rifles, and to honour all who have served or have been associated with the Regiment. ‘Nil Barstado Carborundum’
The last Honorary Colonel of PNGVR, Lt Colonel Harry Green, had the final say on the day, in a newspaper article: “Colonel Green said last night that officers and members of the PNGVR were ‘very angry’ at the disbanding of the battalion. They had little forewarning. He said he realised the move was inevitable. Australia could not continue to support a regiment of the calibre of the PNGVR in another country. Our regiment was fully integrated with about 80 per cent national enlistment. He said he had been delighted with the co-operation of the Australian War Memorial Trust in it’s acceptance of the Colours, the first to be laid up at the War Memorial”.
Post Script
Bruce Inch stated what most of those said when I asked for contributions to this article: “32 years is a hell of a time gap to accurately recall what went on in May 1969.” He went on to say ” I remember that it was a very proud day in my life. It was a great relief when it was all over but was worth it. The tension was very high but in all everything turned out OK. I did not celebrate very much as other duties had to be performed. I will continue to view the Colours every 5 years. They mean a great deal to me. The red of the Queen’s colour is absolutely beautiful, a real dark red”
Col Lee wrote: “Lots of practice for the Parade – seemed hopeless. I suggested that there should be no March Past in Line or Advance in Review Order; the CO said `no, we stay with the original format’. On the night before, in the (Sergeant’s) Mess, quiet and restrained – everyone knew what had to be done the next day – different story on the following night! On the matter of the film, Noel Serafini volunteered and I organised some money to buy film. I was quite cross on the first preview of the film – no Advance in Review Order, Noel had to change the reel!”
On the Laying up of the Colours, Tom Lega had this to say: (He and the PNG Colour Party had a Cook’s tour, in more ways than one, before getting to Canberra ). ” Jimmy Birrell and myself were asked to accompany the Colour party to Canberra , as representatives of the original NGVR. I flew to Lae and boarded a RAAF Caribou, flying over the Owen Stanley Range, a few of us became drowsy from a lack of oxygen; the Cargo Master walked up and down the aisle telling us to stay awake or we would pass out. Stayed overnight in the Murray Barracks Sergeant’s Mess. We left Port Moresby in a Hercules to fly direct to Melbourne, somewhere out over Cloncurry the aircraft developed an engine oil pressure problem and we were diverted to Amberly for an overnight stay; after the flight, we found ourselves shouting to each other when we talked! The next day we boarded another Hercules and were issued with ear plugs. We landed at Point Cook when a spare engine was off-loaded, reboarded the aircraft and took off for Fairburn Air Base at Canberra. Anzac Day we were transported to the parade ground in front of the Museum where Jimmy Birrell joined us and we watched the Colour Party present the Colours to General Herring who said they would be tendered and cared for until such time as they could be put on display in the Museum. The parade over, we returned to Barracks and that
night we attended a party put on by Harry Green, departing the next day.”
Epilogue
After the handover, the Colours, “which embody the history, spirit and traditions of the Regiment” were, for some time, not laid up as guaranteed by the Australian War Memorial Trustees on Anzac Day in 1974.
In March, 1980, Colonel Peter Cole wrote to me from Canberra: “When I arrived here, (in January 1978) I visited the Australian War Memorial and discovered that the PNGVR Colours had not been hung as we assumed (been promised?) in 1974. Indeed they were still wrapped in their cases and were stuck in the corner of a store room. I started to agitate our ‘ceremonial people’ in Personnel Branch to have the Colours hung correctly but it took over two years to get results. However, it wasn’t until early February this year that the colours were actually hung. They are adjacent to a series of dioramas of the Owen Stanley campaign, but they are flat against the wall and are not being displayed to their best effect. However, this is a start and at least the Colours are now on display. With a bit more pushing from our
ceremonial section, we may be able to arrange a better treatment for them”.
Further to the above, here is an extract from a memorandum dated 28 September 1979 from the Director of the Australian War Museum to the Colonel in charge of the Joint Services Ceremonial, Department of Defence: “Further to your discussion with our Mr ………………….., I wish to confirm that arrangements have been made to hang the Colours of the PNGVR. The Colours are to be placed adjacent to the series of dioramas illustrating aspects of the Owen Stanley's campaign”.
The Colours remain in the War Museum : they are not on display to the public, although Bruce Inch said that it is possible for a party of our Association members to view them, provided enough notice is given to the Museum. Until his death in 2009, Bruce periodically arranged to inspect them and report to the Association on their condition, which at last report was excellent.
Note: When the NGVR and ANGAO plaques were dedicated at the AWM in Canberra in 2006, the Colours were displayed flat on prepared tables.
Acknowledgements:
My thanks to all who provided submissions for this Story, including: Col P G Cole, Col N Harris RFD. ED, Lt Col W A Harrington MBE, Lt Col M A Bishop MM, Lt Col H N Green MBE ED, Maj C Lee MBE, Capt P Ainsworth, Capt G Blanch, Lt T Lega MM W02 B Inch, Sgt A Martin
I have also borrowed from: Customs of the Army 1/2/65, PNGVR Ceremonial Parade Program, on the occasion of the presentation of The Queen’s and Regimental Colours to PNGVR, PNGVR archival material, my own correspondence and diaries.
Bob Harvey-Hall, 2005
Chaplain Meredith consecrates the Colours
MAJ Frank Hoeter at the presentation of the colours to PNGVR with LT G.R Allman carrying the Colour
C Coy. Presentation Of Colours. Officers L-R Lt Allan Wadsworth ,Capt Stewart Lewis, Lt Ian Thompson [3rd guard}
Marching the Colours past the Administrator of PNG at the Trooping of the Colour.
Photo taken by Stewart Lewis of Colours on the wall in IGAM Bks Officer's Mess.
Laying up the PNGVR Colours at the Australian War Memorial, Canberra, Anzac Day 1974.