Men who were part of one of the Vietnam War’s most heroic Kiwi actions are reunited for the first time in more than 40 years in the moving documentary VICTOR 3 – BAPTISM BY FIRE on Maori Television on ANZAC Day, Monday April 25 2011.

Six of the nine men who were part of a pitched battle against 70 to 80 Viet Cong (VC) soldiers are brought together again at Waiouru Army Base, where they share vivid memories.

“In over 20 years interviewing veterans, it’s probably one of the most emotive shoots I’ve ever done,” says producer Te Rangitawaea Reedy. “This documentary is about real heroes who had to call on every ounce of grit to survive what looked like an unwinnable attack.” The six men appearing are Maurice Dodson (Wellington), Wiki Kahika (Shannon), John Kingi (Gisborne), Bill Te Aotonga (Hawera), Bruce Grant (Rotorua) and Campbell Keelan (Ruatoria).

Their story begins in Vietnam on June 22 1968, as the nine-strong New Zealand patrol Victor 3 One Platoon tracks and kills three VC soldiers in the open. Suddenly, they come under heavy fire from 70 to 80 VC concealed in the jungle fringe. Five of the Kiwis are wounded, Private Michael Wickman fatally.

Patrol Commander Lt Maurice Dodson, partially blinded by shrapnel, calls on every ounce of instinct to call in mortar artillery fire and helicopter gunships. The Kiwis repel repeated VC assaults, including kicking away grenades before they explode. When relief arrives, the battle has been raging for nearly two hours and ammunition is low.

Three of the patrol were decorated for gallantry: Dodson (Military Cross), later Major General MF Dodson, Chief of Army; Lance Corporal Dave Ropeta (Distinguished Conduct Meal) and Sapper Wiki Kahika (mentioned in despatches).

VICTOR 3 – BAPTISM BY FIRE was filmed before a Waiouru auditorium packed with soldiers of all ranks, who were able to question the Vietnam veterans about tactics and strategy. “It was an opportunity for young soldiers to feel the burn and ask these guys how they handled the experience,” says Te Rangitawaea Reedy. “And for all of us, it’s a chance to learn.”

ENDS

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