RMF-Centenary of Australian Submarines

SC EUNBTME NAARRINY EOSF IN AUSTRALIA 1980-20141 9 1 4 - 2 0 1 4 Warrant Officer Mark Dixon helps Chief Petty Officer Mike Bell get use to the feeling of having scissors near his 30 year old beard leading up to shaving for a cure HMAS Farncomb - Senior Sailors Mess 2002 I recall joining Farncomb in Bunbury, after being picked up After a stint Farncomb MT Department 2002 (around the in a car by the MEO, LEUT Richard Fitzgerald, I stepped on the ashore I was posted shaft behind the main motor) boat, and despite months and months of training was lucky to back to Farncomb in know the front end from the back end. Terminology was different, 2002, with LCDR the routines were different, smells were certainly different and the Ian Salter as the CO, we took the boat to Japan and I must say we layout was different. However one thing that remained the same was had a great trip, the boat was running as well as any Oberon I had the crew. The CO was LCDR Greg Sammut, and he led a crew of served on. The crew were fantastic, and I remembered why I joined extremely dedicated, talented and professional submariners who were submarines, even if I did spend every day with inspector Takamura of determined to take on whatever was thrown at them, and meet it Sasebo Police, trying to get one of my stokers out of the lock-up. head on. After Farncomb entered its first refit I must have been hanging around the wrong spot for too long, and got promoted to warrant It wasn’t the easiest time I have ever had. During those early years officer, where I managed the Squadron Tech Office until 2004. I on Farncomb we were a bit of a political football, we were bound by was then fortunate enough to get selected as part of the attaché staff manufacturer’s warranty and while SUBSAFE had been introduced at the Australian Embassy in Bangkok. Twelve months of language earlier in Oberons, we had now fully embraced the concept, which training and three years overseas, life was good and not a submarine added a whole new dynamic. We had a lot of challenges in the in sight, until early 2007 when Farncomb came to Thailand for early days. We had all the enthusiasm and skill, but we had our ups Anzac Day, and I met them on the wharf. It was great working with and downs and the change in maintenance philosophy certainly a boat again, they provided a catafalque party for the Anzac Day challenged our resolve, but things got better. ceremony at Hellfire Pass in Kanchanburi, they had plenty of BIBS problems, and there are lots of sideline stories, and the least one can say is it was a great run ashore for all. Now, in 2014, when I think back to when I joined submarines in 1987 I realise I have seen a lot of changes, changes in the boats, changes in the way we do business, changes in the rules and the framework which governs us. However, one thing has not changed in the last 28 years, and that is the people. They may not wear steaming rig any more or grow long pirate-like beards (stand fast, CPO Bell), but they are as professional, flexible, passionate and dedicated as any submariner I have served with. I love what I do, I admire the people I work with, I am proud to say I am a submariner, and the saga continues … Diesel boats forever. Mark Dixon - after being awarded an OAM in 2004 148

SC EUNBTME NAARRINY EOSF IN AUSTRALIA 1914-2014 MEMORY BANKS SUBMARINE DITTIES 150 SUBMARINERS HERITAGE WALK 152 ON TAP THOMMO 155 TRADITIONS OF THE TRADE 162 SUBMARINERS DITTIES 163 AE1 AND AE2 COMMEMORATIVE PLACQUES 165 AE1 POEM 167 TRIBUTE TO ALL SUBMARINERS POEM 166 PUBLISHERS ACKNOWLEDGEMENT PAGE 149

SUCBE NMT UARRYINO FES IN AUSTRALIA MEMORY BANKS1 9 1 4 - 2 0 1 4 HERITAGE WALK CMDR M Houghton RAN, RADM T Barrett RAN and CMDR L King RAN T he peaceful waters at New Farm on the Brisbane River once bustled with activity from dozens of American submarines SBLT K Briggs RANVR DSC with family and CMDR L King RAN and their crews. Wensley AC. These are located at the entrance to the Operation and During World War II, around 79 United States Navy Maintenance Base Unit 134 for the US Navy Submarine Task Force. submarines called the Brisbane River home base as they worked to protect Australia and defend freedom. Many local residents became aware for the first time of the The young US submariners would come into this safe important role their river haven had played in WWII. haven to rest between often dangerous missions involved with Task Force 42/72. In 2011 SAA QLD proposed the idea of dedicating the area to the submariners and gained the support of the Brisbane City Council. A The Task Force was established after the attack at Pearl Harbour hard working committee undertook fund-raising work and were able and the main aim of the US Navy was to protect Australia from to extend the project to include 23 plaques due to the financial support invasion by the Japanese. Coast watch patrols and attacks on enemy given from many quarters. ships were carried out from 1942. Tragically, five submarines were lost along with their entire crews and a total of 420 submariners died SAA QLD president Don Currell said contributions far exceeded including Coast Watchers and Rangers(Navy Seals). expectations. In 1995 the Submariners Association QLD Branch(SAA QLD) “An additional $37,000 raised saw the expansion of the project. acknowledged the US presence with a plaque at Newstead Park. These plaques are designed to tell the story of the Australian, American and British submarines. Submariners very rarely get the recognition Later conversations between Australian and US interests sparked they deserve and it was our intention that the Trail would ultimately the idea to create a further memorial to all those that served and become a military historical place for Brisbane.” especially those that gave their lives. Research came from the assistance of Dr Michael White, Barrie Her Excellency Ms Penelope Wensley AC cutting the ribbon held by Mike Downie, Pat Heffernan and Gus Mellon. Additional fund-raising via and Wanda Davis, Adrian Sellars looks on the 2012 and 2013 Bridge to Brisbane 10km charity run saw over $7,500 raised for those submariners who are on ‘Eternal Patrol’ and Two plaques sponsored by the New Farm Historical Society and the naming of all the 10 classes of submarine benches. the Sons and Daughters of US Submarine Veterans were unveiled in 2010 by her Excellency the Governor of Queensland Ms Penelope An additional plaque that honours all 60 Australian Submariners who died at sea on a submarine, from January 1914 to today, was 150 also installed. The trail acknowledges HMA Submarine AE1 that went missing somewhere off Rabaul on 14th September 1914. The search for AE1 continues as 35 submariners are still missing today. The allied X and XE Craft were midget submarines and were

CDRE M Houghton RAN, RADM T Barrett RAN and CMDR L King RAN sitting on the AE Class bench, beautifully lit with blue LED lighting. SBLT K Briggs RANVR DSC with family and CMDR L King RAN such as ANZAC Day where people can go to pay respect for those An additional plaque that honours all 60 Australian submariners who helped defend our Nation regardless of their origin of country. On ANZAC Day, 2014 an “Eternal Patrol” plaque Submariners who died at sea on a submarine, from January 1914 to was a feature at the inaugural Dawn Service at the Trail. In 2015, today, was also installed. Australia will celebrate the Centenary of ANZAC Day where HMA Submarine AE2 penetrated the Dardanelles on 25th April 1915. The trail acknowledges HMA Submarine AE1 that went missing somewhere off Rabaul on 14th September 1914. The search for AE1 The walkway starts with a large yellow submarine, then submarine continues as 35 submariners are still missing today. The allied X and shaped seats dedicated to each class of vessel operated, and each XE Craft were midget submarines and were crewed by four personnel submarine lost. The seats are fitted with blue lighting that reflects on which played an important role during WW2. Some six Australians the water. served on the XE Craft and these midget submarines were stowed on board when HMS Bonaventure visited New Farm in April 1945. The yellow ‘sub’ bench is attracting people to New Farm encouraging them to walk the full 200m length of the Trail to learn The trail tells the stories of the American S and Gato Class, the about our submarine heritage. British J Class and Odin Class HMAS Oxley and Otway, the Dutch K9 Class, the British 4th Flotilla T Class, the Oberon Class and Collins By having these stories told it is envisaged that there will be greater Class submarines. public awareness about the important role Submariners played whilst defending our Nation during all conflicts. The repair ships USS Fulton, Sperry and Griffin were berthed in Brisbane during WWII and supported the “S” and “GATO Class” SAA Qld Inc President Don Currrell with Qld Governor submarines and they too have their story told along the walk. Her Excellency Ms Penelope Wensley AC The Trail is now a place to visit and reflect on important dates Mr Don Currell, served in the Royal Australian Navy 1972 to 1993 151

crewed by four personnel which played AE1 in Portsmouth Harbour, England circa 1914 an important role during WW2. Some six SAA Qld Inc President Don Currrell with Qld Governor Her Excellency Australians served on the XE Craft and Ms Penelope Wensley AC these midget submarines were stowed on board when HMS Bonaventure visited New Farm in April 1945. SAA QLD member, SBLT Ken Briggs RANVR, served on XE4, and was involved in Operations ‘Sabre’ and ‘Foil’ which entailed cutting the communication cables between Saigon and Singapore and Saigon and Hong Kong in July 1945. Ken was awarded the DSC for his brave actions. Sadly two British Submariners died during exercises off Mon Repos south of Burnett Heads Qld. The trail tells the stories of the American S and Gato Class, the British J Class and Odin Class HMAS Oxley and Otway, the Dutch K9 Class, the British 4th Flotilla T Class, the Oberon Class and Collins Class submarines. The repair ships USS FULTON, SPERRY and GRIFFIN were berthed in Brisbane during WW2 and supported the “S” and “GATO Class” submarines and they too have their story told along the walk. The Trail is now a place to visit and reflect on important dates such as ANZAC Day where people can go to pay respect for those submariners who helped defend our Nation regardless of their origin of country. On ANZAC Day, 2014 an “Eternal Patrol” plaque was a feature at the inaugural Dawn Service at the Trail. In 2015, Australia will celebrate the Centenary of ANZAC Day where HMAS Submarine AE2 was sunk in the Dardanelles 25th April 1915. The walkway starts with a large yellow submarine, then submarine shaped seats dedicated to each class of vessel operated, and each submarine lost. The seats are fitted with blue lighting that reflects on the water. Mr Currell, who served in the Royal Australian navy from 1972 to 1993, said several descendants made contact during the construction of the trail. Ms Elna Roop (96) from North Chesterfield USA gave a cheque for US$100. On the cheque Elna wrote “In memory of the men on USS Triton 201”. Her first husband went missing off the Triton on 15 March 1943, after sailing from Brisbane. A Torpedo man Eddy Burke (89) then living in NSW, served on USS GUAVINA during WW2. He contacted the SAA QLD but sadly he passed away a month before the opening of the walk. Two local American descendants were present at the official launch of the Trail. Committee member Wanda Davis whose father served on USS Peto and Sharon Hayden-O’Brien whose father served on the USS S42. Both submarines operated from New Farm during WW2. One visitor, Vernon Dover, never knew his father, who died just weeks before he was born. His father was killed on HMS Oxley (Former HMAS Oxley) at the beginning of WW2 and Vernon was emotional when he read his father’s story plaque. The Dovers’ were present at the launch of the project and their great grandchildren had their photograph taken with the Qld Governor seated on the “Yellow Submarine” bench located close to Hasting Street. The yellow ‘sub’ bench is attracting people to New Farm encouraging them to walk the full 200m length of the Trail to learn about our submarine heritage. By having these stories told it is envisaged that there will be greater public awareness about the important role Submariners played whilst defending our Nation during all conflicts. 151

SC EUNBTME NAARRINY EOSF IN AUSTRALIA SUBMARINE DITTY’S 1914-2014 TOTHFHEOOSNMTTMOAROPY T he Part Three Officer fumbled his way into the wardroom “Well”, says the LSTD. I get up at 0530 and I make myself a from the forends where he had been mustering the brew. About this time one of the senior Chiefs in the Grot will wake potato sacks stowed between the torpedoes. He had had a up and ask me to make him a brew. I then settle down to daily hard morning watch in the Control Room, with the XO routine and make the Captain a brew then set up the wardroom table testing his knowledge of ship control and the wrecker for breakfast, about this time I feel like another brew. It is then time testing his systems knowledge. He had eaten breakfast to make the Captain another brew and serve him breakfast in his coming off watch then turned to again and was now cabin then make coffee and serve breakfast for the ongoing officers ready for a cup of coffee. of the watch. As the remainder of the Officers wake up, I offer coffee However, this morning he picked the wrong time and the wrong before and during breakfast and there are some who like another Leading Steward. It was 0945 and the Hands were still at Cleaning cup before going off to turn too. I clear up and then then enjoy Stations. The LSTD was still tidying up the Officers Mess, when another cup before turning too for cleaning stations. I then prepare young LEUT Thommo asked him for cup of coffee. the wardroom for morning coffee at 1030 and make another brew for all officers including the captain usually followed up by a second “Sir,” he responded. “Do you know how many cups of coffee I cup. After clearing up its time to lay up for lunch and whilst serving make every day?” lunch I will make a coffee for those officers who desire it followed “No”, replied Thommo. 152

by a second cup for most of them. After a short rest in the afternoon That night after the middle watch Thommo thought he would it is time to prepare for afternoon tea where half the officers like tea have a nice cup of coffee before turning in. Following the strict and the other half like a cup of coffee or two. As you know dinner is instructions from the LSTD he quickly reached the crucial point served from 1800 to 1900 to include the off coming watch officers of putting in the hot water. Noting the time of night and every and this involves coffee all round again, sometimes twice. So YOU one sleeping his first order to the tap was in whispered tones. No would like ME to make YOU a cup right now”. hot water flowed! Thommo raised his voice a little “On Tap”. Still no flow. A second and third try had Thommo getting a little “Come with me to the pantry”, says the LSTD. “And I will show exasperated, eventually bellowing “ON BLOODY TAP”. At this you how to make a cup of coffee for yourself at any time outside of point all of the senior gentlemen in the Grot were wide awake and the regular times I make coffee. A few things to note: always use concerned at the behaviour of Thommo. a dry spoon for the coffee and sugar and always put the milk jug back in the cupboard so the diesel vents do not drip oil into the jug. You can imagine how much they laughed when Thommo Always rinse the used cup out and replace on the draining board. explained about the failure of the voice operated tap and by breakfast Now place one teaspoon of coffee in the cup followed by how much the whole Crew was familiar with the story of On Tap Thommo. sugar you desire then get ready to fill the cup with hot water”. (Tech note: on this submarine the hot water tap always leaked and the noise of the drip drip drip into the stainless steel sink distracted the beauty sleep of the three senior CPOs who slept on the Grot opposite the Pantry so this tap was left open and the flow of hot water was controlled by the backup valve located in the overhead above the sink.) “Did you learn on your training course that we are now introducing voice operated taps for more efficiency?” asked the LSTD. “No”, replied Thommo. “Well they have been installed in my pantry as a test”, and with that, unseen by Thommo, he located the valve in the overhead said in a clear voice, “On Tap”, and opened the valve. Hot water flowed into the cup until he said, “Off Tap”, and shut the valve. “Now do you think you will be able to make your own coffee out of watch? “, asked the LSTD. “Piece of cake”, replied Thommo. 153

NAVY RUM D uring the 1960’s, 300 Royal Australian Navy sailors and officers fluid ounces) and then to 1/8th pint (2.5 Pusser’s Rum joined the RN Submarine School, fluid ounces). HMS Dolphin at Gosport in For more than 300 years, from before the England. The ration of rum was half a pint per day days of Admiral Nelson, wooden ships On completion of Submarine issued neat; sailors would prove its strength by and iron men, the sailors of Britain’s Royal training the Australians were billeted checking that gunpowder doused with rum Navy were issued a daily in RN Submarines to complete their would still burn , verifying the rum was at ration of rum by the ship’s Purser. submarine qualification. Serving between least 57% ABV. Alcohol By Volume In 1740, This tradition, one of the longest and two and five years the Australian to minimize problems caused by drunkenness unbroken in the history of the sea, carried Submariners enjoyed being part of the RN and hoarding of rum, the RN adopted forward from the year 1655 to August 1st rum tradition. the practice of diluting rum with water in 1970. The superb rum in this bottle is the 1:4 ratio and providing two issues, one at same rum that was standard issue aboard The RN rum experience stayed with noon and the other 6 pm. In 1756 Navy Their Majesties’ ships at the time of the the RAN Submariners long after they regulations required adding small quantities custom’s termination. returned home. Having developed a taste of lemon or lime juice to the ration, to For centuries, British Navy Jack Tars and appreciation of good rum; whenever prevent scurvy. Rations were halved in 1823 drank their Pusser’s Rum and appreciated Australian Submariners gather for a and 1850 to the modern traditional amount. this spirit’s exceptional quality. Its distinct special celebration or even a shipmates character is still created from six of the funeral, it is inevitable that a tot of rum Up Spirits world’s finest Caribbean rums which were will be shared by all. discovered on their excursions at sea. In the RN issuing of the rum ration Several navies of the world enjoyed a was an elaborate ceremony. At 11am the rum ration. The United States Navy was boatswain’s mate piped ‘Up Spirits’ to the first to abolish the rum ration in 1862. commence a procedure of ladling out the The British Royal Navy (RN)issued daily rum into portions for senior Sailors and rum rations to all enlisted men from 1655 the rest mixed with water for the ratings. until 1970. The Royal Canadian Navy At noon the boatswain’s mate piped Muster abolished their rum in 1972. The last navy for Rum. issuing rum, the Royal New Zealand Navy, abolished the rum tradition in 1990. 18th and 19th centuries rum rations were accompanied by toasts – Loyal Toast Before Rum – Beer (King or Queen) followed by a toast for each day of the week: Before 1655, sailors drank beer - Monday “Our ships at sea” healthier than drinking contaminated water. Tuesday “Our men” Casks of drinking water on board ship Wednesday “Ourselves” quickly became stagnant and no one would Thursday “A bloody war and quick drink it. Often the beer became undrinkable too. The Senior Service needed a solution – promotion” what to give sailors to drink? Friday “A willing soul and sea room” Saturday “Sweethearts and wives - may Rum Rations they never meet” England conquered Jamaica in 1655, and Sunday “Absent friends and those at sea” an enterprising captain started issuing a daily ration of Jamaican rum to his sailors instead of the official Royal Navy beer ration of a gallon a day. Each RN sailor was issued with half a pint of strong rum each day. Before and after a battle, double rations were issued. It was issued neat for some years. Sailors sometimes stored up their rations and then had a real party ! Starting in 1756, the standard rum issue was 2 parts water to 1 part rum, mixed with lime or lemon juice, and cinnamon. It’s thought that the nickname “limey” comes from this practice of adding citrus juice to the rum, a habit which combated scurvy. In 1850, the ration was reduced to 1/4 pint (5 154

NAVY RUM T he Royal Australian Navy(RAN) never issued a rum ration “limey” comes from this practice of adding Pusser’s Rum however when RAN sailors citrus juice to the rum, a habit which were serving in an RN unit combated scurvy. In 1850, the ration was For more than 300 years, from before the they were included in the rum reduced to 1/4 pint (5 fluid ounces) and days of Admiral Nelson, wooden ships ration . During the 1960’s, then to 1/8th pint (2.5 fluid ounces). and iron men, the sailors of Britain’s 300 Royal Australian Navy sailors and Royal Navy were issued a daily officers joined the RN Submarine School, The ration of rum was half a pint per day ration of rum by the ship’s Purser. HMS Dolphin at Gosport in England. issued neat; sailors would prove its strength This tradition, one of the longest and unbroken On completion of Submarine training by checking that gunpowder doused in the history of the sea, carried forward from the Australians were billeted in RN with rum would still burn , verifying the the year 1655 to August 1st 1970. The superb Submarines to complete their submarine rum was at least 57% ABV. Alcohol By rum in this bottle is the same rum that was qualification. Serving between two and five Volume In 1740, to minimize problems standard issue aboard Their Majesties’ ships at years the Australian Submariners enjoyed caused by drunkenness and hoarding the time of the custom’s termination in 1970. being part of the RN rum tradition. of rum, the RN adopted the practice of For centuries, British Navy Jack Tars drank The RN rum experience stayed with diluting rum with water in 1:4 ratio and their Pusser’s Rum and appreciated this the RAN Submariners long after they providing two issues, one at noon and spirit’s exceptional quality. Its distinct returned home. Having developed a the other 6 pm. In 1756 Navy regulations character is still created from six of the taste and appreciation of good rum; required adding small quantities of lemon world’s finest Caribbean rums which were whenever Australian Submariners or lime juice to the ration, to prevent discovered on their excursions at sea. gather for a special celebration or even a scurvy. Rations were halved in 1823 and shipmates funeral, it is inevitable that 1850 to the modern traditional amount. a tot of rum will be shared by all. Several navies of the world enjoyed a Up Spirits rum ration. The United States Navy was the first to abolish the rum ration in 1862. In the R N issuing of the rum ration The British Royal Navy (RN)issued daily was an elaborate ceremony. At 11am rum rations to all enlisted men from 1655 the boatswain’s mate piped “Up Spirits” until 1970. The Royal Canadian Navy to commence a procedure of ladled abolished their rum in 1972. The last navy out the rum into portions for senior issuing rum, the Royal New Zealand Navy, Sailors and the rest mixed with water abolished the rum tradition in 1990. for the ratings. At noon the boatswain’s mate piped Muster for Rum. Before Rum – Beer 18th and 19th centuries rum rations Before 1655, sailors drank beer - were accompanied by toasts – Loyal healthier than drinking contaminated Toast (King or Queen) followed by water. Casks of drinking water on board a toast for each day of the week: ship quickly became stagnant and no one Monday “Our ships at sea” would drink it. Often the beer became Tuesday “Our men” undrinkable too. The Senior Service needed Wednesday “Ourselves” a solution – what to give sailors to drink? Thursday “A bloody war and Rum Rations quick promotion” Friday “A willing soul and sea room” England conquered Jamaica in 1655, Saturday “Sweethearts and wives and an enterprising captain started issuing a daily ration of Jamaican rum - may they never meet” to his sailors instead of the official Royal Sunday “Absent friends and those at sea” Navy beer ration of a gallon a day. Each R N sailor was issued with half a pint of strong rum each day. Before and after a battle, double rations were issued. It was issued neat for some years. Sailors sometimes stored up their rations and then had a real party ! Starting in 1756, the standard rum issue was 2 parts water to 1 part rum, mixed with lime or lemon juice, and cinnamon. It’s thought that the nickname 154

SC EUNBTME NAARRINY EOSF SUBMARINE DITTIES IN AUSTRALIA 1914-2014 TROTAFRDTAITDHIEEONS ‘Submariners are nothing more than tradesmen and submarines are underhand, unfair and damned un-English. All submariners captured should be treated as pirates and hanged’. Admiral Sir Arthur Wilson, First Sea Lord, 1910 BY DR GRAHAM SEAL IMAGE COURTESY OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE ROYAL NEW ZEALAND NAVY AJolly Roger flag existence has been terminated on three occasions due to lack ustralian submariners have a solid body of tradition of expertise, technical resources and finance, experiences that reflecting their experiences and identifying them as have further strengthened their group identity. Submariners’ a distinct group within the Royal Australian Navy. distinctiveness is evident in many of their traditions. They share many characteristics and concerns with submariners from other countries, particularly those Submariners in Australia and the English-speaking world refer from the United Kingdom, as Australia and Britain’s to their calling as ‘the trade’. This term can be traced back to the submarine histories have been closely entwined through negative views of First Sea Lord Sir Arthur Wilson VC, GCB, OM, training and exchange of personnel. and GCVO about the fighting capabilities of early submarines. In While closely aligned with the Royal Navy, Australian 1910 he said: submariners have developed a distinctive culture. Their official ‘Submariners are nothing more than tradesmen and submarines 155

SC EUNBTME NAARRINY EOSF IN AUSTRALIA SUBMARINE DITTIES 1914-2014 In supporting a century of when returning to port after a ostracism, today’s Submarine Navy successful patrol. In this case, magazine is titled “ The Trade”. they display one white bar for each enemy ship sunk. This practice is frowned upon by the naval authorities whose are underhand, unfair and damned forebears, in the case of the Royal Navy, spent much time and energy un-English. All submariners pursuing pirates. This disapproval, though satisfying for submariners, captured should be treated as is another reflection of their ambivalent relationship with the navy/ pirates and hanged.’ ies of which they are, nominally, an organisational unit. Wilson formed this opinion During World War 1, it was the custom to fly the pirate flag when he first saw an early in British submarines. These were frequently attacked by their own submarine. Amazed at the craft’s surface ships, so the submariners felt that ‘every man’s hand was strange shape and design the against them’. The Jolly Roger is carried by submariner units when admiral was also affronted by participating in memorial events and Anzac Day parades. The British the decidedly sloppy appearance Royal Navy Submarines marching tune is called “The Jolly Roger”. of the officers and crew lined Many other aspects of submariner lore, and legend, characterise up on the casing. Instead of Australian submariners. smart Royal Navy uniforms, the Their speech combines many types of language. Technical submariners wore the oily work jargon includes acronyms for technical aspects of submarine The Trade clothes, sweaters, and rubber warfare (e.g.: DSEA – Davis Submerged Escape Apparatus) as well boots necessary to operate in the as terms derived from Royal Navy and Royal Australian Navy argot cramped, and messy conditions. (e.g.: Pusser – all things naval (RN and RAN), from the folk name In the society of the time, being called tradesmen was an insult. of a ship’s pay officer, the Pusser (from Purser); Slush – RN slang Ever since, submariners have been proud to work in ‘the trade’. In for the cook). It also includes unique terms such as ‘after endy’ for a supporting a century of ostracism, today’s Submarine Navy magazine sailor who lives in the after part of a submarine, ‘fore endy’ for one is titled “ The Trade”. living forward. The admiral’s other insult to these pioneer submariners was to Language reveals how submariners identify against others refer to them as  ‘pirates’, the Royal Navy’s traditional enemy. Just as in their attitude to non-submariner sailors. Surface ships are as they turned the admiral’s tradesman insult against him - and the dismissed as ‘skimmers’ or ‘Targets’, as are those who sail them. establishment he represented – British and subsequently Australian Contrary to Navy traditions submarines are not referred to as submariners adopted the pirate’s skull and crossbones flag, the Jolly ‘ships’ but as ‘boats’. Roger, as their unofficial emblem. While the original Jolly Roger As in most military groups, there are formalised nicknames signified lawlessness, the submariners’ use of the emblem represents for officers. stealth and cunning, the primary attributes of all submariners. The distinctions go back to the earliest days of submarines when Submarines fly the ‘Jolly Roger’, on several occasions, especially ‘tight trousers’ referred to officers and ‘slack trousers’ the crew – while 156

Crossing the Line crew then wore bell-bottoms, officers did not. Although officers attacked by one’s own side (a problem in World War 1), failure to and crews work and live closely together while aboard, generating adjust a vital item of equipment causing water to flood into the boat, an especially powerful camaraderiee formal distinctions of rank and and trying to bring a submarine up to the required depth or being authority are, nevertheless subtly honoured and reinforced through unable to stop the craft descending. the use of terms like these. Personal nicknames are widely used, another reflection of submariner camaraderie. As with many English speakers, submariners tend to think of the number 13 as unlucky. However, surprisingly given the dangers of The strong ‘us-and-them’ character of submariner culture is the trade, submariners don’t seem to embrace this superstition any also reflected in many aspects of their humour. Cartooning by more than does the general community. An ex-submariner described submariners about their way of life is prolific and greatly appreciated. submariners as ‘not superstitious – probably the opposite’. Decisive/ Certain individuals are noted and esteemed as producers of cartoons confident/capable. These practical characteristics are more essential to that, from the submariners’ point of view, are able to cleverly balance the intensities of close living and working on board a submarine. the humour and the dangers of the trade. In the Oberon generation of submariners, L. G. Freeleagus aka ‘Sandy/Hi Rob’ is a celebrated The distinctive double dolphin badge of the Australian exponent. His work includes humorous evocations of the submariner Submarine Service was introduced in 1966, against some initial ethos, attitudes, interest in well-endowed young females, and the RAN opposition. The Australian Submarine Service was expected occasional critical comment on perceived failures of officers and the to adopt the British submariner’s badge, known without fondness Royal Australian Navy. Other cartoons display the same humorous as the ‘sausage on a stick’. A group called the Submarine Project treatment of the dangers of the submariner’s work, including being Team formed in 1964 under Commander Alan McIntosh, not a submariner, was credited with designing the new badge. 157

For all your When a submariner has finally earned the right to wear the Navy Uniforms badge after extensive and intensive training, the custom had been to ‘drink the dolphins’. This involves the newly qualified submariner Doing our part placing the badge at the bottom of a large glass of beer and drinking in making the liquid contents. Submariners ‘Drinking the dolphins’ symbolises entry to the submarining look good! culture. This strong group identification does not stop when a submariner leaves the navy for civilian life. As an ex-submariner Glendinnings Menswear P/L expresses it: “ . . . Submariners’ Dolphins leave a mark on your Shops 2 & 3 chest, right over your heart long after the uniforms have gone. You’ve earned them you always wear them. You will always be 7-41 Cowper Wharf Road recognised as a submariner by the submarine community at home Woolloomooloo, Sydney and anywhere else in the world.”Submariners engage in a busy round of memorial services and commemorations for lost boats and their ph. 02 9358 1518 crews, reunions, dinners and memorial events. These extend to Glendinnings Menswear P/L local, national, and international conferences, including occasional Shop 5 Showground Shopping Centre events involving serving boats or veterans of various navies. Anzac Day is significany, though the emphasie is seen to be on ‘soldiers’, as 157 Mulgrave Road submariners refer to their army comrades. The Anzac legend is seen Cairns, Qld 4870 to privilege the digger, the foot soldier, over ‘sailors’. ph. 07 4051 5344 (continued pg161) H.M.A.S. Cerberus Westernport, Victoria 3920 ph. 03 5931 5184 Glendinnings Menswear P/L Shop 26, Sunray Village Kent Street Rockingham, WA 6168 ph. 08 9527 7522 Email. [email protected] www.glendinnings.com.au

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SC EUNBTME NAARRINY EOSF IN AUSTRALIA SUBMARINE DITTIES 1914-2014 Anzac Day is significant, though the emphasie is seen to be on ‘soldiers’, as submariners refer to their army comrades 160

This is a point of irritation in the Royal Australian Navy, Facebook pages: particularly among submariners, as it overlooks the vital naval contributions to the Dardanelles campaign and to the Gallipoli The Australian Submariner landings of 1915. Submarine Institute of Australia Submarines Association Australia Like most other all-male military groups, submariners have an Holbrook Submarine Museum extensive repertoire of male bawdry. This include old and new items, Oberon Gronk Board predominantly parodies of popular songs of various periods, drinking Submariners Association songs and nonsense songs. Some are particular to national groupings, UK Submarine Service- Royal Navy others are known among the whole submariner fraternity. They are International Submariners Association Great Britain important for bonding and shared identity, but are best left off the Barrow Submariners Association printed page. The Alternative Submariners Lounge (for genuine Submariners) We remember Submariners The nature of life aboard a submarine, until more recent Got Dolphins? Submariners Lounge times, meant that every crew member was able to perform all International Submariners tasks required, an early example of ‘multi-skilling’. This included Untied States Navy Torpedomen cooking meals for all. S, food– and drink, are especially important Submarine Dolphin Qual Cards tf submariners..terms in use since about the 1960s include: Submariners Forever Submariners Association of Canada • Fray Bentos – general term for canned food, after large canning company 161 • Soggies – breakfast cereal • Kye, ki, ky – hot, unsweetened cocoa drink • Duff – steamed pudding, dessert • Babies’ heads - individual tinned steak and kidney puddings • ’Red lead’ for tinned tomatoes and ‘pot mess’ for corned beef ste.. There is also intense interest in recipes, especially those which can be made from a very restricted range of ingredients, manm not fresh, particularly in the early days beforn refrigeration. Recipes carry colourful folk names, such as ‘Better Than Sex Cake’, ‘Cheese Ush’, ‘Elephant’s Footprints’ and ‘Shit on a Raft’, the latter depending mainly on lambs kidneys and Worcestershire Sauce and eaten for breakfast. In Australian submarines during the 1960s and 70s, a meal of mixed vegetables and mince was a ‘Train Smash’. Many international periodicals, websites and organizations of serving and ex-submariners, as well as national and international conferences and similar events, maintain contact between submariners the family history boom is creating broader interest if submarine history and culture as descendants seek out service and other records of ancestors. Submariners identify through complex national, occupational, and transnational relationships. each national submarine servics has a distinctive warrior identity related to notions of national duty, service and, if necessary, sacrifice. a powerful occupational bong identifies them as a special fraternity, even within their own navie. Submariners are strongly nationalistic and patriotic, but also pan-national in their essential relationships and attitudes, a situation that makes them comfortable inhabitants of a globalised world. Australia’s submariners have been part of this world since 1914.

SC EUNBTME NAARRINY EOSF IN AUSTRALIA SUBMARINE DITTIES 1914-2014 Proud to support the Royal Australian Navy and 07/07/14 10:58:52 the Australian Defence Enterprise. BMT Group provides independent engineering, design and business services to Australia, UK and international defence customers. We pride ourselves on being equipped to tackle the most complex submarine design and engineering tasks, thanks to our in-depth knowledge, technical expertise and innovation. Whether our outstanding people are resolving in-service challenges, assuring safety or contributing to the design development of a new submarine capability, you can rely on the impartial advice we provide. BMT Group Level 5, 99 King Street Melbourne, Australia Tel: (03) 8620 6180 Email: [email protected] www.bmt.org/defence 162RAN Ad A5 5.indd 1

HCMOPAMAALETMSA1TUEQAHBMUNEMEODSARAWAFRAEOTIMN2RIVEES ‘Submariners are nothing more than tradesmen and submarines are underhand, unfair and damned un-English. All submariners captured should be treated as pirates and hanged’. Admiral Sir Arthur Wilson, First Sea Lord, 1910 A mong approximately 210 commemorative plaques have the distinction of being the only plaques commemorating the laid in the grounds of the Australian War Memorial service and losses of RAN ships or units during the First World War. (AWM), there are now two plaques honouring the RAN’s First World War submarines, HMAS AE1 and The ACT Branch of the Submarines Association Australia (SAA) HMAS AE2. These plaques commemorate the losses of commenced this initiative in early 2012 by gathering preliminary both submarines during that war, and the sacrifices of information and guidelines on the AWM’s official Plaque Dedication their crews who either perished or spent much of the Program. These included specifications for the size, format and war as prisoners of war in Turkey, including four sailors layout of all plaques in the program. During 2013, the project gained from the AE2 who died in captivity. momentum under the direction of Ian Noble, who is also a volunteer at the AWM, David Strangward, the branch president, and Geoff The plaques were dedicated at a ceremony at the AWM on 23 Burns, the secretary. The SAA National Executive, the SIA, AE1 May 2014—the centenary of the day the submarines had been Incorporated and the AE2 Commemorative Foundation were all scheduled to arrive in Sydney to a big welcome after their epic consulted and gave their support for the project. voyage, before they were delayed by bad weather. The plaques have now been laid side-by-side in the AWM’s Eastern Precinct adjacent to Before formally approaching Dr Brendan Nelson, the Director of the main building and near the National Service memorial. They also the AWM, in August 2013 for approval to participate in the Plaque Dedication Program, designs for the plaques had to be developed. 163

SC EUNBTME NAARRINY EOSF IN AUSTRALIA SUBMARINE DITTIES 1914-2014 Their design concept included the unofficial ship’s badge for each submarine that had recently been designed by Manager Navy Badges, Gary Kinkade, plus a stylised profile of AE class submarines with the ship’s name and battle honours, together with 100–150 words of text, followed by a pithy phrase relevant to the memory of each submarine. John Perryman, the Senior Naval Historical Officer in the Seapower Centre Australia, contributed suitable text, and Gary Kinkade provided accurate submarine profiles and the first designs for the plaques. Mrs Elizabeth Foster, the widow of the late Commander John Foster, RAN, approved the use of the title of her late husband’s book—Entombed but not Forgotten (which describes the loss of, and searches for the AE1)—as the text for AE1’s plaque. AE2’s plaque uses the phrase “First through the Dardanelles”. By November 2013, the detailed designs of the plaques had progressed to the point that the ACT Branch team obtained quotations for their production. In early December, the AWM formally approved the designs and placed the order. In the meantime, the ACT Branch had decided on the centenary of the arrival of the two submarines in Sydney as the date for the plaque dedication. Because the actual date of 24 May 2014 was a Saturday, and the AWM prefers dedications to occur on weekdays, the date selected was 23 May. Following the order for the plaques at the end of January 2014, Arrow Bronze provided casting proofs to the AWM for final approval in February, and delivered the completed plaques in early April. The AWM has its own format for plaque dedications, and its staff organised the event in conjunction with the ACT Branch team. Professor Tom Frame, the former Anglican Bishop of the ADF, a former naval officer and a current naval historian, was detailed to perform the dedication. Dr Brendan Nelson personally hosted and introduced the event. Prominent guests included the Hon. Bronwyn Bishop MP, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rear Admiral Greg Sammut, the Head of Future Submarine Program, who also represented the Chief of Navy, and WO-N Martin Holzberger (also a submariner). Notable guests also included members of the late Commander Foster’s family. Funding for the plaques has been provided by the Federal Government through its commemorative programs, although the ACT Branch was obliged to bridge the gap until the funds materialised. The two commemorative plaques dedicated to the memory, the courage and the sacrifice of the crews of the RAN’s first two submarines who forged the long tradition of submarine service in Australia can now be seen not far from the main entrance. 164

SC EUNBTME NAARRINY EOSF ISBN 978-0-473-29814-2 IN AUSTRALIA Centenary of Australian Submarines 1914-2014 RnR Publishing Ltd - proudly produced on behalf of the Submarine Institute of Australia and Submarines Association Australia 166 Order online W: aussub100.com Hardcover publication available $40 + postage and handling worldwide Contact us PO Box 220, Martinborough, 5741, New Zealand P: + 64 6 306 6030 W: rnrpublishing.co.nz Publishers Robyn Dallimore, [email protected] Bruce Mountain, [email protected] Consulting Editors Lloyd Blake, Frank Owen Publishing Editor Robyn Dallimore Designer Cameron Leggett Advertising Director Bruce Mountain Contributing Writers We would like to thank the following writers who kindly contributed existing material from their collections, book excerpts, or who wrote specific articles to met the magazine’s needs. Lloyd Blake, Peter Horobin, Frank Owen, Peter Smith, Terrence Roach, Dr Graham Seal, Dr Michael White, Steve Davies, Paul Meakin, Peter Clarke, Geoffrey Barker, John Davison, Kathryn Spurling, Elizabeth Benchley. Photographs We acknowledge and thank the Royal Australian Navy and Defence records, for allowing us access to the extensive current and historical photographic collection, which has made this magazine as outstanding as it is. W: navy.gov.au We acknowledge and thank John W Davison, Photographer/Art Director of Eye in the Sky Production W: eyeinthesky.com.au W: tresillianartists.org We acknowledge and thank Michael Payne for his contribution of his oil painting images. W: submarinerart.com Also thanks to the Australian War Museum, Western Australia War Memorial, Western Australian Maritime Museum, the families and writers that contributed personal photographs and stories. These may not have been used, but we appreciate they were made available. Individuals have been credited on photos if possible. Thanks to John Ibbs for his assistance with photographs, and to Steve Davies, Peter Horobin, Terrence Roach, Frank Owen, and Bruce Mountain for working hard on sourcing the photographs for the articles. Cartoons Kindly contributed by ‘Sandy Freeleagus’ - Lee Freeleagus and ‘Stewie’ - Mark Stewart Jones Image and Printing PMP Maxum, Auckland, New Zealand Disclaimer RnR Publishing Ltd uses due care and diligence in the preparation of this magazine, but is not responsible or liable for any mistakes, misprints, omissions or typographical errors. RnR Publishing Ltd prints advertisements provided to the publisher, but gives no warranty and makes no representation to the truth, accuracy or sufficiency of any description, photograph or statement. All articles have been supplied and/or approved by the Submarine Institute of Australia (SIA), and Submarines Association of Australia (SAA), as the parties who contracted RnR Publishing Ltd to produce this publication. RnR Publishing Ltd accepts no liability for any loss that may be suffered by any person who relies either wholly or in part upon any description, photograph or statement contained herein. Advertisers are advised that all advertising must conform to the ASA Codes of New Zealand and Australian Advertising Standards Board; full details and codes book available from www.asa.co.nz, www.adstandards.com. RnR Publishing Ltd reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or editor. All material gathered in creating Centtenary of Australian Submarine magazine is copyright 2014 RnR Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved in all media. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without the express written permission of the publisher.





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