The Frank Partridge VC Military Museum at Bowraville has a major new exhibit commemorating an important piece of equipment many Australian serviceman carried for over two decades up to 1989.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
It is an example of the American-built M16A1 assault rifle, which was standard issue for US troops for much of its long service life, and which was also carried by Australian scouts and section commanders in war and peace.
Member for Cowper Luke Hartsuyker was on hand for the presentation. He said it was an honour to take part.
“The Frank Partridge memorial section at the military museum celebrates an extraordinary local hero, but overall it does a great deal more than that, as this new exhibit demonstrates,” he said.
“Many of the displays focus on the experience of our servicemen and women across all eras, not just the Second World War in which Frank won his Victoria Cross.
“The M16 is a great example. It was in relatively restricted use by our serviceman, but it had a much higher rate of fire than the standard issue FN rifle of the Vietnam era, where it was most used and where it achieved its iconic status as an infantry weapon.
“Because it used a smaller cartridge, and there was a lot of plastic in its construction, it was a light and lethal package. Patrolling Australians used it to boost firepower where and when they needed it.
“Scouts, section commanders, and sometimes the radio-man or the soldier bringing up the rear of a patrol, were armed with the M16. It quickly earned praise, and no doubt helped save a lot of lives.”
Museum publicity officer Robyn Bunton said the “much-awaited” M16A1 will be an “essential part” of the museum’s collection and will be on display very soon.
