WAR STORIES: Long Tan Veteran Dave Sabben

In this special Vietnam Veteran's Day episode, Mat speaks to Dave Sabben, commander of 12 Platoon during 1966's iconic Battle of Long Tan.
For more information visit www.battlefields.com.au

[@walterwombat7033]

What a well delivered recollection and recount of the Battle of Long Tan, from some one who was in the thick of it. A rivetting audio documentary...Thank you Dave Sabben.

[@tj9076]

Loved it. Thanks Mat and Dave.

[@davidwatson2399]

Excellent interview. Thanks Mat and Dave. I was trained by soldiers like Dave, all very real to me.

[@MatMcLachlanHistory]

Cheers mate.

[@Dahlia-z3g]

A fantastic account of Dave Sabben's Vietnam experience. I have read various books on Long Tan, but it was wonderful to hear an extended interview in Dave's own words. Thank you for this excellent interview.

[@MatMcLachlanHistory]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@newellgirl]

When Dave Sabben speaks it's always compelling listening....a truly Great Australian ..thanks for the excellent post Mat

[@MatMcLachlanHistory]

He’s pretty remarkable. Thanks for the comment.

[@christiankirkwood3402]

What a fantastic man. I 1st came across some of Dave's experiences in a great read named "The Vietnam Year's" (?) I stand corrected if I've got that title wrong. I was born in 62, I remember the CMF and relate easily to what Dave is telling, it's a perspective and insight that is real, very Australian, bringing to many an experience of a generation or three that absolutely needs to be paid forward. So intelligent, articulate, well spoken and mate, what a life. Thanks Dave Sabben, we here in my household absolutely adore and admire you. Most sincere and warmest regards and big love from us here in Sydney and Ballina. MATE!!!

[@Voutsie]

David I’ve listened to the whole interview, thank you for sharing this, some fascinating insights there. I’m quite familiar with the battle, but the most surprising part of the interview was when you described the end of the battle, I have always thought that the APCs arrived and ‘hosed down’ the Vietnamese, forcing them to withdraw. But you’ve clearly described the withdrawal being more because of darkness/nightfall and the Vietnamese not believing there was value in continuing the battle, since it had become completely dark. It seems the APCs arrived a few minutes after this. I must say this is the first time I’ve heard this, and both the movie “Danger Close” and the Sam Worthington documentary present a different picture. Happy to get more of your opinion/impressions on this if possible.

[@boss330young]

Thank you Dave

[@DavidEllison-c2b]

I can relate to the story of THE Battle of Long Tan as i was in a battle myself 1969 The Battle of Bin Ba Two companies were in volves, Dalter and Bravo.

[@MatMcLachlanHistory]

Thank you for your service.

[@vinhealy1071]

An amazing insight Mat. I have listened and read other recollections of this battle but nothing with such clarity. I have written my own tribute song, 'The Mist of Long Tan' which I hope to perform at Geelong's Easter Beach Dawn Ceremony this year. This can be accessed on KZbin- would love your feedback. Vin Healy

[@MatMcLachlanHistory]

Thanks Vin. I’ll listen to your song.

[@olafjensen4508]

Brilliant

[@MatMcLachlanHistory]

Thanks!

[@alexlanning712]

My recollections are totally flawed,I know,I have only gleaned bits and pieces,as I have found,done by eyewitness accounts done in the media,and other sources, but it is my impression that Dave Sabben's contribution in the battle,was under rated or given scant recognition--maybe he wanted it,that way,I dunno

[@MatMcLachlanHistory]

I agree completely. His ambush that wiped out a Vietnamese platoon that was trying to outflank Company HQ is one of the unknown stories of the battle.