Simpson, Rayene Stewart (Ray) VC, DCM (Warrant Officer, b.1926 - d.1978)

Letter written by WO2 Ray Simpson VC DCM to WO2 Danny Neville DCM in September 1970. The letter was written shortly after Simpson had left the Australian Army, was living in Japan and working for a liquor importing firm. In the six page letter Simpson clearly reflects his sense of nostalgia for the mates he served with in Vietnam, his ongoing interest in the course of the war and his pessimism regarding current military strategy. He also reflects upon US policy, the capabilities of the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) and the likelihood of a communist victory in Vietnam.

The letter was given by WO2 Neville to WO1 John Selmes in Vung Tau, Vietnam, for safekeeping. The letter remained in the Selmes family until it was donated to the Memorial in 2007.