| Place | Asia: Vietnam, Phuoc Tuy Province, Nui Dat |
|---|---|
| Accession Number | REL34557 |
| Collection type | Technology |
| Object type | Edged weapon or club |
| Physical description | Canvas, Cotton webbing, Laminated wood, Steel |
| Maker |
Unknown |
| Date made | c 1966 |
| Conflict |
Vietnam, 1962-1975 |
Machete and scabbard : Private B L O'Donnell, 5 Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment
Description
Australian 'Bolo' pattern machete and green canvas scabbard. The machete has a single edge 32 cm blade with a laminated plain wood grip having four alloy rivets attaching them to the tang. The handle is impressed [broad arrow symbol] MA65. A plaited wrist cord is attached through a hole in the pommel. The scabbard is stitched and has steel rivets down one edge and a brass throat reinforcement. A small pocket is stitched on the front for a whet stone (missing) which is secured with a strap and press stud. A webbing belt loop is stiched to the rear of the scabbard, incorporating a wire hook belt loop and a strap to secure the handle. There is illegible printing on the rear of the scabbard with a visible broad arrow symbol.
History / Summary
Associated with the service of 4717548 Bryan Lester O'Donnell. He was born in Adelaide in 1945, and deployed to Vietnam with 5 Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (5 RAR) in May, 1966. 5 RAR were relieved by 7 RAR in April 1967, returning to Australia the following month.