1948 - 1973 MALAYA, BORNEO, AND VIETNAM
Prior to the formation of the 1st Commando Regiment in 1980, the sub-units 1 and 2 Commando Companies and 126 Signal Squadron (Special Forces) deployed individuals and small teams to the Borneo Confrontation and the Vietnam War.
During the Borneo confrontation, Sergeant Ted Blacker of 126th Signal Squadron (Special Forces) was awarded the British Empire Medal.
From 1965 the Commando Companies contributed numerous instructors, including from their part-time component (CMF) to the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV). Two lost their lives with the AATTV: Warrant Officer Class II John Durrington (Regular Army) killed in action, and Warrant Officer Class II Ron Scott (Regular Army) dying of wounds.
Whilst serving with the AATTV, Warrant Officer Class II Ray Simpson, formerly from both the Special Air Service Company and 1 Commando Company, was awarded the Victoria Cross for an action in the Kontum Province, South Vietnam on 6 May 1969.