The Malaysian Battalion in Cambodia

Now, the KR attack on Siem Reap... Sometime during the third month, the airport in Battambang was declared unsafe for the operations of the large C130 operated by TUDM. It was still open to the C160 twin turbo props operated by the French and the smaller russian built twin engined turbo prop operated by Kampuchea Airlines (now defunct). So our monthly resupply flight from Subang was diverted to Siem Reap airport and we were forced to convoy from Battambang to Siem Reap to collect our supplies, mail (emails not popular , maybe unknown then) We were also expecting visitors, reporters as well as high ranking officials coming for a visit. Unknown to us at that time, the KR was planning a massive attack on Siem Reap town, the Angkor structures as well as the airport but when it was known to them that MALBATT was to be in Siem Reap airport for a few days, the attack was delayed. We received the flight as well as entertained our guests and visitors for the day, bringing them into town and also to visit the Angkor complex. The flight departed for Subang AFB late in the evening and so we stayed the night and made the return journey to Battambang the next day. 2 days later, the flash message of an attack on Siem Reap came from the UN Headquarters and we were all put on alert for other attacks and also to respond to any calls for help. The KR attacks drove the CPAF troops from the Angkor complex into town and many parts of the town was lost to them and looted. Simultinously, the attack on the airport took place, with the Kr achieveing complete surprise, driving the government troops away in one fell sweep and exposing the airport to shelling and infantry attacks. The Bangladesh battalion then responsible for the protection of UN facilities at the airport reacted quickly, deserting their posts as fast as their legs can carry them, suffering zero casualties in the lightning operation. The only remaining UN troops at the airport were the australian signals platoon who actually counterattacked and drove the KR away from the airport helter skelter. It was probably the apperance several singlet clad, wholesomely breasted, european featured women soldiers of the australian signals platoon, firing GPMGs from the hip that actually shifted the tide of that battle...