Ahead of Vietnam Veterans Day Alan Jones spoke with one of the men who was instrumental in the Battle of Long Tan.

Retired Lieutenant Colonel Harry Smith was awarded the Military Cross for his actions as the commander of the Australian troops during the Battle of Long Tan.

Sunday also marks the anniversary of the iconic battle which was a pivotal point in the Vietnam War.

Retired Lieutenant Colonel Harry Smith tells Alan about how he led the troops and reveals how he got the nickname ‘Harry the Ratcatcher’.

“That’s a nickname that I’ve still got and I don’t mind.

“One night we walked into the huts and here we found these fellows playing cards, drinking beer, making a noise, and I said ‘okay you rats I’ve got ya!’.

“And that was the start of my nickname.”

Click PLAY to hear the full interview