Military History talk – Battle of Dien Bien Phu

The Battle of Dien Bien Phu, arguably one of the most influential battles of modern times in South-East Asia, lasted for 178 days between late November 1953 and early May 1954. It was the final, decisive engagement in the First Indochina War (1946-1954) when the French made determined efforts to recover their colonies in Indochina after Japanese occupation.

Following the shock defeat at Dien Bien Phu, the French Government signed the Geneva Accord in July 1954 and within six months abandoned its Indochinese colonies completely. The talk examines the opposing commanders and key personnel controlling the battle. David contextualises the strategic background, weapons and tactics used by both sides.

Lieutenant David Wilson (Retd) graduated from the Royal Military College, Duntroon in 1975, joining the Royal Australian Infantry Corps. He served 47 years in a variety of Regular Army and Army Reserve postings. An accredited member of The International Guild of Battlefield Guides, he regularly guides as a battlefield historian since 2006. His specialty areas are Gallipoli, France and Belgium. David is the principal of AIF Research Services which assists families and groups tracking the service of their First AIF ancestors.
Free History Talk. Limited places. Bookings essential.