VIETNAM VETERAN'S DAY
BANNER IMAGE: Long Tan, South Vietnam. 18 August 1969. Group portrait of original soldiers of D Company, 6th ... AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL
18TH AUGUST
Vietnam Veterans’ Day
On 18 August, we commemorate Vietnam Veterans' Day on the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan in 1966. We remember the sacrifices of those who died and say thank you to almost 60,000 Australians who served during the 10 years of our involvement in the Vietnam War.
The Vietnam War was Australia's longest military engagement of the 20th Century.
The arrival of the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam in South Vietnam during July and August 1962 marked the start of Australia’s involvement in the war.
By the time the war had come to an end, almost 60,000 Australians served during a decade of conflict between 1962 and 1972. Tragically, 521 of them died and 3000 were wounded.
On Vietnam Veterans' Day, we pause and reflect on the bravery, teamwork and endurance that Australians displayed throughout the war.
It's a day when we recognise all who served in Vietnam. We honour those veterans who:
- lost their lives during battle
- returned home wounded, ill or injured
- lost their lives in the years since they returned
- still carry the physical and emotional scars of their service
We also pause to reflect on the impact of service on our veterans' families.
Ken McIntyre OAM
President
CHPRSL Sub Branch
Long Tan cross ceremonies with D Company, 6th Battalion,
The Royal Australian Regiment - New Zealand (Anzac).