Vietnam Veterans’ Day and the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan

AUGUST 18, 2017: Later today I will join with a number of our Vietnam veterans at a memorial service which marks Vietnam Veterans’ Day and the 51st anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan.Today we remember nearly 60,000 Australian men and women who served in the Vietnam War between 1962 and 1975, including 521 who lost their lives and more than 3,000 who were wounded.Today is also the 51st anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan involving 105 Australians and three New Zealanders of D Company 6RAR in one of the fiercest battles of the Vietnam War.In the Battle of Long Tan a total of 17 Australians were killed in action and 25 were wounded, one of whom later died of his wounds.D Company was greatly assisted by an ammunition resupply by RAAF helicopters, support by Australian, New Zealand and United States artillery and the arrival of reinforcements in APCs as night fell.Today we reflect on the members of our community who made a contribution to Australia’s Vietnam War efforts and how that service has shaped individuals, families and our community.This is an opportunity for veterans and the community to stand side-by-side, remembering the service and sacrifice of those who served in Vietnam.We are proud of the men and women who did their duty and I encourage everyone to pause and remember Australia’s efforts and sacrifices during the Vietnam War.