Vietnam Veterans Day is commemorated each year on August 18, the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan in 1966.
The day remembers the sacrifices of those who died and the almost 60,000 Australians who served in the Vietnam War.
Among the venues to stage a service on Thursday was the Moama RSL, conducted by RSL Sub-Branch president Ken Jones.
The year 2022 marked the 60th anniversary of the Vietnam deployment and 49 years since the end of Australia’s involvement in the war.
Federal Veterans Affairs Minister Matt Keogh said the 50th anniversary of the end of Australia’s involvement would be recognised next year with a commemorative service at the Australian Vietnam Forces National Memorial in Canberra.
“The 60,000 Australians who served in Vietnam deserve our utmost gratitude and respect. Some 521 gave their lives in the conflict and over 3000 were wounded,” Mr Keogh said.
“Around 15,000 of them were conscripts through the National Service Scheme.
“Today they form the backbone of our veteran community.”
Australia’s decade-long involvement in the Vietnam War began with the first arrival of troops in July 1962.
The nation’s participation was formally declared at an end when the Governor-General issued a proclamation on January 11, 1973.
18°C