Today is Vietnam Veterans Day, where we commemorate the 61,000 Australians who served, and the 521 who died during their service in what was Australia’s longest war at that time (1962-72).
On Facebook today, former Veterans Affairs Minister, Darren Chester posted a heartfelt tribute to all those who served.
“Many of our Vietnam veterans have carried a heavy burden of physical injuries and mental ill health since their service, and it led to the formation of Vietnam Veterans Counselling Service in 1982,” Mr Chester said.
“It has since been re-named Open Arms and provides free mental health counselling to all veterans and their families.”
Today also marks the 55th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan which saw 18 Australians killed in some of the fiercest fighting of the war.
The famous battle became a defining action of the Vietnam War and led to members of D Company finally being recognised with bravery awards, 50 years after the event, he said.
“I played a small role in achieving this long overdue recognition. As the Assistant Minister for Defence, I met with Lieutenant Colonel Harry Smith who convinced me that his men had not been properly recognised and we asked the Defence Honours and Awards Appeals to review the battle,” Mr Chester said.
“The tribunal found in favour of the veterans and 10 soldiers were awarded a military honour, or had their existing honour upgraded for their gallant actions.
“Today, we remember all those who served in the Vietnam War, and their families, and loved ones who supported them in that service.”
The Vietnam War was the longest conflict in which Australians were involved in the 20th Century. The first Australians to arrive in South Vietnam in 1962 were members of the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam. Australian forces would continue to serve in the war until 1972.
All Australians are encouraged to pause for a moment today and reflect on the service and sacrifice of all those Australians who served in Vietnam.
Lest we forget.
