The life and sacrifice of soldier Private Ronald ‘Ronnie’ Field has been formally commemorated with the unveiling of a memorial plaque at the Ronald Field Pedestrian Bridge at Hazelbrook.
The unveiling was attended by members of the Field family, friends and veterans and Blue Mountains Mayor, Mark Greenhill.
The plaque honours Private Field’s service in the Australian Army and recognises the sacrifices he made during Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War.
Born in Blacktown and raised in the Blue Mountains, Ronald Field, served with distinction in the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR).
During operations in an area known as the Iron Triangle in Vietnam, he was killed by sniper fire on 9 October 1965 while acting as his section’s forward scout. He was just 22 years old.
Initially buried in Terendek, Malaysia, his remains were repatriated to Australia in 2016 as part of Operation Bring Them Home.
Mayor, Mark Greenhill said the plaque ensures Ron Field’s story remains a visible part of the Blue Mountains’ history and heritage.
“The plaque honours a young local man who served his country with courage and paid the ultimate sacrifice.”
“This memorial will help preserve Ronnie Field’s legacy and provide a place for our community to reflect on the service and sacrifice of all Australians who served in Vietnam.”
The plaque also acknowledges the broader impact of the Vietnam War on veterans, families and communities. More than 60,000 Australian served during the Vietnam War, of those 521 lost their lives and more than 3,000 were wounded.
