The Allan Labor Government has paid tribute to the service and sacrifice of our Vietnam veterans, including those who never returned home.
Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for Veterans Natalie Suleyman attended the Vietnam Veterans’ Day Commemoration Service at the Shrine of Remembrance to pay their respects to those who served in the Vietnam War.
A new plaque and tree dedicated to Vietnam veterans at the Post 1945 Memorial were unveiled, produced by the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia and providing a point of remembrance for veterans and their families.
Vietnam Veterans’ Day is an opportunity to honour around 60,000 Australians who served in the Vietnam War including 521 who lost their lives and more than 3,000 who were wounded.
It is held on the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, where 108 young Australians from D Company 6 RAR resisted an attack of more than 2,000 Viet Cong soldiers.
The Battle of Long Tan led to the greatest loss of life on a single day for Australians during the conflict – claiming the lives of 18 soldiers and wounding a further 24.
The Vietnam War was Australia’s longest military engagement of the 20th century. Australia’s participation formally ended when the Governor-General issued a proclamation on 11 January 1973.
The Shrine of Remembrance has objects, artworks, photographs and video footage detailing Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War on display in a permanent and free exhibition in the Post ’45 section of the Galleries of Remembrance.
The Labor Government continues to honour and support Victorian veterans and their families with initiatives such as the Veterans Card – Victoria, Victorian Public Sector Veterans Employment Strategy and grant programs.
As stated by Premier Jacinta Allan
“Our Vietnam Veterans answered the call of duty in a conflict far from home, fighting for their country through unimaginable challenges. As a state we are so proud of our Vietnam veterans.”
As stated by Minister for Veterans Natalie Suleyman
“Today we pay tribute to veterans of the Vietnam War for their incredible service and sacrifice in the longest conflict Australia was involved in during the 20th century.”
As stated by Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia Victorian State President Bob Elworthy AM
“On Vietnam Veterans Day we will again gather to acknowledge the sacrifice of our fallen, honour the service of all Vietnam veterans, and renew our determination to continue to fight for those still with us. The unveiling of our plaque in the Shrine gardens today is a proud moment of recognition of the service and sacrifice of all Victorian Vietnam Veterans.”
