Vietnam Veterans' Day 2012

 Wednesday, 15 August 2012

Vietnam Veterans in Mitchell will pause this Saturday to commemorate Vietnam Veterans' Day and the 50^th anniversary of the arrival of Australian troops in Vietnam.

Alex Hawke MP, Federal Member for Mitchell, paid tribute to veterans of the Vietnam War and to those men who paid the supreme sacrifice, were wounded and who have since suffered as a result of their service.

"Vietnam Veterans' Day is a special day on our nation's calendar as we pay tribute to the 521 men who died on active duty in the Vietnam War between 1962 and 1972, Alex Hawke said.

"This year's commemorations have added significance, as they commemorate the 50^th anniversary of the arrival of the first Australian troops in Vietnam.

"In 1962, the Australian Government despatched the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV) to South Vietnam to train South Vietnamese troops in military strategy."

"Australia's troop commitment would increase over that 10 year period.  By the end of the conflict, more than 58,000 Australians, including many from our local community, had served their nation at their nation's request in the Vietnam War.

Alex Hawke said Saturday marked the anniversary of one of Australia's more iconic battles of the Vietnam War, the Battle of Long Tan.

"The Battle of Long Tan is best remembered as a classic Australian struggle against a bigger enemy.  The 108 men of D Company, 6RAR fought against a much bigger opponent to win the day and be nationally and internationally recognised for their tenacity, courage and bravery under fire."

"This Saturday, whilst honouring the memory of the fallen men of D Company, 6RAR, we remember all who served in the Vietnam War, and particularly those who paid the supreme sacrifice."

"In particular, we remember those Australians who were deployed to South Vietnam 50 years ago as part of 'the Team' and who began Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War," Alex Hawke concluded.