Victorians Remember Our Vietnam Veterans

The Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia (VVAA) Victorian Branch and the Andrews Labor Government are working hard to give our veterans the tribute they deserve.

Next year marks the 50^th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, where 108 brave young men from D Company 6 RAR resisted an attack of more than 1500 Viet Cong soldiers in what became one of the most extraordinary chapters in Australia’s military history.

The VVAA Victorian Branch and the Labor Government will deliver a thoughtful program of activities at locations across the state, including:

• Vigils at the gravesites or commemorative plaques of the 98 Vietnam veterans who died on active service who are buried in Victoria.
• A national cycling event beginning in Seymour and ending in Canberra.
• A Vietnam Veterans Day march and commemorative service at the Shrine of Remembrance.
• A Vietnam War History Competition, which gives 10 Victorian students a chance to tour the nation that helped shape our wartime history.
• A $250,000 upgrade of the National Vietnam Veterans Museum at Phillip Island.

Many Victorians have a connection with war and a story to tell. The 50^th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan is a chance for Victoria to remember and reflect on the impacts of the Vietnam war, including for those who fought there.

For more information visit www.vic.gov.au/victoriaremembers/vietnam

Quotes attributable to Minister for Veterans, John Eren

“Our Vietnam veterans deserve the greatest respect, and we’re working hard to ensure all Victorians have the chance to pay tribute to their sacrifice.”

“The Battle of Long Tan is one of the most decisive moments in our military history. It’s a story that embodies our great nation’s strengths.”

“Many Victorians have a connection with war and a story to tell, and our Battle of Long Tan anniversary commemorations will be a chance to do just that.”