Vietnam Veterans’ Day and the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan

18/08/2017

Vietnam Veterans’ Day and the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan

Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien encouraged the Wide Bay to honour the service and sacrifice of the Australians who served in Vietnam War as the country marks Vietnam Veterans’ Day and the Battle of Long Tan on August 18.
 

Mr O’Brien said it was important on Vietnam Veterans’ Day that all Australians remembered the nearly 60,000 Australian men and women who served in the Vietnam War between 1962 and 1975, including 521 who lost their lives and more than 3,000 wounded.
 
“August 18 also marks the 51st anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, which was one of the fiercest battles of the Vietnam War and involved 105 Australians and three New Zealanders of D Company 6RAR,” Mr O’Brien said.
 
“A total of 17 Australians were killed in action during the Battle of Long Tan, and 25 were wounded. One of the wounded later died of his injuries.”
 
Mr O’Brien acknowledged the assistance given to D Company with an ammunition resupply by RAAF helicopters, as well as support by Australian, New Zealand and United States artillery and the arrival of reinforcements in APCs.
 
“We reflect with pride on the members of our community who served in Vietnam, and how their efforts have shaped our country. This is an opportunity for veterans and the community to stand side-by-side, remembering their service and sacrifice,” Mr O’Brien said.