Veterans and community members marked the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War on Friday 18 August with services and functions held throughout the region.
Bundaberg RSL Sub Branch President Luke Harding said the Vietnam War was the longest twentieth century conflict in which Australians participated, and it was important to remember the 60,000 Australian military personnel involved.
“We remember the 520 lives lost and the 2400 personnel wounded through the conflict and the many more that have fallen to mental illness and physical illness since coming home,” he said.
“Due to the way Vietnam Veterans were treated when they returned, I believe that we as a community should always recognise the sacrifices these young men and women gave up for our country.
“They upheld the ANZAC tradition and values even though they were treated wrongly by the public.”
Mayor Jack Dempsey laid a wreath on behalf of Council and the community at a special service and wreath laying in Buss Park, Bundaberg to honour the Australian lives lost and those wounded in the conflict.
He said residents paid their respects at services throughout the region.
“These services provide an opportunity for the community to pay its respects and reflect on the sacrifice made by those who fought in the conflict,” Mayor Dempsey said.
Vietnam Veterans’ Day on 18 August commemorates the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan in 1966.
