Australia Remembers: Vietnam Veterans' Day, Long Tan 50th Anniversary Commemoration

August 18 2016 marked the 50th Anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan on Vietnam Veterans’ Day.  To commemorate Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War, a National Service was held at the Australian Vietnam Forces National Memorial on Anzac Parade, Canberra. Veterans and their families, service personnel and members of the public attended the commemorative services organised by the Vietnam Veterans’ Association of Australia and funded by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

“The Battle of Long Tan marks a moment of great courage and sacrifice for Australia, in a war that was filled with tragedy and loss,” said Dr Brendan Nelson, Director of the Australian War Memorial. “We will be honouring those soldiers who, led by Harry Smith, fought and died that day. We will also pause to remember all those affected by the war, their treatment upon returning home, and the wounds inflicted on our nation.”