Service to commemorate end of Vietnam War

RETIRED servicemen, servicewomen, dignitaries and relatives will gather in North Geelong to pay their respects today (Friday, August 18), remembering those who served and died in the Vietnam War.

The Vietnam Veterans Association Geelong and District Sub-Branch will host its annual Vietnam Veterans Day March and Memorial Service from Osborne House, North Geelong at 10.30am.

The veterans involved in the commemorations will march down Swinburne Street towards Melbourne Road, concluding at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial at about 10.50am.

From there, a service remembering Vietnam War veterans will take place at the Vietnam Memorial at 11am.

Geelong and district sub-branch president and soldier in the Battle of Fire Support Bases Coral and Balmoral, Graham Christie, said Vietnam Veterans Day was for all Australian involved in the Vietnam War from 1962-73.

“This year we officially commemorate the withdrawal of troops from the Vietnam War 50 years on and the nation will use Vietnam Veterans Day, originally a day created to honour the lives of those we lost in the Battle of Long Tan, as a way to mark the anniversary.

“Most in attendance will be Vietnam veterans, with some lucky enough to be there with relatives.

“It’s an emotional day for many, but we’re proud we get the day to acknowledge the service of veterans who safely returned home, but also those who gave their lives for the freedoms Australians enjoy today.”

Australia lost 523 soldiers during the Vietnam War, all of whom are listed at the Geelong Memorial at the corner of Swinburne Street and Melbourne Road.

Mr Christie said the Geelong and district sub-branch focused on two things: the welfare of former soldiers, and commemoration of past servicemen.

“Welfare is important, we want these guys to keep living, and for them to pass on their stories to younger generations.

“We always advocate for the protection of our veterans, and informing their families on who to call if they require any assistance.

“Commemoration is simple, Lest We Forget means we will never forget, and we stand alongside the Retired Service League and Legacy in maintaining that notion.”

Today’s service is expected to conclude at 12.30pm.