Torquay to hold Vietnam memorial service for first time

TORQUAY’S first Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Day will be held on August 16.

The event will take place at the memorial between the Surf Coast Shire Council offices and the Surf Coast Secondary School.

Torquay Royal Services League (RSL) president Bob Tyler, a Vietnam Veteran himself, said he was particularly looking forward to seeing children from Torquay schools come and be a part of the service.

“We should never forget what Australians have done in so many conflicts over the years and particularly in Vietnam which was Australia’s longest war until we became involved in the Afghanistan conflict,” Mr Tyler said.

The shire has also sought to honour the veterans by flying the Torquay RSL flag above the council offices throughout the month.

“August is special to Vietnam Veterans and their families,” Mr Tyler said.

“On 18 August 1966, a small group of Australians fought an overwhelming number of enemy soldiers, eventually driving them off after what was one of the bloodiest battles between Australians and the enemy.

“Known as Long Tan Day, 18 August has also become Australia’s Vietnam Veterans’ Day.”

The memorial service will begin at 11am, with attendees invited for refreshments in the shire offices afterwards.