Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester says the 50th anniversary since the withdrawal of the last Australian troops involved in the Vietnam War was an opportunity to ensure the veterans of the conflict were respected, recognised and given any assistance they required.
The former Minister for Veterans’ Affairs said he was honoured to lay a wreath and pay his respects at a service hosted by the Traralgon RSL at the cenotaph on Friday, alongside several veterans of the conflict.
The Vietnam War involved 60,000 Australian troops with 523 killed, 3000 wounded and many more impacted by the trauma for the rest of their lives.
“Sadly, it also marks a dark time in our nation’s history where Australian Defence Force personnel were vilified and treated poorly on the home front because the war was not politically popular,” Mr Chester said.
“Our Vietnam veterans were not given the respect they had earned until many years later and there’s no question that their treatment added to the anguish of many troops.
“Vietnam veterans successfully campaigned for improved mental health services for veterans and Open Arms exists today because of their advocacy. We are fortunate to have many Vietnam War veterans in Gippsland who are still making a contribution to our community and I want to thank them for their service.
“I also want to recognise the civilians and nurses who supported Australia’s military involvement in the Vietnam War and did everything they could to bring our troops home safely.”
Mr Chester has encouraged local veterans and their families to apply for a commemorative medallion which has been released by the Federal Government to recognise the 50th anniversary.
“There are many Vietnam veterans in our community who may appreciate the medallion as a small token of recognition,” Mr Chester said.
“The medallion honours the service of Vietnam veterans and recognises the sacrifice of those who never returned home, and that of their families.”
The medallions are available for every Australian who served in Vietnam, and the family of veterans who have since passed away or were killed in action during the war.
Pictured: Several Latrobe Valley veterans from the Vietnam War gathered to recognise all those who served in the conflict.
