Recognising our Vietnam Veterans
Published on 23 August 2023
Last Friday at the Cowra RSL Sub-Branch rooms, a significant event was held as Cowra and Australia commemorated the 50th anniversary of the end of its official involvement in the Vietnam War. Veterans and community members came to pay tribute to the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who served during this period, especially the veterans from Cowra, as locals remembered their unwavering dedication and courage.
On August 18, 1966, a pivotal moment occurred. The men of the 6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, accompanied by three New Zealanders from 161 Battery Royal New Zealand Artillery, found themselves in a fierce encounter with the Viet Cong in a rubber plantation near the village of Long Tan. Despite being outnumbered ten to one, these soldiers held their ground with indomitable spirit.
The battle that ensued saw the ultimate sacrifice of 18 Australians and left 24 others wounded. This devastating loss marked the single greatest tragedy suffered by Australia during the Vietnam War.
“In the wake of that fateful day, the Cowra community has come together year after year to honour the memory of those who were lost and acknowledge those who returned, as we do with other significant wartime commemorations. Now, as we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the end of Australia's official involvement in the Vietnam War, we unite to pay tribute to all those who served in Vietnam,” said Cowra Shire Council Mayor Bill West.
Over the course of more than a decade, starting from 1962, approximately 60,000 Australians played their part in the Vietnam War. Their dedication and service extended beyond borders and boundaries, embodying the values of unity and resilience that have come to define Australia.
“Among these valiant individuals, some 3,000 were wounded in the line of duty, and 523 paid the ultimate price. As we reflect on their sacrifices and the challenges they overcame, we are reminded of the enduring bonds that tie us together as a nation,” the Mayor said.
“As we stand on the threshold of this milestone, we should take a moment to remember the sacrifices of those who served and the strength of spirit that kept them going.”
PHOTO CAPTION: LEST WE FORGET: Cowra Shire Council Mayor Bill West paying his respects to Vietnam War veterans on the 50th anniversary since Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War. Cowra, like many centres across Australia, was also impacted by the war with some on hand last Friday to share their experiences at the Cowra RSL Sub-Branch rooms in front of a large group who were present to pay their respects.