General News
9 August, 2025
Special services
VIETNAM Veterans’ Day honours the invaluable contribution of those Australians who served and sacrificed in the Vietnam War.
The day is commemorated annually on August 18 – the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, one of the most significant conflicts for Australians who served in the Vietnam War.
Between 1962 to 1973, more than 60,000 Australians served in the Vietnam War, with some returning for humanitarian operations in 1975.
Sadly, 523 died, some 3000 were evacuated with wounds, injuries or illnesses and – amidst strong community opposition to the war – many who returned home were not treated with the respect and honour they deserved.
Vietnam soldier Greg Gilbert emphasises the importance of remembering the sacrifice of all Vietnam veterans on Vietnam Veterans’ Day.
“It’s important to have a concentrated day to commemorate the commitment and lives lost during the Vietnam War,” he said.
“It’s also a dedicated day where we can reflect on those bonds you formed with your mates during the war.
“That mateship and trust in another was most important.
“You never wore badges of rank or anything – you just locked in and helped each other no matter what.”
Mr Gilbert was involved in the Battle of Núi Lé – the last major enemy engagement for Australian troops in Vietnam.
“We got word that we had to move about 10km east,” he said.
“We didn’t know at the time, but it turned out a regiment of the North Vietnamese Army was making an incursion into the province and we were sent to find them.
“My company had assaulted a bunker system and we lost a lot of people.
“But when we tried to withdraw, we became surrounded. The battle that day became known as the Battle of Núi Lé.”
Army vehicle mechanic Des Kearton said the return home was tough.
“We couldn’t wear uniform outside our army unit area because protesters would attack you,” he said.
Schedule of events
CAIRNS, Monday, August 18 at 5pm: Cairns RSL Vietnam Veterans' Day commemorative service. This year’s service will include a catafalque party, wreath laying, the Ode, Last Post and a special address. All veterans, families and members of the community are invited to attend. Medals may be worn. To lay a wreath, please contact the Cairns RSL Sub Branch on 4249 3030 or email admin@crslsb.org.au before Wednesday, August 13.
CARDWELL, Monday, August 18 at 11am: Cardwell Vietnam Veterans Day service. After the service, veterans and other attendees are invited to a special free lunch back at the RSL Sub Branch.
GORDONVALE, Monday, August 18 at 5pm: Gordonvale Vietnam Veterans' Day. The Gordonvale RSL Sub Branch asks the community to remember the sacrifices of those who died and say thank you to the nearly 60,000 Australians who served during the 10 years. The commemoration will be followed by light refreshments in the RSL hall.
INNISFAIL, Monday, August 18 at 10am: Service at the Innisfail Cenotaph, Fitzgerald Esplanade.
To learn more or find your local service, visit https://bit.ly/4lar38d
