January 11 marked 50 years since the proclamation of the end of Australian involvement in the Vietnam War and marks the start of official Vietnam 50 commemorations for 2023.
Federal Member for McEwen Rob Mitchell said he was proud the Federal Government was committed to honouring the service of Vietnam veterans.
“More than 60,000 Australians served in Vietnam, over 3,000 were wounded and 523 lost their lives in the longest conflict Australia was involved in during the 20th Century,” he said.
“For many veterans, upon their return, their service was not recognised as it should have been. This was wrong.
“In the nearly four decades since the end of the Vietnam War, there has been much heartache and much healing.
“Although people will differ in their opinions on the Vietnam War, I personally want to put on the record my total admiration and respect for and thanks to all those who bravely went to war and how sorry I am for the mistreatment they received on their return.”
All Vietnam Veterans and National Servicemen, who have rendered at least one day of full-time service, even those not deployed, are eligible to claim a White Card through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, DVA, which includes mental health support.
DVA will recognise this anniversary through an awareness campaign, including an ABC documentary series, and providing historical and educational resources to schools, ex-service organisations and community groups.
A national commemorative service on Vietnam Veterans’ Day in Canberra on August 18 will recognise the service of all Australians who served in the Vietnam War and honour the sacrifices they and their families made.
For more information, visit www.dva.gov.au/VietnamCommemorativeService.
