Cobram and district residents mark Vietnam Veterans Day

Vietnam Veterans Day falls on August 18, the day the battle of Long Tan happened in 1966, two months after the 1st Australian Task Force established its base at Nui Dat in the heart of Phuoc Tuy province, South Vietnam.

The bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers at Long Tan became legendary and that single engagement on one afternoon became symbolic of Australia’s 10-year involvement in this nation’s longest war. 

In 1987, Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke declared August 18 ‘Vietnam Veterans Day’ with the anniversary paying tribute to all Australians who took part in the conflict. Vietnam Veterans Day, was recognised six days after a presentation in Cobram by National Vietnam Veterans Museum chair Kingsley Mundey.