Vietnam Veterans Day
Cindy McLEISH (Eildon) (09:47): Friday 18 August is Vietnam Veterans Day. This year marks the 57th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan and the 50th anniversary since Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War ended. I acknowledge the sacrifice of the 523 lives, 2400 wounded and 6000 Australians who served our country in Vietnam. This was a war to attempt to contain or limit the spread of communism throughout the rest of South-East Asia. On their return home Vietnam veterans felt vilified and were treated badly, exacerbating the impact of the horrors of war. The service men and women deserve our support and respect for the sacrifice they made. The Yarra Valley and outer eastern Melbourne Vietnam Veterans Day commemoration took place on Sunday in Healesville. This service brings together veterans and supporters from the Healesville, Upper Yarra, Warburton, Yarra Glen, Croydon, Lilydale and Mount Evelyn RSL sub-branches and the National Servicemen’s Association. Further local commemorations are taking place on Friday in Mansfield, Alexandra and Seymour. I am proud of their efforts.