VIETNAM VETERANS’ DAY

Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War began in 1962 with the arrival of the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV) in South Vietnam. Almost 60,000 Australians, including Army, Navy and Air Force personnel, served in Vietnam; 521 died as a result of the war and over 3,000 were wounded.

This year marks the 50th Anniversary of the Battle of Binh Ba. On the morning of 6 June 1969, an Australian tank and armored recovery vehicle were approaching Binh Ba, less than 10km from the Australian Task Force Base at Nui Dat, when the tank was struck by a rocket propelled grande. This provocative shot heralded a battle that raged for two days, left much of Binh Ba in ruins and resulted in the Australian Task Force winning one of its most comprehensive victories of the Vietnam War.

WHEN: 1100hrs on Sunday, 18 August 2019
WHERE: Cairns Cenotaph, Esplanade, Cairns

WREATH-LAYING: Members of the public who wish to lay a wreath are required to register with the Cairns Sub Branch by close of business Thursday 15 August. Any members who are not registered and wish to lay a wreath will have the opportunity to do so at the conclusion of the service.

Members of the public who are laying a wreath are to supply their own and it is their responsibility to carry it with them. There are no facilities or arrangements for storage or transport of personal wreaths at the service

Veterans and their families are invited to join us after the service in the Catalina room for light refreshments. If you are attending please RSVP by Friday 9 August to admin@crslsb.org.au or phone 4051 5254.

DETAILS:

• The service will be conducted outdoors with seating and temporary shelter provided.
• Visitors should ensure they appropriately equipped with hats, water bottles and sunscreen.
• Limited medical support is provided at the commemoration. Attendees that have medical conditions should come prepared.
• Seating at the commemorative service is not allocated or reserved and is available on a first-come, first-served basis.