On 18 August, we commemorate Vietnam Veterans’ Day on the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan in 1966. We remember the sacrifices of those 521 defence members who died and say thank you to the almost 60,000 Australians who served during the 10 years of our involvement in the Vietnam War.
The Battle of Long Tan
On 18 August 1966, in a rubber plantation near the village of Long Tan, one of Australia’s fiercest battles was fought. The soldiers of Delta Company, 6th Battalion Royal Australia Regiment, faced the force of over 2000 North Vietnamese and Viet Cong troops, the battle was fought during a heavy tropical downpour, making conditions wet and muddy.
By the end of the day, 17 Australian soldiers had lost their lives, killed in action, and 25 were wounded, one dying a few days later from his wounds. This was the largest number of casualties in a single operation since the Australian Task Force had established its base at nearby Nui Dat in April of 1966.
Thank you
So come and join us for this year’s commemorative service at 5 pm on the Esplanade as we pause and reflect on the bravery, teamwork, and endurance that Australian soldiers displayed throughout the Vietnam war.
