The Trafalgar-Thorpdale RSL Sub-Branch commemorated Vietnam Veterans Day, on Tuesday, 18 August with a service at the Trafalgar cenotaph followed by light refreshments in the sub-branch’s hall.
Vietnam Veterans Day is commemorated on 18 August, which is the anniversary of the Battle of Lang Tan in 1966.
This year is the 60th Anniversary of that significant action.
The service was attended by approximately 35 veterans, members, and guests commencing at noon with a gathering at the cenotaph.
The service was conducted by sub-branch president Jim Crowe who served with 2 RAR/ANZAC Battalion during its second tour in 1970/71.
Jim was the master of ceremonies for the service.
Bill Kilday, who served with 6 RAR on their tour of Vietnam in 1969/70, spoke about the Battle of Long Tan and retired army major Sandra Pleash presented a brief history of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War.
Wreaths provided by Leonie Gracie were laid at the cenotaph representing the RSL sub-branch and Vietnam veterans.
Mayor Kate Wilson and councillor Brendan Kingwill also laid a wreath on behalf of Baw Baw Shire Council.
Marcus Barker and Peter Battye served as flag attendees for the service, raising and lowering the Australian and New Zealand national flags with precision at the appropriate times.
Grady Edwards organised and operated the sound system for the Last Post, Rouse, and National Anthem.
At the service’s conclusion, Jim Crowe made a presentation to Carol Saunders, the widow of Vietnam veteran Dusty Saunders, along with Dusty’s daughter and great-grandson, of a commemorative box detailing his service details and records.
This initiative has just been instigated by this Sub-branch for departed service veterans.
Following the service, all adjourned to Trafalgar-Thorpdale RSL Sub-Branch’s hall for a catch up, a few drinks and light lunch.
Pauline Barker and Wilma Franklin worked the kitchen, providing sandwiches, soups prepared by Tracey Chambers and Pauline Barker.
Scones were also provided.
Their combined efforts ensured that none went hungry or thirsty.
Vietnam Veterans Day is commemorated every year by this sub-branch.
Particularly significant is that it was Vietnam veterans who were instrumental in re-raising the sub-branch.
These included former sub-branch president and life member Ray James OAM, former secretary, the late Paul Erbs, and our current president Jim Crowe, as well as other service personnel and their spouses from the Vietnam War era.
