Vietnam Veterans in the local community have had their service to their country honoured at a special service held by the Gawler RSL to Mark the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan.
The service was attended by Vietnam Veterans, their families and friends and local community leaders.Member for Light, Tony Piccolo said the service was a fitting way to honour the sacrifice this group of service men and women made to fight in a war that many thought we should never have been involved in.
“These veterans fought in a war which was not supported at home and on their return they were shunned,” said Mr Piccolo.“Over time, the nation has been able to separate the appalling political decision made by the Federal Government of the day and acknowledge that service men and women were doing their duty.
“There are no winners in wars, and the hurt and pain experienced by these veterans was compounded by the hostile reception they received on their return.
“Now in their 60’s and 70’s these veterans can now rightly stand alongside other diggers who have fought for their nation.“The service does not in any way glorify war but rather it acknowledges the harsh experience of these group of men and women.
”In his address, former Gawler RSL President and Vietnam Veteran, Wayne Clarke noted the hostile political climate of the time when he said that “today we are gathered to recall the turbulent decade of the Vietnam War”.During the course of the war almost 60,000 Australian members of the Army, Navy and Airforce served in Vietnam.
Mr Clarke said 521 died as a result of combat and over 3,000 were wounded.
“Public support for armed support of the Government of South Vietnam was initially strong, and there were 3 Federal elections held during the Vietnam War.
Only the 3rd, won by Gough Whitlam for Labor, ended Australia’s commitment.
Mr Clarke said the exuberant anti-war climate which then ensued meant many returning servicemen were denigrated and abused for their service.
“Following the war it became obvious that many Vietnam Veterans were experiencing difficulty returning to a civilian environment, many diagnosed with PTSD,” said Mr Clarke.
“The spirit of comradeship and mateship of those who fought and served has formed a strong bond and a special community joined by their shared experience which continues today.”