Vietnam veterans Russell Oakes, David Lowe, Rod Charles, Denny van Maanenberg and Barry Jones prepare for the Battle of Long Tan commemoration outside the Cranbourne RSL. Picture: Stewart Chambers.
CASEY’S Vietnam veterans will gather to remember those fallen in the Battle of Long Tan.
Next week Casey mayor Kevin Bradford will host a special civic reception to coincide with the 40th anniversary of the battle.
“The Vietnam War represents the longest operational commitment of Australian forces and our nation is forever indebted to the efforts of our service personnel, many of whom served in extremely perilous circumstances,” Cr Bradford said.
Between mid-1962 and 1973, when the last Australian troops were withdrawn from South Vietnam, about 60,000 Australian servicemen and servicewomen had taken part in the war directly or in logistic support roles.
The Battle of Long Tan between Australian troops and the Viet Cong happened on 18 August, 1966.
Cranbourne RSL president Barry Jones described the barrage unleashed on Australians in 1966 at their operations base at Nui Dat, a piece of high ground surrounded by rubber plantations.
He said the Viet Cong had not been prepared for the effectiveness of Australia’s artillery fire and had paid dearly as a result.
Eighteen Australians were killed and 24 wounded while 245 Viet Cong bodies were found in the battle area.
“The upcoming civic reception is one way to recognise the residents who served in the Vietnam War effort and their partners, and respect the enormous contributions they made to serve our country,” Cr Bradford said.
Casey Vietnam veterans who would like to attend the special civic reception should register by Tuesday, 22 August and contact customer service on 9705 5200, quoting their name, address and service number.
The reception will be held from 10am to noon on Saturday, 26 August at the City of Casey Civic Centre, Magid Drive, Narre Warren.
