By Matthew Sims
The memories of Vietnam War veterans lost during and after the conflict lived on at the Berwick Returned and Services League sub-branch on Friday 18 August, as part of a commemorative service to mark 50 years since Australia ended its involvement in the war.
RSL members and members of the broader community met at the cenotaph on High Street to honour all Australians who fought in the Vietnam War.
The event also marked the 57th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan.
Berwick RSL president Pam Phillips said more than 60,000 Australian personnel served between 1962 and 1972, 523 of whom died and about 3000 wounded.
“We will remember the sacrifices of those who died,” she said.
“We pay tribute and reflect on their bravery and teamwork.”
Ray Heathcote served with 2 Transport, 5 Company with the Royal Australian Army Service Corps at Vung Tau, Nui Dat, Saigon, Long Binh and a number of other fire and support bases in October 1968.
“On 18 August each year, I remember all those who served in Vietnam,” he said.
“Most were based at Nui Dat with the Australian Task Force or at Vung Tau with the Logistic Force.
“Australians also operated around Bein Hoa, in and around Saigon, at Long Binh and in various other locations both inside and outside Phuoc Tuy province.
“I especially remember our own Vietnam veterans from here in Berwick, whose lives were cut short as a result of their service injuries or impairments, including Lance Phillips, John Tuck, Garry Manning, John Andrews, Bob Cochrane and Gavin Duncan.”
Mr Heathcote said the service was a way to recognise the efforts and sacrifices of those who returned and those who did not.
“Much has been written and discussed about the justification, or lack of it, of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War,” he said.
“I do not wish to make any judgements today about this aspect of the war.
“I simply want to acknowledge and remember those who served their country at that time.”
Mr Heathcote also spoke about his time at Fire Support Base (FSB) Coral and seeing the impact of the Battle of Coral-Balmoral.
The occupation of FSB Coral began on 12 May 1968, but the Australian defences remained unfinished when, at about 3.30am on 13 May, it was attacked following a brief but intense rocket and mortar barrage.
With the aid of extensive air support, the attack was beaten off by 6.30am and the captured gun-pit was retaken.
Eleven Australians were killed and 28 wounded, while a further three Australians died in patrol clashes on 14 May.
“When we came back, you could see the devastation,” Mr Heathcote said.
The congregation then met at the RSL sub-branch for a chat into the afternoon, reflecting on memories of the war.
Veteran Terry Hornbuckle served at Nui Dat and Vung Tau from 1967 to 1968 as a private in the 85th Transport Platoon.
He said he was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder later on in life and received treatment.
“Later on in life, I used to think there’s something wrong with me,” Mr Hornbuckle said.
“It’s terrible, it just catches hold of you.
“I’m very fortunate to be able to get that help.”
While he has previously faced difficulties with alcohol and isolation, Mr Hornbuckle said connecting with local veterans had been “fantastic”.
“It makes me feel good,” he said.
Help is available. Contact Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 or beyondblue.org.au/forums, or Counselling Online at counsellingonline.org.au
