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    • Vietnam Veterans’ Day

    Vietnam Veterans’ Day (18 August) recognises the invaluable contribution of Australians who served and sacrificed in the Vietnam War. 

    From Long Tan to Coral-Balmoral 

    More than 60,000 Australians served in Vietnam from 1962 to 1973, with some returning for humanitarian operations in 1975.  

    Sadly, 523 died, some 3,000 were evacuated with wounds, injuries or illnesses, and – amidst strong community opposition to the war – many who returned home were not treated with the respect and honour they deserved.  

    Vietnam Veterans’ Day is a chance for us all to recognise the service and sacrifice of Vietnam veterans – a legacy that many have continued out of uniform as dedicated community leaders and volunteers.  

    Join us in honouring Australia’s Vietnam veterans on 18 August. 

    Lest we forget.  

    Vietnam War veterans marching with their medals

    From battles to salutations

    From the Battle of Núi Lé to learning Vietnamese, Army veteran Greg Gilbert DSM reflects on his service during the Vietnam War.

    Read more

    Vietnam Veterans’ Day stories 

    Image | Australian War Memorial - Long Tan Action by Bruce Fletcher
    31 July 2025

    How The Vietnam War and Battle of Long Tan Shaped Us

    On Vietnam Veterans' Day, Australia marks one of the most defining chapters in its military history.
    Commemoration
    History
    Veteran stories
    Vietnam Veterans Day
    Veteran Kel Ryan standing at ANZAC Square in Brisbane
    29 July 2023

    From conscription to commemoration

    Ahead of the anniversary of the end of Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War, veteran Kel Ryan shares his story of service and commemoration.
    Commemoration
    History
    Veteran stories
    Vietnam Veterans Day
    18 August 2022

    A Day To Embrace The Recognition They Deserve

    Like so many others, veteran Roger Collins stepped up to serve his country when the call came to deploy servicemen to Vietnam.
    Commemoration
    History
    Veteran stories
    ANZAC Day
    Vietnam Veterans Day
    29 July 2023

    Vietnam through the lens of a veteran

    Army veteran and avid photographer Rex Targett shares his memories and photos of the Vietnam War.
    Commemoration
    History
    Veteran stories
    Vietnam Veterans Day
    30 July 2025

    From battles to salutations: Vietnam veteran reflects on his service

    From the Battle of Núi Lé to learning Vietnamese, Army veteran Greg Gilbert DSM reflects on his service during the Vietnam War.
    History
    Commemoration
    Veteran stories
    Framed images of Vietnam veteran John Burns with an open scrapbook with newspaper articles from the Vietman War.
    06 August 2024

    From battlefield to community: Vietnam veterans reflect on a legacy forged in fire

    Vietnam veterans John Burns and Des Kearton reflect on the Battle of Coral-Balmoral, how the war shaped their lives, and their contributions to their communities.
    History
    Commemoration
    Vietnam Veteran's Day text overlay. Image of a helicopter landing beside a group of soldiers during the Vietnam War. Image source: Australian War Memorial.
    07 August 2024

    Proserpine veteran shares experience ahead of Vietnam Veterans’ Day

    Army and Vietnam veteran Brian "Weary" Dunlop is encouraging his local community to take a moment to recognise and support all veterans this Vietnam Veterans' Day.
    Veteran stories
    History
    Commemoration
    Media release
    03 August 2023

    Vietnam veteran becomes an Ironman

    80-year-old veteran George Hulse recently completed an Ironman race in Cairns.
    Media release
    Veteran stories
    07 December 2023

    Renewed honour: Canungra's Vietnam War Memorial reopens at the Land Warfare Centre

    The Kokoda Youth Foundation in collaboration with the Land Warfare Centre, Runaway Bay RSL Sub Branch, and the local community organised the relocation of the esteemed Canungra Vietnam War Memorial on Friday 1 December 2023.
    14 August 2024

    Recognising the ongoing legacy of Vietnam veterans - A message from the President

    This Sunday 18 August – Vietnam Veterans’ Day – is an opportunity to pay tribute to those who served in the Vietnam War, and acknowledge their ongoing legacy and contribution to the community we know today.
    Commemoration
    History
    From the President
    Background Image
    It’s important to have a day to commemorate the commitment and lives lost during the Vietnam War. It’s also a day where we can reflect on those bonds formed with your mates. You never wore badges of rank or anything; you just helped each other no matter what. 

    - Greg Gilbert,

    Vietnam veteran