At 12 noon on 21 February 2016 the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia – Victorian Branch (VVAA Victorian Branch) will coordinate State-wide, simultaneous vigils at the gravesites of Vietnam Veterans buried in Victoria. Acting Minister for Veterans Philip Dalidakis and President of the VVAA Victorian Branch Bob Elworthy said 100 Vietnam veterans will participate directly in the vigils, as organisers or presenters, during recent visit to the Springvale War Cemetery.
“These vigils are just one of many events to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan and the Vietnam War.” Mr. Dalidakis commented “Our Vietnam veterans deserve the greatest respect, and we’re working hard to ensure all Victorians have the chance to pay tribute to their sacrifice.”
“This is an important time to remember the hardships, difficulties and trauma of the Vietnam War but also to honour those who fought and lived with determination, resilience, mateship and valour.” Mr. Elworthy commented.
Mr. Elworthy explained that almost 60,000 Australians including 10,500 Victorians served in the Vietnam War and 521 Australians did not return. 98 Australian veterans who died during active service in Vietnam are buried at gravesites throughout Victoria.
“The vigils will honour those who did not survive, but the many other commemorative programs will pay testament to those who have gone on to live strong and honourable lives with friends, families and fellow servicemen and women” Mr. Elworthy commented.
Mr. Dalidakis explained that the Andrews Labor Government has committed $1 million over two years to support the VVAA Victorian Branch in developing a thoughtful program of commemorative and educational events for 2016. Dalidakis added that other initiatives to commemorate the anniversary include a Vietnam War History Competition for Victorian students, and a $250,000 upgrade of the National Vietnam Veterans Museum at Phillip Island.
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