A Day of Remembrance and Reflection
This Sunday, August 18, marks Vietnam Veterans Day, a solemn occasion to pay tribute to the Australian soldiers who served in the Vietnam War. This day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought in the conflict, both during their time in Vietnam and upon their return home. The day is also a time to acknowledge the lasting impact of the war on veterans and their families.
The Battle of Long Tan: A Defining Moment
One of the most significant battles fought by Australian soldiers in the Vietnam War was the Battle of Long Tan, which took place on August 18, 1966. Vietnam veteran Viv Rouse, 79, vividly recalls the day his Nui Dat base came under mortar fire for the first time. This unexpected attack marked the beginning of one of the largest battles fought by Australian troops in the conflict. Rouse, a member of the 87 Transport Platoon, was tasked with running a convoy to the main army base.
The battle involved the Royal Australian Regiment facing off against enemy forces for four hours, with Australian troops outnumbered 10 to one. Despite the odds, the Australian soldiers displayed immense bravery and resilience. The battle resulted in 42 Australian casualties, including 18 dead, while an estimated 245 enemy soldiers were killed. Rouse describes the initial mortaring on August 17 as a terrifying experience, leaving him frightened and unprepared for the intensity of the war.
The Battle of Coral-Balmoral: A Challenging Experience
Another significant battle, the Battle of Coral-Balmoral, took place from May 12 to June 6, 1968. Vietnam veteran Roy Woodward, who was just 19 when he boarded HMAS Sydney for Vietnam, recalls his involvement in this battle. He was part of the 1 RAR Battalion in Nui Dat and found himself in a difficult situation. He describes the experience as “one big stuff up from the start,” with Australian troops caught in the midst of enemy forces.
The battle was fought at Fire Support Base (FSB) Coral and FSB Balmoral, which were set up by Australian and New Zealand forces to disrupt enemy activity near Saigon. The enemy launched a fierce attack on May 12, and despite the Australian soldiers holding their ground, they suffered heavy losses. Woodward reflects on the challenges of returning home from Vietnam, recounting the abuse he and other veterans faced from both the public and the government. He describes being called names, having tomatoes and eggs thrown at his parents' house, and being denied membership in the RSL.
Recognizing the Sacrifices of Vietnam Veterans
The stories of Viv Rouse and Roy Woodward highlight the immense sacrifices made by Australian soldiers during the Vietnam War. The events of the war, both during their deployment and upon their return home, have had a profound impact on their lives.
Despite facing challenges and adversity, these veterans have shown remarkable resilience and a strong sense of camaraderie. The annual Vietnam Veterans Day serves as an important opportunity to acknowledge their sacrifices and the lasting impact of the war. It is a day for reflection, remembrance, and recognition of the brave men and women who served in the Vietnam War.
A Legacy of Courage and Resilience
On this Vietnam Veterans Day, we remember the fallen, honor the survivors, and acknowledge the lasting impact of the Vietnam War. We express our gratitude to the veterans who served our country with courage and determination. Their stories are a reminder of the strength and resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. We owe them our deepest respect and unwavering support.
