Each year on 18 August, Vietnam Veterans Day honours and commemorates all those who served in Vietnam, including the 521 Australians who died and more than 3,000 people who were wounded, injured or became ill as a result of the conflict.
This year marks the 53rd anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan.
The Battle of Long Tan, on 18 August 1966, was one of the fiercest battles fought by Australian soldiers in the Vietnam War, involving 105 Australians and three New Zealanders from D Company 6RAR. A total of 17 Australians were killed in action and 25 were wounded, one of whom later died of his wounds.
D Company 6RAR were greatly assisted by an ammunition resupply from RAAF helicopters, close fire support from New Zealand's 161 Field Battery, together with additional artillery support from the Australian task force base at Nui Dat, and the arrival of reinforcements in Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) as night fell.
Vietnam Veterans Day acknowledges all the Vietnam veterans who have lost their lives in the years since the end of the Vietnam War, those who still carry the physical and emotional scars of their service and the families that have stood by them.
Today saw services held in Batemans Bay and Narooma.
Below: Photos of the Batemans Bay Memorial Service courtesy of Rob and Kate at South Coast Pix
Above: The Batemans Bay U3A did a great job singing a number of Hymns as part of the Memorial Service for the 53rd Anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan. The U3A provide a great opportunity for older people in the community to learn new skills and connect with other likeminded people and develop great friendships along the way. New members are always welcome. Photo: South Coast Pix
