Vietnam Veterans' Day is commemorated in Australia on August 18 each year.
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The day gives veterans and the public an opportunity to reflect on the Vietnam War conflict, our longest war, in which over 60,00 served and over 500 lost their lives.
On Sunday at the Vietnam War Memorial in Settlers Park, Bowral, a small gathering of veterans and partners assembled to commemorate VV Day 2020.
It was a bitterly cold, windy morning and Covid-19 health requirements restricted attendance to key representatives.
Whilst Pipe Major Chris Tabram of the Highland Pipes and Drums piped a lament, local RSL Sub-Branches, Legacy, veterans and Mayor Duncan Gair laid tributes on the memorial.
After laying a wreath, president of the Southern Highlands Vietnam Veterans Association, Mr Phillip Moscatt gave a short address in which he acknowledged the 75th anniversary of the Victory in the Pacific in 1945.
He then highlighted the position in South Vietnam 50 years ago.
He said that in 1970 the 1st Australian Task Force had made good progress towards achieving its objective to control Phuoc Tuy Province and that Australian service men were spread throughout South Vietnam.
However, this progress required a sustained effort by all, particularly the infantry, and it had come at considerable cost: "the loss of life and limb and, dare I say, the sanity of many combatants."
He said that we should never forget those willing to pay the ultimate price and we should also acknowledge the sacrifice of both regulars and national servicemen in the service of our nation.
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