Vietnam Veterans’ Day is a chance for us all to pay the respects that Vietnam Veterans were often denied, but always deserved.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the end of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War.
Join Tewantin Noosa RSL Sub Branch in honouring the many Australians who served and sacrificed in Vietnam on Friday 18 August from 4pm to 4:30pm in Tewantin Town Square at the Tewantin Cenotaph.
Local resident and Vietnam veteran, Bruce Wilson said he couldn’t believe 50 years had gone by since the end of Australia’s involvement in the war.
“The time has flown. There was some really good memories and some bad ones of course but I’m glad I served my country when in need,” he said.
Bruce was called up in the ballot in June 1966 at the age of 20 and trained with the 2nd Battalion before being dispatched with the advance party to the Australian base established at Nui Dat, where he served for 12 months.
He said many people didn’t realise why Australia was involved in the Vietnam War and that led to a lot of animosity on the troops’ return.
“A lot of people criticised our involvement in the Vietnam War but I was able to come home at the right time,” he said.
“The day I came home and marched in Brisbane on the return of the 2nd Battalion in June 1968 is still the proudest day of my life.
“We were involved because Australia was called on to fulfil its obligation to the South East Asian Treaty Organisation (SEATO) to come to the aid of Vietnam.”
Bruce, who now assists other veterans in need with the help of Tewantin-Noosa RSL sub branch, encouraged every Australian to pay their respects on Vietnam Veterans’ Day.
“I think it definitely changed me. I learnt a lot to do with respect during my time serving. You have to have respect for one another and have trust that you will all be there for each other,” he said.
“I still keep in touch with mates that I served with. I just had a cup of tea with one of them in Mooloolaba last week.”
