A small gathering of Vietnam War veterans congregated at the steps of the Bathurst War Memorial Carillon yesterday to commemorate Vietnam Veterans' Day.
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Vietnam Veterans' Day is held annually on August 18 to commemorate the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan [August 18, 1966].
The commemoration would usually include a larger weekend service at the Bathurst Vietnam Veterans' Park but, due to COVID-19, the service was cancelled.
Bathurst and District Vietnam Veterans Association president John Murphy said the service was an opportunity to remember the fallen and honour living veterans.
"There are male and female Vietnam veterans out there who are still suffering from the effects of the war, and we hold those people close in our thoughts," Mr Murphy said.
"It was one of the longest, unnerving wars Australia was ever involved in, and it wasn't until 12 years after the war's end [1987] that Australia's Vietnam veterans received a 'welcome home' parade."
The Vietnam War marked a change in the public's perception of armed conflict due to technological advances [i.e. television], and veterans were initially met with resentment rather than honour on their return home.
Bathurst RSL Sub Branch president David Mills said the wrongful treatment of Vietnam veterans has since encouraged sub branches nationwide to reach out to veterans of all conflicts.
"We're committed to all past and present servicemen and women, and we make sure to look out for their families as well," Mr Mills said.