Honouring our Vietnam Veterans this Long Tan Day

Today, Monday 18th August, marks Long Tan Day, an occasion to pause and honour the service and sacrifice of our Vietnam veterans. Last week in Parliament, I spoke about the importance of recognising these men and women, many of whom were conscripted and sent into jungle warfare during the late 1960s and 1970s.

In north-east Victoria, we are privileged to have a strong community of Vietnam veterans, from Cobram to Yarrawonga and from Wangaratta to Bright. Each year, we gather to pay tribute to their courage, resilience, and the quiet dignity with which they have carried the burden of war.

Long Tan Day reminds us to set aside political debate and honour those who served when their country called. We do not glorify war, but we must never forget the individuals who bore its weight.

Their service was not a choice but a duty. Their legacy deserves our respect, our remembrance, and our support. I encourage all Victorians to reach out to veteran families in their communities, attend commemorative events, and ensure that the stories of our Vietnam veterans continue to be told with pride and gratitude.