THE Gunnedah community will come together on Saturday to commemorate the sacrifices made by those who served during the Vietnam War.
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Hosted by the Gunnedah RSL Sub branch, Gunnedah’s Vietnam Veterans Day commemorations will mark the 50th anniversary of the battles of Long Tan and honour the service of local veterans.
Gunnedah RSL Sub branch president Peter Kannengiesser said the occasion would pay tribute to all who served.
“As we remember this year the last year of the centenary of World War I, we are also remembering those who served in the Vietnam conflict, especially those who fought in the Battles of Long Tan, and Fire Support Bases Balmoral and Carol, 50 years ago,” Mr Kannengiesser said.
“We know very well the story of Long Tan, but not too much has been publicised about Balmoral and Coral.
“In May 1968, Australian, New Zealand and American forces set up support bases, about 20km north of Bien Hoa, across an area that was used by North Vietnamese army groups to support fortified positions with artillery and mortar fire.
“On 12th May 1RAR and 3RAR with 102 Field Battery Royal Australian Artillery and the New Zealand 101 Field Battery started constructing FSB Coral when a NVA regiment started an attack early on May 13.
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“During heavy fighting some of the guns were left behind but were recaptured after a fierce counter attack.
“Coral came under attack again on May 16 but by that time had a Sqn 3RD Cavalry and 1RAR to help.
“Australian forces counter-attacked on the May 25 and inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy.
“At this time FSB Balmoral, about 4.5km north of Coral, having been established by 3RAR, came under heavy attacks by two battalions of NVA and with tanks from Nui Dat repelled these and in counter-attacking over several days caused so many casualties on the enemy that they withdrew.
“It is estimated that about 300 enemy soldiers died during the battles of the two fire support bases, but one will never know the real loss.
“We must continue to remember all the past and still serving members of our Defence Force in the sailors, soldiers and airmen.
“They fought and are still fighting for our country’s freedom and hopefully lasting peace, when it comes.”
Saturday’s commemorations will also be special for fellow Gunnedah local Don McDonagh who will honour his relative Colonel Charles McDonagh who served his country in Vietnam and sadly passed away earlier this year.
The Gunnedah RSL Sub-branch will hold the Vietnam veterans memorial service on Saturday, August 18 at the Cenotaph commencing at 11am, and veterans with partners and carers are invited to a light lunch at the Gunnedah Services and Bowling Club commencing at noon.
