Published on Monday, 30 August 2021 at 11:18:07 AM

By Darcie Jolly

August 18, 2021, marked 55 years since the Battle of Long Tan. On this day in 1966, in the rubber plantations near the village of Long Tan, soldiers fought a fierce battle. In a terrible 3-hour battle that begun at 4pm, many soldiers fought in wet and muddy conditions during a heavy tropical downpour.

The battle of long tan was a significant moment in Australia’s War in Vietnam. We continue to remember all veterans, from all conflicts and honour them for their service. We pause and reflect on the bravery, teamwork, and endurance that all Australians displayed throughout the war. Vietnam Veterans Day, also known as Long Tan Day, is a day where communities come together and recognise all who served in Vietnam.

We honour and remember all veterans who lost lives during battle, retuned home wounded, ill or injured, lost their lives in the years since they returned home and those who still carry the physical and emotional scars form their service. We also pause to reflect on the impact of service on our veterans’ families.

On August 18 at 4pm, Veterans and 44 community members gathered at the Reflection Pond for a short but exceptional service as a thank you to our Veterans. The service included a warm and wholehearted introduction by Mal Willis, honouring the Veterans and Battle of Long Tan. Wreath laying was completed by the Vietnam Veterans, Shire of Merredin, Merredin Churches Fraternal and Merredin College, followed by the Ode, presented by Aubrey Tompkin with the Australian and New Zealand anthem concluding the service. In tradition, port and chocolate were shared by those in attendance prior to the conclusion of the service.

We would like to thank everyone who attended the commemoration and contributed wreaths. The Shire would also like to give special mention to the working group members for this event, Aubrey Tompkin, Mal Willis, Rob Endersbee and Su Riley. All their efforts are greatly
appreciated and recognised.

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