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    • Vietnam Veterans’ Day

    Vietnam Veterans’ Day (18 August) recognises the invaluable contribution of Australians who served and sacrificed in the Vietnam War. 

    From Long Tan to Coral-Balmoral 

    More than 60,000 Australians served in Vietnam from 1962 to 1973, with some returning for humanitarian operations in 1975.  

    Sadly, 523 died, some 3,000 were evacuated with wounds, injuries or illnesses, and – amidst strong community opposition to the war – many who returned home were not treated with the respect and honour they deserved.  

    Vietnam Veterans’ Day is a chance for us all to recognise the service and sacrifice of Vietnam veterans – a legacy that many have continued out of uniform as dedicated community leaders and volunteers.  

    Join us in honouring Australia’s Vietnam veterans on 18 August. 

    Lest we forget.  

    Find a Vietnam Veterans’ Day service near you.

     View events

    From battles to salutations

    From the Battle of Núi Lé to learning Vietnamese, Army veteran Greg Gilbert DSM reflects on his service during the Vietnam War.

    Vietnam Veterans’ Day stories 

    30 July 2023

    How The Vietnam War and Battle of Long Tan Shaped Us

    On Vietnam Veterans' Day, Australia marks one of the most defining chapters in its military history.
    Commemoration
    History
    Veteran stories
    28 July 2023

    From conscription to commemoration

    Ahead of the anniversary of the end of Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War, veteran Kel Ryan shares his story of service and commemoration.
    Commemoration
    History
    Veteran stories
    5 August 2024

    From battlefield to community: Vietnam veterans reflect on a legacy forged in fire

    Vietnam veterans John Burns and Des Kearton reflect on the Battle of Coral-Balmoral, how the war shaped their lives, and their contributions to their communities.
    History
    Commemoration
    6 August 2024

    Proserpine veteran shares experience ahead of Vietnam Veterans’ Day

    Army and Vietnam veteran Brian "Weary" Dunlop is encouraging his local community to take a moment to recognise and support all veterans this Vietnam Veterans' Day.
    Veteran stories
    History
    Commemoration
    Media release
    14 May 2025

    Battle in Balikpapan: Townsville WWII veteran shares his story

    Eager to join the Australian Defence Force, then-17-year-old Leslie Sinclair raced to the Army recruitment depot in Townsville after not hearing back from the Navy.
    Commemoration
    History
    1 May 2025

    World War II veteran shares his story ahead of 80th Victory in the Pacific Day

    Night had fallen over the jungles of northern Papua New Guinea in 1945. Victorian-born Dawson Reimers was on guard duty when he was informed that Japan had formally surrendered to the Allies.
    Veteran stories
    14 August 2024

    Recognising the ongoing legacy of Vietnam veterans - A message from the President

    This Sunday 18 August – Vietnam Veterans’ Day – is an opportunity to pay tribute to those who served in the Vietnam War, and acknowledge their ongoing legacy and contribution to the community we know today.
    Commemoration
    History
    From the President
    It’s important to have a day to commemorate the commitment and lives lost during the Vietnam War. It’s also a day where we can reflect on those bonds formed with your mates. You never wore badges of rank or anything; you just helped each other no matter what. 

    - Greg Gilbert,

    Vietnam veteran

    Vietnam Veterans' Day events

    Find a Vietnam Veterans’ Day service near you. 

    18 Events
    10 February 2026 - 13 February 2026 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
    REBOOT Trauma Recovery Robina
    robina
    3 Days focused on healing from service-related trauma.
    Find out more
    11 February 2026 - 13 February 2026 From 7:30pm
    The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo - Brisbane 2026
    milton
    Featuring more than 1,000 of the world’s finest performers, led by the magnificent Massed Pipes and Drums from UK Military regiments!
    Find out more
    13 February 2026 - 21 February 2026
    Timor Awakening (Gold Coast) – Veterans Care Association
    gold coast
    9-day experience disrupting veterans’ routines to take time to pause, learn about themselves and seize responsibility for a positive direction forward in life.
    Find out more
    26 February 2026 - 26 November 2026 11am - 12pm
    Naval Association Monthly Ceremony
    south brisbane
    The Naval Association of Australia hold monthly services to commemorate important events in the Navy historical calendar.

     

    Whether you're a veteran, Defence family member, or civilian, everyone is welcome to attend.

     


    Find out more