The Andrews Labor Government is helping schools in Western Victoria send students to the Vietnam Veterans Day March and Service at the Shrine of Remembrance.
Gayle Tierney MP, Member for Western Victoria, today announced schools will be eligible to apply for subsidies to help with the costs of travel to attend the free event at the Shrine of Remembrance, which commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan.
All Victorians deserve an opportunity to pay their respects to our wartime legacy. Schools in Melbourne will be able to apply for subsidies of up to $500, while regional schools can apply for subsidies of $1000. For school registrations visit www.shrine.org.au
The Vietnam War was Australia’s longest military engagement of the 20th century. Almost 60,000 Australians fought in the war. More than 500 Australians lost their lives serving their country.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, where 108 brave young men from D Company 6 RAR resisted an attack of more than 2,000 Viet Cong soldiers. It would become one of the most extraordinary chapters in Australia’s military history.
The Victorian Branch of the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia and the Andrews Labor Government are working hard to deliver a thoughtful program of activities to commemorate the important anniversary. The Vietnam Veterans Day March will begin at the Police Memorial on St Kilda Road, before a service at the Shrine.
Vietnam Veterans Day is August 18. For more information visit www.vic.gov.au/victoriaremembers/vietnam
Quotes attributable to Gayle Tierney MP, Member for Western Victoria
“We want Western Victoria students to share in the memories of our brave servicemen. This initiative will help that happen.”
“The Vietnam Veterans Day march and service at the Shrine of Remembrance will be a great opportunity to pay our respects to the veterans who gave us all a great gift.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Veterans, John Eren
“The Battle of Long Tan is one of the most decisive chapters in our military history. This is a chance for students all over Victoria to commemorate it.”
