Moama gathers to honour Vietnam veterans

This year’s event was made all the more special with members of the 86 Transport platoon attending alongside locals.

Moama RSL sub-branch committee member Col Perkins began the service with an opening prayer before wreaths were laid.

Representatives from local organisations were invited to lay wreaths first, including Murray River Council Mayor John Harvie, Campaspe Shire Council Mayor Daniel Mackrell, state Member for Murray Plains Peter Walsh and Murray River Chief Inspector Michael Fuller.

Once the wreaths were laid, Moama RSL sub-branch president Ken Jones spoke to the guests about the importance of the day and the Vietnam War’s significance in Australia’s history.

“We are gathered here today to remember with pride and sadness those service people who gave their lives and those who have suffered for all their lives so that we could live in Australia,” he said.

“Those people whose service and sacrifice we honour today deserve to be counted alongside all those whose selfless courage has contributed to shaping our nations’ character.

“Our nation must also resolve never to repeat the mistakes of the past, including the treatment meted out by some in our community to Vietnam veterans upon their return to Australia.”

State Member for Murray Plains Peter Walsh and 86 Transport platoon member Des Boyce also took to the stage to speak about the importance of remembering those who served in the Vietnam War and other conflicts.

After the speeches, Mr Jones led the guests through the ode before the Last Post, Rouse, South Vietnam anthem and the Australian anthem were played.

While there were many local guests in attendance, the members of the 86 Transport platoon were a significant presence on the day.

Every year the platoon members aim to commemorate the day in a different location and this year, Moama was the chosen destination.

The members have previously travelled to Renmark, South Australia and Albany, Western Australia to mark Vietnam Veterans’ Day and are looking to travel to Alice Springs next year.

Over 30 members travelled from around Australia to attend the Moama service, many of whom came with their wives.

Mr Boyce said the trips had been a chance to relax and celebrate with new communities.

“Some years ago we stopped having official reunions; however, some of us still felt the need to get together,” he said.

“That’s the reason behind this; we go to somewhere in a different state, different location, meet the local people. It’s good for the healing process. It takes your mind off of what used to be.

“The downside is we are not supporting Vietnam Veterans’ Day in our home towns, but we are supporting another town, in this case it’s Moama, and we feel very, very privileged to be here.”

Once the service was done, all guests were invited to enjoy a shared lunch before parting ways.