Vietnam Veterans’ Day

Commemorated 18 August: the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan.

Approximately 60,000 Australians served in the Vietnam War. Of these, 3,000 were wounded, and 521 were killed.

Each year, Australians commemorate Vietnam Veterans Day on 18 August. On this day in 1966, one of the fiercest battles of the Vietnam War, the Battle of Long Tan, took place. Over time, this day became synonymous with all those who served and died in the Vietnam War. In 1987, then Prime Minister Bob Hawke made this official, announcing that Long Tan Day would now be known as Vietnam Veterans' Day.

We continue to honour the service and sacrifice of all Vietnam veterans. This year, 2023, marks 50 years since the withdrawal of Australian servicemen and women in Vietnam.

Commemorate by viewing Vietnam veterans' stories at Anzac Square Memorial Galleries on Friday 18 August and Sunday 20 August. If you can’t join us in person, take a moment to pay your respects by placing a virtual poppy.