Sacrifice, courage honoured

The sacrifices and courage of Australian troops who fought in Vietnam were honoured at ceremonies across Rockingham and Kwinana on Friday marking the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan.

The City of Rockingham RSL Sub Branch held a moving service at Vietnam Veterans Rock where a crowd of about 70 gathered to pay their respects.

Major Lyndon Jackson opened the ceremony with a speech about the cost of the conflict and the treatment of the veterans when they returned.

Captain Brian Delamont RAN also spoke at the ceremony and was joined by deputy mayor Deb Hamblin and Brand MHR Madeleine King in laying wreaths at the foot of the monument.

After the Last Post rang out across the grounds of the Rockingham Cenotaph, a moment of silence was observed for reflection.

Meanwhile, in Kwinana, a memorial service was held at the Kwinana War Memorial on Pace Road in Medina to commemorate Vietnam Veterans Day.

City of Kwinana RSL sub branch president Dave Spillman led the service which was attended by dignitaries including Deputy Premier Roger Cook, mayor Carol Adams, councillor Dennis Wood and a delegation from HMAS Sirius including Lieutenant Commander Scott Dixon.

LCDR Dixon spoke to the significance of the day and also touched on how the Vietnam War held a personal significance to him as his father had served in the conflict.

The Reverend Keith Wheeler led those in attendance in prayer and with a blessing, before Peter Carnley Anglican School student Aiden Galbraith sounded Last Post and The Rouse, with the Australian National anthem rounding out the ceremony.

Attendees then made their way to the RSL for light refreshments.

A service was also held in Port Kennedy at Anzac Memorial Park.