Cenotaph lights up for Vietnam veterans

Wonthaggi residents gathered at the town’s cenotaph on Tuesday night to honour the service of Australia’s Vietnam veterans.

The Wonthaggi RSL Sub-Branch held its inaugural ‘Vietnam Veterans’ Day Light Up the Cenotaph remembrance’ on August 18, with veterans and community members coming together for the event.

This year’s commemoration marked the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan.

Members of the Caulfield South Drum Corps also attended the event, alongside Trust No One SMC in a show of support for those who served.

One especially poignant moment came when Tex the Cowboy sounded the Last Post on the bugle.

Wonthaggi RSL Sub-Branch president Kevin Walsh delivered an address recognising the courage and sacrifice of those who left their homes and loved ones behind to serve their country overseas.

His address also touched on the lasting effects of the conflict which in many ways shaped the lives of a generation of Australians.

A wreath was laid at the cenotaph as those gathered remembered everyone who served, including those who returned home, as well as those who didn’t, and made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

As the sun set in Wonthaggi, attendees listened to Redgum’s “I was Only 19”, a song detailing the experiences of young Australians sent to fight in the Vietnam conflict and the long-term impacts of their service.

The ‘Vietnam Veterans’ Day Light Up the Cenotaph remembrance’ was the first of its kind held by the Wonthaggi RSL Sub-Branch.

The RSL wishes to thank everyone who attended the event and everyone involved in the organisation.

Following the inaugural gathering, the Wonthaggi sub-branch hopes that the Light Up the Cenotaph remembrance will become one of Wonthaggi’s annual traditions.

The RSL said continuing the event would help ensure the service and sacrifice of Australia’s Vietnam veterans remained recognised by future generations.