Benalla marks Vietnam Veterans’ Day at touching ceremony

The service, organised by the local RSL Sub-Branch, is the second held on Vietnam Veterans’ Day, and President Paul Hartland plans to make it an annual event.

“There are a lot of locals who can’t get to Shepparton or Wangaratta commemorations, so we wanted to have something in Benalla,” Mr Hartland said.

“Today will be a little bit similar to a Remembrance Day service with speeches, a minutes silence and Last Post.”

“I think the younger generations should know what the older generations have done for their freedom.

“So this kind of event will always be important, and it’s nice to see some younger people here today.”

Benalla Veteran, author and RSL member Doug Williams said he was moved by the service.

“I believe days like today are very important,” Mr Williams said.

“It’s part of our national psyche, that we stand our ground and strive for peace and offer humanitarian aid wherever it’s required.

“And the combined services do a great job in that department, even in peacetime.”

Benalla Mayor Bernie Hearn was joined at the ceremony by Councillors Danny Claridge and Justin King.

“Eventually our Vietnam vets and our returned soldiers from other wars aren’t going to be with us,” Cr Hearn said.

“And we need to remember the sacrifice that they made, leaving their homes and their families to fight to keep us safe.”