The heroic service of local service personnel during the Vietnam War was acknowledged on Saturday at Walsh Park, Bomaderry.
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The service, hosted by the Shoalhaven Sub-branch of the Vietnam Veterans Association of NSW, marked the 50th anniversary of the significant Vietnam battles of Coral and Balmoral.
Shoalhaven sub-branch Secretary, Christine Da Silva, made mention of the efforts produced in these battles by the local personnel in her address.
Locals on the ground and in the air stood up to be counted.
“These (Coral and Balmoral) were the largest and prolonged battles fought by Australians with 26 men killed and 99 wounded,” Mrs Da Silva said.
“The Federal Government has formally acknowledged the extraordinary gallantry displayed by those who fought in these battles and stated last May that the award is richly deserved and all those who served at Coral and Balmoral and earned a proud place in Australia’s wartime history.”
Mrs Da Silva said the efforts and sacrifices of all those who served would never be forgotten.
“Sadly some of our comrades are no longer with us but we hope their families and friends can draw some comfort from these gallantry awards and the contribution made by their loved ones,” she said.
She added they were true to the Anzac tradition.
A healthy crowd was at Saturday’s event to hear Mrs Da Silva’s words and in general to show their respect for the fallen and thank the local veterans.