Last week, services of remembrance reverberated across Australia, commemorating the significant milestone of 50 years since the withdrawal of Australian combat troops from the Vietnam conflict. This poignant occasion served as a reminder of the enduring cost of war, and the valour of those who gave their lives in service. The Vietnam Veterans Vigil, held at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Jubilee Park on August 3, stood as a testament to this commemoration, uniting the community to remember and honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
The event was hosted by Vietnam veteran Ken Higgins OAM, President of the Mackay RSL Sub Branch, alongside fellow Vietnam veteran and President of the Veterans Support Group Les Palmer. As the solemn gathering unfolded at 11:00 am, attendees paid homage to the 523 individuals who lost their lives during the Vietnam conflict, with a special emphasis on the six from the Mackay region and its surrounds, as well as Robert “Jock” Buchan, Mr Higgins’ section commander.
Ken Higgins OAM, speaking at the Vigil, emphasized the importance of remembrance, stating, “We need to remember they gave their lives in the service of the country and they should be remembered for that.”
During the vigil, Mr Higgins shared a poignant tribute to his section commander Jock, an overseas serviceman from Scotland who gave his life for Australia. He expressed, "Jock wasn't a Mackay boy, but Jock was from Scotland. He was my section commander in Vietnam, and we felt it fitting to pay tribute to Jock as he was not from Australia but gave his life for Australia."
Les Palmer, who served in Vietnam at a similar time to Higgins, took part in the Vigil by reading the poem "In Flanders Fields."
Mr Higgins expressed gratitude to the fallen soldiers, saying, "Thank you for your service to your country and for giving up your life while doing what your country asked you to do.
"In October 1987, 32,000 of your mates passed through the streets of Sydney in a 'welcome home' parade with crowds lining the streets, in some places 10-deep. More than 521 Australian flags each representing an Australian killed in Vietnam were carried by relatives and friends at the head of the parade.
"The staff of each flag bearing a metal plaque engraved with a serviceman's name and unit. There was a flag there with your name on it. I want you to know that today at this hour there are people like us all around Australia standing at the graves and memorials of your mates who were also killed in Vietnam.
"As Australians we are saying thank you for your service and for the service of your mates. You're not forgotten, your sacrifice was not in vain, the world is a better place for your actions. We all join together to say thank you and pray for you and to give thanks for your life that you laid down many years ago."
The ceremony also paid tribute to the four servicemen who recently lost their lives in the Talisman Sabre training exercise. Lieutenant Maxwell Nugent, Warrant Officer Class 2 Joseph Laycock, Corporal Alexander Naggs, and Captain Dan Lyon were remembered for their dedication and service.
As the community gathered last week to remember, reflect, and honour, the legacy of these local soldiers continues to resonate, reminding us all of the sacrifices made for today’s freedoms.
An additional service will be held on Vietnam Veterans Day, August 18, to say thank you to all veterans, both living and fallen.
Local Soldiers Remembered in the Vigil:
1. Pte. Trevor Ralph Black
• Date of Death: April 8, 1969
• Resting Place: Bowen General Cemetery
2. Pte. Francis John Fewquandie
• Date of Death: December 4, 1967
• Resting Place: Walkerston Cemetery
3. Cpl. Frederick William “Bushy” Hoare
• Date of Death: August 4, 1969
• Resting Place: Mount Bassett Cemetery
4. LCpl. Paul Leslie Smith
• Date of Death: July 5, 1969
• Resting Place: Mount Bassett Cemetery
5. Pte. Donald Leslie Thompson
• Date of Death: August 2, 1970
• Resting Place: Mount Bassett Cemetery
6. Pte. Brian Thomas Young
• Date of Death: May 16, 1968
• Resting Place: Allambe Memorial Park
Servicemen, women and members of the public gathered at Jubilee Park last week to remember 50 years since the withdrawal of Australian combat troops from the Vietnam War. Photo credit: Amanda Wright
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