Remembering The Fallen And Cherishing Those Still Standing

By Hannah McNamara

Each year, on the 18th of August, communities across the nation stand together for Vietnam Veterans Day to honour the courageous Australian soldiers who fought in the Vietnam War.

Among the numerous battles fought during the Vietnam War, the Battle of Long Tan stands as one of the most significant.  

On August 18, 1966, 18 Australian soldiers lost their lives and many others were wounded in one of the war’s fiercest encounters.

On that day, the 6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (6RAR) a total of 108, (105 Aussies and 3 New Zealanders) faced a formidable force of over 2,000 Viet Cong soldiers. Despite their limited numbers, the Australian forces held their ground in a brutal and prolonged fight.  

In recognition of Vietnam Veterans Day, ceremonies across the region will take place.  

One of these ceremonies will be held at the Mackay city cenotaph at 5:30 pm, a time of significance as Les Palmer notes, “That’s when we had contact with the enemy.”

Mr Palmer served in South Vietnam with the 8th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (8RAR) and is the President of the Vietnam Veterans Support Group in Mackay.  

He was wounded in a landmine explosion at just 22 years old on February 28, 1970, where he sustained foot drop in a tragic incident that claimed nine lives and wounded 15 others.  

Foot drop is an inability to lift the forefoot due to the weakness of the dorsiflexor muscles of the foot. This can lead to an unsafe antalgic gait, potentially resulting in falls.

Knowing firsthand the challenges faced by veterans, Palmer has led the Mackay Vietnam Veterans Support Group for the past few years since its inception 25 years ago.  

This vital resource for veterans was established in 1990 in which the group began as a small initiative driven by the dedication of local veterans, aiming to break down social isolation and enhance the quality of life for veterans and their families.

After securing a commissioned building in 2004, with thanks to former Member for Mackay Tim Mulherin, the group has since been able to provide a safe space for veterans in the region to connect.

Every Wednesday and Thursday, the support centre opens its doors, offering veterans a place to unwind, connect and discuss their experiences.  

Mr Palmer describes the group as a space where veterans can “just come down and let off a bit of steam, have a cup of tea and a biscuit which really helps,” he said.

“There’s a table of knowledge in there, everybody sits around it and we can solve the world’s problems.

“We talk about anything really, the good things, bad things, and that’s what this is for - it’s a support group.”

Additionally, every second Tuesday, the partners of veterans are invited to gather and connect with others who share similar experiences. Mr. Palmer humorously notes that the men often end up chatting outside because the lively conversations among the wives inside can be quite loud.  

“They’re worse than us sometimes,” he jokingly said.

Mr Palmer takes great pride in his involvement with Vietnam Veterans Day as well as the Mackay Vietnam Veterans Support Group, paying respects to the fallen soldiers, all while supporting and uplifting those who remain standing.

Currently, the support group is seeking funds to replace the rusted-out stumps beneath the building to ensure the facility remains safe and functional for members. Those interested in contributing to this cause can contact Les Palmer via email at lespalmer21@outlook.com.

In honour of Vietnam Veterans Day, residents will gather at 5:30 pm at the Mackay city cenotaph to remember and acknowledge the sacrifices made by our much-respected Vietnam veterans.

The Mackay Vietnam Veterans Support Group is open for Vietnam veterans and their families to gather in camaraderie and support of each other, every Wednesday and Thursday. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Wearing flak vests and helmets in the tropical heat took a physical toll on the men. Here soldiers from 8RAR pause during the ascent into the Long Hai hills. Photo credit: John Fairley

The men carried a variety of weapons and equipment, including flak vests and helmets to minimise wounds if they triggered a mine. They used weapons such as the M72 66 mm rocket launcher, carried by the soldier in the foreground, to destroy enemy bunkers and strong points

Nearing the Long Hais, the soldiers of 8RAR dismounted from the APCs and advanced in artillery formation with the tanks. The continuing threat of mines meant each soldier wore a flak vest and helmet. Photo credit: Rod Simpson

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