Premier of Queensland and Minister for Veterans, the Honourable David Crisafulli MP; Commander 11th Brigade, Australian Army, Brigadier Mark Smith CSC; representing the Commander, Combat Support Group, RAAF Base Amberley, Group Captain Liz Beston; representing the Commander, HMAS Moreton, Lieutenant Commander Jane Tsakissiris; representing the Queensland Police Commissioner, Acting Assistant Commissioner David French; Vietnam Veterans’ Association of Australia, Queensland Branch, State Secretary, Mr Darryl Shipp; representatives from the Returned and Services League – Queensland Branch, Legacy Australia, Australian War Widows and other veteran associations and support groups; serving and former members of the Australian Defence Force; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I begin by also acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to all First Nations people here this morning.

This morning we come together in the spirit of goodwill to acknowledge and honour our Vietnam veterans, who rendered their service in good faith to our nation. This year’s Vietnam Veterans’ Day Remembrance Service commemorates the 60th anniversary of the epic Battle of Long Tan in 1966, an important and challenging time in our nation’s history.

Today also enables us to honour all Australians who served in the Vietnam War — including those from the Australian Army, the Royal Australian Navy, the Royal Australian Air Force and our national servicemen.

This Remembrance Day has become a sacred moment in our national calendar, enabling us to pause and reflect on the bravery and endurance displayed by our defence personnel during that war.

We solemnly remember the sacrifices of those who died and extend our deep gratitude to the almost 60,000 Australians who served during the 10 years of our involvement in the Vietnam War.

We also pause to reflect on the enduring impact of their service on veterans’ families and loved ones and acknowledge the many sacrifices and heartaches they too have experienced along the way.

Today we also collectively honour the service, sacrifice and devotion to duty of all Australian Defence Force personnel, not only in the Vietnam War but in Australia’s involvement in every conflict, peacekeeping mission and humanitarian operation.

This year marks several historic milestones for the ADF, with the Australian Army and the Royal Australian Navy both celebrating 125 years; the Royal Australian Airforce marking 105 years; and we’re commemorating the 75th anniversary of National Service in Australia. 

As Joint Patron, with my husband Graeme, of the Returned and Services League of Australia (Queensland Branch) and Legacy Club of Brisbane, and as Patron of Australian War Widows Queensland, I am heartened by the breadth of support available to Defence personnel and communities long after formal service has ended.

I commend the Queensland branch of the Vietnam Veterans’ Association of Australia for coordinating this annual Remembrance Service to ensure that the stories of our veterans are carried forward in our nation’s memory with the dignity and respect they deserve.

On behalf of the people of Queensland, I extend my deepest gratitude to all Vietnam veterans for your service to this country and the sacrifices made by you and your families.

We will never forget your courage and commitment, and we will always remember, with tremendous sadness, those who so tragically gave their lives.

Lest we forget.