On a chilly Monday afternoon, the Kiama-Jamberoo RSL Sub-Branch held a Memorial Service at the Memorial Arch, Hindmarsh Park in Kiama for Vietnam Veterans Day.

Returned service personnel, Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips, Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald and local residents attended the service to pay their respects to those who served in the conflict more than half a century ago.

Lieutenant Colonel Gary McKay OAM (Ret’d) provided his address to those braving the elements by sharing his story of service and expressing empathy and praise for his fellow veterans who served in Vietnam.

“It’s why all Australian veterans of the Vietnam War should be proud of their service in what was a very difficult time and a very tough campaign,” McKay said.

“I felt particularly sorry for the men who had served their national service and returned to an apathetic, if not hostile environment.”

Phillips provided the service with a prayer reading before she joined the procession of wreath laying with Cr McDonald.

“Vietnam Veterans Day is so important for this community here and right across our region,” she said.

“I’ve been really thankful to be able to come here today and to commemorate Vietnam Veterans Day with veterans that have some of the most harrowing stories that we really need to hear.”

Cr McDonald shared the importance with The Bugle of these services for not only the veterans and their families, but the wider Kiama community.

“It’s always important to recognise the people that have gone overseas so that we can enjoy the life that we live here in Kiama,” he said.

“We’re extremely proud of the local representation that went overseas and fought in that conflict that was the Vietnam War.

“Many of those people are still significant members of our community and it is always an honour to attend a service that we had today and acknowledge the contribution that was made.”

In his address, McKay reminded decision makers of the lasting sacrifice soldiers endure not only in battle, but when they return home, and for the appropriate compensation.

“I can assure you that war is nasty. It is not a nice place to go,” he said.

Service rituals were undertaken with a moving rendition of the Last Post from Warwick Sporne.

After the service attendees “adjourned” to the Kiama Leagues Club for “rehydration”, which McKay quipped “is only fitting and proper on a day like today”.

It was a busy day for Phillips, attending three services which began at Sussex Inlet in the morning, and ended at Bomaderry in the late afternoon.