29/5/08
New Zealand has formally apologised to its Vietnam War veterans for the unfair and harsh treatment they received on their return. Prime Minister Helen Clark, who demonstrated against the war as a student in the 1970s, yesterday told parliament it was time to acknowledge the service and sacrifices made by the soldiers. “The Crown extends to New Zealand Vietnam veterans and their families an apology for the manner in which their loyal service in the name of New Zealand was not recognised as it should have been, when it should have been, and for inadequate support extended to them and their families after their return home from the conflict,” Miss Clark said in a prepared statement, agreed with veterans’ organisations. Miss Clark, who as a student protested against New Zealand troops’ eight-year involvement in the Vietnam War, also acknowledged the failure of successive governments and agencies to accept soldiers’ exposure to chemicals.
See: http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,23774202-2703,00.html
