Protesters not to blame for Viet vets neglect
22/8/08, Tony Smith; holds a PhD in political science. He has taught at several universities, most recently at the University of Sydney.
Commemorations in 2006 to mark the 40th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan should have helped the rehabilitation of Australia’s Vietnam veterans. No one doubts the courage of these mostly young men or the trauma they have experienced since their return. No one should deny that they have been treated badly. One indication is that only now, 36 years after Australia’s withdrawal from Vietnam, and coinciding with the 42nd anniversary of Long Tan, a study is to be held into the health outcomes of service for veterans and their families. Several official ceremonies have honoured Vietnam veterans, including a Welcome Home Parade and the dedication of a memorial in Canberra.
See: http://www.eurekastreet.com.au/article.aspx?aeid=7509; http://vietnam-war.commemoration.gov.au/combat/battle-of-long-tan.php; http://www.vvaa.org.au/