Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan has congratulated Alstonville High School student Patrick Bundock who has a won a national competition to commemorate Australia’s Vietnam War veterans on the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan.
Mr Hogan said Patrick was a worthy winner of the Federal Government’s Honouring Australian Vietnam Veterans Competition, which was open to all students from years nine to 11.
“This year, as Australia honours the men and women who served in Vietnam, it is essential that future generations learn about this important chapter in our history and respect the service and sacrifice of those who defend our country,” he said.
“This competition encouraged students to reflect on the Australians who served in Vietnam and submit an entry that spoke about the importance of remembering and honouring their sacrifice and our wartime history.
“The judges were impressed with Patrick’s entry which Patrick’s essay focussed on Barry Petersen and the Royal Australian Regiment in Vietnam. The judges found Patrick’s essay was well-expressed and consistent in voice and conviction.”
Patrick will travel to Canberra to participate in a commemorative program of events from 17-19 August.
The competition winners will attend the national service on 18 August for the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan and receive a plaque and certificate from Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Dan Tehan.
Almost 60,000 Australians served in Vietnam from 1962 until 1975, 521 lost their lives and more than 3000 wounded. Many more veterans suffered, and continue to suffer, because of their service.
On 18 August, Australia will honour the sacrifice of our servicemen and women during the Vietnam War on the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, which is also Vietnam Veterans’ Day.
