Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor has welcomed $3176 in Australian Government Vietnam War Commemorative Grants funding for Cowra RSL Sub-branch.

The grant will go towards a Commemorative Service and a plaque unveiling followed by a dinner.

“Cowra RSL Sub-branch is to be congratulated for their efforts to recognise the invaluable contribution of those who served in the Vietnam conflict, and to ensure the next generation learns more about their selfless service,” Mr Taylor said.

The Vietnam War Commemorative Grants programme was established under the Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Programme for 2015–16.

Mr Taylor said 521 Australians died in the Vietnam War during the period 1962–72, including 200 National Servicemen. More than 3000 were wounded.

“In August this year, it will be 50 years since one of the most significant battles of the Vietnam War — the Battle of Long Tan,” Mr Taylor said.

“It is important that the contribution of all those who served our nation in Vietnam is never forgotten.”

Mr Frank Bridges, President of the Cowra Vietnam Veterans, has invited the general public to attend the service at 5pm on ANZAC Day in Cowra. 

“There will also be a dinner held after the unveiling of the plaque and tickets are now available by contacting (02) 6342 3660. The Honourable Tim Fischer AC will be our guest speaker so it should be an entertaining evening,” Mr Bridges said.

The Vietnam War Commemorative Grants program provides one-off funding of between $4,000 and $20,000 for community-based commemorative projects and activities that directly commemorate any aspect of the Vietnam War under the theme of ‘camaraderie’.

For more information about Saluting Their Service grants, visit www.dva.gov.au/grants or call 133 254 or 1800 555 254 from regional Australia.