Commemorating Vietnam Veteran’s Day
Published on 18 August 2025
Warrumbungle Shire Council will join communities across Australia in commemorating Vietnam Veterans Day on Monday 18 August 2025, marking the 59th Anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan. This battle was one of the most significant and costly battles, Australian soldiers faced during the Vietnam War.
On this day in 1966, 108 soldiers from D Company, of the 6 Royal Australian Regiment (RAR) fought against an estimated 2 000-strong Viet-Cong force in a rubber plantation near Long Tan, South Vietnam. Despite being heavily outnumbered and enduring relentless rain and limited support, the Australian soldiers held their ground. Eighteen Australians were tragically killed, and 24 others were wounded in the fierce engagement.
Among those who made the ultimate sacrifice was Private Paul Large, a 21 soldier from Coolah. The community continues to honour this legacy; Warrumbungle Shire Council will lower flags to half-mast the morning of 18 August, after which the flags will be raised to full mast for the remainder of the day – signifying the end of the mourning period and the enduring spirit of the Australian soldiers who served.
In tribute to the fallen, an avenue of 18 red flowering ironbark trees was planted along Martin Street, Coolah, with each tree representing each of the Australian Soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice during this battle. Notably, this was the first memorial established in Australia specifically recognising the Battle of Long Tan.
Mayor, Kathryn Rindfleish, encourages local residents to pause and reflect on the legacy of those who served.
‘Vietnam Veterans’ Day is a moment of all of us to honour the bravery sacrifice and service of those who fought in the Vietnam Way – particularly the young men who never came home. We especially remember Private Paul Large of Coolah, who gave his life at just 21. The avenue of tree’s in Martin Street stands as a living tribute to his memory and all those who lost loved ones. I invite residents across the Shire to take a quiet moment of reflection in their honour.’
Warrumbungle Shire Council invites the community to come together in remembrance of the many Australians who served, suffered and sacrificed during the Vietnam War, and ensure their legacy is never forgotten.
Photo Credit: Graham Wilson