24-08-2023
Around 50 people gathered at the Uniting Church in Crookwell on Friday 18 August to commemorate Vietnam Veteran’s Day, which this year marked the 50th anniversary of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War.
The commemoration was moved from the Crookwell Shrine of Remembrance in Memorial Park to the Uniting Church due to inclement weather.
The Master of Ceremonies for the service was Honorary Secretary of the Crookwell RSL sub-branch, Bev Hatch, with Upper Lachlan Shire Council Mayor Pam Kensit and Reverend Daniel Mossfield each honouring the sombre occasion with their own words.
Following prayers, wreaths were laid by local schools, service clubs, the sub-branch, Upper Lachlan Shire Council, Vietnam Veterans and other local organisations, accompanied by lone piper Ms Graily Aldridge.
Following the wreath laying, students from Crookwell High School read out the names of Crookwell and District Veterans before The Ode was read, Last Post and was played, a minute’s silence was observed and Rouse was played.
After Reverend Daniel Mossfield delivered the benediction, the Australian National Anthem was played and the service was officially closed.
Mayor Kensit said it was great to see so many people present, particularly the school children, despite the weather as it indicated the sacrifice of Vietnam Veterans has not been forgotten and is still honoured today.