August 18 next year will be the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan and Federal Member for Fowler Chris Hayes, is encouraging all Year 9 and 10 students to enter a competition titled Honouring Australia Vietnam Veterans.
“The Battle of Long Tan is one of the most well known Australian engagements in the Vietnam War and this competition is an opportunity for students to gain a better understanding of what our young soldiers went through during this bloody battle,” Mr Hayes said.
Entries close on April 8, 2016 and can be in the format of a written response, multimedia response, or a creative response.
Winners will be selected by a judging panel and will receive a certificate and plaque.
They will also participate in a three day Canberra commemorative program on August 17-19 to visit cultural institutions and attend a commemorative service on Vietnam Veterans Day.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“I would encourage all schools to submit their best student entry and be a part of this special commemoration,” Mr Hayes said.[/social_quote]
For assistance in getting started or for a free resource and information pack, go to the Anzac portal website.
♦ Meanwhile, Mr Hayes, is calling on all returned servicemen and women to come forward to receive a certificate of appreciation under the Saluting Their Service program.
Certificates are available for those who served in the defence forces or on the home front in World War II, or in wars, conflicts and peace operations overseas since.
Family members of deceased eligible individuals are also encouraged to apply.
“The certificates are a small token of our nation’s appreciation and gratitude for those who served our country,’’ he said.
“If you are eligible for a certificate, please contact my office on telephone 9726 3988 or email me at chris.hayes.mp@aph.gov.au and I will be happy to forward a form to you,” Mr Hayes said.
