Coulton pays tribute to Vietnam Veterans
25-August-2011
Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton paid tribute to the many Vietnam Veterans throughout the Parkes Electorate in Parliament yesterday.
Mr Coulton spoke on the Prime Minister’s Statement of Vietnam Veterans’ Day, which was celebrated on the 18th August, and honoured the brave and courageous Australians who fought in the Vietnam War.
“I too feel very privileged to speak in this chamber about Vietnam Veterans Day. Originally, 18th August was a day that commemorated the Battle of Long Tan, which was in 1966, but it has now been adopted to recognise all Vietnam veterans.”
“I wish to make a short contribution to these statements to acknowledge the Vietnam veterans in the electorate of Parkes and recognise the significance of the Battle of Long Tan.”
“Some years ago, I read an account of the Battle of Long Tan in book form and I was very moved by the contribution that those few soldiers made, and the level of courage and resourcefulness that they showed in such overwhelming circumstances.”
Mr Coulton also acknowledged the valuable contribution the veterans make to their local communities.
“Apart from running the local RSL club, the vets do great work looking after war widows and looking out for each other, so I wanted to recognise the role that they play.”
“Today I would also like to make special mention of the Dubbo and Far West Region Vietnam Veterans Association, of which I am the patron. It is one of the positions that I am most proud of. I hold it in such high regard that those members have asked me to be their patron. I hope that I can do justice to the great honour they have given me.”
“In conclusion, I would like to acknowledge all Vietnam veterans around Australia on Vietnam Veterans Day, but particularly the veterans in the seat of Parkes.”