End of Second World War, Vietnam vets remembered

World War II ravaged the Narrabri Shire community as much as every other district, village, town and city in Australia, with many local people responding to the call to serve, and many making the ultimate sacrifice or returning injured.

Bereaved families still mourn lost fathers, grandfathers and uncles.

The memories of the Vietnam War also linger for the thousands of Australians who served in the conflict between 1962 and 1972.

Narrabri RSL sub-branch ensured that the 77th anniversary of the end of the Second World War and the tribute to Vietnam War veterans would not pass unrecognised.

RSL sub-branch president Gary Mason OAM delivered an oration on Victory in the Pacific at a commemoration last Thursday.

Sub-branch member and Vietnam veteran Richard Barry OAM delivered an oration on the Vietnam War.

This was followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Narrabri War Memorial.

Local students placed wreaths at the memorial and were joined by sub-branch officials in laying floral tributes in honour of those who have served in all conflicts.

Following the wreath laying, a moment’s silence was held in memory of those who paid the supreme sacrifice and those who have since passed.

This was followed by the Last Post.

Mr Mason recited the Ode of Remembrance before the commemoration concluded with the raising of flags during the reveille.

The end of the Second World War, known as Victory in the Pacific Day, is officially commemorated annually on August 15.

Vietnam Veterans’ Day is officially marked on August 18, the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan in 1966.

In Narrabri, a joint commemoration honours both conflicts.

Returned service people, family members and students paid their tribute while traffic on one of Narrabri’s busiest streets swirled around the ceremony.