Toogoom RSL Sub Branch honours Vietnam veterans

Veterans unveiling a replica of the Long Tan Cross at Toogoom RSL Sub Branch

Local Vietnam veteran, Jack Edmunds, joined the Toogoom RSL Sub Branch for the unveiling of the cross and to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the end of Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War. Originally from the United Kingdom, Jack joined the Royal Australian Air Force in 1967 and went on to have an influential career in the Australian Defence Force, initially serving as part of the Vietnam War effort.  

“This particular occasion was all about coming together to commemorate the ending of the Vietnam War now a half-century ago, and remember those who never made it back home,” Jack said.  

“It was an opportunity to wear my medals and stand alongside my fellow veterans, raising a toast to our mates who are no longer with us.”   

Vietnam War veteran Jack Edmunds

Jack was part of the tightknit 2 Squadron Vietnam that dropped the last bomb of the Vietnam War from an Australian aircraft. Asking how he felt in that moment, Jack described the feeling of knowing the war was over, as “pure elation”.  

“Looking back, in those final days, I feel so proud of our service – the level of respect among our squadron – regardless of rank, was incredibly strong and our connections were very meaningful.” 

However, in coming home, Jack said it was disappointing to see how veterans, who had sacrificed so much in service, were not welcomed back.   

“It took the government a long time to give any thanks to those who served in Vietnam. They’d given up everything – seen things they’d rather not see – so it was a very disappointing reality to face,” he said.  

“This experience makes commemoration now all the more important – whether that be on Vietnam Veterans’ Day, ANZAC Day or Remembrance Day – it’s imperative that we never allow ourselves to forget the service and sacrifice of Vietnam veterans and those who fought in all conflicts.” 

 RSL Queensland Wide Bay and Burnett District Deputy President Graham Davis, Vice President Scott Wilkinson, and Burrum District RSL Sub Branch President Steve Grainger at the Vietnam Veterans' Day ceremony

Toogoom RSL Sub Branch President John Upton said the service not only commemorated 50 years since the proclamation ending Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War, but also saw the official opening and blessing of a replica of the Long Tan Cross.  

“The Memorial Cross is the symbolic recognition by the Sub Branch of all the battles that were fought in Vietnam, of which all were significant with profound sacrifices made,” John Upton said.  

“The Sub Branch’s building was established in the 1960’s and was intended for use as a recreation facility for soldiers in Vietnam, however, it was never shipped away.  

“Our Sub Branch was erected in Toogoom by Army personnel as part of a training exercise in March 2015 – a tribute to all those who served, died and were injured during the Vietnam War.  

“Now, the building continues to commemorate the Vietnam War efforts by the manufacture and installation of a replica of the Long Tan Cross – a project that we were proud to commemorate this Vietnam Veterans’ Day.” 

The replica cross commemorates those who served and sacrificed in the Vietnam War

Among the dignitaries in attendance were State Member for Maryborough Bruce Saunders, Mayor of Fraser Coast Regional Council George Seymour, and RSL Queensland Wide Bay and Burnett District Deputy President Graham Davis, who all laid wreaths as part of the dedication service, led by Toogoom RSL Sub Branch President John Upton.

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