Hail, ice-cold winds and single-digit temperatures did not deter more than 150 south-west diggers and supporters from attending the annual Vietnam Veterans Day on Saturday.
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This year marked the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Coral and Balmoral.
The battle began May 12, 1968 with the last of the Australians leaving the area on June 6 the same year.
Huddled indoors at Warrnambool’s RSL, veterans recalled what has been recorded as “some of the heaviest fighting ever undertaken”.
Many held back tears as they remembered what they had experienced in Vietnam and the feelings of isolation upon their return.
Port Fairy RSL president and Battle of Coral and Balmoral veteran Doug Nolte said the occasion was bittersweet.
He said despite being haunted by horrid memories, the evening also offered a sense of healing by gathering with those who understood.
“This day has great meaning for me,” he said.
“I was involved in the Battle of the Coral and Balmoral.
“It was the longest and most costly battle of the Vietnam War.
“Twenty-six Australians lost their lives in three-and-a-half weeks at Coral and Balmoral and almost 100 were wounded.
“At least 300 Vietnamese were killed too, although we’ll never know the true figure because they were buried in mass pits, like the cattle on Ash Wednesday.
“It was horrific. It was pretty tough to take at that particular time.
“But we just have to move on. We battle on. I’m just so glad to be here.”
Mr Nolte said his thoughts were often with his fellow veterans and particularly at this annual occasion.
“My thoughts are with all of you diggers, some who are still dealing with all sorts of suffering and medical problems.”
Sheltered from the howling winds outside, those gathered heard The Last Post and held a minute’s silence.
Community members, organisations, government representatives, family and friends were then invited to lay wreaths.
Many acknowledged the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers.
As Mr Nolte’s daughter Barbara began to sing the national anthem a single crack of thunder and lightening filled the room.
“Today we remember all those who fell in the distant corner of South Vietnam,” Mr Nolte concluded the evening.
“We honour the veterans who are here with us this evening and acknowledge those who could not be.
“Lest we forget.”
Related: Fifty years overdue