THE Laurieton RSL sub-Branch is holding two significant commemorative events at Laurie Memorial Park during August and members of the community are warmly invited to attend.
At 11am on 10 August a service will be held in honour of Middle East Area of Operations Day (MEAO), which commemorates the anniversary of 10 August 1990 when former Prime Minister Bob Hawke announced the commitment of Australian Defence Force ADF personnel to the Middle East following Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait.
Since then, more than 40,000 Australians have served in the Middle East, with 46 losing their lives during or as a direct result of their deployment, with most of the losses occurring in Afghanistan 2001-2021.
President of Laurieton RSL sub-Branch Allan ‘Buster’ Beatty OAM told News Of The Area that “Middle East Area of Operations Day recognises all Australian veterans who have served in the Middle East Area of Operations from 10 August 1990 through to the present day.
“It is an opportunity to acknowledge more than three decades of continuous service, to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice, and to recognise the dedication of the families who have supported our veterans throughout that time,” Mr Beatty said.
Acting RSL NSW President Vince Williams CSC will attend the service and deliver the Commemorative Address.
The second event will take place at 11am on 18 August, a date that marks the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan.
The Vietnam Veteran’s Day Commemoration Service honours the Australians who served in the Vietnam War, including the 521 who lost their lives and the more than 3,000 who were wounded during the conflict.
“Sixty years after the Battle of Long Tan, Vietnam Veterans’ Day remains an important opportunity to honour all Australians who served during the Vietnam War,” Mr Beatty said.
“It also reminds us of the challenges many veterans faced on returning home and ensures their service, sacrifice and resilience continue to receive the respect and recognition they deserve.”
Both services are open to veterans, serving members of the Australian Defence Force, their families and the wider Camden Haven community.
By Rachael THORPE
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
