A REGIONAL leader for Vietnam veterans has praised the Cohuna/Leitchville sub-branch of the Returned and Services League for its progressive efforts in remembering those who served their country.
Remembrance Day commemorations centred on the town’s Vietnam War memorial, now complete with the names of Cohuna and district residents who served in that conflict.
R&SL State executive member, Harold Heslop, who served in Vietnam, was the guest speaker at Saturday’s Remembrance Day service, held to mark the 99th anniversary of the end of World War One.
Mr Heslop is chairman of the organisation’s heritage and commemorative committee.
Despite the service occurring on a weekend, more than 100 people paused at Cohuna for the 30-minute service which included the laying of wreaths, songs, poems and a minute’s silence.
Local school children played a major role in the event, reading poems, reciting prayers and giving speeches.
“We stand here today proud of the service and sacrifices made by all veterans,” Mr Heslop said.
“In particular, I would like to praise the Cohuna/Leitchville Returned and Services League sub-branch for their foresight on recognising all wars that Australia has participated in.”
Initially held to honour the servicemen and women who died during World War One, the day now recognises all who died whilst serving Australia during times of military conflict.
“More than 400,000 men out of a population of five million enlisted in World War One, with 60,288 dying. That is almost the same population as Bendigo,” Mr Heslop said.
“The efforts of those servicemen and women who died is part of Australia’s history, and it must not be forgotten.”
Remembrance Day poppies were also laid at the base of the Cenotaph at Kerang and one minute’s silence observed in memory of those who served in defence of their country.
