The main theme of the ceremony was to focus on soldiers that went missing in action and then had their bodies returned home to be buried.

In an emotional speech President of the Glen Innes RSL Sub-branch Gordon Taylor also made mention of the poor way diggers were treated when they arrived back home after the war.

“It is a national shame that we did not initially appreciate their service, but thankfully attitudes have changed now and people realise the sacrifice Vietnam veterans made,” he said.

“Also the Vietnam veterans were pretty much the forerunners in fighting veteran affairs for rights to compensation for the injuries they sustained during service.

“Their efforts have made it much easier for the next generation of diggers to deal with veterans affairs if they need to.”

A highlight of the service was the laying of wreaths by local school children who paid their respects to the 527 soldiers killed in Vietnam.

St Joseph’s school Principal Pauline Gannon said it was an excellent opportunity for the students to pay their respects to fallen and returned diggers.

“It was our pleasure to attend and to represent the school on this occasion and the students appreciated the opportunity,” she said. 

“It is important for young children to be part of these events so they can recognise the Australian contribution to world history.”