The keyword phrase "Vietnam Veterans Remembrance Day" functions as a proper noun, as it designates the specific name of an official day of observance. In Australia, this day is commemorated annually on August 18. In the United States, the equivalent national observance is officially named National Vietnam War Veterans Day and is held each year on March 29.
The selection of these dates is rooted in significant historical military events for each nation. The Australian date, August 18, was originally known as Long Tan Day, marking the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan in 1966. This was a major engagement for Australian forces, where a relatively small company held off a significantly larger enemy force. The day was officially designated to honor all of the country's Vietnam veterans in 1987. The United States chose March 29 to commemorate the day in 1973 when the last U.S. combat troops departed from South Vietnam and the last prisoners of war held in North Vietnam arrived back on American soil. This date was formally established by the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act of 2017.
The establishment of these specific days serves the practical purpose of formally and publicly honoring the service and sacrifice of the veterans of this conflict. These observances provide a dedicated moment for national reflection, distinct from the broader political and social controversies that surrounded the war. By focusing on key military anniversaries, the commemorations aim to acknowledge the duties performed by service members and offer the recognition that many did not receive upon returning home.
