Wyndham’s Vietnam veterans will always remember the physical and mental demons they faced when they first returned from the war.
Which is why local volunteers are taking to the streets to raise money to help young soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan who are experiencing the same problems.
Vietnam Veterans Association Australia Melbourne West sub-branch secretary Ray Matthew said there had been an increase in the number of younger veterans seeking help.
“They are experiencing similar physical, psychological and emotional problems that we experienced on return from Vietnam,” he said.
“We believe it is an important part of our role to assist them with their claims for military compensation through the Department of Veterans Affairs and any welfare support
they need.”
Volunteers will sell badges and other merchandise this Saturday and Sunday and on August 16 and 17 at Bunnings in Hoppers Crossing and Altona North, and at Masters in Williams Landing.
They will also be at shopping centres in Werribee, Point Cook, Hoppers Crossing, Manor Lakes and Altona Meadows. Badges cost between $2 and $10.
Money raised will fund welfare services for all veterans and allow the group to run activities for returned soldiers and their partners.
A dawn service marking Vietnam Veterans Day will be held at the Werribee cenotaph at 7am on Monday, August 18.
