Remembrance Events 50th Anniversary of the commencement of the second (1965-1972) Australian National Service Scheme
June 30, 2015 marks the 50th Anniversary of the commencement of the second (1965-1972) Australian National Service Scheme
An invitation to ex National Servicemen to join together to commemorate 50 years since the second era of Australian Military National Service 1965 to 2015.
Half a century ago, the first of the 63,735 young men called up for two years (later reduced to 18 months) service in the Regular Army marched into Recruit Training at Kapooka, Puckapunyal and later Singleton. Of these, 150 served in Borneo and 15,381 in Vietnam. 212 made the Ultimate Sacrifice.
The era was most significant in Australian military history with the war in Vietnam and the rapid escalation in the size of the Australian Army. Although not part of their original life plan, most regarded their time in the Service favourably.
It is proper that this milestone be appropriately acknowledged. Accordingly, the National Servicemen’s Association of Australia, in conjunction with the O.T.U. Association is planning a ceremony to pay the occasion the recognition it deserves. A commemorative service is to be held at the National Service Memorial in Canberra, ACT at 1000 hours on June 30, 2015. It will take the form of a march from the National War Memorial to the site followed by the service itself.
His Excellency, The Governor General of Australia, General Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC, has been invited as Guest of Honour.
We would ask that you make your members aware of this significant Commemoration and encourage as many as possible to attend. It will be a worthy celebration of this important part in the lives of so many of your members. In addition, it provides the opportunity for units of old to hold reunions around the time. For any further enquiries or further details, please contact the email/postal addresses or telephone numbers given below. We look forward to seeing you there. - Frank Miller OFFICER TRAINING UNIT (O.T.U.) ASSOCIATION Earle Jennings AM RFD ED NATIONAL SERVICEMEN’S ASSOCIATION ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA
Formal Activities
On 30 June 2015, Canberra will be the location for a Commemorative Service with a march past and salute at the Australian War Memorial. His Excellency, the Governor General has been invited.
Supporting Activities
A barbeque lunch hosted by the National Servicemen’s Association of Australia will follow the formal events. Ex Servicemen and other Associations are encouraged to conduct reunion lunches or dinners.
Organising Partners
The Australian War Memorial;
The National Servicemen’s Association of Australia; and
The Officer Training Unit Association (O.T.U.).
Information
Please complete the attached Expression of Interest form or write to:
The Secretary
50th Anniversary
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PO Box 6203
LONG JETTY NSW 2261
Or visit the website:
www.nashoaustralia.org.au
