Defending Country

At least 300 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men served among the approximately 61,000 Australian servicemen in Vietnam. They served for a variety of reasons even though most states still restricted Indigenous civil rights. This presentation will draw from oral histories and archival records to explore the life experiences of Indigenous Vietnam veterans. It will address issues including why these men enlisted in the armed forces, mateship in war, returning to discrimination and the ways that many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Vietnam veterans have played long-term leadership and advocacy roles for Indigenous advancement.
Presenter: Dr Noah Riseman
Date: Tuesday 27 September, 5.30pm arrival for 6pm start
Location: Auditorium, Shrine of Remembrance
Cost: Entry by donation