Circular 24/21 Changes to planned commemorations: VP Day and Vietnam Veterans Day

It is with regret that RSL NSW has cancelled the face-to-face commemoration services at the Cenotaph in Martin Place that honour VP Day on 15 August and Vietnam Veterans Day on 18 August.

The RSL NSW President will publish public messages to honour the service and sacrifice of those who served our nation in WWII and Vietnam.

I know that these two significant days are an opportunity for veterans to come together to commemorate, and remember their mates, however the current Public Health Orders within Greater Sydney prevents events of this nature taking place.

For those sub-Branches not affected by the restrictions in Greater Sydney, please contact your local authorities to determine whether it is safe to conduct commemorations in your community.

I encourage all sub-Branches to explore other ways to commemorate VP Day and Vietnam Veterans Day this year. Embracing the principle of improvise, adapt, overcome, this could be by way of posting an appropriate message on your sub-Branch social media channels or organising a virtual get together with veterans in your community.

You might also consider contacting local media outlets to talk about how your sub-Branch is adjusting to restrictions while still honouring veterans on these dates. Perhaps you have a local WWII or Vietnam veteran who is willing to share their story with a journalist.

We look forward to facilitating commemorative events when it is permitted and safe to do so.

Lest we forget.