If you are considering attending the ANZAC Day Dawn Service at the Long Tan Cross then there are a few things that you will need to know. The following information is taken from the Australian Consulate Website. It is also suggested you bring a torch. If I may add my own suggestion with a box of tissues. I will be attending and anticipate it to be a very moving morning. For a bit more history on the battle of Long Tan, here is a link to a post I did last year on Veterans Day.
Veterans Day - Long Tan 2011
The Australian Consulate advises:
The Long Tan Cross (LTC), located in Ba Ria-Vung Tau (BRVT) Province approximately 110 km east of Ho Chi Minh City, marks the site of the Battle of Long Tan. This Battle, which took place on 18 August 1966, was Australia's single most costly engagement of the Vietnam War, with the loss of 18 Australian soldiers.
A cross was first erected on the site in 1969 when the 6th Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment, which fought in the Battle, was on its second tour of duty . The original cross was later removed by the Vietnamese. A replica now stands on the same site.
Visiting the Long Tan Cross
Due to sensitivities regarding the memorial and because it is located on relatively isolated, non-public land, those wishing to visit the site must notify the Dat Do District People’s Committee in writing by fax 3 days in advance of their visit, either individually or through a travel agent.
Local authorities recommend visitors utilise a travel agent as notification should be in Vietnamese language and should include names and passport numbers of visitors, as well as their intended day/time of visits to the LTC. For individuals wishing to notify directly, please download a bilingual standard notification form.
The fax number for Dat Do District People’s Committee is:
+84 64 3688 245……. From outside Vietnam
064 3688 245…………From inside Vietnam
The telephone number is:
+84 64 3688 285.........From outside Vietnam
064 3688 285..............From inside Vietnam
In recognition of sensitivities associated with the LTC, visitors should conduct themselves with appropriate decorum and observe the following protocols in order not to jeopardise continued access to this important site:
No medals or military uniforms to be worn
No flags to be raised or displayed
No music to be played
Any speeches made at the site to be low key and short
Official Services at the Long Tan Cross
In recognition of the importance of the LTC to veterans and others who wish to recognise Australians who served in Vietnam, local authorities permit the Australian Consulate-General to organise two annual official commemoration services at the LTC on behalf of the Australian Government:
1. Anzac Day Dawn Service on 25 April, commencing 5:15am
2. Vietnam Veterans’ Day Service on 18 August, commencing 3:30pm.
Travel Agents in Ba Ria-Vung Tau (for reference)
OSC Vietnam Tours
9 Le Loi Street, Ward 1, Vung Tau City
Tel: +84 64 3852008 or 3810515 or 3254008
Fax: +84 64 3852318
Email: osc-tours@hcm.vnn.vn
Vung Tau Tourist Corporation.
29 Tran Hung Dao Street, Vung Tau City.
Tel :+84 64 3857527 or 3511043
Fax : +84 64 3852284 Email: vungtautour@hcm.vnn.vn
