18/08/2026
Today, on Vietnam Veterans’ Day, we pause to remember and honour all New Zealanders who served during the Vietnam War, and the sacrifices made by them and their families.
More than 3,000 New Zealand military and civilian personnel served in Vietnam between 1963 and 1975. Thirty-seven lost their lives while on active service, and a further 187 were wounded.
For many Vietnam veterans, the challenges did not end when they returned home. They came back to a country deeply divided over the war, and too often their service and sacrifice went unrecognised.
We cannot change the welcome they received then, but we can choose how we honour them now.
Today, we acknowledge our living Vietnam veterans and thank them for their service. We remember those who lost their lives in Vietnam, and those who have passed away in the years since returning home.
We also recognise the families and loved ones who stood beside them, carried their own burdens, and supported them through the lasting impacts of service.
To all who served, sacrificed and supported - we remember you. We honour you.
Our Vietnam veteran: Vince Kerr
https://vietnamwar.govt.nz/veteran/cpl-vincent-john-kerr
