Address to launch VietNam Commemoration

Prime Minister Helen Clark has launched Tribute 08, an event to pay tribute to Viet Nam veterans and their families in 2008.

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Banquet Hall, ParliamentBuildings


I am pleased to be here today for the official launch of "Tribute 08" - a Vietnam Commemoration.

Tribute 08 is about acknowledging those who lost their lives in Vietnam, and the surviving veterans and their families, for their sacrifice in the service of New Zealand.

It has fallen to our Government to deal with the longer term consequences of New Zealand's involvement in the Vietnam War in the 1960s and 1970s, and with the issues raised more recently by veterans groups and the Health Select Committee.

It must be acknowledged that the service of New Zealanders in Vietnam ranks alongside that of Kiwi forces throughout our history.

Those who served in Vietnam performed their duties bravely, loyally, and professionally. It is highly appropriate that we pay tribute to all who served.

We must also acknowledge the many sacrifices their families have made.

Last December, the Government and veterans groups agreed on a substantial package of measures to address the issues which veterans have faced.

The Memorandum of Understanding which resulted is a unique agreement. It follows a long period of discussion between the government and veterans' representatives, and consultation with veterans throughout New Zealand.

The Government and veterans groups had worked closely together to define the problems and seek workable solutions.

After the MoU was signed, the same co-operative approach was taken for its implementation.

Not all the issues raised by veterans could be addressed directly, but I am confident we have done a great deal to implement the recommendations of the Health Select Committee, and to respond to the "Open Letter" from Veterans.

We have also been able to respond to many of the issues identified by the Joint Working Group.

One continuing theme was the call for a "Welcome Home/Whakanoa" ceremony for Vietnam veterans.

Many asked for a public commemoration acknowledging the service of the veterans and the sacrifices of their families.

This proposal was accepted for inclusion in the memorandum of understanding between the Government and the veterans' groups. Those charged with implementing that idea have developed it further. Now tonight's event is being held to launch publicly the concept of Tribute 08.

Recognising the ultimate sacrifice which those who fell made is an essential first step in reconciliation. Welcoming veterans home is a second step.

Recognising the reality of the contributions our Vietnam veterans made, and the struggle which they have faced since then, is another big step.

Through "Tribute 08" we will remember those individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice.

We will also recognise that those who served in Vietnam are part of the much wider New Zealand military family and tradition.

"Tribute 08" will include a Whakanoa Ceremony; a memorial service and the rededication of the Vietnam Honour in the National War Memorial; a public commemoration event; exhibitions of New Zealand's military heritage, with special focus on Vietnam; and a display of past and current New Zealand Defence Force equipment and capabilities.

I want to thank the Ministers of Defence and Veterans' Affairs for their commitment to the development and implementation of the entire MoU.

I also want to thank the EVSA and RNZRSA for their leadership in resolving the issues. They have delivered a good result for Vietnam veterans.

I commend the organisers of Tribute 08 for the vision they have demonstrated in planning this major event for Queen's Birthday weekend next year. The events planned will ensure that our Vietnam veterans finally receive the welcome home and recognition they deserve.