Anzac Drive towards the Parliament building
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Vietnam Forces National Memorial

4.8
·65 reviews·Reid, Australia

A solemn tribute honoring Australians who served in the Vietnam War, featuring unique elements like the Wall of Words for reflection and remembrance.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

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From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

For a peaceful, reflective experience.

CrowdLow
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Anzac Drive towards the Parliament building

Vietnam Forces National Memorial

Best Time

Weekday mornings

For a peaceful, reflective experience.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A solemn tribute honoring Australians who served in the Vietnam War, featuring unique elements like the Wall of Words for reflection and remembrance.

4.8
(65 reviews)

"A deeply emotional and thoughtful memorial that truly honors the sacrifices of our Vietnam veterans."

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TIP

Allow Time for Reflection

Take your time to absorb the atmosphere and read the inscriptions. It's a place for quiet contemplation. :pray:

Free Parking Nearby

There's free 2-hour parking close to the memorial, making it easy to stop and spend some time. :car:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wall of Words

Wall of Words

Unique granite wall inscribed with the distinct language of Australian troops in Vietnam. A powerful glimpse into their experiences.

Suspended Granite Ring

Suspended Granite Ring

A solemn ring holding a scroll with the names of Australians who died in the conflict. A focal point for remembrance.

Granite Memorial Stone

Granite Memorial Stone

Features the official badges of the Australian Army, Navy, and Air Force, symbolizing the unified service.

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Planning Your Visit

A Place of Solemn Remembrance

This memorial honors Australians who served in the Vietnam War. It's a space for reflection, community, and education about the conflict's impact and the sacrifices made. Plan for a quiet, contemplative visit.

Timing Your Visit

While open year-round, consider visiting during significant dates like Vietnam Veterans' Day (August 18th) for commemorative services. Weekday mornings offer the most peaceful experience for personal reflection.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
For a peaceful, reflective experience.
Crowd
Low
When
August 18th (Vietnam Veterans' Day)
Why
To witness commemorative services.
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Allow Time for Reflection

Take your time to absorb the atmosphere and read the inscriptions. It's a place for quiet contemplation. :pray:

Free Parking Nearby

There's free 2-hour parking close to the memorial, making it easy to stop and spend some time. :car:

Understand the Design

The memorial's elements, like the Wall of Words and granite ring, hold deep meaning. :bulb:

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Tips

from all over the internet

Allow Time for Reflection

Take your time to absorb the atmosphere and read the inscriptions. It's a place for quiet contemplation. :pray:

Free Parking Nearby

There's free 2-hour parking close to the memorial, making it easy to stop and spend some time. :car:

Understand the Design

The memorial's elements, like the Wall of Words and granite ring, hold deep meaning. :bulb:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(65 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently describe the Vietnam Forces National Memorial as an emotional and deeply moving tribute to Australian veterans. It's praised for its thoughtful design, particularly the Wall of Words, and its role in fostering remembrance and community. Some note the solemn atmosphere, which is appropriate for its purpose.

"The Australian Vietnam Forces National Memorial is a place of remembrance and reflection dedicated to all Australians who served in the Vietnam War between 1962 and 1973.
It's a significant site because:
* It honors the sacrifices of those who served: The memorial acknowledges the 50,000 Australian Army, Royal Australian Navy, and Royal Australian Air Force personnel involved in the conflict, including those who died.
* It fosters a sense of community and healing: The memorial provides a space for veterans, families, and the public to come together to remember, grieve, and heal.
* It educates future generations: The memorial serves as a reminder of the impact of war and encourages reflection on Australia's role in the Vietnam War.
The design of the memorial itself is also meaningful:
* The Wall of Words: This unique feature highlights the distinctive language used by Australian troops in Vietnam, providing a glimpse into their experiences.
* The granite memorial stone: This stone bears the badges of the three Armed Forces.
* The suspended granite ring: This ring contains a scroll with the names of the Australians who died in the conflict.
* The sheltering shape and calming water: These elements offer a sense of peace and respite to visitors.
Overall, the Australian Vietnam Forces National Memorial is a powerful tribute to the courage and sacrifice of those who served in the Vietnam War. It stands as a reminder of the human cost of conflict and the importance of remembrance."

Dang Hoang Anh

"Very emotional and a thoughtful service to the veterans of the proud men and women of the Australian Defence Force. Who lost their lives and returned to a thankless nation."

Sable Mallard

"Nice place to stop by and appreciate the sacrifices of our Defence Forces. There is free 2 hour parking near by and you can stop and spend some time here."

Rohit Revo

What People Like

Emotional tribute
Thoughtful design
Wall of Words

What People Dislike

Solemn atmosphere (as expected)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The memorial is located along ANZAC Parade. Public transport options are available, and there is free 2-hour parking nearby for those driving. Check local transport schedules for the most convenient routes.

Yes, there is free 2-hour parking available near the memorial, making it accessible for visitors arriving by car.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Vietnam Forces National Memorial is free. It is a public space dedicated to remembrance.

The memorial is an outdoor public space and is generally accessible at all times. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for the full experience and safety.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

It honors all Australians who served in the Vietnam War (1962-1973), acknowledging their sacrifices and fostering a space for healing and remembrance for veterans and their families.

Visitors can expect a solemn and reflective atmosphere. Key features include the Wall of Words, the granite memorial stone, and the suspended granite ring listing names of the fallen.

Photography is generally permitted, but visitors are asked to be respectful of the solemn nature of the site. Avoid disruptive behavior.

The memorial is designed with accessibility in mind, with pathways generally suitable for wheelchairs and mobility aids. It's recommended to check specific accessibility details if needed.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no food or dining facilities directly at the memorial. Visitors are advised to bring their own refreshments or dine at nearby establishments.

📸 📸 Photography

The Wall of Words offers unique photographic opportunities. The suspended granite ring with the names is also a poignant subject. Focus on capturing the reflective and solemn atmosphere.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Veterans and Their Families

This memorial is a deeply significant site for veterans of the Vietnam War and their families. It offers a space for reflection, remembrance, and community. Many visitors find it an emotional experience, providing a sense of closure and acknowledgment that may have been missing for some upon their return home. The Wall of Words offers a unique connection to the lived experiences of soldiers. Consider attending on Vietnam Veterans' Day for commemorative services.

History Enthusiasts

For those interested in Australian military history, the memorial provides a poignant look at a significant period. The design elements, particularly the Wall of Words and the list of fallen soldiers, offer insights into the human aspect of the conflict. It’s a place to learn about the sacrifices made and the unique experiences of Australian servicemen and women during the Vietnam War.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Meaning Behind the Design

The Vietnam Forces National Memorial is more than just a monument; it's a carefully crafted space designed to evoke emotion and remembrance. The Wall of Words is a particularly unique feature, inscribed with the distinctive slang and language used by Australian soldiers during the conflict. This offers a raw and personal insight into their daily lives and experiences, moving beyond formal military accounts.

Central to the memorial is the suspended granite ring, a powerful visual element that holds a scroll bearing the names of the Australians who lost their lives in Vietnam. This stark reminder of the human cost of war is a focal point for visitors. Complementing these elements are the granite memorial stone bearing the badges of the three armed forces, symbolizing unity, and the overall design incorporating a sheltering shape and calming water features, intended to provide a sense of peace and respite for those who visit to reflect and heal.

These design choices collectively aim to create an environment that is both educational and deeply emotional. They serve to honor the courage and sacrifice of the veterans, acknowledge the often-difficult homecoming many faced, and ensure that future generations understand the significance of Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War.

A Space for Veterans and Families

The Vietnam Forces National Memorial plays a crucial role in fostering a sense of community and providing a space for healing for veterans and their families. For many who served, the memorial represents a long-overdue acknowledgment of their service, especially given the challenging reception some faced upon returning home.

It serves as a gathering point for commemorative events, such as Vietnam Veterans' Day, where veterans, their families, and the public can come together to remember, share stories, and support one another. This shared experience is vital for processing the emotional impact of the war and for building connections among those who understand its unique challenges. The memorial offers a tangible place to honor fallen comrades and to find solace in collective remembrance.

For families of veterans, the memorial is a place to connect with their loved one's service history, to understand the sacrifices made, and to find comfort in a space dedicated to their memory. It provides a focal point for grief and a testament to the enduring legacy of those who served.

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