The Cowra group is in the throes of organising a special service locally for the fiftieth anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan and Vietnam Veterans Day on August 18.

Spokesperson Tom Humphries stressed the group welcomed all - particularly vets who may have drifted away after making initial contact - to join them, fifty years on from Long Tan.

"In Cowra we have an active group of vets, who are planning a wonderful service, commencing at 5.30pm," Mr Humphries explained.

"The planning of the evening has commenced and after the service, we will be retiring to the Services Club for drinks and dinner.

"We have former Deputy Prime Minister the Honourable Tim Fisher - who was a Vietnam Veteran himself - as our guest speaker.

"Again, we have extra planning for our ceremony that cannot be revealed here...yet!

"This service is not only for RSL members, but to you the public. It would be a wonderful evening if you could come and join us, your support has always been recognised by returned personnel.

"There will be follow up articles in future editions of the paper regarding planning for this ceremony."

For more information on the Cowra Vietnam Veterans Association, you can call:

Frank Bridges - 6342 3660 (President)

John Kelly - 63451964 (Secretary)

Tom Humphries - 6342 1322 (Treasurer).