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Long Tan Day

Remember and honor the sacrifices made on Long Tan Day with ceremonies, tributes, and remembrance events. Lest we forget.

Tuesday

August 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAugust 18

OBSERVED INVietnam

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYCivics

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Mark your calendars for August 18, because it's time to commemorate Long Tan Day! This day is named after the Battle of Long Tan, which took place during the Vietnam War in 1966. It was a significant event that involved Australian and New Zealand soldiers fighting against the North Vietnamese and Viet Cong forces. Today, Long Tan Day is not only a way to remember and honor those who fought in this battle, but also a chance to reflect on the sacrifices made by all soldiers who have served their countries. So let's take a moment to pay our respects and show gratitude for their bravery and dedication.

TIMELINE

Long Tan Day Timeline

Battle of Long Tan

The Battle of Long Tan takes place, where Australian forces engaged with Viet Cong and North Vietnamese forces, marking a significant event in the Vietnam War.

First Long Tan Day Service

The first official commemorative service for the Battle of Long Tan, later known as Long Tan Day, was held at the Australian Vietnam Forces National Memorial in Canberra.

Recognition of Long Tan Day

The Australian Government officially recognized August 18 as Long Tan Day, honoring the soldiers who fought in the Battle of Long Tan.

Name Change to Vietnam Veterans Day

Long Tan Day was officially renamed to Vietnam Veterans Day by the Australian Government, expanding the commemoration to all veterans of the Vietnam War.

Long Tan Cross Returned

The original cross erected by Australian soldiers in Long Tan was returned to Australia and is displayed in the Australian War Memorial.

50th Anniversary Commemoration

The 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan was commemorated with special events, issuing a special "Battle of Long Tan Anniversary Medal".

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Long Tan Day

Attend a commemorative ceremony

Many cities and towns hold ceremonies to honor the soldiers who fought in the Battle of Long Tan. Attend one of these ceremonies to pay your respects and learn more about the significance of this day.

READ

Read about the history of Long Tan

Take some time to educate yourself about the Battle of Long Tan, its impact on the Vietnam War, and the soldiers who fought in it. This will help you better understand the importance of honoring this day.

WATCH

Watch a documentary or film about Long Tan

There are many documentaries and films that depict the events of the Battle of Long Tan. Consider watching one to gain a deeper understanding of this historic event and its impact on Australian history.

VISIT

Visit a war memorial

Pay your respects to the soldiers who fought in the Battle of Long Tan by visiting a war memorial. You can also lay flowers or wreaths to honor their memory.

HOLD

Hold a moment of silence

At 6:00 pm on Long Tan Day, hold a moment of silence to remember the soldiers who lost their lives in the Battle of Long Tan. This is a simple yet powerful way to honor their sacrifice and show your support.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Long Tan Day is Important

Bringing people together

Long Tan Day is observed by numerous countries, including Vietnam, Australia, New Zealand, and America. This day serves as a way to bring together different communities and cultures through shared remembrance and respect for those who fought in the war.

Honoring our veterans

Long Tan Day, also known as Vietnam Veterans Day, is a day to remember and honor the soldiers who fought in one of the longest and most controversial wars in modern history. It's a time to show appreciation for their sacrifices and bravery.

Understanding history

As time goes on, it's important to reflect on past events and learn from them. Long Tan Day allows us to understand the impact of the Vietnam War and its effects on both individual lives and society as a whole.

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