John Howard (Bennelong, Liberal Party, Prime Minister) Share this | Hansard source

Mr Speaker, may I have the indulgence of the House to speak briefly about the 40th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan and Vietnam Vietnams Day, which will be marked tomorrow. As members know, there will be a reception in the Great Hall this evening to pay tribute to the hundreds of Vietnam veterans who have come to Canberra to mark this event.

Let me start by acknowledging and, on behalf of the House, honouring and paying tribute to the member for Cowan, Graham Edwards, who served in the Australian Army from 1968 to 1971 as a member of the Pioneer Platoon, 7th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment. He is, in my understanding, the only currently serving member of the parliament who served in Vietnam. He paid a terrible price for his service—he lost both legs in a landmine blast. Following his discharge from the Army, he spent many years—and he continues to do so—assisting veterans. On behalf of my colleagues and I know all members of the House, we acknowledge his contribution and we honour his service and his bravery.

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