Remembering the Battle of Fire Support Bases Coral and Balmoral

55 years ago today, Australian and New Zealand forces were attacked, resulting in their largest battle of the Vietnam War – the Battle of Fire Support Bases Coral and Balmoral.

25 Australians lost their lives in the 25 day battle.

Australian and New Zealand Forces were setting up bases to defend Saigon when they were attacked in the early hours of 13 May 1968.

An Australian artillery battery, its mortar platoon and machine gunners were subject to intense fire.

First light revealed the aftermath of the overnight attack; sadly nine Australian soldiers lost their lives, with a further 28 wounded.

Over the next 25 days, another 16 Australian lives were lost.

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh said today, we honour those who lost their lives in combat and we commend the bravery of all those who served in the defence of our nation during the Vietnam War.

“The Battle of Fire Support Bases Coral and Balmoral, during the Vietnam War, must never be forgotten,” Minister Keogh said. 

Throughout 2023, the Australian Government is recognising the contribution of our Vietnam veterans, their service in Vietnam and their role as integral members of the ex-service community in the decades since the war.

On Vietnam Veterans’ Day, 18 August 2023, a national commemorative service will be held at the Vietnam Forces National Memorial in Canberra to recognise the 50th anniversary of the end of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War.

For more information about the service and the 50th anniversary, visit the Department of Veterans’ Affairs website: dva.gov.au/vietnam50

Authorised by The Hon Matt Keogh MP.

Editor’s note: For veterans and families this day may be an emotional time and lead to feelings of distress. You are encouraged to include the contact information for Open Arms Veterans and Families Counselling in your stories. Open Arms is available 24/7 on 1800 011 046 or visit OpenArms.gov.au.

Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling provides 24/7 free confidential crisis support for current and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families on 1800 011 046 or the Open Arms website. Safe Zone Support provides anonymous counselling on 1800 142 072. Defence All-Hours Support Line provides support for ADF personnel on 1800 628 036 or the Defence Health Portal. Defence Member and Family Helpline provides support for Defence families on 1800 624 608