Plaques commemorating veterans of the Gulf wars and Afghanistan War to be unveiled in Port Kennedy

Plaques honouring Australian personnel who served in recent wars will be unveiled in Port Kennedy this weekend.

The Totally and Partially Disabled Veterans WA last year met with the Port Kennedy RSL, to discuss a commemoration service and plaques in honour of personnel who served in the Gulf wars and War in Afghanistan.

The design of the plaques was selected by badge managers of the Army, Navy and Royal Australian Air Force, with their permission to use the official badges on each of the plaques.

A ceremony for the unveiling of the plaques will take place at the Veterans’ Memorial Park at 11am on Saturday, September 17.

Rockingham mayor Deb Hamblin and Minister for Veterans Paul Papalia will speak at the ceremony.

The TPDVWA has invited all members of the public to attend and take part in this important occasion.

Secretary Chris Elliott said “it is important to recognise those who have given active service to Australia”.

“While the Gulf wars only lasted two years, many thousands served, some of whom were wounded or killed. While the size of that conflict does not compare with World War I, World War II, Korea or Vietnam, those who served should be recognised.”

“The wars did not capture national attention and those who served, were wounded or killed have not really been appreciated.”

“The Afghanistan war lasted 20 years and about 60,000 Australians served in it. We don’t think that is ‘small’.”