MIN 44/02 Sunday, 10th February, 2002

The Minister Assisting the Minister for Defence, Danna Vale MP today presented the first Anniversary of National Service 1951-1972 Medal to the families of seven former national servicemen who were killed in operations during the Vietnam War.

The presentations took place at a Remembrance Memorial Service and Wreath Laying Ceremony conducted by the National Servicemen's Association of Australia at Martin Place in Sydney. A similar service and ceremony was conducted in Brisbane.

Minister Vale said the presentation of the first medals marked the 50th anniversary of the introduction of universal conscription in Australia and was an important occasion marking the nation's gratitude for the contribution of National Servicemen.

"National Servicemen, or Nasho's as they became known, were conscripted from all walks of life into military service during the 50's, 60's and 70's," Minister Vale said.

"Of the more than 300,000 National Servicemen who served in the Army, Navy and Airforce during this time, 187 paid the ultimate sacrifice, and some 1,500 were wounded during their service.

"Conscription was not universally approved in Australia, yet despite significant social tension, National Servicemen proudly served their country through some very difficult times in our domestic and international environments.

"This commemorative medal is a physical reminder of their efforts, and an important symbol that the people of Australia are extremely grateful for the service and sacrifice of our National Servicemen.

"More than 25,000 applications have been received to date and I look forward to National Servicemen wearing their medal with pride."

MEDIA BACKGROUNDER - Anniversary of National Service 1951-1972 Medal

This new commemorative medal has been established to mark the 50th Anniversary of the introduction of post-World War II national service. The medal is the Government's way of publicly acknowledging those who served in the two national service schemes from 1951-1972. Some 325, 811 national servicemen participated in these schemes.

BACKGROUND NATIONAL SERVICEMEN

Between 1951 - 1959 more than 227,000 young Australians undertook a period of full-time and part-time service under the national service scheme.

From January 1965 through until December 1972, a further 63,000 national servicemen gave between 18 months and two years of full-time service. In addition more than 30,000 Australians elected to complete their national service obligation as members of the Citizens Military Force under the 1965-1972 national service scheme.

National servicemen saw service during the mid 1960's in Malaysia and Borneo during the Indonesian Confrontation, and some 17,400 served with distinction in South Vietnam.