Thirlmere Vietnam War Memorial Middle Image Image Image 0 / 0 - Prev Next Description / Background This illustrated glass panel is installed on the 'Remembrance of Service Walkway', which forms the footpath leading to the Picton-Thirlmere-Bargo RSL sub-Branch hall and museum. It was erected in honour of the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan in the Vietnam War. The memorial is illustrated with two colour photographs. The larger photo shows soldiers of the 6 Royal Australian Regiment (RAR)/New Zealand (ANZAC) alighting from an Iroquois helicopter on a landing zone. The photo was taken around 18 August 1966. It represents the national significance of the war. The smaller photo is a portrait of Private Ian Thomson of Thirlmere. Thomson was a fitter and toolmaker, who was conscripted into the National Service in 1966. He served with 3RAR, held a trade and volunteered for an infantry unit. On 19 October 1968, he was badly wounded while engaging the enemy using a heavy concentration of rocket-propelled grenades. He carried on fighting until he was killed by a direct hit. He had only 12 more days left to complete his tour of duty and was only 22 years old. This image represents the local significance of the war. Inscription Vietnam 1962–1973 Dedicated to honour all those who served with distinction and remember all who paid the supreme sacrifice during service to their country Erected in recognition of the Battle of Long Tan 50th anniversary 18th August 2016 Their name liveth evermore Picture courtesy of the Australia War Memorial EKN/69/0075/VN funded by the Department of Veteran Affairs 'Saluting Their Service' Veterans listed on this memorial Do you know more about this war Memorial? Click here to learn how you can contribute Sidebar Address Picton-Thirlmere-Bargo RSL sub-Branch 1 Mason Street Thirlmere NSW 2572 Local Government Area Wollondilly Shire Setting Building – outside Location status Original location Memorial type Board/roll/plaque/tablet Recorded by Tim Bennett-Smith Year of construction 18 August 2016 Dedication date 30 October 2016 Conflict/s Vietnam War, 1962–75 Materials Glass