Museum is a first for Vietnam Vets

By Shaun Inguanzo
GREATER Dandenong Vietnam Veterans were among the hundreds of people at the launch of the nation’s first Vietnam War museum last Friday.
The National Vietnam Veterans Museum was officially opened in Newhaven by Premier Steve Bracks and several hundred Vietnam Veterans from across the country.
The museum is the first of its type in Australia and is the culmination of hard work of many veterans, including John Methven, who gave life to the concept when he and wife Krishna drove around Australia with a four-wheel-drive full of memorabilia.
Local Vets included Noble Park RSL’s John Meehan, Dandenong RSL’s Greg Aikman, ad Cranbourne RSL’s John Cooper.
Both the state and federal governments contributed funds to the project, along with the Bass Coast Shire.
The total value of the museum and its land stands at $2 million.
The museum also has plans to replicate a Battle of Long Tan cross as part of a Remembrance Memorial.
“A number of veterans have indicated their willingness to have their ashes scattered at the site,” the museum’s website says.
“This will truly make your museum a spiritual home.”