Two friends on a mission to honour Vietnam Veterans

Two South Australian friends showed a whole lot of grit and determination to help create a lasting memorial to Australia’s Vietnam Veterans.

A veteran himself, Roger Hogben (left) and his best mate John Edwards were having a ‘cuppa’ at their local café in 2023 when they came up with the idea.

‘We were leafing through a newspaper when we saw an item about the 50th anniversary of Australia pulling out of the conflict,’ Roger said.   
 
‘We started talking how we could commemorate and honour those who served.’     
 
The ex-rifleman and the retired local councillor sprang into action, bunkered down and took charge of what became a massive logistical operation.  
 
Fast forward to 2025 and the two were front and centre at this year’s official opening of the 3.7km Vietnam War Memorial Walk on the Yorke Peninsula in South Australia.   
 
The walk between Edithburgh and Coobowie is dedicated to those who served from 1962 – 1975, featuring information posts about each Australian unit along the way.  

Almost 60,000 Australians served in the Vietnam War. Open Arms is very proud of its close ties to Vietnam Veterans who founded our service to help their fellow veterans overcome mental and physical challenges from the war. 
Previously known as the Vietnam Veterans’ Counselling Service (VVCS), Open Arms – Veterans and Families Counselling is a testament to their foresight, determination and ongoing legacy.
Roger was thrilled to see so many Vietnam Veterans wearing their medals with pride at the opening event.  
 
‘When I came home I couldn’t wear my own medals, but not out of shame. I was told by an RSL on Anzac Day that I shouldn’t be there because I wasn’t involved in a proper war,’ he explained.   
 
‘The troops that came home were, in some cases, rejected and held responsible for a war they had no choice in.  
 
‘This has changed dramatically and the anger for many, including me, has dissipated.’      
  
Roger and John are also very thankful for all the strong support they received from the local community, including businesses, ex-service organisations and the Yorke Peninsula Council which approved the project.  

You can read more about the walk by visiting https://yorke.sa.gov.au/discover/things-to-do/vietnam-war-memorial-walk/

Image courtesy of Jenny Oldland.  
 
Open Arms provides free, military-aware mental health support for veterans and their immediate family. Contact us day or night on 1800 011 046.