Padua College Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Key Information

To coincide with the 50th anniversary of the battle of Long Tan, Padua College announced a plaque acknowledging all Old Boys who served in the Vietnam war.

A committee of Vietnam veterans and other Old Boys was formed and after much research, identified 44 former students of the College who served in various branches of the armed forces during the Vietnam war. There were 8 Royal Australian navy, 30 Australian Army (of which 21 were National Service) and 6 Royal Australian Air Force.

Padua College’s connection to the battle of Long Tan is significant with three Old Boys involved in the battle: two from Delta Company 6RAR and one from 105 Field Battery RAA.

Private Dennis McCormack was killed in action during the battle on 18-19 August 1966. Another Old Boy, Private Peter Francis Kowalski was killed in action on 8 February 1971.

The Memorial Plaque was dedicated on the 18 August 2016 with a ceremony conducted by the College. It was attended by 1,500 students and staff, Vietnam veterans and other guests.

The plaque is a permanent memento and reminder of Padua College’s contribution to the Vietnam War and forms a significant part of its history. Most importantly, it serves to honour and remember Old Boys Dennis McCormack and Peter Kowalski who made the ultimate sacrifice.