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Never forgotten: Lynne Moore, with her son Craig Moore, lays roses in
memory of her husband, Ray Moore, at Croydon war memorial
Episode 3349 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about how Australian Vietnam War widows were treated. The story is titled: The knock on the door: 57 years on, a Vietnam War widow tells her story. It appeared on the City Life website and was submitted by Carolyn Webb.
Webb reported that the Vietnam War left a lasting mark on countless families, and the story of Private Ray Moore reminds us of the tremendous courage, sacrifice, and dedication of the Vietnam Veteran Generation. Ray Moore, only 23 years old, was killed in action by a Viet Cong sentry on July 24, 1969, leaving behind his young wife, Lynne, and their three small children.
For Lynne Moore, the famous 1969 moon landing is not a memory of human achievement. Instead, it brings back the painful memory of military officials arriving at her mother’s home with news that changed her life forever. Yet decades later, Lynne is determined that Ray’s service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.
Historian Anthony McAleer addresses the crowd at the Croydon service.
At a Vietnam Veterans Day ceremony at the Croydon war memorial, Lynne, her son Craig, and grandson Brendan placed roses in Ray’s memory. His story is featured in the book Vietnam – Long Hard Years Not Forgotten, written by Anthony McAleer, documenting the experiences of Lilydale region Vietnam veterans and their families.
Ray’s story also connects with fellow soldier Michael Hannaford, who was killed in December 1968 when his tank struck a mine. Their widows endured unimaginable hardship, including the painful treatment of veterans’ families after their husbands’ deaths.
These stories remind us that the Vietnam War Veterans were not simply soldiers—they were husbands, fathers, sons, and members of their communities. 523 Australians died in Vietnam, approximately 2,400 were wounded, and thousands returned home to a divided nation.
As Australia remembers the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, we honor every Vietnam veteran for their bravery, service, sacrifice, and patriotism. We can disagree about the politics of war while always honoring the men and women who courageously wore the uniform. Vietnam Veterans deserve our lasting respect, gratitude, and remembrance.
Listen to episode 3349 and discover more about how Australian Vietnam War widows were treated.
