Soldiers and officers of 5/7th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (5/7RAR), commemorated the Battle of Binh Ba with a parade at Robertson Barracks in Darwin on June 18.
Underneath the sweltering Darwin sun, soldiers marched in order as two armed reconnaissance helicopters flew low in formation overhead, while veterans of the 5RAR Association watched on.
They were commemorating one of the fiercest engagements of the Vietnam War 56 years ago.
Over two relentless days, July 6-8, 1969, in Phuoc Tuy Province, 5RAR - alongside their brothers from the 6th Battalion - encountered a well-entrenched enemy force.
Master of ceremonies and Adjutant of 5/7RAR, Captain Jarrad Dekuyer, said he was proud to take part in the commemoration.
"I've served in 5RAR and now 5/7RAR, and having the responsibility to carry on the legacy and speak in front of the veterans present was an honour," Captain Dekuyer said.
"They're grateful to feel welcomed and to see that their service is still being recognised by people whose parents probably weren't even born when they served."
Captain Dekuyer said the soldiers within the unit often talked about the historical events of the Tiger Battalion and reflect on why they serve.
'They're hoping to have the same bonds over 50 years later like the soldiers and officers from 5RAR in front of them today.'
"For them, it's something they aspire to, when they see the veterans," he said.
"They're hoping to have the same bonds over 50 years later like the soldiers and officers from 5RAR in front of them today."
CO 5/7RAR Lieutenant Colonel Hugh Grogan said the day was important for the battalion's history and through the amalgamation with 7th Battalion.
"It's actually a week after we traditionally commemorate the Battle of Binh Ba, but with the battalion being out field, we had to defer it," he said.
"We held our veterans event yesterday, which gave us a chance to welcome our extended family."
A memorial event was held on June 17 to remember Barry Ryan, 5RAR platoon commander who served with the battalion during Vietnam.
"The service was poignant," Lieutenant Colonel Grogan said.
"The words that were spoken about Barry Ryan highlighted not only his courage, but the care for his soldiers under his command.
"It was a true testament to his character and that, 56 years later, he is still remembered in this way."
After the formalities, the annual Jason Charles Memorial football game was played - soldiers versus officers and senior non-commissioned officers - which the soldiers won by more than 100 points.
