Designated as Vietnam Veterans Day, the Port Macquarie RSL sub-Branch will host the 53rd anniversary service from 11am at the cenotaph.

Sub-Branch secretary Gary Spencer said he was expecting a good turn out for the service.

"The Battle of Long Tan and the Vietnam conflict were quite significant and should still be commemorated," he said.

"This year's service will include a reunion of about 100 members of 85 Transport which will help boost our numbers on the day.

"We hope to see a good response from the local community along with many of our 430 sub-Branch members."

Mr Spencer said the Battle of Long Tan is arguably the most famous battle fought by the Australian Army during the Vietnam War.

In 1966 D Company of 6RAR was patrolling the Long Tan rubber plantation when at about 3.15pm, the lead platoon encountered a small group of Viet Cong who fled leaving one of their number killed by the Australians.

At around 4.08pm, the main body of the Viet Cong 275 Regiment was encountered. The Viet Cont attacked vigorously with mortars, rifle and machine gun fire.

In pouring rain, the Australians returned fire with platoon weapons and artillery which was firing from the Nui Dat base, some five kilometres away.

Close air support was also called for but couldn't be used because the target was unable to be identified accurately in the conditions.

Morning revealed that the Viet Cong force, estimated at 2500, had been badly mauled with 245 killed.

The Australians had lost 18 killed, 17 from D Company and one from 1st APC squadron. There were 24 wounded.

Mr Spencer said the Vietnam soldiers were not treated well on their return to Australia.

"Eventually there were return marches held and it was also decided to hold a remembrance service for the Battle of Long Tan - August 18," he said.

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