The Australian War Memorial is on a mission to identify Indigenous people who served during the Vietnam War and is asking people to come forward and share their stories.
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Researchers have already identified more than 250 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and women who served during the war and are hoping the list will grow to 500.
Lead researcher and Australian War Memorial indigenous liaison officer Michael Bell said Indigenous Australians faced major barriers to joining the Australian Defence Force at the time. Researchers want to acknowledge their sacrifices and service.
Aboriginals were exempt from conscription, and Mr Bell's research uncovered a 1971 recruitment advertisement that also listed Aboriginals as "exempt".
"There are stories of people who got rejected, walked out the side door and they'd go back in the front door and volunteer to enlist," he said.
"Aboriginality was seen as a reason not to serve, but many still did. This reflects the willingness of our men and women to serve.
Mr Bell said the the memorial wanted more people to come forward to share their stories directly with the team. Researchers want to know why people volunteered to enlist. They would also like to hear stories of any racial tensions at the time, and any equality or inequality Indigenous veterans may have experienced.
Memorial director Matt Anderson, said the research was part of an ongoing campaign to recognise service of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
If you are Indigenous, served in the war and would like to share your experiences email michael.bell@awm.gov.au.
