Minister Assisting the Minister for Defence Bruce Billson has today welcomed reports from Australian forensic specialists on the ground in Vietnam that they have positively identified remains recovered outside Bien Hoa as those of Lance Corporal Richard Parker and Private Peter Gillson. The two brave Australian soldiers were declared missing-in-action in 1965 during the Vietnam War. Operation Aussies Home recently discovered the remains and the Australian Government sent a team of forensic specialists to Vietnam to assist with identification.

The team has advised that dental records, bones, teeth and artefacts found at the burial site, including military dog tags, have led to positive identifications. The families of the two soldiers have been advised of the latest developments and the Australian Government is committed to working with them to arrange repatriation to Australia and appropriate funeral arrangements. This process may take three to four weeks.

"These soldiers lost their lives while serving our country and it is wonderful that these collaborative efforts look like bringing closure to the families of Lance Corporal Parker and Private Gillson and will result in them being finally put to rest with proper military honours," Mr Billson said. “Australia is grateful to the Vietnamese authorities who have greatly assisted the Forensic Team and Operation Aussies Home in according these soldiers an appropriate final tribute. Their continued assistance in honouring these Australian soldiers is greatly appreciated”.

“I’m also grateful to Operation Aussies Home who, as a result of their research and commitment, have located these remains. Mr Jim Bourke and his team have pursued this search with great vigour and diligence and deserve great credit,” Mr Billson said. The Australian Government has supported the work of Operation Aussies Home in Vietnam through funding commitments of more than $60,000 and diplomatic assistance. It will continue to provide appropriate levels of support.