It took Gary Lopez 43 years after serving in the Defence Force to march on Anzac Day

VIETNAM veteran Gary Lopez will march this Anzac Day while his proud grandchildren watch on. However it hasn’t always been a source of pride for Mr Lopez.

Garry Lopez served in the Vietnam War at Nui Dat (what he called the sharp end) and in Vung Tau (the blunt end) for 12 months as an electrician during the Vietnam War. May we please have a portrait of Garry with his medals at his home in Wynnum. Verts and Horis. Must Run for 100 days of ANZAC coverage. PLEASE FILE ASAP.

A VETERAN who marched for the first time only three years ago said it was a special experience considering he was shunned on his return from the Vietnam War in 1969.

Gary Lopez, of Wynnum, was conscripted into the Australian Army by birthday ballot and served in Vietnam, in Nui Dat and Vung Tau, as a sapper in 1968 and 1969.

He participated in his first Anzac Day march in 2012 — 43 years after he came home.

“Vietnam was such an unpopular war,” he said.

“You just quietly came back to Australia — nobody wanted to know you.

“It’s a really special feeling when you march and the people are there clapping you.

“It’s a humbling thing when you march that the people are so appreciative.”

The 69-year-old said he had been lucky as he had escaped serving in the infantry because he was an electrician.

He also said sport and his faith in God saved him from the despair.

His wife Glenda Lopez said their grandchildren loved to watch him march.

If you have a story in the lead-up to the 100th anniversary of Anzac Day, email Judith Maizey on 3826 2619.

Originally published as It took Gary Lopez 43 years after serving in the Defence Force to march on Anzac Day