Each April 25th some of our closest allies; Australia and New Zealand, commemorate the service and sacrifice of their service members. The day begins with a dawn service and there are several other events throughout the day including parades.
It’s bigger than Veteran’s Day here with more participation. It’s what Veteran’s Day was probably like after the War to End All Wars and ANZAC does have it’s roots in the memory of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps troops who served the empire in World War One. While April 25th might seem an odd date, it is actually the anniversary of the first major battle fought by ANZAC forces; the battle of Gallipoli in what is now Turkey.
Please join us in honoring not only their fallen, but also the fact that they are on our team. So take a moment and have an ANZAC biscuit on us.
Thank you Australia and New Zealand for everything you do in the Coalition.
Tags: ANZAC
You are most welcome and thank you very much for the article. I fought in 3 wars to support the US in the Coalition and am most happy to have done so for our Brothers in Arms.
Proud Australian currently serving.
Lest we forget.
I think Attaturk’s words are very apt:
Those heroes that shed their blood And lost their lives…
You are now lying in the soil of a friendly country.
Therefore, rest in peace.
There is no difference between the Johnnies
And the Mehmets to us where they lie side by side,
Here in this country of ours.
You, the mothers, who sent their sons from far away countries…
Wipe away your tears.
Your sons are now lying in our bosom
And are in peace.
After having lost their lives on this land, they have
Become our sons as well.”
British, Australian NZ Ghurka and other Empire troops and French troops fought and died at Gallipolli along with thier enemies the Turks.
The original campaign, as concieved by Churchill would almost certainly have shortened the war. Unfortunately due to a series of blunders beyond his control the plan did not work. The land campaign, which was not his original plan, should also have worked. Again defeat was snatched from the jaws of victory on too many occasions. I’m afraid the Generals and Admirals must take the blame for that.
Proud Turkish currently a naval officer.
Lest we forget.
As a former American soldier now living in NZ, I have to say I’m impressed by the response to ANZAC day. Indeed, this is what Armistice Day must have been like in the US back in the early to mid-20th Century.