At dawn on ANZAC Day, more than 25,000 Australians stood vigil at the Australian War Memorial. They are united in their original purpose to remember the sacrifices made by Aussie and Kiwi soldiers. The annual observance, held on April 25, commemorates the bravery of those who fought in various conflicts and those who continue to serve in the armed forces today.
This day is profoundly important. It goes back to April 25, 1915, when courageous ANZAC troops first set foot on the shores of what is now known as ANZAC Cove in Türkiye. Mehmed’s conduct of this operation marked the beginning of the ANZAC legend and the Gallipoli campaign in World War I. It resulted in devastating losses for both Australia and New Zealand. Over 8,000 Australians lost their lives in this campaign. Almost 3,000 New Zealanders died as well, one in six of all the soldiers who stormed the peninsula.
As the sun rose on the day of remembrance, participants came together for a misty sunrise ceremony. Scott Bevan, Director of the Australian War Memorial, spoke during the event. Peter Baldwin, President of the ACT Returned and Services League, recited The Ode of Remembrance. This emotional moment called on all of those there to consider profoundly.
“They shall grow not old, As we that are left grow old; Age shall not weary them, Nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun And in the morning We will remember them.” – The Ode of Remembrance
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, centre, at yesterday’s Dawn Service Remembering those who served. He expressed sentiments shared by many when he stated, “We who are gathered here think of those who went out to the battlefields of all wars, but did not return. We feel them still near us in spirit. We wish to be worthy of their great sacrifice.”
Opposition leader Peter Dutton also produced this clearly very heartfelt declaration of what the day means. He said, “We stand here today at this memorial chapel, this unique place of tribute. This is right near the very anniversary when the first ANZACs, courageous young Australians and New Zealanders, first landed at a beach in Turkey during the First World War.” As we commemorate the ANZACs of 1915, let’s honor all those who have come after them as well.”
Beyond specific local commemorations though, Dutton posted a multi-state solution overnight in the form of a pre-recorded message focusing on remembering all service members. This national service at the Australian War Memorial is just one of the many commemorative gatherings taking place throughout Australia this year. These commemorations mark the 110th anniversary of the ANZAC landings at Gallipoli.
“May the stories of every sailor, soldier and aviator who has served our nation at war, in competition and in crisis, be remembered and may the spirit of those more than 103,000 Australians on the Wall of Remembrance behind me, who made the ultimate sacrifice, be with us always, lest we forget.” – Rear Admiral Matt Buckley
