ANZAC Day is an incredibly important day to Aussies. Whilst commemorating all Australian soldiers who have served in past wars, ANZAC Day does focus specifically on the battle of Gallipoli.
For those reading who are not familiar with what happened in Gallipoli, Australian and New Zealand soldiers (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps = ANZACs) landed on the Turkish beach at dawn on the 25th of April 1915. Having unfortunately received an error with coordinates and landing at the wrong beach, the ANZAC soldiers were unaware Turkish defenders were waiting for them, and were subsequently met with fierce resistance. Thousands of men died that day. However the soldiers continued to fight with what is now known as the ‘ANZAC spirit.’ Though they were continually met with fierce gunfire, the ANZACs did not give in, and did not surrender in their attempts to reach the shore.
The determination of the soldiers who landed that day resulted in a failed ‘surprise’ attack becoming an eight month campaign, with massive casualties on both sides. But the ANZAC position was held, against all the odds.
As a result of the Gallipoli campaign, commemorative services were started in Australia on April 25th. Every year since, thousands of people attend dawn services around the country, remembering and honoring all soldiers who have fought for the freedom of Australia over the years.
Today I attended a community service in the suburbs of Adelaide. Whilst not held at dawn, the morning service was beautiful and attracted many locals whom are there every year. I, like many Australian’s, have a relative who fought in World War Two. Whilst my great-grandfather is now long passed and I was never fortunate enough to meet him, he did contribute to my way of life today and for that I am grateful.
When I’m traveling, I feel it’s incredibly important to understand the history of the countries and places I’m in, and when days like ANZAC Day come to pass, feel visitors should do their best to observe and respect the local customers.
The service this morning was only short, but a good chance for families to attend with their children and fellow community members, creating an understanding that we are incredibly lucky to live in Australia, and be thankful for all the opportunities open to us.
In Adelaide city the dawn service is followed by a parade of veterans, whilst throughout community areas local fire stations and RSL clubs hold breakfasts so everyone can have a day of good food, ANZAC biscuits, catching up with new and old friends, remembering the old times and enjoying a game of two-up.
If you’re fortunate enough to be in Australia during ANZAC Day, or anywhere else in the world where a day of respect is being held and there are events for you to attend, I highly encourage you to do so. It’s such a great way to understand the culture of a country, and certainly on ANZAC Day, to get a true idea the respect and gratitude Aussies have for both our current and past men and women who’ve contributed so much to our freedom.
Lest we forget.
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