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Hello, all my readers, today in Australia it is Anzac Day an important day for Australians.
ANZAC stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps.
First Anzac Day March
The 25th of April was officially named Anzac Day in 1916.
On the 25th
of April 1915, Australian and New Zealand soldiers formed part of the allied expedition
that set out to capture the Gallipoli peninsula. These became known as Anzacs
and the pride they took in that name continues to this day.
Anzac Day is a National Day of Remembrance in Australia, New Zealand and Tonga that broadly commemorates all Australians and New Zealanders "who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations" and "the contribution and suffering of all those who have served".
The Anzac
Day holiday is always recognised and observed on the 25 April every year. This
includes when it falls on a weekend. In many places it is only a half day
public holiday with many places of business opening at 1pm.
On 25 April 1916, marches were held throughout Australia, while in London more than 2000 Australian and New Zealand troops marched through the city. Anzac Day marches have been held every year since. After a decline in numbers of people marching during the 1970s, many thought the tradition was dying out, however, the 1980 Anzac Day march saw its largest Sydney attendance in a decade, with 21,000 ex-service members. Melbourne recorded the biggest turnout in 20 years, with more than 15,000 taking part including Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser.
Wall of honour at the War Memorial in Canberra
Anzac Day is
as important to most Australians today as it was back in 1916.
Lastly, I will mention at the original Aussie Anzacs were all volunteers.
The Anzacs were a great deal braver than the British authorities who "organized" the debacle were smart. But, since WWI was a huge and bloody "Who's Dumber" contest, I guess it fits. My heartiest salute!
ReplyDeleteThat is so true it was a long bloody screw up with too many dying
DeleteMay we never forget the sacrifice that brave men have always made to defend our freedoms, Jo-Anne. Reminds me of Memorial Day that we celebrate in the U.S. Blessings!
ReplyDeleteYes she should never forget all the brave men and women who fought in wars
DeleteYes, like our Memorial Day. Good to honor their memories. :)
ReplyDeleteYes I agree
DeleteWell done Jo-Anne.
ReplyDeleteAmen!! A salute to all who risked their lives for our freedom.
ReplyDeleteIndeed
DeleteI did not see any New Zealand groups matching in the city streets, and possibly did not hear their partnership mentioned in speeches. But we were ANZACs, not AACs.
ReplyDeleteYeah they played a huge part and also need to be remembered
Delete