Celebrate Anzac Day – April 25, 2024

Australia and New Zealand place great emphasis on Anzac Day, which is celebrated on April 25. It is a highly esteemed national holiday, as a way to honor the sacrifices made by their dead warriors, Australians use this day to reflect on the many facets of war and to commemorate the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps’ first significant combat action during World War I.

History of Anzac Day

As a day of commemoration for the military’s contribution and remembering of war victims, April 25 has particular significance in Australia and New Zealand. It honors the crucial role that Australian and New Zealand soldiers played in the First World War, which was highlighted by the Anzac troops’ arrival on April 25, 1915, in Gallipoli, Turkey.

The Australian and New Zealand Army Corps is referred to as “Anzac.” Australia and New Zealand, as parts of the British Empire, entered the war after Great Britain declared war on Germany in reaction to the invasion of Belgium in 1914.

With over 70,000 troops – roughly 20,000 of them were Australians and New Zealanders – the morning arrival at Gallipoli sought to capture Istanbul, neutralize Turkey, and support Russia in its fight against Germany. The mission, albeit audacious, was beset by significant difficulties and, after eight months, came to a standstill, leading to the troops’ departure at the close of 1915.

October 13, 1915, in Adelaide was the first official acknowledgment of “Anzac Day.” Originally intended to be more of a patriotic campaign to generate awareness and cash for the soldiers than a somber remembrance, this day was first observed. Still, the importance of the day changed as the number of deaths on both sides increased, with about 2,700 New Zealanders and 8,700 Australians lost.

Under the leadership of acting Australian Prime Minister George Pearce, Anzac Day was formally declared and commemorated by England, Australia, New Zealand, and the troops in Egypt by the next year. As a day for introspection, remembering, and celebrating the sacrifices made by those who served, it developed throughout time and was officially declared a national public holiday by the middle of the 1920s.

Traditions of the Day

With a wealth of customs that are dutifully followed every year, Anzac Day is a revered national holiday in Australia and New Zealand. To guarantee that future generations never forget the significance of Anzac Day, the historical story is continuously repeated and maintained.

The day’s customs begin with the moving “dawn service,” which recreates the moment Anzac soldiers launched their attack on the beach at Gallipoli in World War I. After this somber contemplation, attendees partake in a customary “gunfire breakfast,” which is modeled after the basic meals that soldiers enjoyed during the conflict.

There are parades and marches, and many proudly wear medals and rosemary sprigs as a sign of remembering. In observance of the deceased, floral wreaths are fervently placed as a testament to their courage and selflessness.

Throughout the day, the focus is on war and the experiences of the Anzac troops. A variety of historical artifacts, including as sound recordings and pictures from post-campaign celebrations, are available for educational purposes in order to preserve their lasting relevance.

Attend a dawn service: Military forces favored the half-light of dawn for launching an attack. As a result, a dawn vigil became the basis for commemoration in several places after the war. Partake in this reflective tradition by attending a dawn service.

Visit a war memorial: Sometimes the best way to celebrate is through peace and solitude. Visit a war memorial to brush up on your history and learn the names of those who gave their lives.

Plan a trip to Gallipoli: Australian and New Zealand forces engaged in the Gallipoli military campaign on April 25, 1915, which became the original inspiration for the holiday. Visit the commemorative memorials and stunning battlefield sites for an eye-opening experience and learn why it helped foster a sense of national identity for New Zealand and Australia.

How to Observe Anzac Day?

Attend a Dawn Service: Participate in a somber dawn ceremony commemorating the historic Anzac soldiers’ landing on Gallipoli. These services are held in many communities as a way to remember those who served.

Visit a War Memorial: Spend some time at a war memorial, where you may pay tribute to those who lost their lives defending their nation and silently consider the past. It’s a significant method to honor the past and make a connection with it.

Plan a Trip to Gallipoli: For a profound experience, consider planning a trip to Gallipoli, the site of the historic military campaign that inspired Anzac Day. Explore the commemorative memorials and battlefield sites, gaining insight into the events that shaped the national identities of Australia and New Zealand.

5 Facts About Anzac Day

1. Volunteer Force: The Anzacs were composed entirely of volunteers. These brave individuals willingly enlisted to serve their countries in times of conflict.

2. Unique Tradition: An Australian tradition unique to Anzac Day is the game of ‘Two-up,’ a form of gambling. This game is exclusively played on Anzac Day, adding a distinctive aspect to the holiday’s observance.

3. Last Survivor: Alec Campbell, the last surviving soldier who fought in the Gallipoli campaign, passed away in 2002. His death marked the end of an era and brought a poignant close to a chapter in history.

4. Hardy Biscuits: Anzac biscuits, initially hard and square, were a staple food for soldiers and even served as souvenirs. These durable biscuits were renowned for their toughness, occasionally earning them the nickname “teeth breakers.”

5. Moment of Humanity: Despite being on opposing sides, soldiers during the Gallipoli campaign called a truce for eight hours to bury their dead. This act of respect and solidarity amidst conflict highlights the humanity that transcends the brutality of war.

Why Anzac Day is Important?

Remembrance: Originally conceived to honor those who perished in World War I, Anzac Day has evolved to encompass remembrance of all veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice. It serves as a solemn occasion to reflect on the lives lost in service to their countries.

Honor and Sacrifice: The day pays tribute to the valor and selflessness displayed by soldiers on the battlefield. It serves as a reminder of the courage and sacrifice exhibited by these individuals, exemplifying the true meaning of service to one’s nation.

Mateship: Anzac Day celebrates the spirit of “mateship,” a cherished Australian value embodying loyalty, companionship, and equality among comrades, particularly in times of adversity. The bond forged among soldiers during the Gallipoli campaign remains a powerful symbol of resilience and unity for both Australia and New Zealand.

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