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.
ANZAC Day, April 25th, is one of Australia's most important national occasions. It marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during World War I, and has also come to represent the sacrifices of all men and women who serve in the ANZAC (
Australia New Zealand Army Corps) defence forces.
The 25th of April was officially named ANZAC Day in 1916. It was marked by a wide variety of ceremonies and services in Australia, a march through London, and a sports day in the Australian camp in Egypt. During the 1920s ANZAC Day became established as a national day of commemoration for the 60,000 Australians who had died during the war. By the mid 1930s all the rituals we now associate with the day were firmly established as part of ANZAC Day culture.
On ANZAC day there are a number of events which you can attend in order to show your respect to all Australian and New Zealand veterans including dawn services, the veterans march, local school parades, commemorative breakfasts and formal luncheons.
This year, as well as attending the traditional ceremonies, why not try some of these other unique ways to commemorate ANZAC day:
* Volunteer at the Australian War Memorial and help keep the legacy of the ANZAC's alive.
*Give your time and
assist in a local service on Anzac Day.
More opportunities and event locations can be found here.
*Write to an Australian soldier overseas and thank them for their sacrifice, devotion and loyalty.
*Make a donation to the
RSL Australian Forces Overseas Fund,
Legacy,
Soldier On or any other RSL associated fund.
*Become a
community visitor at an RSL veterans home. Spend time with a veteran, listen to their stories and provide them with companionship.
*Bake ANZAC Biscuits,
Hard Tack and other traditional
Australian ANZAC day foods. Share your spoils with friends, family and the people in your community.
*Raise a Glass at a local RSL, club, bar, restaurant or BBQ and talk to those around you about the ANZAC memories you hold close to your heart. This will help the ANZAC legend live on, as inspired by the VB
Raise a Glass Appeal.
*Plant wild rosemary, wattles, poppies and other symbolic plants with your children to show them that ANZAC day means taking care of the beautiful Australian environment which the ANZACs have ensured we can continue to enjoy.
However you choose to observe this significant Australian date, ANZAC day will long represent a time of respect, reflection and reverence and is an important occasion to pause and consider those impacted by the effects of war, and the nations shared hopes for a more peaceful future.
