ANZAC Day in Australia

ANZAC Day, observed on April 25th each year, is one of Australia's most important national commemorative occasions. It marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War.

History:

• The ANZACs (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps) landed on Gallipoli on April 25, 1915.
• The campaign was a costly failure for the Allies, with heavy casualties suffered by Australian and New Zealand soldiers.
• Despite the military defeat, the actions at Gallipoli formed a powerful legacy and a sense of national identity for both nations.

Traditions:

• Dawn Services: Commemorations begin at dawn, the time of the original Gallipoli landing, with solemn services held at war memorials across Australia.
• Marches: Ex-service personnel and their descendants march in parades through cities and towns.
• Wreath-Laying Ceremonies: Floral tributes are laid at memorials to honor those who served and died in wars.
• The Last Post: A bugle call traditionally played at military funerals and commemorative events is performed during ceremonies.
• A minute's silence is observed in remembrance of fallen soldiers.

What People Do:

• Attend commemorative services including dawn services, marches, and memorial ceremonies.
• Wear sprigs of rosemary for remembrance or red poppies which symbolize remembrance and hope.
• Play games of two-up, a traditional gambling game that soldiers played during World War I; it's legally played in public only on ANZAC Day.
• Engage in reflection about the sacrifices made by service members in past conflicts.