Anzac Day in Australia: A Legacy of Remembrance
Anzac Day has been observed in Australia since 1916, a year after the ANZAC troops landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula on April 25, 1915. Initially, the day was dedicated to honoring the servicemen who fought and sacrificed their lives during World War I. However, following the outbreak of World War II and other subsequent global conflicts, Anzac Day evolved into a day of remembrance for all servicemen and women who have served their country.
Today, Anzac Day is marked by a national public holiday in Australia, with dawn services held across the country at the same time as the original landing on Gallipoli. The solemn “Last Post” bugle call is performed, wreaths are laid at War Memorials, and speeches are delivered by politicians and dignitaries. These ceremonies serve as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by so many.
Although few soldiers remain from the Great Wars, the tradition of Anzac Day continues to thrive, with many young Australians attending services and proudly wearing the medals won by their grandparents and great-grandparents. Later in the day, former servicemen and servicewomen participate in Anzac Day marches through major cities and regional centers. Afterward, they gather at Returned and Services League (RSL) clubs to socialize and engage in the traditional game of two-up.
The meaning of Anzac Day in Australia has shifted over the decades since World War I. The day gained renewed significance during World War II, as the country once again rallied around its troops. The first Anzac Day commemoration at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra took place in 1942, but due to the threat of Japanese air attacks, it was a modest event without an official memorial service or march. During the 1960s and 1970s, amid anti-war sentiment, Anzac Day became a focal point for social protest as Australians questioned their country’s involvement in global conflicts.
Today, Anzac Day serves as a time for Australians to reflect on the varied meanings of war and its impact on their lives, families, and the nation. For many, it has become a rite of passage to travel to the Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey, attend the Dawn Service, and witness the battlefields where the fighting took place. These pilgrimages allow Australians to pay their respects at the cemeteries and memorials, connecting with the legacy of those who served.