Lest We Forget

April 25th: one of Australia’s most celebrated holidays of the year. While an emotional experience for many, Anzac Day is a time where Australians and New Zealand’s come together to silently honor and remember the many men and women who, over the years, have died because of the wars. Proudly yet silently we reflect on our history through the memorial services and traditions that we participate in annually.

The History

The ANZACS (Australian New Zealand Armed Corps) forces were involved in the Boer War, WWI and II, and the Vietnam War. During WWI, in 1915, the Anzacs, with backup help from the British, were part of a risky scheme to send supplies to the Russians, which involved sailing through Turkey (enemy ground). Through a mix-up of information, the Anzacs, throwing their full effort into climbing up near-vertical cliffs, were accidently positioned right in the middle of the Turkey Army’s strong point. Many men were killed. Wounded men lay struggling. Survivors eventually evacuated. Although tragically defeated, the Anzacs’ cheerful and courageous spirit to ‘never say die’ was marked on that day. Continually those men fought with a determined, loyal and positive attitude that is surely one to be proud of. That’s why we honour them on the 25th of April, at a dawn service on a hill… just like in 1915.

The Traditions

Imagine this: At the crack of dawn, the bugle mournfully blows The Last Post. While the flag rests half-way down the flagpole, a full minute of silence falls over the people gathered on the hill, both traditions held in honour and in memory of the brave ANZACS who fought for our freedom. Throughout the cities and towns, marches and memorial services are held… to help us remember. Veterans gather together. Wreaths are laid. Soldiers proudly salute. Thankfully, tenderly, triumphantly, this is how we remember the Anzacs on ANZAC day.

The Reason behind the Traditions:

At dawn in 1915, the Anzacs swiftly landed on the beaches of Gallipoli. Because it is such a memorable part of WWI for the Australians and New Zealanders, that’s the day we gather on Anzac Day.
For part of the duration of the service, the Australian flag is lowered to half-way in commemoration of the people who died.
Another Anzac-related ‘tradition’ is the Anzac biscuits. During the wars, the mothers and wives of the soldier’s wanted to support their boys, so they baked these yummy biccies which wouldn’t break when travelling overseas.

Anzacs remained cheerful comrades and loyal companions who never gave up their love for their country and each other. With a spirit of perseverance, thousands of young men charged out to the battlefront, many never to return. These men and women would have rather died than see their country lose its freedom – even if it meant they never personally saw their dream come true. So on Anzac day, Australians and New Zealanders come together to honor these soldier’s die-hard spirit, commemorate their loyalty, devotion and determination, and remember our home is the unique, free place it is today because they never gave up.
Lest we forget.

Miss Jessica is a 14year old homeschool girl who lives in Australia. She loves the Lord and enjoys music, reading, history, computers and sewing. Jessica has a warped sense of humour and is always ready for a giggle. She helps her mum around the home and participates in the local church music team. You can find out more about Jess at her blog Little Miss Giggle.

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