ANZAC Day in Australia?

April 25 is Australia's ANZAC Day, a national holiday.

We would like to learn about the meaning and historical background of ANZAC Day, 

Australian events, and Australian troops' participation in the Korean War.

ANZAC : Australian and New Zealand Army Corps

It represents the spirit of the brave soldiers who fought and sacrificed their lives in conflicts around the world. Anzac Day is a day that holds significant meaning for Australians and New Zealanders alike. It is a day that honors the brave soldiers who fought and sacrificed their lives for their countries in various conflicts. The day is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by the soldiers, their families, and the community that supported them. It is a day that is marked with a sense of pride, respect, and deep gratitude toward those who have given so much.

Australia: ANZAC Day (April 25)

US: Memorial Day (last Monday in May)

South Korea: Memorial Day (June 6)

 The Origins of Anzac

The origins of Anzac Day date back to the First World War when Australian and New Zealand troops landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey on April 25, 1915. The landing was part of a larger Allied campaign to capture Constantinople, which was then the capital of the Ottoman Empire. The campaign was a failure, and the troops were forced to withdraw, but the landing marked a significant moment in the history of both nations. It was the first time that Australian and New Zealand troops had fought together as separate nations on the international stage, and it was a defining moment in their history.
Anzac Day has since become a day of remembrance for all the soldiers who have fought and died in conflicts worldwide. It is a day to remember the bravery and selflessness of the soldiers who gave their lives for their countries. It is also a day to reflect on the impact of war on families and communities and to acknowledge the sacrifices that they too have made.

Australian and New Zealand troops landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey on April 25, 1915.

The various events and ceremonies of Anzac Day

In Australia, Anzac Day is marked with various events and ceremonies. The most significant of these is the Dawn Service, which takes place at dawn on April 25th. The service is a solemn ceremony that commemorates the soldiers who fought and died at Gallipoli and in other conflicts around the world. It includes a minute's silence, the playing of the Last Post, and the laying of wreaths at war memorials.

Other events that take place on Anzac Day in Australia include marches, parades, and commemorative services. These events are an opportunity for the community to come together and pay their respects to the soldiers who have served their country. They are also a chance to honor the families and communities who have supported them.

Crowds are set to gather across Australia for Anzac Day service, marches, and parades. (ABC News: Siobhan Heanue)

Thousands held a minute's silence after the Last Post at Canberra's dawn service at the National War Memorial last year. (ABC News: Niki Burnside)

“Red Cross Biscuits” and “Anzac Biscuits”

Australian troops participated in the Korean War

Australian troops have participated in many conflicts worldwide, including the Korean War. The war lasted from 1950 to 1953 and saw Australian troops serving as part of the United Nations forces. The Australian forces were involved in many significant battles, including the Battle of Kapyong, which is considered one of the greatest achievements of the Australian Army.

At the time of the Korean War, Australia had 17,164 veterans, the fifth largest number of the 22 United Nations participants (in the order of the United States, Britain, Canada, Turkey, and Australia).

Of the 17,164 Australian soldiers, 340 were killed and 43 were missing.

Two members of the 3rd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (3RAR), await the order to continue the advance in North Korea, in October 1950, supported by a US Sherman tank in the background.

 Captain Reg Saunders shakes hands with a South Korean soldier in April 1951.