ANZAC Day 2020
The service of the armed forces of both Australia and New Zealand has been both long and distinguished and there can be little doubt that their contributions in both world wars was a significant factor in the eventual Commonwealth and Allied victory. Originally organised to honour the members of the ANZAC (Australia and New Zealand Army Corps) formations following the Gallipoli campaign in WW1 the day has continued to be observed by both nations in remembrance of those who served in war and peace.
There is a joint service of remembrance held between members of the Turkish and Australian armed forces at ANZAC Cove on the Gallipoli Peninsula. This first took place in 1934 when Kemal Ataturk delivered the following words to the attending dignitaries.
Those heroes that shed their blood
And lost their lives.
You are now lying in the soil of a friendly country.
Therefore rest in peace.
There is no difference between the Johnnies
And the Mehmets to us where they lie side by side
Here in this country of ours.
You, the mothers,
Who sent their sons from far away countries
Wipe away your tears,
Your sons are now lying in our bosom
And are in peace
After having lost their lives on this land they have
Become our sons as well
Lest we forget.
ANZAC Biscuits
2 comments:
They answered the call and served with distinction as you say. We in the ‘mother country’ owe a debt to them.
I’ve never seen that Kemal Ataturk speech before. Very moving.
Hello there nundanket,
They certainly did - on land, at sea and in the air!
I had also not seen the speech previously although was aware of the bond between Turkey and Australia over the Gallipoli campaign.
As you rightly say, very moving.
All the best and take care,
DC
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