ANZAC Day: Remembering the Sacrifice of Australian and New Zealand Soldiers
ANZAC Day, observed on 25th April each year, is a day of national remembrance for Australia and New Zealand. It commemorates the landing of the Australian & New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) on the shores of Gallipoli, Türkiye in 1915. This day serves as a tribute to the sacrifice, courage, and camaraderie of the original ANZACs.
The Gallipoli Campaign
In 1915, Australian and New Zealand soldiers, along with Allied forces, embarked on a mission to capture the Gallipoli peninsula from the Ottoman Turks. What was intended to be a swift victory turned into a prolonged and bloody stalemate, lasting eight months.
By the end of 1915, the Allied forces were evacuated, leaving behind heavy casualties and immense hardships. More than 8,000 Australian soldiers lost their lives during the campaign. ANZAC Day stands as a solemn remembrance of all Australians who have perished in military operations.
ANZAC Day Commemorative Events
Every year, on ANZAC Day, ceremonies and services are conducted to honor the memory of the fallen soldiers. The Australian Consulate-General in Chennai organized a dawn service at the Madras War Cemetery, where Australian and New Zealand servicemen are interred.
Ms. Silai Zaki, the Australian Consul-General in Chennai, emphasized the significance of ANZAC Day, acknowledging the valor of past and present service personnel. She also paid tribute to the 16,000 Indian Army soldiers who served in Gallipoli, highlighting the shared history of sacrifice and service.
High-ranking officials from the Indian Armed Forces, including Lieutenant General Karanbir Singh Brar and Rear Admiral Ravi Kumar Dhingra, participated in the commemorative event at the Madras War Memorial. Representatives from the Australian and New Zealand communities in Chennai, such as cricketers Michael Hussey and Stephen Fleming, were also present to honor the occasion.
The ANZAC Biscuit: A Symbol of Support
During World War I, the Anzac biscuit, originally known as the Soldiers’ Biscuit, became a staple food item sent by families to soldiers on the front lines. Its long shelf life and nutritional value made it an ideal choice for sustenance during wartime.
The Anzac biscuit holds a special place in Australian culture, symbolizing the enduring spirit of the Anzacs. Its name is protected by Federal Legislation, underscoring its historical significance and association with the Anzac tradition.