Anzac Day

25 April 2006

Anzac Day is described as Australia’s most important national occasion as it commemorates the first military action of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZACS) during the First World War. Over 8,000 soldiers were killed when the Anzacs attempted to knock Turkey out of the war by capturing Istanbul (then known as Constantinople). Both sides suffered heavy casualties in this eight month campaign, so Australians to this day remember the bravery of these men by commemorating the day that their efforts began. A traditional Anzac ceremony involves the laying of wreaths, commemorative services, periods of silence, and military bugle performances.

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