THE anniversary of the landing of Gallipoli is of great significance to Australians.
On April 25, 1915, 16,000 Australian and New Zealand troops landed at what became known as Anzac Cove as part of a campaign to capture the Gallipoli Peninsula.
While the campaign was a military failure, the traits that were shown by those who fought there – bravery, ingenuity, endurance and mateship – have become defining aspects of Australian character.
As such a defining moment in Australia’s history, it is on this day each year that the nation stops to reflect on the service and sacrifice of all those who have served since.
In 2023, we mark 70 years since the end of the Korean War, which came to a halt after three years with a stalemate and on July 27, 1953, an armistice was signed.
Nearly 18,000 Australian soldiers, sailors, airmen and nurses served, 339 Australians died, 1216 were wounded and 30 became prisoners of war.
This year also marks 50 years since the end of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War. More than 60,000 Australians served; 523 died and almost 2400 were wounded.
Many of those who returned home were met with a hostile reception.
Anzac Day is a time for Australians to remember the more than 1.5m service men and women who have defended our country in all conflicts, wars and peacekeeping operations and the more than 102,000 who sacrificed their futures for ours.
The commemorations include the Dawn Services and marches in communities, as well as the camaraderie in RSL clubs and pubs as veterans, families and friends enjoy a few drinks, share memories of fallen mates and venture their hands at two-up.
I encourage your readers to attend a local service, and to reflect on the battles lost and won and the great sacrifices made by those who fought them on our behalf.
Lest We Forget.
Tony Pasin, Member for Barker
