In December 1914, in preparation for the invasion of Gallipoli during World War One, New Zealand Expeditionary Force contingents were grouped together with the Australian Imperial Force for the first time as the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC). From then on, combined Australian and New Zealand forces became known as “ANZAC’s”.
ANZAC Day is a national day of remembrance in Australia and New Zealand, commemorating the service and sacrifice of all those who have served their countries in times of war and conflict. On the 25th of April each year, we honour the brave men and women who fought and died in defence of their nations and their freedoms. ANZAC Day is a time to remember the sacrifices made by those who served and to pay tribute to their courage and selflessness.
It is also an opportunity to acknowledge the ongoing service and sacrifice of our current service men and women, who continue to defend our freedoms and values in conflicts around the world. Through ANZAC Day, we ensure that the legacy of those who served and sacrificed is never forgotten, and we renew our commitment to honour and support those who continue to serve.
The red poppy has become a symbol of ANZAC Day, representing the sacrifice made by the ANZAC’s in all conflicts since World War One. The tradition of wearing a red poppy on ANZAC Day began in the aftermath of World War One, inspired by the poem “In Flanders Fields” written by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, a Canadian physician who served in the war. Today, the wearing of a red poppy is a way to show respect for the fallen and to acknowledge the ongoing service of all those who have served their countries.
‘In Flanders Fields’ by John McCrae
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie,
In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
