Written by Michelle Curry
ANZAC Day is a National Day of Remembrance in Australia and New Zealand that is observed annually on April 25.
This year commemorates the 108th anniversary of the first major military action fought by the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) soldiers during World War I.
In the early hours of the morning on April 25, 1915, 16,000 ANZACs, together with British and French troops, landed on the Gallipoli peninsula. The landing did not go according to plan with their arrival discovered and over 2000 soldiers were killed.
Many troops were also wounded in the initial attack. The ANZACs showed remarkable courage and determination, and their bravery has become an important part of the ANZAC legend.
The last remaining ANZAC departed on December 20, 1915. Over 8000 Australian soldiers never made it home.
How do we commemorate ANZAC Day?
ANZAC day is marked by a variety of ceremonies and commemorative services.
These events include the Dawn Service, where people gather before sunrise to honour the fallen soldiers, and the ANZAC Day March, where current and former service personnel, families, and school children march through the streets of most towns and cities.
A red poppy is worn as a sign of respect and gratitude for the sacrifice of those who served and died in the war and as a reminder of the ongoing need for peace and reconciliation.
Australians also wear a sprig of rosemary as a sign of remembrance and commemoration of ANZAC Day.
Rosemary has significance for Australians on ANZAC Day as it grows wild on Gallipoli in Turkey, and this herb is known for its ability to promote memory and concentration.
ANZAC Biscuits
The ANZAC biscuit is traditionally associated with the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps soldiers who fought during World War I.
During the war, ANZAC soldiers were sent food rations that included biscuits as a staple food item. These biscuits were made from basic ingredients that could withstand long periods of storage and transportation without spoiling.
Today ANZAC biscuits are enjoyed throughout the year, not just on ANZAC day. I always make a batch of my favourite Anzac biscuits on ANZAC day to remember and commemorate the ANZAC soldiers who fought and died in various wars.
ANZAC biscuits today are made with ingredients such as oats, coconut, and golden syrup and have a slightly sweet and crunchy texture. I have been told that the biscuits we typically make today are a lot softer than those sent to our ANZACs and are far more enjoyable than the ones the soldiers ate during the war.
The Ode
This ANZAC day I will be remembering my grandfather Ronald who fought in World War II.
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.
Lest we forget.
