What is Anzac Day? Anzac Day is a special day held every year on 25 th April. Anzac Day is held in Australia and New Zealand although other people from around the world may also take part in special activities. On Anzac Day, people take the time to remember and say thank you to the military men and women who have given their lives fighting for their country. People also think about those that are serving their country today.

ATTRIBUTION - Photo courtesy of Edwin. 11, Chris Phutully and Hasitha Tudugalle - granted under creative commons licence - attribution

Why is Anzac Day Important? The Anzacs were a group of soldiers from Australia and New Zealand who bravely fought during the First World War. This was over 100 years ago. On Anzac Day, we remember all those men who fought to keep Australia and New Zealand safe and who helped people in other countries to be safe as well. We also think about people who have fought in other wars and those that still fight for our countries today.

ATTRIBUTION - Photo courtesy of Edwin. 11, Chris Phutully and Hasitha Tudugalle - granted under creative commons licence - attribution Anzac soldiers during the first World War.

What Happened at Gallipoli? One of the most important events of the First World War for Australia happened at a place called Gallipoli. Gallipoli is in a country called Turkey. At the time, in 1915, it was controlled by Turkish soldiers. The Anzacs were ordered to go to Gallipoli and try to take it over so that it could become a safe place for Australia and the other countries it was friendly with.

What Happened at Gallipoli? The Aanzacs landed by boat at a place we now call Anzac Cove. They fought bravely with the Turkish soldiers for many months but in the end they had to escape as so many of them had been killed or injured. We remember Gallipoli as a very sad time in Australia’s history but we should also feel proud of the brave Anzacs who fought there.

Australian soldiers in Gallipoli.

What is the Anzac Spirit? After Gallipoli and the First World War, the Anzacs were seen as brave, strong men who looked out for their friends. This made people around the world think of Australia and New Zealand in a new and positive way. The idea of working hard in difficult times and always helping to keep your friends safe and happy became known as the Anzac spirit.

What Happens on Anzac Day? Dawn Services On Anzac Day, Dawn Services are held early in the morning as this was the time that the soldiers landed at Anzac Cove. There are many special parts of the dawn service. Flags are lowered to half mast and people lay wreaths of flowers. Pieces of music called The Last Post and The Reveille are played on a bugle and there is usually a two minutes silence. People might read poems and say prayers. Dawn Services are quiet and respectful. They give people time to think about all the brave men and women who have fought for their country.

Anzac Day Dawn Service. ATTRIBUTION - Photo courtesy of Keawe Woodmore - granted under creative commons licence - attribution

What Happens on Anzac Day? Parades Military parades are another special part of Anzac Day. People watch men and women of the armed services march through the streets. This happens in towns and cities all over Australia. Military bands play music and tanks and other military vehicles are usually part of the parade. People often cheer and wave Australian flags as the soldiers march past. They feel proud of these men and women and happy that they help to keep Australia safe.