Remembering Gallipoli: A Century of Reflection
It’s hard to believe it’s been 110 years since the Gallipoli landings. This year, the world paused to remember the immense sacrifice of the Anzacs. I was particularly moved by seeing Princess Anne at Anzac Cove in Turkey, laying a wreath on that very beach where so much heartbreak unfolded in 1915. It was a deeply poignant moment, a quiet acknowledgment of a terrible cost.
A Failed Campaign, A Lasting Legacy
The Gallipoli campaign itself? A complete and utter disaster. The Allied forces’ attempt to seize the Dardanelles Strait from the Ottoman Empire lasted from April 25th, 1915 to January 1916. For Australia and New Zealand, the April 25th landings were their first major military engagement. It wasn’t a glorious victory, not at all. But it irrevocably shaped their national identities in profound ways, forging a shared sense of sacrifice and resilience.
Princess Anne’s speech was incredibly powerful. She incorporated the words of soldiers who were actually there – those firsthand accounts really brought home the brutality of it all. You could feel the courage, yes, but the sheer devastating loss was palpable too.
Commemorations Around the Globe
The commemorations weren’t just confined to Gallipoli. London saw the Duchess of Edinburgh at Anzac Day services. Meanwhile, back home in Australia and New Zealand, huge crowds, despite the awful weather, turned up for dawn services, wreath-laying ceremonies, and parades. Even the political scene paused – Prime Minister Albanese and opposition leader Dutton both put aside election campaigning to pay their respects. That speaks volumes about how deeply Gallipoli resonates with the national psyche.
Mateship, Courage, and Sacrifice: Enduring Values
The “spirit of Anzac” – courage, mateship (that incredible sense of camaraderie), and sacrifice – it still resonates today, doesn’t it? King Charles’s message beautifully honored the veterans, past and present, emphasizing that enduring legacy. New Zealand’s Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon, gave a moving speech, acknowledging the immense cost of the campaign and the bravery shown not just by the Anzacs, but also by the Ottoman Turks. It was a military failure, yes, but Gallipoli also created a lasting bond between Australia and New Zealand. And it serves as a stark reminder of the horrific human cost of war.
Learning From the Past, Building a Better Future
Gallipoli’s events remain a vital part of history. Remembering the sacrifices – not only of the Anzacs but of everyone involved – is crucial for fostering peace and understanding. This Anzac Day was a powerful reminder of the importance of commemoration, and that constant striving for peace is something we should all cherish.
