ANZAC Day

[Downunder Kilt]

Today, 25 April, is ANZAC Day in Australia, where we remember those that have given their lives in the service of our country in all wars. The actual day commemorates the landings in 1915, at what is now known as ANZAC cove on the Gallipolli peninsular in Turkey. The Australian and New Zealand Army Corp were landed on the wrong beach and suffered appalling casualties.


"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

[English Bloke]

Lest we forget...



"Those heroes that shed their blood
and lost their lives...
You are now lying in the soil of a friendly country.
Therefore rest in peace.
There is no difference between the Johnnies
and the Mehmets to us where they lie side by side
Here in this country of ours...
You, the mothers,
Who sent their sons from far away countries
Wipe away your tears; your sons are now lying in our bosom
and are in peace.
After having lost their lives on this land they have become our sons as well." ~ Atatürk 1934

Memorial at ANZAC Cove (Anzak Koyu) for the Australia and New Zealand Army Corps who died in the Gallipoli Campaign. The quote is from Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, founder of the Turkish Republic and one of the commanders of the Ottoman forces at Gallipoli (Gelibolu).

A terrible tragedy indeed. I shall be pausing for a couple of minutes quiet thought at 11:00 tomorrow.

[Downunder Kilt]

Thanks for that John. The Australian and Turkish communities now have a very strong bond, here in Australia and Turkey, born out of the respect earned for each other during those terrible times

[tulloch]

Let us never forget.

[English Bloke]

Thanks for that John. The Australian and Turkish communities now have a very strong bond, here in Australia and Turkey, born out of the respect earned for each other during those terrible times

No worries.

I went to Gallipoli a few years ago. A most sobering experience it was too although the close bond that exists between Aussies, New Zealanders and Turks was clearly evident.

I met Bryn Dolan there, he was conducting research and is one of the chaps who put together this website. My wife and I spend a fabulous day with him scrabbling about in the bush, way off the beaten track around Gully Ravine and Cape Helles looking for lost Lancastrians . A most interesting chap. I did ask him why he'd chosen to document only Officers of the campaign and not the ordinary soldiers. His response was to the effect of "You're joking aren't you?" In view of the enormity of the casualty lists I had to take his point.

I'd recommend you go if you get the chance. It's an awe-inspiring place. TJ's are a good company to start with (A Turkish / Australian husband and wife team) if you're thinking of a visit there. I went in September which was fairly busy but apparently it's mobbed around Anzac day.

[Downunder Kilt]

Thanks again John, I have bookmarked the site you provided for a read at a later time. In June 1995 I spent 5 days clambering over every inch I could on the Gallipolli peninsular. I was very fortunate that I had bumped into a Turkish university student whose Grandfather had fought there . He and his sister were excellent guides and spoke english very well. Once you walk over/thru those trenches and killing grounds you never really see any justification to complain about anything you have to do again.

Cheers to you and your good lady

Lest We Forget

P.S. Some of the loudest applause at the Melbourne ANZAC Day march today was for the members of the Turkish Sub-Branch of the RSL of which about 30 members were marching

[Jock Scot]

"We will remember them".

[Bill aka Mole]

To the ANZAC men and the Officers that led them; Cheers!
Rest well, brothers. Your duty was well and above what was intended.

To those who have followed in this service, Cheers!
Faithful Allies and potent foes you have proven yourself to be!

[English Bloke]

... Cheers to you and your good lady

Lest We Forget

P.S. Some of the loudest applause at the Melbourne ANZAC Day march today was for the members of the Turkish Sub-Branch of the RSL of which about 30 members were marching...

Thanks for the good wishes, I'll pass 'em along to Mrs EB.

It doesn't surprise me the Turkish RSL got a big nod in Melbourne. There is a genuine warmth between the two countries who both (rightly or wrongly) hold Britain ultimately accountable.

Ever read any John Laffin? He doesn't mince his thoughts on the subject. I admire his work greatly although his critical interpretation of events is not popular up here in my bit of the world, as you can probably imagine.

I figured you may have been to Gallipoli already, most Antipodeans I know have, but thought I'd let you know one of the current options anyway on the off chance you hadn't. I've stayed at TJ's hotel and though it's a bit basic (or was when I was there) it fills the needs adequately for the budget conscious. If you're ever thinking of making a return trip, let me know and I'll try and RV with you in Eceabat for a few days. We could put our exploring boots on by day as well as maybe sink a few scoops and chew the fat in the evenings. It could be fun that. I could even provide an interpreter.

[Downunder Kilt]

Thanks for the good wishes, I'll pass 'em along to Mrs EB.

It doesn't surprise me the Turkish RSL got a big nod in Melbourne. There is a genuine warmth between the two countries who both (rightly or wrongly) hold Britain ultimately accountable.

Ever read any John Laffin? He doesn't mince his thoughts on the subject. I admire his work greatly although his critical interpretation of events is not popular up here in my bit of the world, as you can probably imagine.

I figured you may have been to Gallipoli already, most Antipodeans I know have, but thought I'd let you know one of the current options anyway on the off chance you hadn't. I've stayed at TJ's hotel and though it's a bit basic (or was when I was there) it fills the needs adequately for the budget conscious. If you're ever thinking of making a return trip, let me know and I'll try and RV with you in Eceabat for a few days. We could put our exploring boots on by day as well as maybe sink a few scoops and chew the fat in the evenings. It could be fun that. I could even provide an interpreter.

John, I have read his Butchers and Bungles book and also Anzac’s at War. Growing up in the 1920’s/30’s and having stories told to him about the Great War, then having experienced the horrors of war in WW2, he dedicated his life ensuring that the memories and horrors were never forgotten. A man to be admired for his dedication and achievments.

You never know when I will pass by that way again. "Er indoors" and I are planning on a month in the UK next year so a meet up then maybe on the cards