Anzac Day is a national day of remembrance in Australia, New Zealand and Tonga that broadly commemorates all Australians and New Zealanders “who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations” and “the contribution and suffering of all those who have served”.
ANZAC stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. Anzac Day falls on the 25th of April each year. The 25th of April was officially named Anzac Day in 1916.
On the 25th of April 1915, Australian and New Zealand soldiers formed part of the allied expedition that set out to capture the Gallipoli peninsula, their first engagement in the First World War (1914–1918). These became known as Anzacs and the pride they took in that name continues to this day.
At the end of 1915, the allied forces were evacuated. Both sides suffered heavy casualties and endured great hardships. Over 8,000 Australian soldiers were killed.
The meaning of Anzac Day today includes the remembrance of all Australians killed in military operations.
