April 25 is ANZAC day. It is a day to commemorate the Australians who died in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations; a day of national remembrance.
April 25 was the day that Australian and New Zealand soldiers landed on the shores of Gallipoli (in Turkey) in 1915 during World War One. The first ANZAC day was held the following year in 1916 to remember those who died in that battle. In recent years, however, ANZAC day has become a day to remember all the Australians who died during all conflicts.
What does ANZAC mean?
ANZAC is an acronym for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. The soldiers themselves were known as ANZACs
What happens on ANZAC day?
ANZAC day is a public holiday. The ‘dawn service’ is carried out in capital cities and towns. This is a military routine that is performed for the public especially on this day. Many people get up very early to go and watch.
In Canberra, the ANZAC day ceremony is carried out at 10:15am at the Australian War Memorial. The Prime Minister attends this ceremony. The ceremony includes prayers, a period of silence, the laying of wreaths and the singing of the national anthem.
In many cities there is also a parade. Former soldiers and others who have participated in war parade down the main street while members of the public stand and wave flags or just watch.
Vocabulary
Conflict 紛争
Peace-keeping operations 平和維持活動
National remembrance 国会的記念
World War One 第一次世界大戦
Acronym 頭文字
Wreath 花輪
National anthem 国歌
Parade パレード
Flag 国旗