Image: colourised photograph of Sergeant Clement Edward Hill, 3rd Light Horse Regiment of the Australian Army 1915.
Anzac Day, which is observed on April 25th each year, is a day of commemoration and reflection, providing an opportunity for Australians to honour the sacrifices of those who have served their country. We wanted to take this opportunity to answer some key questions about Anzac Day and its spirit.
What does "ANZAC’ stand for?
ANZAC stands for "Australian and New Zealand Army Corps", which was formed in 1915 from the 1st Australian Division, the New Zealand and Australian Division and the 1st Light Horse Brigade.
Help pass the Anzac legend to the next generation with our best-selling Great War Educards created with the help of noted Australian military historian Graham Wilson
What is the Spirit of ANZAC day (or) What is the Anzac legend?
In Australia, the Spirit of Anzac or Anzac legend is a symbol of national identity, reflecting the values of courage, mateship, and sacrifice that define the country's history. The Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (Anzac) legend, which emerged during World War I, has become an integral part of the country's cultural fabric, shaping its identity and sense of belonging.
The Anzac spirit was born during the landing of Australian and New Zealand troops on the Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey in 1915. Although the campaign was ultimately unsuccessful, it was a defining moment in Australia's history, as it marked the first time that Australian troops had fought on foreign soil. The bravery and determination of the Anzac soldiers became a source of pride for Australians, and the term "Anzac" became synonymous with the qualities of courage, endurance, and mateship.
What makes up the Anzac spirit?
Anzac spirit is made up of the qualities shown by the Australian and New Zealand forces in the war. These qualities generally include endurance, courage, ingenuity, good humour, and mateship.
The Spirit of Anzac is not just a symbol of national identity; it is also a call to action. It reminds Australians of the importance of coming together as a community, supporting one another, and honouring the sacrifices of those who have served their country. As we continue to navigate uncertain times, the Anzac spirit remains a beacon of hope and resilience, reminding us that together, we can overcome any challenge.
How has the Anzac spirit changed over time?
Over time, the Anzac spirit has come to represent more than just the experiences of the soldiers who fought in the First World War. It has become a symbol of the broader Australian identity, encompassing the shared values of courage, resilience, and community spirit.
What are symbols of Anzac Day?
There are many widely recognised and meaningful symbols of commemoration for Anzac Day services. You can read about all the symbols on the Anzac portal. However, the three key symbols are:
Red Poppies are the symbol of remembrance, i.e., remembering the fallen soldiers. Made famous by the poem In Flanders Fields by John McCrae, these red poppies were among the first plants to grown on the Western Front during the World War 1. Explore our poppy collection here.
Read the contemporary poem that inspired 'Where The Poppies Grow' that inspired the artwork
Rosemary is an ancient symbol of fidelity and remembrance. Australians traditionally wear sprigs of rosemary on Anzac Day to remember the fallen soldiers. Usually, it’s pinned onto a coat lapel, near the heart, or held in place by medals.
Remember Their Service Lapel Pin and Rosemary Lapel Pin
Wreath or Anzac Wreath are flowers and leaves woven together usually shaped like a teardrop, called a ‘chaplet’, or a circle. The teardrop shape signifies the tears that are shed in grief of the fallen soldiers.
One can also use the circle shape, which represents life and resurrection. Wreath has been used since early Romans to symbolise bravery, strength and triumph.
Remember the fallen soldiers with these symbols of Anzac. Check out our collection.
Red Poppy Badge, Purple Poppy Badge, Indigenous Service Poppy Badge, Serving Together Poppy Badge
How is the Anzac spirit celebrated?
On Anzac day, to celebrate the Anzac spirit, is done in two forms – dawn service and parade or march. The commemorative dawn services are held to match the original landing of Australian soldiers in Gallipoli. Later in the day, veterans and families take part in a parade or march through cities and towns. Both these are held formally or informally by public or by war memorials around the country.
Anzac day ceremonies typically include – hymn, prayers, laying of wreaths, a recitation, the Last Post Call, a period of silence, either the Rouse or the Reveille, and the national anthem.
If you are taking part or organising a commemorative dawn service, have a look at our Light Up the Dawn Collection.
Light Up The Dawn This Anzac Day
What should you wear on Anzac Day?
Generally, for Anzac Day ceremonies, smart or business attire is preferred, but no formal protocol exists. In additional, medals can be worn on the day. For the person who has been awarded, medals to be won on the left breast. For relatives of men or women who were awarded, medals may be worn on the right breast. Some veterans choose to wear medals on both sides, one of their own and others of a relative.
The Military Shop has has more than 30 years' experience mounting and re-mounting original and replica medals. To know more about medals read our blog on frequently asked questions about medals.
The Spirit of Anzac is an essential part of Australia's history and culture. It represents the values of courage, mateship, and sacrifice, and its significance continues to grow with each passing year.
Looking for what to wear and share on Anzac Day? Find ideas here.
Anzac 2023 Campaign: The Spirit of Anzac
This year, for Anzac Day, our campaign ‘The Spirit of Anzac’ is aimed to promote the values of the Anzac legend and to encourage Australians to reflect on what it means to be part of a community that embodies these qualities.
As we approach Anzac Day 2023, we encourage you join us to create awareness and start a dialogue. Use the hashtag #voicesofanzac to post on Facebook or Instagram. You can also submit directly to us on info@militaryvoice.com.au. Together, let's keep the Anzac spirit alive.
Let your voice be heard to help keep the Anzac spirit alive
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