ANZAC Day 2005
Chief of Defence Force This Anzac Day we will commemorate 90 years since the first landings on the Gallipoli Pensinsula. Many believe that the Anzacs who served at Gallipoli were instrumental in the formation of our national identity, which still evolves today. The values they demonstrated of courage, mateship, self-sacrifice and integrity have become an illustration of the nation's values. The men and women of the ADF continue to build on the values demonstrated by those original Anzacs. The pride we feel in the efforts of those who have gone before us gives us courage in face of danger. Our notion of Anzac reminds us to always put the welfare of our mates and the team ahead of personal comfort and safety. And it summons up the best elements of our character in the toughest situations. Anzac Day is a time for reflection and remembrance. It is a time to pause and acknowledge the sacrifice and service of the original Anzacs in addition to all Australians who have served the nation. It is also a time to think of the men and women of the ADF who are currently on operations around the world and who serve in the fine tradition of earlier generations of service men and women. Lest we forget.
Chief of Army Ninety years ago, Australian and New Zealand soldiers stormed the beaches at Gallipoli. They faced withering gunfire, overwhelming odds and a determined enemy. They faced this ordeal with courage, determination and honour. Their efforts alongside soldiers from the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth forces highlighted the sacrifice ADF personnel often make in the service of their nation. They also showed the quality of ordinary Australians and the patriotic spirit of this great country. Their example is one that has inspired soldiers, myself included, for the past 90 years. There is no greater example of the Army's values of courage, initiative and teamwork than the operation at Gallipoli. I am proud to be an Australian soldier and to carry on the legacy of those who fought and died on those faraway beaches in Turkey. As the nation pauses in solemn commemoration on April 25, all soldiers, past and present, should hold their heads high knowing that they are part of one of this country's greatest institutions. We will remember them.
Chief of Navy This year I will travel to Turkey to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the Anzac landings at Gallipoli. As it was the combined Allied navies which transported the AnzacS safely to Gallipoli, sustained them while ashore, and then took the survivors safely off at the end of the operation, this is an ideal time to recall the manner in which maritime activities provided the foundation for the wider Dardanelles campaign. The Australian submarine AE2 was the first Allied warship to succeed in a mission many considered impossible - to penetrate the treacherous currents, minefields and heavy fortifications of the Dardanelles. At the conclusion of the operation, members of the 1st RAN Bridging Train were the last Australians to leave Gallipoli. Today's Australian Navy still feels proud of its contribution to the Anzac legend. As part of this historic occasion, on April 25 the aptly named frigate HMAS Anzac will be at anchor off Anzac Cove. Her presence will provide a fitting background to our national commemorations, and serve as an appropriate tribute to the professionalism and flexibility of our forebears at this very early stage in the RAN's development.
Chief of Air Force Anzac Day to me is symbolic of all that it means to be an Australian. The valiant and fearless commitment of all the young men who landed at Gallipoli 90 years ago, and the values that they instilled, are a wonderful example of the Australian character. In the face of most terrifying adversity and a seemingly impossible mission, the camaraderie, team-work, mateship, selflessness, courage and dedication of those young men is what I think about when I think of the Anzacs. The reputation of the Anzacs should make us proud to be Australian. Our Allies, and even our foes, in that terrible war praised the heroic and compassionate nature of Australian troops. The Anzac values guide us today. The men and women of today's Air Force continue to impress and succeed with dedication, skill, commitment, teamwork and courage both in Australia and overseas on operations. Their guiding ethos is drawn from a tradition of service and sacrifice that started with the Anzacs. I am very proud of all Australians who have served the nation in the Royal Australian Air Force over 84 years of service and sacrifice. Their service encapsulates the true sprit of the Anzacs. |
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