Thousands braved the cold to honour the memory of all Australians who have served at home and abroad at dawn services across the country.
Anzac Day 2024: Thousands Commemorate at First Light for Dawn Services
In a moving tribute to the fallen soldiers, thousands of Australians and New Zealanders gathered in the pre-dawn darkness on April 25, 2024, to mark Anzac Day with solemn dawn services across both nations. This year’s ceremonies took on a special significance as communities came together to honor the sacrifices of those who have served in past and present conflicts.
From the shores of Gallipoli to the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, and across cities and towns in New Zealand, the spirit of Anzac was alive as people of all ages stood in silence to remember the bravery and sacrifice of the ANZACs. The day began with the traditional “gunfire” breakfasts, consisting of coffee or tea served with rum, reminiscent of the sustenance taken by soldiers before going into battle.
In Canberra, the national ceremony at the Australian War Memorial saw one of its largest crowds in recent years, with early estimates suggesting that over 50,000 individuals attended the service. Prime Minister, in his address, emphasized the importance of remembrance and the need to uphold the values of courage, mateship, and resilience that the ANZACs stood for.
Across the Tasman Sea, in Wellington, New Zealand, the dawn service at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park drew similarly large crowds. Prime Minister spoke of the enduring legacy of the ANZAC spirit and its relevance in today’s world, urging people to remember not only the sacrifices but also the lessons learned from history.
The ceremonies were marked by the laying of wreaths, recitations of the Ode of Remembrance, and the haunting sound of the Last Post, followed by a minute of silence. This year, the services also included tributes to current defence force personnel involved in peacekeeping missions around the globe.
One poignant moment was observed in Gallipoli, where Australians, New Zealanders, and Turks came together at the ANZAC Cove to commemorate the landings of April 25, 1915. The service at Gallipoli, which has become a pilgrimage site for many, symbolizes the shared respect and friendship that has emerged from the horrors of war.
Anzac Day serves as a reminder of the cost of conflict and the price of peace. It is a day where past grievances give way to mutual respect, and former foes stand together in reflection. This year’s dawn services, attended by thousands, highlight the deep-rooted reverence for those who have served and continue to serve, embodying the spirit of unity and remembrance that defines Anzac Day.
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