The Origin of the ANZAC

On 1 Jan 1901, the six colonies of Australia federated to form the Commonwealth of Australia, but little changed in practice, so a national identity was slow to develop.

At the outbreak of the Great War 1914 - 1918, Australia and New Zealand were quick to offer support. Thousands of volunteers enlisted and in early 1915 a force of one light and five Infantry Divisions from Australia, and one light Infantry Division from New Zealand arrived on the Greek Island of Lemnos to prepare for the Gallipoli campaign.

A force of three Army Corps, consisting of a British Corps, a French Corps and a Corps of Australians and New Zealanders, known as the ANZACs, sailed for the Gallipoli Peninsula in south west Turkey. At 0400 hrs on 25th April 1915 the ANZACs were put into long boats to be landed at dawn at the lowlands behind Suvla bay. But a strong tide and current forced the boats to land facing steep cliffs and well defended Turkish positions. Despite taking heavy losses, the ANZACs fought with determination and outstanding courage, forcing the Turks to retreat.

The ANZACs fought continuously and improved their position until the campaign was abandoned nine months later. Of the original force landed 66% were killed or wounded, but the morale of those fine men was never broken and they strongly resented being withdrawn.

The news of the courage displayed by the ANZACs and the praise given them by the High Command soon reached Australia and New Zealand. Admiration and pride at the achievements of their soldiers fostered a new patriotism. Many Australians believe that Australia was born a nation on that bloody 25th of April 1915.

ANZAC Day has been a national holiday since then, and Australians remember the men and women of all the Services who have fallen in the war. The streets of every town and city in Australia and New Zealand are filled to watch the the veterans march and to thank God that when the need arose their nations were able to call upon such support from its sons and daughters.

(Read the names of the Australian Army personnel buried in the Sutton Veny War Commission Graveyard here, and information on some of the Australians who were stationed in the village here.)