The Naval Association

The Naval Association

of Australia

VA031 Monday 25 April 2005

AUSTRALIANS MARK THE 90TH ANZAC DAY
The Minister for Veterans' Affairs, De-Anne Kelly, today urged Australians to take time on this, the 90th anniversary of the Gallipoli campaign, to remember those who have served Australia in all wars, conflicts and peace operations.

"Ninety years ago, the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps landed at Gallipoli on 25 April, 1915, as part of a British Empire and French force trying to capture the Dardanelles Strait from Turkey," Mrs Kelly said.

"The Anzacs evacuated their positions around Anzac Cove eight months later after many hard fought battles and actions. The British and French evacuated Cape Helles to the south a month later. More than 44,000 allied troops, including 11,000 Australians and New Zealanders, and 86,000 Turks died during the campaign.

"This Anzac Day I am leading a delegation of 10 national ex-service leaders to Turkey for commemorations marking the 90th anniversary of the Gallipoli campaign.

"With no Gallipoli veterans now remaining, this delegation represents all Australian veterans, including those who served at Gallipoli.

"The leaders, who are veterans and a war widow themselves, come from a range of ex-service groups whose members are veterans from wars and conflicts since World War II, peacekeepers and war widows."

Mrs Kelly encouraged Australians to mark Anzac Day by attending a Dawn Service or the march in their town or city.

"Today, Australians all over the world will reflect on the contribution made by our servicemen and women in wars, conflicts and peace operations," Mrs Kelly said.

"Anzac Day services will be held today in more than 60 countries around the world, including at Australian memorials in London, Papua New Guinea, Thailand, France and Malaysia.

"Anzac Day is our national day of commemoration and I hope all Australians will take time to honour the Anzacs and all those who have served since in the defence of our nation."