ANZAC DAY - LEST WE FORGET
24th April, 2012
Anzac Day 2012 marks the 97th Anniversary of the landing of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps at Gallipoli in 1915. This year also marks the 70th anniversary of two battles from the Second World War in 1942: the bombing of Darwin and the Kokoda Trail campaign.On 19 February 1942, 242 Japanese aircraft bombed Darwin’s harbour and two airfields, in the first and the biggest wartime attack on Australia. In two raids, launched two hours apart, the Japanese attack took a heavy toll upon Allied troops and civilians, with 252 people losing their lives.
On 21 July 1942, the Japanese landed at Gona, New Guinea and on 23 July, the fight between Australian and Japanese forces along the Kokoda Trail began. Fighting along the Kokoda Track was some of the most intense and ferocious experienced by Australian troops in World War II. The victory helped to secure the Allied bases in northern Australia, which were essential in protecting Australia from the Japanese. Approximately 625 Australians lost their lives along the Track and more than 1,600 were wounded. Australian casualties from sickness exceeded 4,000. Approximately 6,500 Japanese lost their lives.
The Anzac spirit was born 97 years ago on 25 April 1915, far from home, when our brave soldiers landed at Gallipoli. On that day alone, approximately 2000 Australians were killed or wounded in the fight for freedom, democracy and peace. It is said that on this day Australia truly earned the right to be called a nation. The heroism of the men at Anzac Cove earned Australia respect and honour.
As we commemorate Anzac Day, we remember with gratitude the service and sacrifice of those first Anzacs. We also remember the hundreds of thousands of Australian defence personnel who have served in wars and conflicts and as peace keepers since that time.
As a strong, democratic nation, much is expected of Australia and its armed forces in trouble spots around the world — and in the spirit of Anzac our servicemen and women continue to make our country proud. We think especially on this day of those continuing to serve in Afghanistan, in constant danger of their lives.
We owe an enormous debt of gratitude to these Australians and Anzac Day is their special day and our opportunity to honour them and ensure that their service is never forgotten.
Anzac Day commemorations help younger Australians to gain a greater appreciation of our wartime history and heritage and the role war has played in shaping our nation and securing peace. All young Australians should understand the Anzac story to ensure that it is passed down to future generations.
I encourage the community to join our veterans for the traditional Anzac Day commemorations throughout the Wide Bay.
