We stood silently at attention as the bugle played its long, haunting phrase. Every year since I can remember, April 25th had been a sacred day for our. I looked up at my grandfather, his dark, weary eyes blurred with tears. 95 years ago, his father, my great grandfather, had left his home and wife to honour his country and fight for freedom across the ocean.

95 years ago, Australian and New Zealand Army Corps troops landed on the forsaken shores of Gallipoli. In the longest military engagement of the entire war, the ANZAC spirit was forged in the heat of battle. For this reason, April 25th is important to all Australians.

But it was more sacred to us than that. 95 years ago, my great grandfather left his home, and gave his life on foreign soils so that we can enjoy the freedoms we do now.

The bugle finished playing. Even though I never knew my great grandfather, this day is sacred to me, and to all Australians. Which is why I will keep coming here every year for as long as I live.

Lest We Forget