Konted's Make My Day 2: War Memorials and Anzac Day: Lest We forget

War Memorials and Anzac Day: Lest We forget

Countless Australians fought and died in The Great War. It was a war fought in Europe and extended to the Middle East. Australia was then with the Allied Forces that were up against the Axis Powers. Australia was also actively involved in World War II. It likewise sent men to fight in the Crimean War, in Greece and on other battle fields. Australians have always been part of peace keeping missions in different parts of the world.

To recognize the gallantry and sacrifice of these men, war memorials were built all over Australia. Almost all towns have war monuments dedicated to local heroes. They can be located at rotundas, near public squares and reserves. Inscribed are words attesting to the bravery of those who fought and perished. The names of bonafide residents who fought in the wars can be seen in the memorials. Starting with WWI heroes, the memorials now include casualties of WWII and of the other wars.

To remember and honor these war heroes, the Australian government has declared every April 25 as Anzac Day. New Zealand also observes Anzac Day. Ceremonies are held in almost all states of Australia. As it is a national holiday, many Australians participate in the usual parade and watch the rituals that follow. The Laying of Wreaths, singing of hymns and the sounding of The Last Post are regularly done. In Melbourne, the focal point of celebration is held at The Shrine of Remembrance. Anzac Day is a time of remembering, a time of paying respect to those men made of sterner stuff who gave their lives for freedom, for democracy.

- Konted

The Shrine of Remembrance stands on a very wide prime land near St. Kilda Road .

The Shrine of Remembrance is one of the most popular landmarks of Melbourne City.

The Shrine of Remembrance as seen from the Remembrance Garden.

The Forecourt built in honor of War War II heroes.

The Eternal Flame at the WW II Forecourt

Wipers Statue. Wipers refers to a battle field in France where many Australians died in action in World War I.

Remembering fallen comrades

Memorial to those who fought and died in South Africa in 1901-1902.

Names of those who died in action

Memorial to those Australians and Hellenic who fought and died on Mainland Greece and in the Battle of Crete during World War II.

Never to be forgotten

Dedicated to those who defended the island of Malta in 1942

Recognition from US President Franklin Roosevelt

German Howitzer on display at the Department of Defense across The Shrine of Remembrance. It was captured from the Germans when an Australian Division attacked the Hindenberg Outpost Line.