ANZAC Day: a photo essay
ANZAC Day is not a day which celebrates military successes, but rather one to commemorate the fallen. It sprung from the disastrous military campaign in Gallipoli during the First World War, which ultimately led to the retreat of Allied troops. It is also largely seen as the forging point of nationhood for both Australia and New Zealand.
Soldiers past and present march down Swanston Street all the way to the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne's annual parade, with the crowd clapping them on, shouting "good on ya!" to thank them for their sacrifice. Nothing could be more Australian.

Speeches are given on the sacrifices and the futility of war...

Soldiers stand guard over the Cenotaph. The flame has been burning continuously since Queen Elizabeth II first lit it in 1954.
Young cadets were a new sight for me, as I had grown up in a society where there were no soldiers, nor did people aspire to join the military.
Polish veterans salute as they hand over a garland. It is quite a sight to see - no words are exchanged, but a simple gesture communicates profound amounts of respect.

It is not often that you see military personnel in full dress uniform with their ceremonial swords.

The Victorian Police out in full force. There have been threats of terrorism on ANZAC day for the past few years, but the police have managed to ward them off.
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