UK Armed Forces join London ANZAC Day commemorations

Anzac Day

The military officials spearheaded a ceremony in London as a tribute to the soldiers belonging to the Armed Forces of Australia and New Zealand.

Anzac Day - Figure 1
Photo GOV.UK

Today, there was an ANZAC Day ceremony in London with important guests such as Defence Ministers Andrew Murrison and The Earl of Minto, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, foreign leaders, and high-ranking military officials.

Every year, ceremonies are held to honor the Australian and New Zealand soldiers who served and passed away during World War I and II, as well as in other conflicts and peacekeeping missions.

The commemoration of ANZAC Day dates back to 1916. This day serves to pay tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives during the Gallipoli Campaign, and it's now a customary practice for Australian and New Zealand troops to observe this day every year.

On 25 April, a ceremony was held at Wellington Arch located at Hyde Park Corner in London during the early morning. The Duke of Edinburgh and Major General Richard Clements of the British Army placed a memorial wreath, while a bugler from The Band of the Royal Marines played the Last Post.

Andrew Murrison, who is responsible for defence, families and people, placed a wreath to honour the dead soldiers at the Cenotaph. The Earl of Minto, who also has duties in the defence sector, participated in a remembrance and gratitude ceremony at Westminster Abbey.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps expressed his respect and admiration for the military personnel from Australia and New Zealand.

On ANZAC Day, we pay tribute and show respect to the Australians and New Zealanders who courageously served their countries during military conflicts, wars, and operations aimed at preserving peace.

At present, the British workforce is still collaborating with military personnel from Australia and New Zealand on missions and drills. By leveraging our longstanding connections, we aim to enhance safety and advance economic growth all around the world.

The countries of the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand have a continued dedication to ensuring global security and collaborating to maintain the safety of our respective lands.

These countries have signed the Five Powers Defence Arrangement and are collaborating closely to help Ukraine defend itself against Russia's unlawful invasion. They also endorse the operation led by the United States to counter Houthi assaults in the Red Sea.

The blog post was released on the 25th of April 2024.

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