25 April 2015 PA-CN/04/03
Australians Commemorate ANZAC Centenary
Each year on Anzac Day, Australians gather at services and ceremonies around the world to remember the bravery and sacrifice of those who have served their nation in times of war and conflict.
The Australian Consulate-General in Chennai will organise a Dawn Service at the Madras War Cemetery at 5.30am on Saturday 25th April 2015.
“One hundred years ago, on 25 April 1915, Australians troops landed on the shores of Gallipoli, beginning a gruelling eight-month campaign. More than 8,700 lost their lives during the Gallipoli campaign, with more than 2,000 casualties on the first day alone” said Mr Sean Kelly, Australian Consul-General to South India. “What is little known is that there up to 15,000 Indian troops who fought together with the Anzacs at Gallipoli and nearly 1400 Indians perished during the campaign. Indians and Australians fought side by side on the battlefield. They even shared their rations,” continued Mr Kelly.
“Anzac Day is a time to remember the men and women who have served their country. It is an opportunity to reflect on the spirit of Anzac and how, after a century, Australian servicemen and women continue to take pride in, and inspiration from, the original Anzacs.”
Between 2014 and 2018 Australia will commemorate the Anzac Centenary, marking 100 years since our nation’s involvement in the First World War.
The Anzac Centenary is also a time to remember the essential contribution of those on the home front who support and care for those in service, and often face the loss or injury of loved ones.
Further information about Anzac Day and the Anzac Centenary can be found on the Anzac Centenary website at www.anzaccentenary.gov.au/
Information on the Indians who served at Gallipoli can be found at
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-04-22/indias-forgotten-soldiers-who-fought-alongside-anzacs/6406086
Chennai Dawn Service
Location: Madras War Cemetery
Time: 5.30am