International Service Members Honor ANZAC Day

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Service members, friends and families from the U.S. and five partner nations gathered aboard the USS Midway Museum for the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) Remembrance Day commemorative service April 25.

According to the New Zealand Ministry for Cultural Heritage, Australian and New Zealand Army Corps soldiers who fought against the Ottoman Empire during the Gallipoli campaign of WWI became known as ANZACs. Australians and New Zealanders observe ANZAC Day to remember those who served and died in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations, and recognize the qualities of courage, service and sacrifice.

"It's thinking about your mates who aren't here, and for us who are in the services to honor those who have gone before us," said Cmdr. David Wright, Royal Australian navy, assistant Australian naval attache Washington. "It is my heritage to honor the sacrifices of my forbearers, which is why the military holds so fast and true to its tradition."

Senior military leaders and public officials from the San Diego region were in attendance. The service featured a number of hymns and poems traditional to the commemoration as well as the posting of the guard.

"It is a time to honor the sacrifices of all service members worldwide, those who are posted overseas or at home," said Lt. Cmdr. Benjamin Dalton, U.S. Third Fleet Royal Australian Navy liaison officer. "It has become a lot broader than just the Australians and the New Zealanders."

Military dignitaries representing Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan and the United States participated in laying of the wreaths. Commander, U.S. Third Fleet Vice Adm. Gerald R. Beaman, placed a wreath on the memorial near the battlefield cross on behalf of the United States.

"It was a great honor to have important figures, such as Vice Adm. Beaman and other U.S. Navy Sailors in attendance," said Wright. "Their participation in the ceremony by laying a wreath reflects the friendship that the U.S. and Australia share and the dedication to bolstering relations with partner nations."

The service closed with a moment of silence in addition to a benediction by Capt. Jerome A. Hinson, U.S. Third Fleet command chaplain and U.S. Navy Band Southwest playing the national anthems of Australia, New Zealand and the U.S.

"It is very reverent and emotional, and you feel proud to be part of this," said Wright.

Joint, interagency and international relationships strengthen U.S. Third Fleet's ability to respond to crises and protect the collective maritime interests of the U.S. and its allies and partners.

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