Get into the ANZAC Day spirit at Gallipoli

ANZAC Day is about more than just commemorating the landing on Gallipoli in 1915. It is the day we remember all the soldiers who served and died protecting our country.

When war broke out in 1914, Australia had only been a federal commonwealth for 13 years. The government was keen to establish its reputation among the nations of the world, so soldiers from Australia and New Zealand were sent to capture Constantinople (now Istanbul) and open up a sea route to Russia.

The campaign dragged on for eight months, and at the end of 1915 the allied forces were evacuated. Both sides suffered heavy casualties and endured great hardships.

Although the Gallipoli campaign was unsuccessful, the actions of Australian and New Zealand soldiers left a powerful legacy. From the qualities of courage, mateship, and sacrifice the ANZAC spirit was born, and to this day it continues to be an important part of our national identity.

Dawn Service
Taking part in the ANZAC Day Dawn Service at Gallipoli is a moving experience that many ever forget. It is a day of patriotism, of remembrance and of celebrating the ANZAC spirit.

We have four Turkey tours departing in 2012 that take you to the Dawn Service. This is an overnight stay, where you will learn about what occurred in Gallipoli, and how it affected not only Australia and New Zealand but the people of Turkey as well. It is a day where everyone comes together to ensure the fighting spirit of all soldiers is not forgotten.

Take a look through the Gecko's Turkey trips that visit Gallipoli on ANZAC Day and be there to witness the moving scenes for yourself. And in the true spirit of the ANZACs, don't forget to take your mates along for the journey!

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.

Have you taken part in the Dawn Service at Gallipoli on ANZAC Day? We'd love to hear your stories and see your images. Feel free to upload them to Facebook, or tell us about it in the comments section below. You can also follow us on twitter to see more interesting links.

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