Westminster Abbey Marks ANZAC Day 2024

‘Remembering what must never be forgotten’

The service was conducted by the Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, who said in his Bidding:

‘Early on the morning of 25th April 1915, soldiers of the newly formed Australia and New Zealand Army Corps, landed at Gallipoli and were plunged into battle. By the end of that first day they had sustained two thousand casualties, either killed or wounded. Months of bitter warfare followed. Today we gather to remember what must never be forgotten. We are also here to honour not just the bravery, but the common cause. We will reflect on the complex history that makes allies and enemies, and leads us through war and peace.’

The flags of Australia, New Zealand, Turkey, and the United Kingdom were represented at the Grave of the Unknown Warrior.

HE Phil Goff, High Commissioner for New Zealand, gave an Address.

HE Stephen Smith, High Commissioner for Australia, read Revelation 21: 1-4.

The Address was given by the Dean.

Act of Remembrance

His Excellency Osman Koray Erta, Turkish Ambassador, recited the words of former President of Turkey Mustafa Kemal Atatürk inscribed on the memorial at ANZAC Cove in the Dardanelles.

Wreaths were laid at the Grave of the Unknown Warrior and by the High Commissioners.

Prayers were led by the Reverend Robert Latham, Minor Canon and Sacrist, and said by: Poppy Wadsworth, Maddison Sharp, Ella Nelson, Elliot Jenkins, Agnes Radford, Ava Woodland and the Venerable Tricia Hillas, Canon in Residence.

The organ was played by Peter Holder, Sub-Organist.

The Fanfare team from the Band of the Prince of Wales were directed by General James Bowder OBE.

About ANZAC Day

ANZAC (Australia and New Zealand Army Corps) Day is a national day of remembrance that commemorates Australians and New Zealanders who served their respective countries.

• Remembering the ANZACs article