The ANZAC Spirit: Why Australians and New Zealanders Are Proud of Their World War I and II Participation
When discussing Australians, it is important to include the New Zealanders alongside them. They should be proud of their involvement in World War I and II because what they achieved was vastly disproportionate to their numbers. This pride is embodied in the ANZAC spirit, which is celebrated every ANZAC Day.
The ANZAC Spirit and World War I
ANZAC involvement in World War I, particularly at Gallipoli, marked the first time Australia's military was tested in battle. The blood of the nation was spilt for the first time, and it became the baptism of fire for the Australian soldiers. Despite the challenges they faced, the ANZAC spirit is celebrated in ceremonies that focus on six key characteristics: endurance, courage, ingenuity, good humour, larrikinism, and mateship.
Endurance
Australian soldiers were renowned for their endurance, a trait that was particularly evident in harsh, bush-filled environments. This endurance, coupled with their toughness, made them some of the toughest soldiers in the world. This endurance was crucial in maintaining a relentless fight, pushing on even when physically exhausted, due to their strong connection to the land and their violent lifestyle.
Courage
The courage of ANZACs was another defining characteristic. They were known to charge at enemy machine guns, even if they knew the risk of death. This self-sacrifice was not just a display of bravery but a deep-seated loyalty and commitment to their fellow soldiers.
Ingenuity
Many ANZACs came from the bush and were adept at using their brains and hands to build innovative tools and machines for battle. Notable examples include the Self-Firing Rifle, which played a crucial role in one of the most successful military withdrawals in history. They also improvised grenades using tin cans and even developed the Periscope Rifle for use in trenches.
Good Humour
Australians are well-known for their good humour and banter. Even in the face of gunfire and danger, they could still share a joke, showcasing their resilience and ability to maintain a sense of camaraderie.
Larrikinism
Larrikinism is an Australian term that encapsulates wit, mischief, and a disregard for authority. This trait ties closely with good humour and is evident in the pranks and playful interactions between soldiers, bonding them even further.
Mateship
Mateship is the most critical characteristic, as it underpins and reinforces all the others. Australian soldiers fought not just for the idea of country or a higher cause, but for their loved ones and the men fighting alongside them. This strong bond of loyalty and camaraderie is perhaps the most powerful aspect of the ANZAC spirit.
During the Second World War, the ANZAC spirit once again made a profound impact. Similar to World War I, ANZACs were respected for their courage, ingenuity, and commitment to their fellow soldiers. The ANZAC spirit was not just a wartime phenomenon but a defining characteristic that shaped the identity of Australian soldiers and continues to be celebrated today.
ANZAC Day
ANZAC Day is a significant day of remembrance for the sacrifices made by Australian and New Zealand soldiers. It is a celebration of the mateship, endurance, and courage displayed during World War I and II. Today, ANZAC Day continues to be a symbol of unity and reverence for the bond formed by ANZAC soldiers.
In summary, the ANZAC spirit is a testament to the enduring resilience, courage, and mateship that defines Australian and New Zealand soldiers. Their contributions during World War I and II were not about killing strangers from afar, but about a deep-seated sense of loyalty and sacrifice for those they knew and loved. This spirit lives on, celebrated every year on ANZAC Day, as a reminder of their indomitable spirit and the sacrifices they made for freedom and comradeship.