Anzac Day

Veterans in the parade

Today it's a public holiday in all Australia. It's Anzac Day. Anzac stands for Australia and New Zealand Army Corps and the day is celebrated in remembrance of Australians that have been killed in wars from WW1 and forwards.

It's a big thing, Australia remembers it's Anzacs, and in all major cities there are dawn services at sunrise and then parades later in the morning.
I visited the Brisbane parade and was impressed by the number of participants. It lasted for about 2,5 hours and there were representatives from all the wars were Australia has been involved (more than you would think) and from the different military disciplines.
The parade never ended. Honestly I think there were actually more people walking in the parade than spectators watching.

A lot of music corpses created the parade atmosphere

This certainly is a very special day and unlike e g Australia day where you're supposed to be flat out drunk already at noon this day is celebrated more in silence and with respect. There is even a debate going on if sport events should be held on this day at all.
We don't have anything similar in Sweden and I guess that's because we haven't been in any wars since the 18th century. Yes we have had troops in other countries but they haven't fought to defend Sweden's freedom but under the UN flag to keep peace and that's not really the same thing.

Cheers

The crew from HMS Parramatta

Not really Anzac Day related but there is always room for a sweet Aussie girl