'Lest We Forget'

'Lest We Forget' is a quote that's often associated with one of the most celebrated public holidays in Australia, ANZAC Day. Standing for the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, it originally served as a day to remember the soldiers who fought at Gallipoli in Turkey during the First World War in 1915; however, it's currently a day for Australians and New Zealanders to pay tribute to any military personnel who have died fighting for their countries.

Held annually on 25 April, ANZAC Day traditionally begins with the Dawn Service, where thousands gather for a ceremony to commemorate the lives of those in the armed forces. The one in Melbourne was at 6am at the Shrine of Remembrance, which is about a half-hour tram ride from my apartment. Surprisingly enough, I was able to get up before the sun and make it down there in time to witness this tradition. Despite the rain, I'm really glad I attended because it was such a moving event and the patriotism displayed by so many Australians was truly inspiring.