BOB HALVERSON OBE,
Sir, - Gerald Morgan (July 22nd) recognised the importance of nations reflecting on and paying tribute to those Irish men and women who have died in times of conflict. We believe that the National Day of Commemoration held at The Royal Hospital, Kilmainham demonstrates the Irish public's growing sense of pride and awareness concerning those who have fallen in past wars, and reminds us all of the ongoing peacekeeping efforts by the Irish Defence Force in regions such as East Timor, the Balkans and elsewhere.
Mr Morgan also highlighted the contribution of Irish forces during the Gallipoli campaign. ANZAC Day is a significant national day in both Australia and New Zealand, commemorating the landing in Gallipoli on April 25th 1915. Every year, the number of people gathered in towns throughout both nations, as well as in Gallipoli, continues to grow as we honour the thousands of soldiers who died there during the first World War, as well as the past and present commitments of our respective defence forces.
We take this opportunity to highlight the ANZAC Remembrance Service held in Dublin each year on April 25th. This service, which takes place in the evening at St Ann's Church, Dawson Street, is attended by representatives from nations on both sides of the first World War conflict.
It is worth noting that in recent years the Turkish Ambassador has played a full part in this unique service, highlighting the mutual respect and honour for all our war dead.
This year wreaths were placed by representatives of the Australian and New Zealand governments, as well as the defence attachés of Australia, New Zealand, Britain, the United States and serving members of the Irish Defence Forces.
Veterans from the Organisation of National Ex-servicemen and Women (ONE) take part, alongside representatives of the Royal British Legion and other veteran's groups, including members of the Royal Dublin and Munster Fusiliers. Throughout the service, the Irish Tricolour stands proudly beside the flags of the other nations.
Attended by many New Zealanders and Australians living in Ireland, the ANZAC Remembrance Service is open to the public. - Yours, etc.,
BOB HALVERSON OBE, Australian Ambassador, ALAN McCARTHY, New Zealand, Honorary Consul General, Dublin 2.