Kilkenny’s Gallipoli fallen to be remembered at ANZAC Day event

Twenty-nine Kilkenny soldiers who fought with the ANZAC in World War I are to be remembered at a special ceremony in the city this Sunday, April 21.

The ANZAC was the combination of the Australian Imperial Forces and the forces of New Zealand, which became the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps.
It is estimated that some 300,000 Irish fought in World War I (1914-1918) and approximately 6,600 of them with the ANZAC.

At the turn of the last century, Australia was very much as popular a destination for Irish emigrants as it is in this, the 21st Century. On the outbreak of war, there was no conscription in that country, but many citizens were keen to sign up and lend their support to Britain and protect Australian interests in the Pacific from German and Axis interference.

The ANZAC forces have become particularly synonymous with the assault and battle at Gallipoli in Turkey in 1915. Sadly, their wounded amounted to approximately 26,000, while some 8,141 soldiers were killed. Counted among this number were at least 29 Kilkenny men, and a further 138 from the wider South East area.

This Sunday, at 4.30pm, members of the public from across the region – and particularly any Australian or New Zealand natives – are being invited to attend a commemorative ceremony at the Peace Park in Kilkenny City.

The ceremony will consist of poetry, music, wreath-laying, speeches from representatives of the Australian, New Zealand and Turkish Embassies, flag raising, playing of the Last Post and Reveille and the National Anthems of Australia, New Zealand, Turkey and Ireland. Members of the public are also invited to lay down a wreath.

Cathaoirligh and mayors from the South-East counties, as well as local dignitaries and officials will be present on the day.
Refreshments will be served directly after the ceremony at the Home Rule Club, John's Quay, Kilkenny.