War veterans and international dignitaries from many countries paid their respects at the War Cemetery in Kanchanaburi to observe Anzac Day April 25.
Anzac Day is a day of remembrance that commemorates all Australians and New Zealanders who served and died in all wars and armed conflicts.
On April 25, 1915, Australia and New Zealand’s army corps formed part of the allied expedition that set out to capture the Gallipoli peninsula. These became known as Anzacs and the pride they took in that name continues to this day.
H.E. Ben King, the New Zealand Ambassador to Thailand, makes a heartfelt speech during the ceremony.
The service commenced at 11 a.m., with all the formalities befitting such an event: a standard bearer, pipe band, members of the military and a wreath-laying ceremony to honor those who lost their lives.
Ambassadors from many countries attended, including Germany’s Peter Pruegel, Australia’s Paul Robilliard, New Zealand’s Ben King, and Glyn Davies of the U.S.
H.E. Glyn Davies, the USA Ambassador to Thailand, pays respect after laying a commemorative wreath.
Members from the Thai Navy, Air Force and Army also paid their respects, as did representatives from China, France, Canada, and a good number of war veterans.
A strong contingent from the Royal British Legion’s Chonburi branch also made its way to the annual event and their poppy table did a roaring trade. The members also visited the Chungkai war graves and the Vietnam War museum.
As the sun set on a great day many of those who attended joined for a few drinks and recounted old stories and remembered friends past and present.
The German Ambassador to Thailand H.E. Peter Pruegel pays tribute during the proceedings.
The military pipe band from the British Club Bangkok accompany the ceremony.
H.E. Paul Robilliard, Australian Ambassador to Thailand, lays a wreath to commemorate the fallen.
Royal British Legion Chonburi Branch Standard Bearer Richard Holmes leads the Australian Army Honour Guard.
Flight Sergeant Thomas McDonald, Vice Defence Attach British Embassy, chats with Bert Elson, Secretary of the Royal British Legion Chonburi.
Officers of the Royal Thai Army lay a wreath during the proceedings.
Commonwealth War Graves Commission staff also received a certificate.
Members relaxing at the BBQ.
Wreath Layer Ken Ashbolt representing the Royal British Legion Thailand with Australian School Children.
