Australians and New Zealanders commemorate Anzac Day in Seattle

Members of the Australian, New Zealand and Turkish communities in the greater Seattle region gathered for an Anzac Day dawn service on Sunday 21 April.

Anzac Day (April 25) is an occasion to honor and remember all who have served in armed conflict, and who have sacrificed their lives for their country.

Attendees gathered at the steps of the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI) for the service.

Pilot Officer Zachary McPherson, a member of the Royal Australian Air Force stationed at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island (NASWI), gave the Anzac Day address.

Several service members from the RAAF’s No. 36 Squadron, currently stationed at Joint Base Lewis–McChord (JBLM) in Washington, travelled to attend the ceremony. Former service members were also in attendance.

We would like to extend a special thanks to Staff Sergeant Brian C. Smith, of the 133rd Army National Guard Band, for traveling to perform The Last Post; as well as to Luman Hohaia for performing the traditional Māori song, Blue Smoke.

Following the ceremony, attendees were invited for a light breakfast at the nearby Courtyard Marriott Lake Union.

Additional thanks to Katharine Holdsworth, NZ Honorary Consul for Seattle and Washington state; the Seattle Christchurch Sister City Association and the New Zealanders of Seattle; the Turkish American Cultural Association of Washington (TACAWA); and the Courtyard Marriott Lake Union.