AN ESTIMATED 55 000 visitors gathered this morning at the Australian War Memorial for the 2016 Anzac Day Dawn Service.

Dr Brendan Nelson, Director of the Australian War Memorial, said he was proud of the commitment and dedication of everyday Australians to the annual commemoration of Anzac Day.

“The attendance at this year’s Dawn Service shows the enduring connection so many people have to Anzac Day and what it represents for our servicemen and servicewomen – and indeed for all Australians,” Brendan said.

“The landing on Gallipoli is one of the most iconic moments in Australian history, but it is important to remember that for those who participated it was just the beginning of their service. Many went on to endure the mud and blood and tragedy of the Western Front.

“This year marks 100 years since the arrival of Australian troops on the Western Front. In fact, more Australians lost their lives on the Western Front than in any other theatre of war.

“Anzac Day is the day we remember the commitment and sacrifice of all our men and women who have served in conflicts and on operational service, and those who continue to serve today,

“For the fourth year in a row, images of Australian servicemen and servicewomen were projected onto the front façade of the Memorial prior to the Dawn Service. The pre-dawn proceedings also featured a series of readings by Australian servicemen and servicewomen, including Victoria Cross recipient Ben Roberts-Smith VC MG.

“The Dawn Service commenced with, Sergeant Norman Daymirringu, Patrol Commander, Arnhem Squadron, North-West Mobile Force (NORFORCE) and Tribal Elder of the Yolngu Tribe, playing the didgeridoo from the parapet of the Memorial.

“We encourage those who could not join us at the Dawn Service today to come to the National Ceremony, which commences at 10.30 am,” said Dr Nelson.