ADF commemorates Anzac Day

Members of the Australian Defence Force will carry the Anzac spirit around the world today as they pause to remember their forebears and reflect on their own contribution for Australia.

The Chief of the Defence Force, General David Hurley began commemorations at the Australian War Memorial Dawn Service and will attend the National Anzac Day ceremony in Canberra later this morning.

General Hurley said it was important to pay tribute to those who have served and to thank those who are currently serving.

"We recognise the hardships our servicemen and women have endured and continue to endure today, and we pay tribute to the families who support them."

More than 3000 ADF personnel who are currently deployed on operations in Afghanistan, the Middle East and Solomon Islands; on duty in the Gulf of Aden, the Indian and Pacific Oceans; and on border protection operations will participate in Anzac Day commemorations.

For those on duty on operations around the world Anzac Day provides a unique experience, taking in the historical significance of the day and their contribution to the history of service in their current operational deployment.

"These men and women know the challenges and sacrifice of duty. They accept the responsibility to continue to display the Anzac spirit and, like their forebears, they demonstrate courage, skill and compassion under the most difficult and dangerous conditions," General Hurley said.

Media note:

Stills imagery, including individual location galleries, will be available throughout the day at:

http://www.defence.gov.au/anzacday/2013/imagery.htm

Vision will be fed to the Parliamentary Press Gallery as it is received throughout the day.

Media contact:

Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999