LEST WE FORGET - ANZAC DAY

Table of Content I. Lest We Forget Meaning II. What Does "Lest We Forget" Mean Today? III. ANZAC Day Poem - Ode of Remembrance IV. Lest We Forget – When is ANZAC Day 2026? V. ANZAC Day Lest We Forget: Express It in Your Own Way

ANZAC Day "Lest We Forget" is a day to honor those who have fallen for Australia. This phrase is borrowed from a famous poem used to pay tribute to the soldiers of the ANZAC Corps. The following article will help you understand these concepts thoroughly to prepare for a meaningful commemoration.

Lest We Forget Meaning

This phrase was first mentioned in Rudyard Kipling's poem Recessional in 1897. The word "lest" originates from Old English, meaning "to avoid or to forget." Kipling, inspired by the Bible, used it with the meaning "lest we forget." Since then, the phrase gained attention and has been used to honor fallen heroes.

Lest We Forget Meaning

After World War I, particularly following the heavy losses in the Gallipoli Campaign, the phrase "lest we forget" or "lest we remember" became an essential part of memorial services. The use of this phrase also strengthened the bond between Australians and New Zealanders as they remembered their shared heroic history through ANZAC Day odes.

What Does "Lest We Forget" Mean Today?

The meaning of "lest we forget" is straightforward—it serves as a reminder to never forget the sacrifices of the ANZAC soldiers. During ANZAC Day commemorations, attendees recite the Ode of Remembrance, followed by the response "We will remember them" and conclude with the phrase "Lest we forget."

What Does "Lest We Forget" Mean Today?

Many people also use hashtags and messages like "Thank you for your service" to express gratitude for those who served their country on ANZAC Day. However, some variations, such as "lest we remember," convey more of a sense of sorrow rather than gratitude.

ANZAC Day Poem - Ode of Remembrance

Poems play an essential role in ANZAC Day commemorations. Among them, the Ode of Remembrance and several other widely used poems are dedicated to ANZAC Day. Their common theme revolves around honoring and remembering the heroes who served.

The phrase "ANZAC Day Lest We Forget" is also taught in schools to ensure that students understand its significance from an early age and can recite the verses fluently during memorial ceremonies.

The full text of the Ode of Remembrance is as follows:

They shall grow not old,

as we that are left grow old;

Age shall not weary them,

nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun

and in the morning

We will remember them.

Response:

We will remember them

Lest we forget

ANZAC Day Poem - Ode of Remembrance

During the Ceremony: Proper Etiquette and Attire

During the ANZAC Day ceremony, attendees must maintain a solemn and respectful demeanor. Talking, laughing, or causing disturbances is strictly prohibited. It is also customary to remove hats when the Ode of Remembrance (including the response "We will remember them") is recited.

If you wish to attend the event in appropriate ANZAC Day attire, be sure to explore our ANZAC DAY TeeAussie collection. Dressing suitably can help you blend in and show your respect for the occasion.

Lest We Forget – When is ANZAC Day 2026?

ANZAC Day is observed annually on April 25, drawing large crowds of participants. At dawn, hundreds of thousands of Australians and New Zealanders gather in public squares, carrying with them a deep yearning for peace.

Lest We Forget – When is ANZAC Day 2026?

ANZAC stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, a military force established by the governments of Australia and New Zealand to support the British government during World War I. Their primary mission was to draw the Ottoman army’s attention and disrupt their defenses, aiding the British Empire in securing control of the Dardanelles Strait. However, the campaign resulted in heavy casualties, with over 11,000 soldiers losing their lives.

Australian and New Zealand Army Corps

To ensure that these soldiers are never forgotten, phrases such as "ANZAC Lest We Forget" and poems like Ode to the Fallen were created as meaningful tributes. The act of remembrance not only honors the past but also serves as encouragement for current and future servicemen and women.

One of the most powerful poems about ANZAC Day includes the following lines:

“We remember those on ANZAC Day….

In the early morning, just before sun-up and while the sky is still grey,

we silently remember the fallen and the wounded on ANZAC Day.

Those who fought for our allied countries, both here and on foreign shores –

those killed, wounded and all returned service personnel in all the world wars;

service men and women of every distinction and all ranks…

we give you all our heartfelt gratitude and our sincere thanks.

ANZAC Day is a day to remember the mates who were left behind,

all service personnel who returned home injured, shell shocked or blind,

and also those psychologically scarred by the bloody battlefield

– their experiences are too horrific to be discussed or revealed….

As a nation we are united by tragedies and terrible loss,

and each year we stand together under the Great Southern Cross.

The tragic loss of so many lives – soldiers, sailors, airmen and nurses,

causing broken hearts and grief that time never reimburses…

all leaving behind a bereaved mother, father, a distraught husband or wife,

forever destined to mourn the terrible loss of their precious one’s life.

They perished on our home shores and across the vast sea

and allowed us to live in this great land of the lucky and free.

They are not forgotten, or overlooked by the passing of the years…

silently we stand and remember them as the sun slowly appears.

And as the bugle plays “The Last Post” and we humbly watch the dawn break,

we appreciate how courageous they were when our freedom was at stake.

They were people – much loved and full of life when they answered the call,

on April 25th each and every year, we will remember them all.”

Another Post: Anzac Day - Historical Significance, Importance and Public Commemorat

ANZAC Day Lest We Forget: Express It in Your Own Way

The slogan "Lest We Forget" or the "ANZAC Oath" can be seen everywhere on ANZAC Day, reminding people of the importance of remembrance. How you choose to honor this day is equally significant.

One way to express your respect and solidarity is by wearing a T-shirt with a bold ANZAC Day slogan. This not only helps you feel more connected to the event but also earns the appreciation of those around you.

Let TeeAussie provide you with a wide range of stylish designs featuring meaningful imagery and messages, ensuring you can commemorate ANZAC Day in a way that truly reflects your personal style.

See more: 

1. Anzac Day - Historical Significance, Importance and Public Commemorat
2. NAIDOC Week – Honoring the Culture, Heritage of Indigenous Australia
3. Overview of Aboriginal Australians - History, Culture, and Society