ANZAC Day is a day to remember the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women, and while we often focus on the men who fought and died for their country, it's important to acknowledge the role that women played during this time as well. From nurses on the frontlines to those who kept the home fires burning, women made significant contributions to the war effort.
One of the most famous examples of women's involvement in ANZAC Day is the story of the "Gallipoli girls". These women, who were mainly nurses, arrived in Gallipoli just weeks after the first ANZAC landing and worked tirelessly to care for the wounded and sick soldiers. Many of these women were stationed on hospital ships or in field hospitals, and they worked under incredibly difficult conditions, often with limited supplies and equipment.
But it wasn't just nurses who played a crucial role during the war. Women also worked in factories, farms, and offices, taking on jobs traditionally done by men who were away fighting. These women worked long hours for low pay, but their contributions were essential to keeping the war effort going.
Australian and New Zealand women played a significant role in the ANZAC forces during World War I, often serving as nurses or support staff. These women embodied the ANZAC spirit of courage, sacrifice, and dedication to duty, and their contributions to the war effort will never be forgotten. Here are ten known women who embodied the ANZAC spirit:
- Olive King: A nurse and midwife who served in World War I and World War II, earning the Military Medal for her service.
- Vivian Bullwinkel: A nurse who survived the sinking of the SS Vyner Brooke and became a prisoner of war in World War II.
- Sister Alice Ross-King: A nurse who served in World War I and was awarded the Military Medal for her bravery.
- Sister May Tilton: A nurse who served in World War I and was the first Australian nurse to receive the Military Medal.
- Sister Ellen Savage: A nurse who served in World War I and was awarded the Military Medal for her bravery.
- Sister Lilian Cooper: A doctor who served in World War I and was one of the first female doctors to serve in the Australian Army.
- Sister Alice Kitchen: A nurse who served in World War I and was awarded the Military Medal for her bravery.
- Sister Elsie Cook: A nurse who served in World War I and was awarded the Military Medal for her bravery.
- Sister Mabel Drummond: A nurse who served in World War I and was awarded the Military Medal for her bravery.
- Sister Clare Deacon: A nurse who served in World War I and was awarded the Military Medal for her bravery.
ANZAC Day is an opportunity to honour the sacrifices made by these women, as well as the men who fought and died for their country. It's a day to reflect on the impact of war, both on those who fought and on the communities they left behind. And it's a day to remember the importance of working towards peace and understanding, so that we can avoid the tragedies of war in the future.
As we celebrate ANZAC Day, let's take a moment to remember the brave women who served their country with courage and compassion. Their contributions may have been overlooked in the past, but we can ensure that their stories are heard and their sacrifices are honoured. Let's continue to work towards a future where all people are valued and respected, regardless of their gender or background.