THE approaching centenary commemoration of the Anzac landing at Gallipoli has seen a huge increase in interest in the campaign.
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Naturally the significance of the anniversary has caused many Australians to take stock and examine (or re-examine) the conflict.
It has been valuable for people to contemplate what Gallipoli meant for a fledgling nation.
The nine months of fighting has largely been regarded as the crucible in which a nation's spirit was forged.
There is certainly an element of truth to that but a danger too in romanticising or mythologising the Anzac story.
That is why it is a commemoration not a celebration.
Stories of sacrifice and bravery should be forefront in people's minds on Saturday.
It has been amazing to have those stories discussed and revisited in the lead up to Anzac Day.
Not only are the exploits of Harry Murray brought back to the public consciousness but so too are those lesser known soldiers.
The fact that there are no living participants from the conflict means our understanding of it is left to the history books.
Diaries, photographs and official correspondence, as well as family histories play a part in how we remember.
People should be cautious about glorifying the legend of the bronzed Aussie storming the beach or the laconic larrikin thumbing his nose at authority.
We must remember that the origin of Anzac Day is more complicated than that.
While we should strive for peace, we should be mindful that all across the world there are people wishing and willing to do others harm.
Recent revelations of planned attacks on police during Anzac Day services would shock and appal Australians.
But there is support in numbers and solidarity in mateship. We must resist evil and extend friendship to good people.
Perhaps that is the greatest lesson to learn from those events 100 years ago.