ANZAC Day and the Border Regiment at Gallipoli

Today is a very important day in the calendar of both New Zealand and Australia. Today is ANZAC day, their national day of remembrance commemorating all those from both nations who died in conflict. It was on this day in 1915 the Armed Forces from both of these nations were part of the Allied landings on the Gallipoli peninsular. This date has become a day of national focus in the southern hemisphere. ANZAC day.

But it was not just Australians and New Zealanders involved in the infamous Gallipoli campaign. The Allied Forces comprised of British, French, Indians and Newfoundlanders. The landings on the 25 April also consisted of the 1st Battalion the Border Regiment who landed on X beach. They were joined later in the campaign by the 6th Battalion who landed in early August at Suvla. Both their contribution to the campaign is remembered in the publication Glory is No Compensation.


There is also another local connection with Gallipoli as Carlisle-born Commander Edward Boyle was awarded the Victoria Cross for his action on 27th April with his submarine E14. He dived the submarine under enemy minefields to operate within the narrow waters, despite navigational difficulties and strong currents. A commemorative VC paving slab is to be found in the City Centre near Carlisle's war memorial.

But there is a daily reminder to Castle visitors of the Border Regiment's connection with Gallipoli. As the former Regimental Depot, many of the buildings within the site are named with Regimental battle honours, the Museum is housed within Alma Block. Across the Parade Square is a building bearing the paint-peeling sign 'Gallipoli'. Visitors to the Castle often ask us about these building names, especially 'Gallipoli'. Our fantastic Museum staff are always keen to highlight the 1st and 6th Battalion's connection with the campaign as in our own small way we are helping to remember all those soldiers who were involved over one hundred years ago. 



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