ww100 Scotland

Hundreds of people congregated in Edinburgh Castle’s Esplanade this morning to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the First World War’s Gallipoli campaign at an event organised by Legion Scotland.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and The Secretary of State for Scotland Alistair Carmichael joined Scotland in recognising the contribution of all units involved in the campaign, in a special service held within the Scottish National War Memorial. The service, broadcast live to the Castle’s Esplanade, was part of Legion Scotland’s annual ANZAC Day Service; the national day of remembrance to honour the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) who fought at Gallipoli.

ww1 memorial at edinburgh castle this morning IMAGE - MICHAEL BOYD PHOTOGRAPHY. 07773 784 823 www.mikeboydphotos.com — Children on the Esplanade with Australian flags in memory of the ANZACS

Wreaths were laid at the Scottish National War Memorial by the First Minister, The Secretary of State for Scotland Alistair Carmichael and key representatives from all the countries affected by the campaign. Members of the public and veterans paid their respects by laying their own wreaths on the Esplanade at the replica Stone of Remembrance.

Picture by Lesley Martin 25 April 2015 First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon lays a wreath at the Scottish National War Memorial at a special ceremony to mark the centenary of Gallipoli. Hosted by The Royal British Legion Scotland (Legion Scotland), Scotland’s biggest membership veterans charity, the service also saw wreaths laid by the Secretary of State for Scotland Alistair Carmichael and key representatives from all the countries affected by the campaign. Members of the public and veterans paid their respects by laying their own wreaths at the replica Stone of Remembrance on the Castle Esplanade, where the service was screened live to hundreds of observers. *********** FREE FIRST USE ONLY********* — 25 April 2015: First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon lays a wreath at the Scottish National War Memorial to mark the centenary of Gallipoli.

Kevin Gray MM, CEO of Legion Scotland said:

“The Gallipoli Campaign had a huge impact on Scotland, its centenary today was about paying tribute and ensuring we remember.

“Legion Scotland thank all those that joined them today for the commemoration. No matter where we come from it is important to come together and spend a little time to show our gratitude and respect for the sacrifices made by so many during this campaign and the many others that took place during WWI.”

The Gallipoli Campaign which resulted in over 200,000 allied casualties, saw an allied naval and military operation attempt to force the Dardanelles in order to secure entry to the Black Sea as well as Turkey’s capital.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said:

“We must never forget those who fought and made the ultimate sacrifice in the Gallipoli Campaign.

“Today’s Service of Remembrance reminded us of the terrible impact the campaign had on all the nations involved. It is made more poignant by the fact that the nations on both side now stand together to commemorate the fallen.”