The TV was on tonight when Getaway was airing a spot about Villers-Bretonneux in The Somme, Northern France. This is probably a place that sounds familiar to Aussies - perhaps not when they first hear the name, but certainly after it’s significance is explained. During World War I, (April 25, 1918) Australian troops were given orders to liberate the village from German occupation. During the battle, over 700 Australian soldiers died.

Since the liberation, Villers-Bretonneux has become a popular destination for Australian tourists - not only is the Australian War Memorial in France located in Villers-Bretonneux, but the village itself has become dedicated to preserving the memory of the Australian involvement in France during World War I. There is a restaurant on the main street named ‘Restaurant Kangaroo,’ while the primary school bares a sign that reads ‘Never Forget Australia’ (the blackboards are also apparently inscribed with the message ‘N’oublions jamais l’Australie’). An Australian-French Museum is located in the town, as are numerous Australian flags proudly displayed next to French.

Next year on April 25th, it will be the 90th anniversary of the liberation of Villers-Bretonneux by the Australian soldiers. This also coincides with ANZAC Day celebrations (for the non-Australian readers, Australian and New Zealand Army Corps Day is held every year on the 25th of April, and is essentially our day of remembrance for all those that have served for our country). Next year will also mark the first time in history that there has been a dawn memorial service held on ANZAC Day (and the anniversary of the liberation of Villers-Bretonneux) at the Villers-Bretonneux War Memorial. While I’m not sure whether any of my relatives fought specifically at Villers-Bretonneux, I’m certain I had at least one relative stationed in the Somme, and I cannot think of a more perfect time or place to honour their memory.

More information: Villers-Bretonneux at Wikipedia / Villers-Bretonneux at Diggers-History.net / ANZAC Day at Wikipedia / ANZACs in The Somme.