On behalf of President Obama and the American people, it gives me great pleasure to extend our warmest regards and best wishes to the people of Australia and New Zealand on ANZAC Day.

This April 25, we honor the memory of all the brave Australians and New Zealanders who have served and perished since the soldiers of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps landed on the shores of Gallipoli 101 years ago. These soldiers were from young nations: less than 15 years prior, Australia had become a federation and New Zealand a dominion. Far from home, they fought with tenacity and loyalty to both their comrades and their new nations – a tradition carried on by each succeeding generation.

Over a century later, the United States is proud to partner with Australia and New Zealand in continuing the legacy of ANZAC. U.S., Australian, and New Zealand troops have stood side-by-side in support of Afghan security and stability. As part of the Global Coalition to Counter ISIL, they are working together to build the capacity of our Iraqi partners, who have liberated more than 40 percent of the land once controlled by ISIL and are continuing to advance. In the Asia Pacific, our three countries are working and training together to ensure regional stability and enhance our ability to conduct joint humanitarian and disaster relief missions.

On this ANZAC Day, we stand together to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect us all.