Respect to Mehmetçik Monument, War memorial in Kocadere, Turkey.
This bronze sculpture depicts a Turkish soldier carrying a wounded Australian officer, capturing a moment of compassion during the Gallipoli Campaign in World War I. The work shows two men from opposing sides, one helping the other despite the conflict surrounding them.
Sculptor Tankut Oktem created this monument in 1997 to honor a Turkish soldier who rescued a wounded Australian officer during the Gallipoli Campaign of World War I. This act of mercy took place on the battlefield where thousands from both nations fought and died.
The monument represents the deep connection between Turkish and Australian people that grew after World War I, showing how two nations that fought each other came to respect one another. Visitors can sense this bond through the scene of soldiers helping each other regardless of which side they were on.
The monument is located near the main Gallipoli battlefield and can be visited as part of exploring the memorial sites across the peninsula. The setting is open and accessible, making it easy to view from different angles and spend time reading the inscriptions.
An inscription at the base includes words from Lord Casey, a former Australian Governor-General, who expressed deep gratitude toward Turkish forces. This text shows how much Australians valued the courage and humanity they encountered on the battlefield, creating a permanent record of their respect.
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