The Sikh Anzac War Memorial consists of a bronze statue of an Unknown Sikh Soldier standing on top of a concrete plinth. Attached to the front face of the plinth are three dedication plaques.
The project to establish the memorial was initiated by Mr Amarinder Bajwa, to commemorate the sacrifices made by Sikhs in the First and Second World Wars, Gallipoli, Saragarhi, and many other theatres of war and was approved by Blacktown City Council. The memorial is intended to evoke remembrance, recognition, and reflection.
At least 19 Sikhs enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) and the New Zealand Expeditionary Force (NZEF) in the First World War and Sikhs continue to serve proudly in the Australian Defence Force today.
Sikhs fought alongside the British forces and as part of imperial forces during the world wars. Over 83,000 Sikhs gave their lives protecting Britain and Europe. Notably, the 14th Sikhs regiment in the Third Battle of Krithia, 4 June 1915, when the regiment lost 379 men in one day’s fighting.
Also, during the Gallipoli campaign, the Sikhs were deployed to reinforce the Allied forces and played a critical role in several battles, including the Battle of Sari Bair. The battle was fought in August 1915 and was a crucial part of the campaign. The Allied forces launched a surprise attack on the Turkish positions at Sari Bair, hoping to break through their lines and capture the high ground. The battle was fierce, with both sides suffering heavy casualties, with the Sikhs playing a vital role in securing the left flank of the Allied advance.
The memorial is located in Glenwood Lake Park and is the site of Anzac Day and Remembrance Day services.