WASHINGTON 

Türkiye's Embassy in the US observed Canakkale Victory and Martyrs' Day on Wednesday, which marks the anniversary of the 1915 triumph during World War I.

"The Victory of Canakkale is a crucial milestone—not only for us, the Turkish nation, and for our national history, but also for world history," Ambassador Sedat Onal said during the commemoration ceremony.

Stressing that the victory is a "great legacy," Onal said the national struggle is a "pivotal point" that influences the way of life of the Turkish nation today.

The struggle in Canakkale formed the basis for the Turkish War of Independence and the founding of the Republic of Türkiye eight years later under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, who first rose to prominence as a commander at Gallipoli.

Every March 18 marks an emotional day for Turks, who commemorate those killed during the battle.