<P> This Biblical quote is probably a direct source for the term in the 1897 poem . This is consistent with the main theme of the "Recessional" poem--that if a nation forgets the true source of its success (the "Lord God of Hosts" and His "ancient sacrifice" of "a humble and contrite heart")--its military or material possessions will be insufficient in times of war . </P> <P> The poem "Recessional" also appears as a common hymn at war remembrance services; and the phrase "Lest We Forget" can hence be sung . </P> <P> The phrase later passed into common usage after World War I across the British Commonwealth, especially becoming linked with Remembrance Day observations; it became a plea not to forget past sacrifices, and was often found as the only wording on war memorials, or used as an epitaph . </P>

Why do we say lest we forget on anzac day