Battle of Vimy Ridge a Defining Moment for Canada

Battle of Vimy Ridge a Defining Moment for Canada

Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser

Vimy Ridge Day became an official day of commemoration when the “Vimy Ridge Day Act” was given Royal Assent on April 3, 2003. Vimy Ridge Day will be held on April 9, 2021.The Battle Vimy Ridge was on Easter Monday, April 9, 1917. Terry Kuzyk, President, Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 39, Vegreville stated, “Among countries of the world Canada is relatively young. We have however, in our short history, been a major player in many world events.

Terry Kuzyk, President, Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 39, lays a wreath at the cenotaph in Vegreville during Vimy Ridge Day on April 9,2020.

(Michelle Pinon/File Photo)

The battle of Vimy Ridge is one that stands out as a stellar success and defining moment: from our past. The sacrifices and achievements of over 100,000 young Canadians should not, and must not, be forgotten or ignored. It is one of the many reasons The Royal Canadian Legion perpetuates the significance of Remembrance and works so hard to have our history taught to all of Canada’s youth.”

According to the Vimy Ridge Foundation, “The message of Vimy Ridge is one of bravery and sacrifice. The battle, which took place on April 9, 1917, is commonly highlighted as a turning point in Canadian history, where the four Canadian divisions fought together as a unified fighting force for the first time. While 3,598 Canadian soldiers were killed during the battle, the impressive victory over German forces is often cited as the beginning of Canada’s evolution from dominion to independent nation.

The battle began at 5:30am on April 9, with the first wave of around 15,000 men advancing under the creeping barrage of almost 1000 heavy guns. By April 12, the Canadians had taken all of their objectives, as well as 4,000 prisoners. The Canadians held Vimy Ridge. This victory came at a high cost as 3,598 Canadians lost their lives, and 7,000 were wounded during the four-day battle. April 9, 1917 is still the bloodiest day in Canadian military history.”