Veterans of the Battle of Vimy Ridge To Be Honoured

Released on April 6, 2017

The valour and sacrifice of those who lost their lives at the Battle of Vimy Ridge during the First World War will be commemorated on the 100th anniversary of the battle, during special events on April 9 and 12 in Regina.  The Battle of Vimy Ridge took place in the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region of France on April 9 through 12 in 1917, between the Canadian Corps and heavily-entrenched German troops.  More than 400 Saskatchewan soldiers were among the nearly 4,000 Canadians who perished in the fight.

“The Battle of Vimy Ridge has become known as a defining moment in Canada’s rise as a nation in the world community,” Provincial Military Liaison and Moose Jaw Wakamow MLA Greg Lawrence said.  “It’s a privilege to honour those whose sacrifice left such a lasting legacy for all Canadians.  It’s especially fitting that we pay tribute during Canada’s 150th anniversary celebrations to those who gave so much to preserve our freedom.”

On April 9, The Royal Canadian Legion, Regina Branch #001, will honour Vimy Ridge veterans with a number of events held that morning in downtown Regina, including a ceremony at the Victoria Park Cenotaph.  That same afternoon the Provincial Capital Commission will host a commemoration ceremony outdoors at the Legislative Building.

“The Royal Canadian Legion is proud to pay tribute to Vimy Ridge veterans and to honour them for what they did for our country,” Royal Canadian Legion, Regina Branch #001 President Ken Eskdale said.  “The Legion’s goal is to make sure the contributions of all Navy, Army and Airforce veterans who fight to preserve our freedom is never forgotten.”

On April 12, the Provincial Archives of Saskatchewan and the Provincial Capital Commission will host a screening at the MacKenzie Art Gallery in Regina of a special video series commemorating the 100th anniversary of the First World War.

The series focuses on Saskatchewan’s participation in the war and its impact on the province’s people.  All events are free and open to the public.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Art Newton
Central Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2215
Email: art.newton@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-535-1175