Today, April 9, is Vimy Ridge Day.
Vimy Ridge Day is an annual non-stautory holiday on April 9 to remember Canadians who victoriously fought in the battle of Vimy Ridge in northern France during the First World War. The day is also known as the National Day of Remembrance of the Battle of Vimy Ridge.
The battle of Vimy Ridge, which was part of the larger battle of Arras in northern France, began on Easter Monday, which was April 9, in 1917. The battle continued until April 12. About 30,000 Canadians fought at Vimy Ridge and claimed victory. However, this victory came at a high cost. The Canadians suffered about 10,600 casualties. Of these, about 3,600 Canadians were killed.
At Vimy, regiments from coast to coast saw action together in a distinctly Canadian triumph, helping create a new and stronger sense of Canadian identity. After Vimy, the Canadian corps never looked back, and its success raised Canada’s international stature and earned a separate signature on the Treaty of Versailles that ended the war. In 2003 the Canadian government declared April 9 as “Vimy Ridge Day” to honor and remember the battle that took place at Vimy Ridge.
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Vimy Ridge Day:
“Today, we remember the bravery and sacrifices of the Canadian soldiers who fought for peace, freedom, and justice in the Battle of Vimy Ridge.
“In the early morning of April 9, 1917, following months of careful preparation, Canadian soldiers stormed German-occupied Vimy Ridge in northern France. After four intense days of fierce combat, our troops pushed the Germans back, capturing the ridge. Canada’s success at Vimy Ridge marked one of the First World War’s most memorable victories, but victory came at a heavy cost. More than 7,000 courageous Canadian soldiers were injured, and almost 3,600 never returned home.
“The Battle of Vimy Ridge was a landmark moment in Canada’s history. It was the first time that all four divisions of the Canadian Corps, representing diverse regions of our country, fought side by side – united. These extraordinary soldiers helped forge our Canadian identity. Their bravery continues to inspire us. Today, the Canadian National Vimy Memorial stands as a tribute to this remarkable battle and to all those who served in the First World War. On its side, etched in stone, are the names of Canadians who paid the ultimate price in France during the conflict and have no known grave.
“On Vimy Ridge Day, we honour the Canadian soldiers who answered the call of duty. We also take the opportunity to express our gratitude to all the brave Canadians in uniform who serve to defend peace, freedom, and democracy – at home and around the world.
“Lest we forget.”
Four men were awarded Victoria Crosses for their bravery in the battle. The Victoria Cross is the highest and most prestigious award of the British armed forces. Those awarded for their bravery were:
-Private William Milne of the 16th Battalion
-Lance-Sergeant Ellis Sifton of the 18th Battalion
-Private John Pattison of the 50th Battalion
-Captain Thain MacDowell of the 38th Battalion
The Battle of Vimy Ridge was the first time all 4 divisions of the Canadian Corps attacked together in an organized formation.
According to veterans.gc.ca, out of the 100,000 Canadians who served in the battle of Vimy Ridge, there were 10,600 Canadian casualties and 3,600 deaths.
The battle is particularly significant as it was the first occasion when all four divisions of the Canadian Expeditionary Force fought together as a unified fighting force.
The capture of Vimy Ridge showed the world that Canada was capable of playing a significant role in the war.
More than 10,000 Canadian soldiers were either killed or injured during the battle.