April 7, 2012
Charlottetown, PE — On behalf of the Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, Senator Mike Duffy today attended a ceremony held at the Charlottetown Cenotaph to mark the 95th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge. The event, organized by the Army Cadet League of Canada’s Prince Edward Island Branch, included a vigil and wreath-laying ceremony and gave Islanders the opportunity to pay tribute to the approximate 100,000 Canadians who fought in the pivotal First World War battle.
“This April, Canadians from coast to coast will gather to honour the legacy of the brave Canadians who fought in the Battle of Vimy Ridge 95 years ago,” said Minister Blaney. “On this occasion, I encourage all Canadians to take a moment to reflect on those who helped shape Canada as a nation and to remember the men and women who proudly serve in uniform today.”
“I would like to commend the Royal Canadian Army Cadets and the Army Cadet League of Canada for their commitment to honouring the 95th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge and our nation’s truest heroes,” said Senator Duffy. “Our Government is proud to honour the important sacrifices made by Canada’s Veterans.”
It was 95 years ago on Easter Monday, in 1917, that the four divisions of the Canadian Corps, fighting side-by-side for the first time, captured Vimy Ridge. By the fourth day, April 12, Canadians controlled the entire ridge. The victory at Vimy was not without a price. There were more than 10,600 casualties. Of those, approximately 3,600 gave their lives.
Veterans Affairs Canada was able to assist with the organization of today’s event through a financial contribution of up to $3,450. This contribution was made possible through Veterans Affairs Canada’s Community Engagement Partnership Fund.
Please visit veterans.gc.ca or call 1-866-522-2122 for more information on the Community Engagement Partnership Fund or to view a list of upcoming events in your area.
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