Reference N14081E
August 4, 2014 – Strathroy, Ontario – Veterans Affairs Canada
Bev Shipley, Member of Parliament for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex, on behalf of the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, today participated in the unveiling of the General Sir Arthur Currie Memorial in Strathroy. The memorial recognizes the contribution of the Canadian Corps and its Commander, General Sir Arthur Currie, during the First World War. The life-sized bronze statue is located near the town’s existing cenotaph, in front of the complex housing the Strathroy Public Library, Museum and Art Gallery.
Born in Strathroy, General Sir Arthur Currie was the first Canadian to attain the rank of full general. In 1917, he became the first Canadian commander of the four divisions of the unified Canadian Corps of the Canadian Expeditionary Force during the First World War.
Today’s unveiling and dedication ceremony coincides with the 100th Anniversary of the beginning of the First World War and the official launch of Canada’s World Wars Commemoration period. Until 2020, the Government of Canada will commemorate and honour all of the Canadian men and women who bravely served our country during the First and Second World Wars.
For more information on Veterans Affairs Canada's commemorative activities and programs, please visit veterans.gc.ca.
Barbara Mottram
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
613-996-4649
Media Relations
Veterans Affairs Canada
613-992-7468
