Government of Canada commemorates the Battle of Vimy Ridge and General Sir Arthur Currie
News Release
April 8, 2017 Victoria, BC Parks Canada Agency
Today, John Aldag, Member of Parliament for Cloverdale—Langley City, on behalf of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Catherine McKenna, recognized General Sir Arthur Currie as a person of national historic significance. A special ceremony was held at Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site followed by a 100 rapid-fire barrage by the 5th Field Regiment to mark the 100th Anniversary the Battle of Vimy Ridge.
The Government of Canada is committed to connecting Canadians to the significant events that contributed to our country’s rich and varied history. While a century has passed since the Battle of Vimy Ridge, the legacy of the Canadians who accomplished so much in that important First World War battle lives on. General Sir Arthur Currie was a skillful leader who played a crucial role in the planning and execution of the storming of Vimy Ridge. Under him, the Canadians cemented their reputation as an elite assault formation.
As part of the centennial of national historic sites, Parks Canada invites Canadians to be inspired and captivated by the stories of the people and events that shaped our nation. Canada’s national parks, national historic sites, and national marine conservation areas enable Canadians to experience their rich history and heritage in a special way and play a big part in the celebration of Canada 150.
Quotes
“The Government of Canada is dedicated to commemorating the sacrifices of the brave men and women who served their country during the First World War. Trained right here in Victoria and Esquimalt with the 5th Field Regiment, General Sir Arthur Currie become a pivotal figure in Canada’s war effort during the First World War. I encourage all Canadians to celebrate our nation’s cultural heritage in 2017 and discover the many places and events that have helped shaped us as a country. "
John Aldag
Member of Parliament for Cloverdale—Langley City
Quick Facts
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On April 9th, 1917, during the Battle of Vimy Ridge, the four divisions of the Canadian Corps fought side-by-side for the first time, supported by the Royal Flying Corps and the Royal Naval Air Service, and secured an important victory. The ingenuity and fighting skills demonstrated at Vimy marked the coming of age of the Canadian military.
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General Sir Arthur Currie was instrumental in the success of the Battle of Vimy Ridge. His military career began with the 5th Field Regiment that trained in the Victoria-Esquimalt Fortifications, including Fort Rodd Hill.
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Created in 1919, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Minister of Environment and Climate Change regarding the national historic significance of places, people, and events that have marked Canada’s history.
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Contacts
Laura Judson
Public Relations and Communications Officer
Coastal BC Field Unit
laura.judson@pc.gc.ca
250-354-4086
Media Relations
Parks Canada Agency
pc.media@pc.gc.ca
855-862-1812