NLIS 2
April 9, 2002
(Municipal and Provincial Affairs)

85th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge

The Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs Oliver Langdon respectfully acknowledged today the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge.

"Today, I encourage Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to join with other Canadians to remember the events of this day eighty-five years ago, and to reflect on the gift of freedom that we enjoy in our country," expressed Minister Langdon.

It was at Vimy, France on April 9, 1917, that all four divisions of the Canadian Corps attacked simultaneously for the first and last time with about 100,000 men taking part in the battle. Although the victory at Vimy came within four short days, it did not come without cost. Of the 10,602 Canadian casualties, 3,598 were fatal.

The Canadian National Vimy Memorial was built by the people of Canada as a tribute to those who fought in the Great War. It stands as a tribute to all who served their country in battle and risked or gave their lives.

Minister Langdon visited the site in July of 2001 during a trip to France to attend the official opening of the Visitor's Centre at Beaumont-Hamel "Last year, I had a memorable opportunity to visit Vimy Ridge and was overwhelmed by a place that radiates the courage and sacrifice of those who stood there before me," said Minister Langdon.

Media contact: Lynn Hammond, Communications, 729-1983

2002 04 09              11:10 a.m.

 


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