Premier Declares Today Vimy Ridge Day

By 250 News

As  thousands of Canadians took part in rededication ceremonies at the Vimy Ridge Memorial in France today, here at home, Premier Gordon Campbell declared today Vimy Ridge Day.

"Vimy Ridge was a turning point not just in the course of World War I but also in the history of Canada, and it is fitting that we recognize and commemorate the anniversary of the remarkable sacrifice of Canadians in battle 90 years ago," Campbell said.

 "To this day, the courage and sacrifice of Canadians at Vimy Ridge stands as an inspiration to all of us. While those who were there have long since passed, we pay tribute to their legacy and honour their contribution to defending the ideals upon which our province and our nation so proudly stand." At 5:30 a.m. on Easter Monday,

April 9, 1917, the Battle of Vimy Ridge began with all four divisions of the Canadian Corps attacking together in formation for the first time. The battle esulted in 10,602 Canadian casualties including 3,598 Canadian dead.

"It is also a sombre reminder of the dangers faced by our armed forces even today. We send our best wishes to all those serving around the world and our hopes for safe and speedy return home."

Yesterday, 6 Canadians were killed in Afghanistan.

Sgt. Donald Lucas, Cpl. Aaron E. Williams, Pte. Kevin V. Kennedy, Pte. David R. Greenslade, Cpl. Christopher P. Stannix and CPL Brent Poland were killed when their vehicle hit  a raodside bomb.

Their deaths  brought the Afghanistan mission Canadian death toll to 51 soldiers and  one diplomat.  The 6  had been based at  Gagetown New Brunswick.

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