Remembering Vimy Ridge on 94th Anniversary

94 years ago, the courage of Canadian soldiers during the Battle of Vimy Ridge were remembered at Victory Square in downtown Vancouver.

A Canadian force of 40,000 strong, moved in on German forces on Vimy Ridge on April 9, 1917.

The historical victory came at a heavy cost with than 3,600 Canadians killed and approximately 7,000 wounded in what was three days of battle.  An estimated 700 to 800 of those who died in the battle were soldiers from British Columbia.

Historians attribute the success of the Canadians in capturing the ridge to a combination of technical and tactical innovation, good planning, powerful artillery support and extensive training, as well as the failure of the German Sixth Army in being battle ready.

The Canadian Corps fought valiantly against the German Sixth Army and the ensuring battle and victory became a symbol of Canadian achievement and sacrifice.

The Salvation Army was honoured to be included in this commemorative Anniversary of Vimy Ridge.