Through travelling Europe, attending ceremonies and speaking to citizens of England and France, it was clear to me that Canadians have a lasting impact in the hearts of more than our own citizens. 100 years later, and I was amazed to speak to Europeans who still remember what Canadians did on their land and for their people.
Just outside of Buckingham Palace, London, England, my tour group met with many other Canadians from all across the country. We watched ceremonies that commemorated our close ties with Britain. Below is a monument built by the British government that marks the friendship between our two countries and expresses their thanks for Canada's help in both World Wars.
The monument reads "In two world wars one million Canadians came to Britain and joined the fight for freedom. From danger shared, our friendship prospers."
Veterans Affairs Canada describes the memorial in detail.
Other tour groups from all across Canada gathered here to celebrate this friendship. I met a group from Calgary, Alberta and another from Charlottetown, PEI.
In the center of a market, a large poppy was created using handwritten notes by local school children. The centre of the poppy was made of sculptured feet that represented the footsteps of Canadians in Arras 100 years ago. It made me proud that Canada has made such a lasting impact in this small town in France.
On April 9th, 2017, 30 thousand Canadians from all across the country travelled to Vimy Ridge, France to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the battle of Vimy Ridge. I was lucky enough to be a part of this national and televised event. Not only was our Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, present but the French President, British Prime Minister and the British Royal family were also in attendance.
Vimy Ridge Memorial Monument
The ceremonies were broadcasted live to Canada by CBC News and are online for the public to view.
To more than Canadians, Vimy Ridge is a significant battle of World War One. The British and the French both recognize the significance of the battle that led to the end of the war. Our contributions have been commemorated beyond our doorsteps.
It was a phenomenal experience to stand on this monument. You can see for miles and feel the essence of the soldiers who were victorious on the mountain. On this day, I could feel the appreciation of Canadians from the thousands around me and the love for our beautiful country.
