As per a communique from The Governor General of Canada wishing to convey a message to all Canadians from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge.
“Today, as we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean, painful memories of loss and suffering will surface, accompanied by memories of heroic acts of bravery and of sacrifice on the part of those who served. At the same time, a century ago, far from home, thousands of Canadian soldiers joined forces with their allies to defend peace and freedom. They fought courageously, ingeniously, capturing the strategic summit of Vimy Ridge, in a heavily paid battle that left 10,000 dead and wounded.
I am proud to know that my son, the Prince of Wales, and my grandsons, the Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry, are attending the commemorative events organized today.
As Chief Colonel, Captain General and Chief Commodore of the Canadian Armed Forces, I have often seen the professionalism and dedication of our military, as well as their sense of equality, Respect, perseverance, sacrifice and hope.
It is our duty to remember and honor the memory of those who have served valiantly and who have given so much here on Vimy Ridge and throughout the First World War. “
