It's 0530, and Easter Monday. Vimy Ridge, located in France and also one of the main strategic points of the First World War, is under enemy siege. The French have tried to reclaim this vantage point, which was crucial to the Battle of Arras, but to no avail. However, this was all about to change.
On April 9, 1917, at 5:30 Easter Monday morning, Canada led its charge. Three days later, April 12, 1917, Vimy Ridge was freed from German occupation.
I could carry on about the battle itself, but that's not the main reason behind this article. April 9, 2017 will be the 100th anniversary of this battle. My goal is to be in France for this anniversary. I want to be at Vimy Ridge, see it in all of its glory, and hear another side to a story that I respect so much.
People could think that Vimy Ridge wasn't that important a battle during World War One, but if it wasn't, I highly doubt such an incredible monument would be built as a reminder of the battle, or to honour the 11285 Canadians who died in France between 1914-1918.
My count down to Vimy Ridge is under way.
For more, refer to the 11 Days of Remembrance miniseries from 2011 and 2012.
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