For Immediate Release
April 9, 2017
Statement by Mayor Crombie: 100th Anniversary of the First World War and the Battle of Vimy Ridge
“On behalf of the City of Mississauga, Members of Council and our residents, we join in solemnly commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the First World War and the Battle of Vimy Ridge.
“On the morning of April 9th, 1917, this grave and unforgettable battle began. A united front of Canadian regiments were on the ground in France, fighting in trenches, battling for freedom and peace, committed to nothing short of victory. This historic and bloody mission resulted in over 10,000 casualties and over 3,500 fatalities for our country. This battle marked an important turning point in our young nation’s history and through such unthinkable destruction, devastation and death, Canada emerged a more united and proud country.
“Each new day is an opportunity for all of us to remember, reflect on and show sincere, heartfelt appreciation for our fallen soldiers; veterans; and men and women currently serving. We think of past generations who made the ultimate sacrifices so all of us can enjoy safe, free and promising futures. We must never forget the bloodshed of brave Canadian men and women who fought for us.
“In 2017, Mississauga will join communities across Canada to mark the 150th anniversary of Confederation and our nation’s founding. This much anticipated and celebrated milestone would not have been possible if not for the sacrifices of those fighting at Vimy Ridge, and at other deadly battles and wars, which have been so fundamental in Canada’s history and identity.
“Throughout Mississauga you will find cenotaphs in Port Credit, Lakeview, Cooksville, Streetsville and at City Hall. Because of the important work undertaken by Heritage Mississauga, we know of 96 fallen soldiers from the First World War who were from Historic Mississauga, and are honoured on memorials, honour rolls or cenotaphs in Mississauga.”
“These local monuments stand as a testament to our enduring pride and respect for fallen soldiers, veterans and those in active duty. It is incumbent upon all of us to make sure we make the time to visit these memorials to reflect on the past and show appreciation for all that has been safeguarded for us.
“Today, soldiers from the various service branches of the Canadian Armed Forces continue to make us proud by bravely undertaking important and dangerous peacekeeping missions around the world.
“On this day, let us keep in our thoughts and prayers all those fallen soldiers from the First World War and at the Battle of Vimy Ridge who fought so Canada could be a free, peaceful and law abiding nation, respected around the world.
“Lest we forget.”
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The researching of Mississauga’s historical links to the First World War is ongoing. For more information and to provide contributions to this work, please contact Heritage Mississauga by email: history@heritagemississauga.org.