A white stone monument stands in Veterans Memorial Park in Langford as an ongoing reminder for residents.
The Vimy Ridge War Memorial, based on the original in France, was completed by sculptor Derek Rowe in 2001. Every year since, the Royal Canadian Legion has remembered the sacrifices made on the anniversary of that epic First World War battle by hosting a parade and candlelight vigil.
“It does mean a lot to the West Shore,” said Legion Prince Edward Branch 91 president Norm Scott. “We have a piece of rock from Vimy.”
But this year, in honour of the battle’s 100th anniversary, the ceremony will look a little different. Legion members will march away from the branch on Station Avenue at approximately 10:40 a.m. this Sunday (April 9). Similar to the Remembrance Day parade, they’ll reach Veterans Memorial Park just before 11, with the ceremony expected to start at 11 a.m. sharp.
“The idea of having this during the day is to attract more people,” Scott said. Traditionally, the ceremony attracts roughly 500 to 600 attendees. “We’re hoping to triple that and help people understand why we’re having the ceremony.”
The official portion of the day is expected to last about 35 minutes at the memorial before the march back to the branch, where a lunch reception will follow.
Scott added this is open to the general public and not just Legion members. “Come and help celebrate, become a member, and help support us in the future.”