Yesterday the nation remembered the lives lost, sacrifices made and lessons learned during the Battle of Vimy Ridge, 102 years ago.

As stated by the Canadian War Museum, at 5:30 am on April 9, 1917, over 15,000 Canadian soldiers overran the Germans and bravely continued to move forward under heavy fire, the infantry fought for three more gruelling days to claim the final victory.

The day became a monumental day for the nation as, “(It) was the first time that Canadians from coast to coast fought in battle together against a common enemy,” Vimy Ridge Day Act.

The Act added, the Battle of Vimy Ridge is considered by many to be a turning point for our country and the beginning of Canada’s march towards nationhood.

Although the day is remembered as a victory, it wasn’t without selfless sacrifice. A reported 3598 Canadians were killed and another 7000 wounded. Including five men from Kindersley who fought in the battle, two lost their lives with the remaining three men sustaining injuries.

“It was a great victory for our nation, however, it was also a tragic battle with nearly 4000 Canadians losing their live in battle, Vimy Ridge Day is to remember these soldiers and to be reminded of what can happen when we come together and find common ground, we can make great things happen,” said Scott Holloway, Chaplain for the Kindersley Legion.

Amidst the division that is seemingly becoming more apparent within Canada, Holloway said it is important to reflect on days such as Vimy Ridge Day and to put the issues at hand back into perspective.

“A lot can be learned from the Battle at Vimy Ridge,” said Holloway, “when you remember who your family is and realize that maybe you don’t have to agree on the little things in order to fight together for the big things”.

He added that the Kindersley Legion aims to not only support those who have been or are in service, but also the men and women who fight on the front lines as first responders.