CP commemorates the centennial of the Battle of Vimy Ridge

The World War I battle was a costly victory for Canada, but one that helped shape the former British colony's national identity.

A traditional moment of silence was held for the Canadian soldiers who fought at Vimy Ridge 100 years ago, and a flock of doves was released in their memory.

"In the early morning hours of April 9, 1917, after meticulous planning, Canadian soldiers stormed Vimy Ridge".

The battle brought together the four divisions of Canada's military for the first time to take the seven kilometre-long ridge in Arras, France.

Ladies and gentlemen, let us never forget.

While many Canadians consider the victory at Vimy a significant step in their nation's development, some historians have debunked the state's official view of its significance. This was and remains the single bloodiest day in Canadian military history.

"As we honour such great bravery and sacrifice, we should honour the courageous men and women of the Canadian Forces, who risk their lives to carry on this proud tradition of service - and keep us all safe".

The Queen was not present at the ceremony, but sent a message reminding that "it is our duty to remember and honour those who served so valiantly and who gave so much throughout the First World War". They fought bravely and with great ingenuity. "We went up there with approximately 100,000 men and we lost approximately 3,500". Over 7,000 more were wounded.

"Today we pay respect to those who fought and fell at Vimy Ridge and remember the price they paid so that we would have a better tomorrow".

The Canadian forces retook the German stronghold that was being fortified at Vimy Ridge following four days of battle on 9 April after it had been taken early on in the war.

Canadian troops prepared carefully, learning from the mistakes of previous attempts to reclaim the ridge. The innovative fighting techniques used so effectively by our soldiers at Vimy Ridge would contribute to the final Allied victory a year and a half later.

The battle - and the weeks of preparations leading up to it - were marked by firsts. On this day, they were more than mere tools of the Empire - they were professionals who, through innovation, daring and dedicated preparation, managed to solve one of the most stubborn riddles of a hellish conflict.