On April 9, 1917, for the first time in the nation’s history, all four Canadian Divisions fought together–this was the Battle of Vimy Ridge. The victory at Vimy Ridge went on to foster Canadian nationalism and became a source of national identity and pride. It has become a day to remember the sacrifices made in service of Canada by our soldiers and to take pride in being Canadian. This year marks the 107th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge.
Canadians throughout the nation fought in the battle. Brent Wilson’s A Family of Brothers examines the bravery, camaraderie, and sacrifice of the 26th (New Brunswick) Battalion during First World War (WWI). The “Fighting 26th” was one of the few units that served continuously on the Western Front from 1915 until the end of WWI.
Victory at Vimy Ridge was gained through the fighting spirit of the soldiers and the 26th (NB) Battalion made several sacrifices for it. Out of the original 1,150 recruits, 55% were from New Brunswick and only 117 returned home at the end of the war. In total, approximately 5,700 soldiers passed through its ranks and the battalion suffered roughly 3,900 casualties.
Prior to the Battle of Vimy Ridge, the 26th (NB) Battalion was a battle-tested unit and played a major role in the victory of the Battle of the Somme. The “Fighting 26th” was in the central axis of advance at Vimy Ridge and was given the task of capturing “Black Line Trench”. Upon capturing this central trench, they consolidated a new position at Hill 135 to provide security for the rest of the advance.
The 26th (NB) Battalion is one of many tales of courage within the Battle of Vimy Ridge and is another chapter in the Canadian Armed Forces’ tradition of courage and sacrifice in service of Canada.
2Lt/slt Sharma
