Ottawa, ON – The Hon. Pierre Poilievre, Leader of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition and the Conservative Party of Canada, released the following statement on the Anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge:
“There are many proud names in Canada’s military history. At Ortona in Italy, Kapyong in Korea, Kandahar in Afghanistan and on countless other battlefields, our troops showed courage and professionalism under fire.
“Even still, Vimy is special. There, our young country – then not even fifty years old – cemented its reputation on the world stage. In the words of the late historian Tim Cook, it was at Vimy that Canadians ‘felt capable of greatness’.
“In typical fashion, the planning and preparation were both meticulous and effective. Three of Canada’s four divisions, fighting side-by-side for the first time, achieved their objectives on the first day. By the 12th, despite heavy losses, the results were clear.
“Canada owes a debt of gratitude to all who fought for King and country, at Vimy and throughout the First World War. Perhaps most of all, we owe it to them to keep their memory alive: to honour and cherish the incredible history of which they were a part.
“Lest we forget.”