A ceremony in Okotoks that remembers the Battle of Vimy Ridge will be held at a new location so more people can attend.
Okotoks Legion Branch 291 is holding the ceremony at 11 a.m. on Sunday, April 6 outside the front doors of the Okotoks Recreation Centre.
The service recognizes Vimy Ridge as an important time in Canada’s history, Legion president Rick Oncescu said.
“It's a time to come together to remember and acknowledge the sacrifices that our military personnel gave during the First World War,” Oncescu said.
During the service, there will be a brief history about the battle, as well as a wreath laying and colour party, with veterans, cadets and politicians in attendance.
The Legion's ceremony had previously been held at the cenotaph on Veterans Way, but this year, organizers decided to hold a short service at the recreation centre.
Other events will be taking place there that day, and Oncescu said he hopes people can stop to watch the ceremony.
“We encourage everyone to take a few minutes and attend our ceremony so that we can remember those that gave us the freedom to have trade fairs and curling bonspiels and the freedoms we enjoy these days,” he said.
In 1917, the Battle of Vimy Ridge was fought by Canadian forces from April 9 to 12, and it is considered by many to be a major milestone in Canada’s advancement towards nationhood.
Canadian troops captured the heavily defended ridge, but victory came at a heavy cost with 3,598 Canadian soldiers killed and 7,000 wounded in the fighting.
Vimy Ridge Day is commemorated each year on April 9.
