Battle of Vimy Ridge 108th Anniversary (April 9 – 12, 1917)

The Ghosts of Vimy Ridge – Artist William Longstaff – 2017

In Honour of Vimy Ridge
April 9, 1917 – A Nation Was Forged

Today, we remember the brave Canadians who stood shoulder to shoulder at Vimy Ridge—young men who climbed into history through courage, sacrifice, and unshakable resolve.

In the cold dawn of April 9, 1917, they did not just take a ridge; they defined a nation.

We honour their memory not only for their victory, but for the unity, determination, and legacy they left behind.

Lest we forget.

About the image:
Painted in the late-1920s, this work by Australian Captain William Longstaff was extremely popular and images were reproduced and sold throughout the Empire. Longstaff depicted soldiers’ ghosts marching up Vimy Ridge from the Douai Plain, returning to the memorial. Today, the painting can be viewed at Canada’s Parliament Buildings in Ottawa.