Vimy Ridge

After leaving Belgium, we entered France, and then entered territory granted to Canada by the French government after the First World War - the 100 hectare park surrounding the Vimy Ridge monument.  The students got a short lesson on WW I, and specifically Canada's involvement in taking this strategic ridge held by the Germans for 3 years.  The monument is overwhelming in its physical size and its emotional weight.  I plan to bring Europe 2017 here for the 100th anniversary ceremony of the Battle of Vimy Ridge.

 Behind the Vimy monument.

 Morgan and Emma check their picture on the sandstone steps.

 Dan contemplates the monument.

 The "male mourner" flanking the rear stairs of the monument.

The purpose for the monument.

 Leaving with a new perspective on their country.

 Bunker in the trench system.


Calder, Mequel, and Joey explore the trench system.