Woof! I’m Gandy. I’m a proud Newfoundland dog and my big paws have helped me travel all around this special province. July 1 is Canada Day across our country. But in Newfoundland and Labrador it is also Memorial Day.
This day honours people from my home province who have served in uniform. July 1 was chosen because it is an important day from the First World War.
On July 1, 1916, about 800 soldiers from the Newfoundland Regiment went into battle near the village of Beaumont-Hamel in France. Many were badly hurt or lost their lives. The next day, only 68 of these soldiers were available to answer the roll call.
For a small place like Newfoundland and Labrador, almost everyone knew someone who died. Even 110 years later, people still remember the young soldiers who gave so much to help bring peace to others. I am making a poster about them for the Legion contest.
What are some other ways we can remember those who served?
The Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial in France.
Photo: VAC