1. The battle of Vimy Ridge
After Germany captured Vimy Ridge in 1914, Allied forces repeatedly failed to take it. In 1917, Canadian troops, under careful planning, launched an assault and seized the ridge within days. This victory was a major success, costing fewer lives than prior Allied offensives. It was the first time all Canadian divisions fought together, boosting national pride and establishing Canada as an elite fighting force.
2. The battle of the Somme
In July 1916, the Allies launched a massive attack on German lines at the Somme. The initial assault failed because shelling did not destroy German defences, and troops were cut down by machine guns in open fields, with heavy British losses on the first day. The five-month battle caused over 1.25 million total casualties, and the Allies gained little ground. Canadian troops suffered heavy losses but later proved their fighting ability in key assaults.
3. The second Battle of Ypres
In April 1915, Germany used illegal chlorine gas at the Second Battle of Ypres, blinding and killing many French and Canadian troops. The battle lasted a month with little gain for either side, and over 6,000 Canadians were killed, wounded, or captured. Doctor John McCrae wrote the famous poem In Flanders Fields to honor fallen comrades.