Most Canadians know July 1st as Canada Day. Here in Newfoundland and Labrador, this day is solemnly known as Memorial Day. With heads down, chins tucked, 800 members of the Newfoundland regiment advanced into a hail of machine-gun and artillery fire on July 1, 1916, at Beaumont Hamel during the First World War; only 68 were able to answer the roll call the next day. These fishermen, teachers, merchants, and would-be leaders of a small nation suffered the heaviest losses than any other unit on the first day of the Battle of the Somme. The British commander of the 29th Division said of the actions of the Newfoundland Regiment on that July morning:

"It was a magnificent display of trained and disciplined valour, and its assault only failed of success because dead men can advance no further."

Members of our Association’s Veterans Memorial Committee were represented by MC Bradly Power and Veteran Pat O’Rourke. Among many of the dignitaries laying wreaths were MP for St. John’s East, Joanne Thompson, on behalf of the Government of Canada, and Barbara Hudson, representing MHA Cape St. Francis, Joedy Wall, on behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. Congratulations to Allison Whitty and the Town staff for a great job organizing the event.

Special thanks to Michelle Hickey for the photos used in this community highlight posting. Colour drawing of our Town's Veterans Memorial was done by Maris Kinsella of Outer Cove. Beaumont Hamel Park photo courtesy of Veterans Affairs Canada.

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