Editor: I would like to thank The Times and particularly Warren Sommer for the article (The Times, April 24) on the Second Battle of Ypres in 1915.
I would like to express my appreciation for your acknowledgement and description of the Canadian contribution in the Second Battle of Ypres. I have noticed that your paper always takes care to inform its readers about various important events in Canadian military history, and shine a light on the contributions of soldiers that came from the Langley area.
I have long had a keen interest in the First World War and have recently devoted most of my reading to the exploits of the Canadian Corps. Every time I read or watch a story about what our Canadian soldiers did in battles such as the Second Battle of Ypres, Vimy Ridge, Passchendaele and the final 100 Days, I am struck by the sheer determination, courage and loyalty to their comrades that the Canadian soldiers had.
This is not unique to Canadian soldiers of course, but during a time in our country’s history when we were forming an identity separate from that of Great Britain, I really think those Canadian boys’ dependence upon each other in horrific circumstances provided a catalyst for Canada to move forward as a proud nation of Canadians, instead of simply a member of the Commonwealth.
Thank you for sharing an important Canadian story with us.
Kirsten Zemp,
Langley