When war broke out in August 1914, Canada, as part of the British Empire, was drawn into the conflict. Though it was a young nation of just 8 million people, Canada answered the call with determination. Over 620,000 Canadians enlisted in the Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF), including approximately 4,000 Indigenous volunteers. More than 61,000 were killed in action or died of wounds and disease. Another 172,000 were wounded, leaving few communities untouched by grief.

Canadian troops first made their mark at the Second Battle of Ypres in 1915, where they faced the horrors of poison gas and held the line against overwhelming odds. In 1916, they endured the brutal fighting on the Somme, suffering heavy losses. But it was at Vimy Ridge in April 1917 that the Canadian Corps truly distinguished itself. All four divisions fought side by side in a carefully planned and executed assault that captured the strategic high ground—something both British and French forces had previously failed to achieve. Vimy became a symbol of national pride and unity, and is often seen as a defining moment in Canada’s emergence as a nation.

Canadian soldiers also fought with distinction at Passchendaele and played a leading role in the final Allied offensive known as Canada’s Hundred Days, from August to November 1918. In those final three months, Canadian forces captured more ground and prisoners than any other Allied force of comparable size, at great cost.

The war had a profound impact on Canada. More than 2,800 nursing sisters served overseas, and thousands of women on the home front took on roles traditionally held by men. The war effort strengthened Canada’s identity and global standing. In recognition of its contributions, Canada was granted a separate signature on the Treaty of Versailles in 1919—a significant step toward full nationhood.

More than a century later, we remember their sacrifice with reverence and gratitude. Their courage helped shape the Canada we know today.