Valour at Vimy Ridge

The Great Canadian Victory

AUTHOR: Tom Douglas
FORMAT: 8.5 X 5.5 pb 144 pp $9.95
ISBN-10: 1-55439-241-1
ISBN-13: 978-1-55439-241-4

A defining moment in Canadian military history. A much-needed Allied victory. A show of valour and heroism. The battle of Vimy Ridge in April 1917 saw Canadian troops storm a strategic 14-kilometre long escarpment that was believed to be impregnable. This was the first time in the nation's history that a corps-sized formation fought together as a unit under its own meticulous planning. Canadian troops persevered under heavy fire to take the ridge, demonstrating incredible discipline and bravery. The battle became a symbol of sacrifice for the young nation and a turning point in its role in the global theatre of war.

Prologue

The Prussian officer refused the goodwill gesture with a disdainful wave of his hand. "I understand Canadian cigarettes are made of cattle dung," he said, his clipped English accent hinting at a pre-war British education. His captors didn't respond, although one of them made an involuntary move with his right hand toward the pistol holstered at his waist. The German smirked at the reaction. "I have also heard Canadians are a collection of drunken cowboys who would shoot an unarmed man without a second thought." The man's gaze never wavered as he stared at the Canadian officer in charge. "Well, you had better save your ammunition because you will need it. The attack you are planning is the worst-kept secret of the war. It is also the biggest joke the Kaiser has heard in a long time." The three Canadians in the dimly lit dugout kept silent, not even flinching when another artillery shell shook the foundations, cascading debris down from the rafters. The soldiers appeared content to let their prisoner keep talking. After all, he might blurt out some kernel of information that could save a few lives in the days ahead. "Your British and French friends tried the same thing and lost over a hundred thousand men," the German continued. "What makes you think a ragtag collection of farmers and fishermen from your country can do any better?" The Canadian officer in charge made a dismissive sideways gesture with his head, and his two companions grabbed the enemy oYcer by the arms, preparing to lead him away. He shook oV their grasp, pulled his greatcoat tightly around his shoulders, and sneered at his adversary. "Maybe, just maybe, your men will reach the top of Vimy Ridge," he hissed. "But they will be able to ship the survivors home to Canada in a rowboat."

About the Author

Tom Douglas, an award-winning journalist and author, lives in Oakville, Ontario with his wife Gail, also an author in the Amazing Stories series. Tom's father, Sgt. H.M. (Mel) Douglas, was part of the Invasion Force that stormed the beaches of Normandy on D-Day, June 6, 1944. Tom is a member of the Royal Canadian Legion, worked as a Communications Advisor for Veterans Affairs Canada, and has written speeches for the Minister of National Defence. Recently, he self-published a book, Some Sunny Day about his family's experiences in Northern Ontario following his father's return from World War II.

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