This website was created to encourages all Canadians to learn about the sacrifices and achievements made by those who have served in the World War II. As well, it invites Canadians to become involved in remembrance activities that will help preserve their legacy for future generations.
Canada entered the World War II on September 10, 1939. Within two months the first contingents of Canadian troops arrived in the United Kingdom to help the British Expeditionary Forces.
Overseas, following the tragedies of Hong Kong (December 1941) and Dieppe (August 1942), Canada’s army distinguished itself in Sicily (July-August 1943), Italy (September 1943 to February 1945), and the invasion and campaign in Normandy (June 6 – August 22, 1944), and throughout the campaign to liberate northwest Europe until victory in May 1945. These military contributions helped win the war, but the cost was high. From a population of only 11.5 million, 1.1 million Canadians served in the Army, Navy, and Air Force during the WWII. Of these more than 45,000 lost their lives and another 54,000 were wounded.
The war had significant cultural, political and economic effects on Canada, including the conscription crisis which affected unity between Canadian francophones and anglophones. However, the war effort not only strengthened the Canadian economy but further established Canada as a major actor on the world stage.
Canada entered the World War II on September 10, 1939. Within two months the first contingents of Canadian troops arrived in the United Kingdom to help the British Expeditionary Forces.
Overseas, following the tragedies of Hong Kong (December 1941) and Dieppe (August 1942), Canada’s army distinguished itself in Sicily (July-August 1943), Italy (September 1943 to February 1945), and the invasion and campaign in Normandy (June 6 – August 22, 1944), and throughout the campaign to liberate northwest Europe until victory in May 1945. These military contributions helped win the war, but the cost was high. From a population of only 11.5 million, 1.1 million Canadians served in the Army, Navy, and Air Force during the WWII. Of these more than 45,000 lost their lives and another 54,000 were wounded.
The war had significant cultural, political and economic effects on Canada, including the conscription crisis which affected unity between Canadian francophones and anglophones. However, the war effort not only strengthened the Canadian economy but further established Canada as a major actor on the world stage.
~ Denis K