Tales my grandfather told me: Memories of memories of the Somme

An item from the Legion Magazine.

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Tales my grandfather told me: Memories of memories of the Somme

Story by Stephen J. Thorne

It’s been more than a century and still the words ‘The Somme’ resonate with Canadians who grew up with a grumpy old granddad or family lore surrounding a strapping young man who fought in one of history’s most notorious conflicts.

About 100,000 Canadians did battle at the Somme—four divisions’ worth, plus a regiment from the Dominion of Newfoundland. For many a KIA or wizened old war veteran, it was their last, if not only, fight of the First World War.

A positive impression

Story by Sharon Adams

In May 2007, on the green and peaceful banks of the Una River in Bihac, Bosnia-Herzegovina, a memorial was dedicated to members of the Canadian Armed Forces who served and died in the wars that followed the disintegration of the former Yugoslavia in 1991.

“The men and women of the Canadian Forces have left a very positive impression of Canada upon the people of Bihac,” said Mayor Hamdija Lipovača. “It is fitting then that this park dedication serves as a lasting memory of Canada’s devotion to helping the people of Bihac return to a peaceful way of life,” he added.