BATTLE OF THE ATLANTIC COMMEMORATED

On Sunday May 2, a one-man wreath-laying ceremony took place at the Coldwater Cenotaph to commemorate the Battle of the Atlantic. Commemoration of the battle takes place on the first Sunday in May each year. Due to the restrictions imposed by Covid-19, Branch 270 Service Officer, Comrade Randy Rice, alone, laid the wreath on behalf of members of the branch.

The Battle of the Atlantic was Canada's longest military engagement of the Second World War, lasting from September 1939 to May 1945. This battle was bravely fought by the men and women of the Canadian Merchant Navy, the Royal Canadian Navy and the Royal Canadian Air Force. More than 4,600 courageous service men and women lost their lives at sea.

Canada’s role in the Battle of the Atlantic was large and significant. Starting from a tiny base of ships, aircraft and personnel, and an infrastructure of meagre proportions, Canada became one of the foremost Allied powers in the Atlantic war. By 1942, Canada was able to carry a major share of the defence of North American waters and, at the same time, was Britain’s principal partner in the defence of trans-ocean convoys. By 1944, Canadian forces had developed the strength and capability to provide a significant contribution to the British and Americans in other theatres of the war.

PHOTO CAPTION:

Coldwater Branch Service Officer, Comrade Randy Rice, alone, lays a wreath on behalf of members of the branch to commemorate the Battle of the Atlantic.