French President Francois Hollande joined Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at the Place des Heros in Arras, France, Sunday April 9, to open ceremonies celebrating the centenary of the World War One Battle of Vimy Ridge.
The pair added their messages to a giant poppy, its petals made up of red paper notes of gratitude from French citizens.
Some 3500 Canadian soldiers gave their lives to capture Vimy ridge in a three-day battle which started on April 9, 1917.
After placing their messages, Hollande and Trudeau observed a minute of silence.
The two leaders will be joined by Britain’s Princes Harry, William, and Charles for a trip to the town of Vimy itself. Approximately 25,000 people, including some 17,000 Canadians, will participate in a ceremony there to honor the fallen.
