Canada and The Battle of Vimy Ridge

Guest Speaker: Roman Jarymowycz PhD

When:   Thursday, September 15, 2016, from 19:30 to 21:00

Where:  Centennial Hall

             288 Beaconsfield Blvd, Beaconsfield, H9W 4A4

Lecture in English followed by a bilingual question period.

The Battle of Vimy Ridge (9-12 April 1917) was a classic: considered the making of a national army as well as a text book example of warfighting. Where previously British and French forces failed to achieve success, the young Canadian Corps demonstrated a perfected attack that brought operational as well as political results. The battle incorporated a model set-piece assault that was grounded on break-through scientific techniques, detailed planning, painstaking rehearsal and aggressive reconnaissance on all levels. Vimy Ridge also marked the zenith of Montreal arms, the city's battalions were splendidly represented and, in the case of the Black Watch, the level of participation never exceeded. The techniques and approach to battle of the Canadian Corps set a standard that made its reputation and presented a demanding legacy.

Roman Johann Jarymowycz OMM, CD, PhD

Jarymowycz's publications include Calvary from Hoof to Track; the history of The Royal Montreal Regiment 1945-1990; and the award-winning Tank Tactics. He has most recently completed the official history of the Royal Highland Regiment of Canada, The Black Watch RHR, in two volumes, to be published in the fall of 2016. He is currently preparing a history of The Royal Montreal Cavalry. He has been a frequent contributor to CBC documentaries, including The Killing Ground, The Valour and the Horror, and, The Great War. 

A graduate of Loyola College and McGill University, Lt Colonel Jarymowycz has taught at high school and university levels. He has lectured at the Royal Military College and both Canadian Forces staff colleges.