For five years between 1914 and 1918, thousands of Canadians fought and died for a country they barely knew in battle conditions that were challenging and difficult.
A century later, today's Canadians can learn more about this war, what happened, and why it mattered during a series of talks — including one tomorrow (Saturday) — put on by Port Moody Station Museum.
"We can't remember things we don't know," says John Goheen, a local elementary school principal who is helping organize the talks and tours of a replica First World War trench built last summer at the museum. "It's our responsibility to become as informed as possible so we can appreciate what we have as a result."
He and a team of volunteers, including local graphic artist Markus Fahrner, have researched the period and Goheen brings a wealth of knowledge, having guided the Royal Canadian Legion's Pilgrimage of Remembrance to WWI sites for several years.
As Canada marks the 100th anniversary of the war and the many battles Canadians were involved in, Goheen and the team want to share this knowledge with others.
People who attend the talks will learn about the importance of WWI to Canada's development as a nation, specific battles, living conditions in the trenches, weaponry and other topics. They'll also get a chance to tour the replica trench and see a photo reenactment of a specific event during the First World War.
SATURDAY'S TALK
Tomorrow (Saturday) at the Port Moody Station Museum, local First World War historians will hold a public talk about the battle of Vimy Ridge, which took place from April 9 to 17, 1917 in France. It is a free community event that will include the talk, a tour of a replica trench at the museum and a reenactment photo of a scene involving Canadian groups.
The talk begins at 1 p.m. The museum is located at 2734 Murray St., Port Moody, at Rocky Point Park.
OTHER TRENCH TALK DATES
Dates for all of the Trench Talks are on or near the 99th anniversary of major battles involving Canadians. The talks will continue into next year as the First World War education program runs through 2018 to mark centenary events.
• Friday, July 1, trench tours begin at 10 a.m. — learn about the battle of Beaumont Hamel; there will also be a Newfie Kitchen party at 5 p.m. Reserve your tickets.
• Sunday, Aug. 7 — learn about animals that served in the war.
• Saturday, Sept. 17 — learn about the battle to capture the ruined village of Courcelette.
• Saturday, Oct. 8 — learn about the efforts to capture the Regina Trench.
• Sunday, Nov. 6 — Passchendaele will be discussed as Remembrance Week is celebrated.
• Thursday, Nov. 10, 7:30 p.m. — a candlelight vigil will be held.
