THE BATTLE OF THE ATLANTIC COMMEMORATION SERVICE AND PARADE

Port Colborne, ON – The longest, largest, and most complex battle of the Second World War, the Battle of the Atlantic, lasted five years, eight months, and five days. Canada lost more than 2,000 sailors from the Royal Canadian Navy, 1,600 merchant mariners, and 752 airmen from the Royal Canadian Air Force.

Niagara, the Welland Canal, and the St. Lawrence Seaway have direct ties to this battle. Many of the merchant ships that passed through these waterways were part of Great Lakes shipping fleets. When called upon, these sailors faced dangerous Atlantic convoys, delivering vital supplies and ammunition to the front lines.

To honour those who were lost at sea and never returned home, the Royal Canadian Naval Association – Niagara will host a waterside Commemoration Service on Sunday, May 3 at 1:00 p.m. at the Canadian Corps Association, 70 West St., Port Colborne.

The waterside service will include a ceremonial flyover, cannon salute, bagpiper tribute, bell ceremony and small parade. All are welcome to attend and stay for a small reception following the service.

In recognition of Navy Week, the White Ensign will be raised at Port Colborne City Hall, King George Memorial Park, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 56, and along the Welland Canal on West Street from Tuesday, April 28 to Monday, May 4.

As a community with deep marine and naval roots, RCNA Niagara invites residents and visitors to come together to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice, and to express our gratitude to the men and women who continue to serve in the Canadian Armed Forces today.