Military families gathered at the Citadel Theatre in Edmonton on Saturday. They were there to honour those serving in Afghanistan and veterans. But they were also treated to a new play called "Vimy."
"Vimy" focusses on the bonds made in battle and the friendships that were forged in the fight that helped to define Canada as a nation.
Canadians astounded the world when they fought back the Germans in the First World War to take a strategic ridge in Vimy, France. News of the victory resounded through Europe and here at home. Canadians took pride in what their soldiers had done, something which their allies had been unable to do time after time before.
Many argue that it was a turning point for Canadian nationalism and is a defining moment for the country. But the victory didn't come easily. Canadians lost 3,600 soldiers.
While Canadians honour those who fought in that battle and others in our history, the play points out sentiments about the war at the time were much more complicated.
"Guys are dying out there, and I'm going to go home and tell them what a crazy, stupid war this is," says one of the charcters in the play.
"They're seeing something that's really human. It's not necessarily about the war, it's about the people involved in it," said James MacDonald, the director told Â鶹´«Ã½ Edmonton.
Two members of the audience just returned from Afghanistan. They say the play rings a familiar note.
"Just like the movie "Band of Brothers," we become brothers -- not blood brothers, but you're just like brothers overseas," said Cpl. Derek Romkey.
Canada has lost 71 men and women in Afghanistan since 2002. But one soldier who has returned from the conflict says what they're doing in the country is no different than sacrifices made by generations of soldiers before them.
Cpl. Sorel Benoit said the play allowed him to talk to older veterans in the audience. He said veterans told them their stories about the Second World War and Korea. But they were as curious about him as he was about them.
They wanted to know "about my experience overseas, as well, and (see) if we had a special bond in different generations," said Benoit.
Romkey said the play and Remembrance Day on Sunday will allow soldiers of all ages to discuss a common bond. But he also notes, Remembrance Day this year will bring out strong emotions.
"This year will be tough, because we lost quite a few buddies and friends overseas in this last tour," Romkey said.
"There will be quite a bit more reflection going on."
