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In Bay Roberts, July 1st is a day with two contrasting sets of events. First, Memorial Day honours soldiers who have bravely gone into battle to fight for their country against insurmountable odds . Then, Canada Day celebrates all that our country, Canada, offers its citizens. |
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Canada Day - July 1 Since Newfoundland and Labrador has become a Canadian province, Bay Roberts celebrates Canada Day in a similar manner to towns and cities all across the country. There is usually a BBQ at the community gardens for the whole family, with entertainment and games for children. A highlight of the day is a large Canada Day cake, especially decorated for the day. In the late afternoon, there is usually a matinee performance by local entertainers at the Royal Canadian Legion, overlooking the Veteran's Quay Marina.
For other photos of Canada Day, see>>
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Memorial Day - July 1 Until Newfoundland and Labrador joined Canada in 1949, July 1st was observed as Memorial Day in the province. Branch 32 of the Royal Canadian Legion always marks Memorial Day with a ceremony at the War Memorial, church services, and a parade back to the Royal Canadian Legion. These ceremonies honour the day when so many young Newfoundlanders died during the First World War. On July 1, 1916, the Battle of the Somme began during the First World War, with soldiers of the 1st Newfoundland Regiment stationed as part of British forces near the small town of Beaumont-Hamel in northern France. Under heavy fire from German forces, the regiment's 801 officers and men were ordered to advance. Within 30 minutes, 255 were dead, 386 were wounded and 91 were listed as missing in action and presumed dead. Every officer who had gone over the top was either wounded or dead.
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