This year marks the 100th anniversary of Princess Patricia’s Light Infantry (PPLI), and a monument being constructed in Edmonton will present people with an opportunity to help commemorate the event.
Current military members and the families of serving, retired, or fallen PPLI members will be able to have their names engraved on one of over 2,500 granite stones which will be used to build a memorial. It is designed to be reminiscent of the one in Frezenberg, Belgium, which honors the sacrifice of nearly 400 of the original members of the regiment who died in World War One, during their first major military campaign.
Purchasing a stone will cost $300, and the proceeds will be used to construct granite walls that will be inscribed with the names of 1,900 individuals who have given their lives in service to their country.
There will be an initial test installation of several stones during July, with the first full group to be placed at the end of the month. An unveiling ceremony will be held on August 10th.
Anyone wishing to purchase a stone will be able to do so after the unveiling date, as they will continue to be put in place until next spring.
A memorial such as this not only serves to commemorate the sacrifice of the fallen; it also reminds future generations of the price of war. A company that provides printing services can create signage that can give more information about the regiment and the part it played throughout the country’s history.
