A silent sentinel stands here. It is Le portail du souvenir. This park sits before the Verdun borough hall. It is named for the Memorial de la Victoire. The memorial honors Verdun residents. They fell in wars fought by Canada.
Le portail du souvenir is more than just a monument. It is a place of reflection. It is a tribute to bravery. The Memorial de la Victoire dates to 1924. It was first in Madelinots Park. In 1959, it moved to Le portail du souvenir near the borough hall.
Initially, the memorial honored heroes of World War I. Later, inscriptions were added. They reflect soldiers’ service over time. These honor Verdun residents. They fell in World War II and the Korean War.
In November 2022, the borough inaugurated a new wall. It enhances the space around the memorial. It showcases this work of art. The park’s name is subtly inscribed on the wall. An excerpt from Robert Laurence Binyon’s poem is too. It is Pour les soldats oubliés. It honors past and present veterans.
The paving was redone. This makes the memorial space more appealing. It also makes it more accessible. Urban furniture like benches were replaced. They were added near the monument. The project received $25,000. It came from Veterans Affairs.
A Vimy oak stands near the veterans’ cenotaph. The Honorable David Lametti gifted it. This oak is significant. During World War I, Lieutenant Leslie Miller gathered acorns. They were from oak trees after the Battle of Vimy Ridge. He replanted them on his Ontario land.
From these acorns, many trees grew. Some were planted in Canada. Others were at Vimy Ridge. This oak descends from those original trees. It honors Verdun veterans.
Le portail du souvenir is carefully maintained. It offers a space for remembrance. It is a place for reflection. It is a place to honor sacrifices made for peace. Take a moment to reflect. Remember the Verdun heroes. They are honored by Le portail du souvenir.