The Battle of Vimy Ridge was a battle that was fought on the Western Front of World War I in 1917.
The British launched an attack in front of Arras in April 1917 as their contribution to the Nivelle Offensive. The first day of the British operation was a notable success, especially for the Canadian Corps, commaned by General Sir Julian Byng. The Canadians' target was the formidable German defensive system on Vimy Ridge. A five-day artillery bombardment heralded the coming offensive, but the defenders were taken by surprise when Canadian troops emerged from tunnels that had been dug to bring them closer to the German line. Advancing through sno, they were almost on top of the defenders before the Germans responded. Many were captured in their bunkers. Although the initial success was not exploited, the gain of the ridge was an important victory.
Gallery[]
