Japanese Canadian War Memorial

This monument was dedicated on April 9, 1920 in lasting memory of more than 222 who answered the call of duty for Canada and to the 54 who sacrificed their lives in defense of freedom in WWI. Engraved on the monument is the honour roll of WWI and those who lost their lives in WWI, WWII, the Korean and Afghan War. A re-lighting of the memorial lantern, which was extinguished during WWII, took place on August 2, 1985 by WWI veteran, Sgt. Mitsui MM. At the start of the Great War, Japanese Canadians were unable to enlist in BC. Under the leadership of Yasushi Yamazaki, the Canadian Japanese Association sponsored the training of a battalion of 227 men in Vancouver in January 1916. After refusal from government and disbandment, the volunteers travelled at their own expense to Alberta to enlist one by one in May 1916. Determined to represent Canada, they fought fearlessly in battle, contributing to victory on Vimy Ridge and other battles identified on the granite petals of the cenotaph. These men were awarded thirteen military medals and two St. George Crosses.

British Columbia · Canada