Reed P.

Bridgewater, Nova Scotia

South Shore Regional School Board

Death of a Regiment

My project is about the Newfoundland Regiment at the Battle of the Somme. It was such a disaster that after the battle, less than 10% showed up for roll call. An entire generation was lost...

 

 

 

What was the most interesting thing you learned about your topic?

It was very interesting to read about and see pictures of the battlefield as it sits today. You can still see where the trenches were dug, and you can still see the craters from the artillery shells.

What important lessons have you learned that you want to share with other Canadians?

I learned how much sacrifice was made by the men who volunteered to be part of the Newfoundland Regiment. They were so brave to become soldiers. Many were badly injured, and sadly, even more didn't return home at all. Keeping their memory alive is so important.

How would you compare your life today to the lives of those studied in your project?

Comparing my life to those in the Newfoundland Regiment is pretty scary. Once part of the army, the men had to go and do what they were told. They never knew if they would ever see their friends or family again.