BILLY BISHOP / KERRISDALE LEGION - B.C./Yukon No.176

Battle of Vimy Ridge 108th Anniversary (April 9 – 12, 1917)

by Billy Bishop

The Ghosts of Vimy Ridge – Artist William Longstaff – 2017

In Honour of Vimy Ridge
April 9, 1917 – A Nation Was Forged

Today, we remember the brave Canadians who stood shoulder to shoulder at Vimy Ridge—young men who climbed into history through courage, sacrifice, and unshakable resolve.

In the cold dawn of April 9, 1917, they did not just take a ridge; they defined a nation.

We honour their memory not only for their victory, but for the unity, determination, and legacy they left behind.

Lest we forget.

About the image:
Painted in the late-1920s, this work by Australian Captain William Longstaff was extremely popular and images were reproduced and sold throughout the Empire. Longstaff depicted soldiers’ ghosts marching up Vimy Ridge from the Douai Plain, returning to the memorial. Today, the painting can be viewed at Canada’s Parliament Buildings in Ottawa.

William Longstaff, The Ghosts of Vimy Ridge

Credit: CWM 19890275-051, Beaverbrook Collection of War Art, Canadian War Museum

Music Tonight: Pat Chessel

by Billy Bishop

“A force to be reckoned with.”
– The Celtic Connection

Introducing Pat Chessell, a Canadian folk singer-songwriter with a heart full of Celtic influences! With a soul-stirring blend of haunting melodies, poignant lyrics, and rich acoustic
instrumentation, Pat weaves a tapestry of musical magic that transports listeners to the misty moors of Ireland, the rugged landscapes of Scotland, and the lush forests of Canada.
Drawing from a deep well of Celtic inspiration, he paints vivid musical landscapes that capture the essence of the human experience, from love and loss to resilience and hope. With a voice that resonates with warmth and authenticity, and a gift for storytelling that captivates the soul. Pat Chessell has opened for such notable acts as Sharon Shannon, Jim Byrnes, Derek Warfield of the Wolfe Tones, and Delhi 2 Dublin. Pat is a rising star in the Canadian folk scene.

Get ready to be swept away on a soul-stirring journey with this talented troubadour as he shares his heart and soul through the power of Celtic-infused folk music. Join Pat on a musical adventure that will leave you breathless and longing for more!

Website: http://patchessell.com
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
Phone 604.785.5030
Email: pat@patchessell.com
Past

Music Tonight: Bluesparks

by Billy Bishop

 

Dynamic and soulful, full spectrum blues band, this band stops at every port along the Mississippi river all the way to Chicago and beyond for a full night of exciting blues music.