Excerpts from the brochure of the Veterans Memorial Park, Prince Edward Branch #91, The Royal Canadian Legion, Langford, BC:
Prince Edward Branch of the West Shore Communities of Victoria, in conjunction with, the Langford Municipality organized and implemented the development of the Veterans Memorial Park. It is approximately 2.5 acres, which includes a picnic area, water feature, playground, benches for relaxing, and an area for shooting hoops. The park opened 19 September 2001 at a cost of approximately $450,000.00 with our Branch providing the new War Memorial. The design of the War Memorial incorporates the two pillars of the "Mourning Mother" which was inspired by the Canadian National Vimy Memorial in France. The "Mourning Mother" represents Canada, as a young nation, grieving for her fallen children. The two pillars represent the defenders of Peace and Freedom. The War Memorial was designed and sculpted by our local artist Mr. Derek A. Rowe, of Renaissance Studio. The cost of the Memorial was approximately $80,000.00 which was raised in the West Shore Communities. A highlight of the Memorial is a 90 lb. 26" x 20" Vimy Stone that was presented to our Branch as a sign of comradeship from the Canadian Peacekeeping Veterans Association. This actual piece of the Vimy Memorial in France, is the first piece of Vimy to be used in a War Memorial in Canada. Our Candelight tribute that we hold every year in conjunction with the anniversary of Vimy Ridge on April 9th, is a commemorative ceremony to inspire and engage young Canadians to learn about Canadian military history in the cause of peace and freedom. Youth and a Veteran or serving member of the Armed Forces will place candles together, during the ceremony, in a symbolic passing of the torch of remembrance. Their legacy, our heritage, and our future! During the dedication ceremony on October 14th 2001, candles were placed on the Memorial by youth representing local Cadets, Guides and Scouts. The parade, approximately 450 strong, consisted of Legion Members, Military, other Veterans groups from around Victoria, RCMP, and Fire Department. Every year on November 11th members of the West Shore Communities gather at Veterans Park to remember all those who gave so much for our freedom.
