The Troops Called it "Wipers"

Ypres, Belgium - copyright Melanie Wills

Last week’s post about John McCrae mentioned Ypres, which was a critical salient in the battles between the Allies and Germany during the Great War. It was also where Canadian troops had their baptism of fire in the spring of 1915, and where they later distinguished themselves again at nearby Passchendaele in 1917.

Wartime Ypres, the same vantage point. The Cloth Hall is on the left, the church on the right.

The medieval city of Ypres was virtually reduced to rubble, but has been rebuilt to resemble its former glory, as can be seen in the top photo. It’s a magnificent, friendly city – especially to Canadians – and well worth a visit.

See this blog about the daily commemorative ceremony at the Menin Gate.