Vimy Ridge to Juno Beach: Prince George locals planning historic tour

“It’s one thing to learn about this history, reading the books and watching movies, things like that, and documentaries. But going over there, you get the emotional connection and the response to seeing a grave full of thousands of people that have served and died for Canada, or any other countries,” Tomlinson added.

Known as Canada’s most celebrated military victory and a key part of shaping our country’s national identity, Mahoney says we all have a connection to it, so it’s in any Canadians’ interest to see it for yourself and take in the history. The tour will take place from March 16-25, 2026.

“It doesn’t matter where you come from in Canada, one of your ancestors was over there. Whether they fought for Canada, for Britain, or for Germany, to go over there and to see where this happened and be boots on the ground is a huge privilege,” Mahoney said.

“I’ve taken my own son over, and he stood in the exact spot where his great uncle Val came on, and to watch a big football player break down in tears because he felt that connection … he stood at his graveside, he understood the sacrifice that his uncle made,” she continued.

Tomlinson and Mahoney have organized this tour many times before for students, but this time the tour is planned with adults in mind, although youth are welcome to attend with a parent or guardian.

“One thing that a lot of groups see or feel is just that proud connection to have been there, to have done it, and see where and how these battlefields were and how they looked going to those sites, the museums around them, and seeing how the people in those countries still recognize Canada as a significant contribution to freeing them during the First and Second World Wars,” Tomlinson said.

“I’ve had students go over and say: ‘hey, I have an uncle, can we maybe find him?’ Yes, we definitely can. I’ve had other students who don’t think they have a connection, but when they get there, when they walk on the beach, they have that connection,” Mahoney added.

If you are interested, the deadline to apply for the tour is the end of November. Tomlinson said tickets are around $7-8000, which is all inclusive. You can reach out if you would like to join, or learn more, at pgbattletours@gmail.com.

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by Tommy Osborne

Vimy Ridge to Juno Beach: Prince George locals planning historic tour

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