Hamilton will commemorate Dieppe this weekend

The soldiers who landed in the Dieppe Raid will be commemorated in Hamilton throughout the weekend. It will mark the 70th anniversary of that devastating morning on a French beach on Aug. 19, 1942.

The raid was a tactical disaster that cost the lives of 197 soldiers from the Hamilton regiment, who were among the 913 Canadians who died.

Of the remaining soldiers from Hamilton’s contingent, 109 were wounded and 174 were captured as prisoners of war.

The following events will honour the 582 Royal Hamilton Light Infantry soldiers who landed in Dieppe 70 years ago this weekend:

Saturday, Aug. 18 — Barbeque and Dance

The Royal Hamilton Light Infantry’s Veterans’ Association will be hosting a membership appreciation party Saturday afternoon at its hall. The barbeque and dance are being held not only to commemorate the eve of the Dieppe Raid, but also to celebrate the RHLI’s 150-year anniversary. 1353 Barton Street East. 12 to 8 p.m.

Sunday, Aug. 19 — Memorial Service

The city’s annual memorial service will be held at the Dieppe Veterans’ Memorial Park. It will follow the same format as past years, with city officials, dignitaries, veterans and members of the public expected to attend. A parade will begin the ceremonies at 11 a.m.