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Date: March 27th 1918
To
Lieut-General A.W. Currie
From
All Batteries
Letter

SPECIAL ORDER
By Lieut - General Sir Arthur Currie K.C.B., K.C.M.C.
COMMANDING CANADIAN TROOPS

27th March 1918

In an endeavor to reach an immediate decision the enemy had gathered all his forces and struck a mighty blow at the British Army. Overwhelmed by sheer weight of numbers the British Division is the line between the SCARPE and the OISE have fallen back fighting hard, steady, and [?]
Measures have been taken successfully to meet this German onslaught. The French have gathered a powerful Army, commanded by a most able and trusted leader and this Army is now moving swiftly to our help. Fresh British Divisions are being thrown in. The Canadians are soon to be engaged. Our Motor Machine Gun Brigade have already played a most gallant part and once again covered itself with glory.
Looking back with pride on the unbroken record of your glorious achievements, asking you to realize that to day the fate of the British Empire hangs in the balance, I place my trust in the Canadian Corps, knowing that where Canadians are engaged there can be no given way.
Under the orders of you devoted officers in the coming battle you will advance or fall where you stand facing the enemy.
To those who will fall I say "You will not die but step into immortality. Your mothers will not lament you fate but will be proud to have borne such sons. Your names will be revered for ever and ever by your grateful country and God will take you onto himself."
Canadian's, in this fateful hour, I command you and I trust you to fight as you have ever fought, with all your strength, with all your determination, with all you tranquil courage. On many a hard fought field of battle you have overcome the enemy. With God's help you shall achieve victory once more.

A.W. CURRIE, Lieut-General
Commanding Canadian Corps

Original Scans

Original Scans