Original Item. Only One Available. The battles of St Julien and Festubert were two of the most celebrated engagements fought by Canadian soldiers during the First World War. The First Canadian Division arrived at the Ypres Salient in April 1915 and despite having undergone a few months training were thrown into battle at St Julien, when the Germans launched an artillery bombardment on their trenches. This was followed by a chlorine gas attack that forced the ill-prepared Canadians to protect themselves by covering their faces with handkerchiefs.

Casualty figures exceeded 6,000 - a third of the Division. However, the Canadians held their positions until reinforcements arrived. The Battle of Festubert in May 1915 showed that Canadian troops were capable of attack as well as defence. Their joint attack with British and Indian troops cost them a further 2000 casualties but they achieved most of their objectives, including the capture of the village of Festubert. St Julien and Festubert established the Canadians' reputation as a formidable fighting force and both battles are listed on the Canadian Army's Battle Honours.

This is an extremely scarce framed WWI Canadian recruitment poster, calling on the men of Canada to take up arms and join the fight. It recalls the battles of St Julien and Festubert, two of the most celebrated engagements fought by Canadian soldiers during the First World War.

The poster is in fair condition but does have some issues, including a small tear in the H of Heroes and two parallel scratches on the left middle portion of the poster. There are a few more small scuffs and tears, but they are hardly noticeable. Besides this, there are just minor folding creases.

The bottom of the poster reads Printed by GAZETTE PRINTING CO. LIMITED, Montreal, Canada. The frame measures 27¾ x 39½”, and is in fantastic condition overall.

A very scarce Canadian poster, ready for further research and display!