Sir Arthur Currie was the first Canadian commander of Canada's overseas forces in World War I. While Currie did not look the part of a professional soldier, he is generally thought by historians to be the best military commander that Canada has produced. Currie was given command of a battalion in the first Canadian contingent sent to assist Britain in 1914, in spite of his then minimum experience. He advanced steadily, winning distinction at the battles of Ypres and Saint-Julien in Belgium and at the battle of Vimy Ridge in France. Within three years (in 1917) he became lieutenant general and commander of the four divisions of the Canadian Corps, succeeding the British general Sir Julian Byng. He lead the Canadian troops at Passchendaele, as well as other major battles. Currie was knighted in 1918. After the war he served as inspector general of the Canadian militia and became the first general in the Canadian Army. In 1920 he accepted the position of principal and vice chancellor of McGill University, Montreal, and retained this post until his death.
Obituary of General Sir Arthur Currie The (London) Times Friday December 01 1933 SIR ARTHUR CURRIE THE CANADIAN CORPS IN THE WAR The funeral ceremony was the most elaborate ever held up to that time in Canada. From coast to coast Canadians followed the procession as it was described by the radio announcer of the Canadian Broadcasting Commission. The funeral was for Sir Arthur Currie, commander of the Canadian Corps, held on December 5, 1933. For most but not all, Arthur Currie was a Canadian hero who had played a significant role in the Great War
Heres some of his quotes ...... "... it is quite time that some corps commanders were told to go to blazes." "I am a good enough Canadian to believe, if my experience justifies me in believing, that Canadians are best served by Canadians." "We have shown that even in trench warfare it is possible to mystify and mislead the enemy." "Thorough preparation must lead to success. Neglect nothing." And this one - which was an address to Canadian Corps, in March 1918 makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end ..... .... I can't image how I would feel if I heard somebody say that to me before going into battle !! "To those who fall I say - You will not die but step into immortality. Your mothers will not lament your fate but will be proud to have borne such sons. Your names will be revered forever and ever by your grateful country, and God will take you unto Himself."