Nearly 600 business leaders, elected officials, members of the Canadian Forces, celebrities and students will gather tonight at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre for the third annual Vimy Gala, hosted by the Vimy Foundation and presented by Bell Canada. With only two years until the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge, Canada’s defining moment of the First World War, supporters will be on hand to help raise awareness and announce plans for the centennial commemorations set for 2017.

Paul Gross will discuss the importance of passing ‘the torch of remembrance’ to our young people, and how history continues to inspire. Major General Richard Rohmer will bring remarks from Veterans Affairs Canada, as the special advisor to Minister Erin O’Toole. Kevin Newman will act as Master of Ceremonies.

Architectural plan for a new Vimy Visitors Education Centre, to open up for the centennial in 2017, will be unveiled.