Throughout the First World War, Canadians accomplished every task assigned to them with courage, dedication and bravery. There were many important moments during this period that began to shape Canada's identity. However, the Battle of Ypres played a powerful and important role in establishing who we are as Canadians. The Battle of Ypres was a defense against the German army invading the last piece of Belgian soil that began in April 1915. When the Germans used a new technology called chlorine gas, the French soldiers fighting alongside the Canadians fled. Despite being surrounded on three sides, gassed and outnumbered, the Canadians successfully defended the territory until reinforcements arrived to support them (however, Ypres was intensely damaged). Canada was recognized as a courageous, honorable and extraordinary fighter for its efforts during the Battle of Ypres. The Edmonton Bulletin published two articles titled "Canadians Lose Lives to Toxic Gas" and "Canadians Would Fight Again." These two articles are linked to each other because they prove that even when Canadian soldiers lost many lives to chlorine gas, they continued to fight and gave their best. This shows their dedication and willingness to continue fighting until they emerge victorious. The Battle of Ypres also gave rise to the famous poem "On Field of Honour" by John McCrae (a doctor whose close friend Alexis Helmer died as a result of this battle). This poem written in Canada also presents the poppy as an international symbol of remembrance (because poppies grew around the graves of fallen soldiers during this battle). “In the fields of Flanders poppies grow/Between the crosses, row upon row” (1-2). Speaking of the middle of paper, this only paved the way for the Canadian military to become stronger and more independent of British control. This battle was the starting point of Canadian identity.Works CitedWerner, Willy. On the field of honor... A painting by Willy Werner. Digital image 1922. Web. March 19, 2014. Canadians lose their lives to toxic gases / Canadians would fight again. Edmonton Daily Bulletin, April 28, 1915. 1915: 1-2, Print. McCrae, John. “On the Field of Honor” Veterans Affairs Canada. 03-14-2014. Internet. 03-20-2014Kitchen, Tim. No room to run. Vancouver: UBC Press, 1999. Print.Unknown. "Ypres 1915 - Canada and the First World War - History - Veterans Affairs Canada." Veterans Affairs Canada, 2014. Web. March 21 2014. .