The Role of the Canadian Army in the Second World War

The Second World War was a long and life threatening experience that lead to deaths of millions. Throughout the 6-year war, the Allies and the German Nazi’s armies encountered across Europe in several battles to force the opposition to surrender. Although, Canada was not a powerful nation during the Second World War, however, it’s army made many contributions that helped the Allies surrender the Nazi’s. The Canadian military pre handed in many critical battles, such as: the Battle of Sicily, Battle of D-day in Normandy, and the Liberation of the Netherlands. Through, accurate and thoughtful preparation, and the wise use of technology, the Canadians were successful through many severe battles in the terrible war. Therefore, the Canadian army was instrumental in the liberation of the Nazi’s in Europe.

Firstly, the Canadian army used their technology and well planned preparation to authorize the Germans, with the cooperation of the Allies they managed to push them back . One way the army was beneficial was in the invasion of the southeastern border of Italy by effectively conquering over land in Italy. For example, one task the squad was given was to confiscate the equipped defended land in eastern part of Italy, specified as Sicily. The First Canadian Infantry Division and the Canadian Armoured Bridge squads were elected to to fight in the invasion of Sicily, known as Operation ‘Husky’. The Canadians arrived after the assault training in Scotland, with advance equipment, and ideal vehicles to make this battle successful. The battle was led by Guy Simonds, who was known as the greatest general. Not only was the land surrounded with more than 200,000 Italian soldiers, but it was supported by two high-ranked German divisions. The invasion started just after Sunrise, with paratroopers going in behind the enemy lines, destroying important communication buildings,etc. The Canadian troops went ashore to Pachino beaches, where the opposition was unsecure, it helped them conquer the land much quicker. The training helped the Allies and the Canadians to accomplish this land successfully. ( Canada at War 25 ) From this specific invasion two very significant ideas can be held, that are: the Canadians were dominant in the battle and the tactics/weapons the army used were strong enough to overcome the land.