Over 1,100 lost during 1942 raid remembered in emotional Newhaven service

On Sunday, August 13th at 3pm, local residents, distinguished guests, and members from the British, Canadian, and American armed forces convened at the Canadian memorial in Newhaven’s town center.

They assembled to honor the brave souls who perished during Operation Jubilee on 19th August 1942. The assault consisted of nearly 5,000 Canadian soldiers, supplemented by 1,000 British troops and 50 American Rangers. Departing from Newhaven, their goal was to establish a presence in Nazi-occupied France. Yet, they faced formidable German opposition. While they made some headway, the Allied forces ultimately had to withdraw. By the raid’s conclusion, over 1,100 men, including 916 Canadians and 210 British and American soldiers, had fallen. Additionally, another 2,000 were captured.

In today’s memorial, the names of some fallen heroes were recited by the Canadian military’s representatives. This was followed by a poignant two-minute silence. The ceremony culminated with the heartfelt playing of the Canadian, French, and British national anthems.