Valliants Memorial

You may find yourself drawn to the immense building in front of you. But before focusing on the castle, look to your right. Leading down to the quay, these steps are known as the Sappers’ Staircase. It is surrounded by 14 sculptures: nine busts and five statues. This is the Valliants Memorial, honoring 14 Canadians who played an important role in the country’s military history during five key periods. Among them, you’ll find Count Frontenac and Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville, who defended the country during the French Regime. Joseph Brant and John Butler, during the American Revolution. General Sir Isaac Brock, Lieutenant-Colonel Charles-Michel d’Irumberry of Salaberry, and the heroine Laura Secord, all from the War of 1812. General Sir Arthur Currie, Corporal Joseph Kaeble, and nurse Georgina Pope, during World War I. And finally, military figures Hampton Gray, John Wallace Thomas, Paul Triquet, and Andrew Mynarski, during World War II. Each one of them contributed to defending Canada their own way, whether that is protecting its land, culture, or people. Made by Marlene Hilton Moore and John McEwen, the monument was installed here in 2006. In addition to the 14 sculptures, it features a quote from Virgil’s Aeneid: “Nothing will ever erase you from the memory of time.” A truly moving tribute!