David Burke, Acting President of the Canadian Military Engineers Association, provided the Canadian Military Engineers Branch Council with an update on CMEA activities at their 2 May 25 meeting. Included was a request for CME to endorse the conduct of Operation GRANITE II, a celebration of the 80th anniversary of our All Sappers Memorial in Chilliwack in July 2026. We are pleased to advise that CME endorsed the planned event and will provide support.
Operation GRANITE II, planned for July 2026 in Chilliwack, is a commemorative event being organized by the CMEA, the Retired Sappers Association, and the Royal Canadian Legion. It will mark the 80th Anniversary of the All Sappers Cenotaph in Chilliwack, BC, that is the principal CME and central to our history and heritage. Some background material on the All Sappers Cenotaph can be found HERE.
The event is scheduled for the weekend of July 17-19, 2026. It is intended to be a major reunion and celebration, likely the last significant gathering in what was the "Home of the Engineers" from 1942 to 1998. The format includes:
- Registration and a Meet & Greet on Friday
- A Rededication and a Service of Remembrance at the Cenotaph on Saturday, followed by a Gala Dinner
- Optional church and group memorial services on Sunday morning, concluding with a farewell brunch
- Historical displays, kit sales, and a videographer capturing personal interviews and stories throughout the event
The organizing committee aims to reconnect thousands of people who served in Chilliwack, honour their history, and pay homage to those who have passed. The event has received financial support from the CMEA to help launch the event.
Operation GRANITE II is a significant military heritage reunion and commemorative event centred on the Canadian Military Engineers' legacy in Chilliwack, planned for mid-July 2026.
