The refurbishment of the National War Memorial in St. John’s is well on its way to completion. Earlier this week, the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure marked a significant milestone in the project with the installation of the tomb portion of the Memorial.

On July 1, 2024, the repatriated remains of an unknown First World War soldier from what was then known as the Dominion of Newfoundland will be placed in the tomb, a final resting place, here at home.

The remaining work to be completed prior to July 1 includes:

• Reinstatement of granite stairs around tomb;
• Concrete walkways, stairs, sidewalks and paving stones (work has been ongoing throughout winter);
• New granite feature wall;
• Ironwork installation (handrails, light pedestals and associated electrical work); and
• Completion of site grading, and installation of topsoil, sod, trees and plants.

The tomb cover, which is being made from Nain-sourced Labradorite, will be placed following the July 1 ceremony.

The Department worked closely with the City of St. John’s on an earlier phase of the project, allowing the city to replace municipal infrastructure under the National War Memorial site in late 2023. Work has continued during the winter months and will be completed before July 1.

The National War Memorial site holds sentimental and historical significance for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.

In 2022, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, in partnership with the Royal Canadian Legion – NL Command, the Government of Canada and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission announced the refurbishment of the Newfoundland National War Memorial, including the incorporation of a tomb, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of its official unveiling in 1924.

Quotes
“The National War Memorial site will be a space for residents and visitors to walk through, reflect and honour the sacrifices of those who served and continue to serve for our rights and freedoms. Today’s update highlights significant progress in construction work ahead of the ceremony on July 1, 2024.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“The placement of the granite base for the tomb is a considerable milestone in our progress on the National War Memorial’s refurbishment. The significance of the centennial of the Memorial, as well as the repatriation of an unknown soldier from the battlefields of Northern France who represents the collective contribution and sacrifice of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians from all branches of the military and respective support services, cannot be overstated. We have the only National War Memorial outside of our nation’s capital and, after July 1, we will have the only other tomb of an unknown soldier in the country. The July 1 anniversary and the events surrounding it will be so powerful, speaking volumes to Newfoundland and Labrador’s significant role in First World War history.”
The Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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