The Intelligencer December 27, 1917 (page 1)
“Men Fighting in France Send Christmas Message to Dominion. Canadian Army Headquarters. ‘To comrades and friends in support in Canada, this Christmas message is from the Canadian corps from every division, brigade, battalion and man. It is our deeply sincere wish for a year of future happiness and for our early reunion. We feel today that the race behind us is of such strength and magnitude that it will inspire each of us to greater deeds and will surely lead us to the goal of victory, peace and home.’
Such is the message to the Dominion from its fighting men in France, while to the fighting men themselves, the corps commander has sent the following message:
‘The corps commander has taken this opportunity of sending every officer, non-commissioned officer and man in the Canadian corps all good wishes for Christmas. He trusts that the coming year may bring with it the attainment of our great objective—victorious peace and a happy return to our near and dear ones in Canada. This is not a mere stereotyped wish. … Your actions have made the name of our homeland one to be revered, respected and honored now and throughout the years to come.’ ”
The Intelligencer December 27, 1917 (page 2)
“Greetings to the Soldiers Overseas. The Prime Minister has sent to General Turner the following Christmas message for the Canadian troops overseas:
‘It is again my great privilege to convey to you from the government and people of Canada the greetings and gratitude which during this season are deep in the heart of every Canadian. This Christmas we recall in loving and solemn memory the many thousands of your gallant comrades who have passed into their perfect peace. They died that Canada might live. They gave up their lives that we might have peace on Earth. But their spirit lives to inspire the nation, which can never forget. … In the new year now approaching we shall resolve anew that as the army struggles and suffers for the nation, so the nation will strive and endure for the army, and do both for the great common cause of liberty and civilization to which we have consecrated our efforts. … R. L. Borden.’ “
First World War Belleville 