World Bulletin / News Desk

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was to lead the commemorations on Sunday for the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge in France, considered a founding moment in his nation's history.

Around 20,000 Canadians made the journey to the memorial in northern France to mark the centenary of the battle which was one of the defining moments of World War I.

Canadian troops fought under Canadian command as a united force for the first time there, defeating the German forces in just three days, although they paid a heavy price with 3,600 Canadians killed and 7,000 wounded.

"The Battle of Vimy Ridge was a turning point in the First World War and for Canada, when Canadians acted –- and fought -– as one," Trudeau said ahead of the commemorations.

"At Vimy Ridge, we will mark this great victory, and pay tribute to every Canadian who answered the call to serve."

The battle began early on April 9, 1917 and was part of a larger British-led offensive that included Australian soldiers, known as the Battle of Arras, which was a diversionary tactic to assist a major French attack further south.

It was the first time that four military divisions from Canada fought together as the Canadian Corps.