Don Cherry shows off Newfoundland Regiment tribute jerseys
During his Coach's Corner segment on Hockey Night In Canada Saturday, Don Cherry took a moment to show off the tribute jersey worn by the St. John's IceCaps this weekend in honour of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment.
The team wore the jerseys Friday and Saturday night as they faced off against the Utica Comets at Mile One Stadium in St. John's.
"In the First World War they went overseas and, believe it or not folks, in one day they lost 773 guys. A whole generation was cleaned out in Newfoundland," Cherry said.
While there is some dispute over the numbers, historians agree that the loss of life following the Battle of Beaumont-Hamel was devastating.
Following the battle, 68 of the 801 soldiers that made up the First Newfoundland Regiment were able to answer roll call. More than 700 were killed, wounded or reported missing in action.
"It was Canada Day, right. So the irony is July the first is a real sad, and a real happy day in Newfoundland," said Ron MacLean.
