Canadian general named honorary parade marshal to mark 1919 Victory Stampede

This year's Calgary Stampede parade will be marking the 100th anniversary of what was called the Victory Stampede after the First World War.

The event in 1919 was the first after the Great War and was officially opened by Brig.-Gen. H.F. McDonald, who was commanding Military District 13 at Camp Sarcee in Calgary.

The Victory Stampede offered a place for everyone to come together and build community at a time of difficulty.

Brig.-Gen. Stephen Lacroix, Commander 3rd Canadian Division, has been named honorary parade marshal for this year's event.

To acknowledge First World War soldiers, Lacroix will ride in the parade escorted by two officers from the Lord Strathcona Mounted Troop.

The Royal Canadian Mint is also to unveil a silver collector coin next month to mark the Victory Stampede.

"It is a privilege to continue the Canadian Army's long partnership with the Calgary Stampede," said Lacroix.

"2019 is a year of great significance for 3rd Canadian Division and our participation in the 100th anniversary of the Victory Stampede both honours and celebrates this."

Canadian actress Amber Marshall from the long-running CBC drama series Heartlandwas named official parade marshal earlier this month.

The Stampede will run from July 5 to July 14.