Memorial Day is observed in Newfoundland and Labrador every July 1, coinciding with Canada Day, which celebrates Canadian Confederation. This day has been commemorated since 1917 to honor the soldiers of the 1st Newfoundland Regiment who died in the Battle of the Somme during World War I. The regiment, formed in 1914, suffered devastating losses, with a casualty rate of approximately 90% during the battle. Memorial Day features ceremonies that include parades, moments of silence, and wreath-laying at the National War Memorial in St. John’s and various cenotaphs across the province. The Union Flag is flown at half-staff in the morning, and in the past, forget-me-nots were worn to remember the fallen, although the Remembrance Poppy has since become the primary symbol of remembrance in the province. Since Newfoundland and Labrador joined Canada in 1949, the observance has expanded to honor all members of the armed forces from the region.