HMCS Athabaskan ceremony

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Dozens of people paid their respects to one of Canada’s greatest losses during World War II.

This week marks the 71st year since HMCS Athabaskan was hit by a German torpedo and sunk off the English Channel.

128 members on board were killed and more than 80 were taken as prisoners of war.

45 members were rescued by HMCS Haida, which now calls Hamilton Harbour home.

One of the last known surviving members on board the Athabaskan, Bernard Laurin, attended today’s ceremony.

It included an overview of the vessels rich history and a wreath laying ceremony.