A Walk to Remember

Updated October 31, 2025

## A Walk to Remember, Langley, BC — What to Know Before You Go

**Summary:** *A Walk to Remember* is a memorial within the Derek Doubleday Arboretum in Langley, British Columbia. It commemorates the 158 Canadian Armed Forces personnel who died during the Afghanistan mission (2002–2011). The site features a commemorative sculpture, a tree-lined gravel loop, and viewpoints funded by community partners. Address: **21559 Fraser Highway, Langley, BC**. GPS: **49.0995, −122.6373**. [ Affairs Canada](https://veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance/memorials/canada/walk-remember?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

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### Why this memorial matters

The memorial was conceived and led by Langley siblings **Michael and Elizabeth Pratt**, founders of **Langley Youth for the Fallen**. Their project established a living grove—**one tree for each of the 158 fallen Canadian soldiers**—and a central structure listing their names, creating a quiet place for reflection that’s also educational for visitors. [ Affairs Canada](https://www.veterans.gc.ca/en/about-vac/who-we-are/department-officials/minister/minister-veterans-affairs-commendation/elizabeth-and-michael-pratt?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

LEES+Associates designed the memorial area in 2011; the official dedication took place on **November 11, 2012**. [ Affairs Canada](https://veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance/memorials/canada/walk-remember?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

—

### What you’ll see on site

– **Central commemorative feature:** A sculptural form symbolic of a life cut short. A **steel ribbon** wraps the “trunk,” ascending toward the sky while **carrying the engraved names** of the fallen. [ Affairs Canada](https://veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance/memorials/canada/walk-remember?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
– **Tree-lined path:** A **gravel loop** edged with **deodar cedars**—chosen because they’re native to Afghanistan—connects the grove. Expect a quiet, contemplative walk rather than a long hike. [ Affairs Canada](https://veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance/memorials/canada/walk-remember?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
– **Viewpoints:** **Two lookouts** were funded by the Rotary Club of Langley; they look north toward where **Fraser Creek meets the Nicomekl River**. [ Affairs Canada](https://veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance/memorials/canada/walk-remember?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
– **Other memorials in the Arboretum:** Nearby are the **Gapyeong Stone** (Korean War) and a **Vimy Ridge Oak**, adding historical context across conflicts. (https://abslangley.ca/war-memorials/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

> **Exact location & coordinates for mapping:**
> **A Walk to Remember, 21559 Fraser Highway, Langley, BC** (49.099503, −122.637339). [ Affairs Canada](https://veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance/memorials/canada/walk-remember?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

—

### Visiting experience: practical details

– **Atmosphere & layout:** The loop is **gravel** with **benches along the path**. Expect a calm setting; autumn brings a golden canopy that frames the walk and the commemorative structure. [ Advance Times](https://www.langleyadvancetimes.com/local-news/honour-sacrifices-privately-at-the-walk-to-remember-7103834?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
– **Accessibility notes:** Because the loop is **gravel**, some mobility devices may find traction or smooth rolling more challenging than on paved surfaces. Visitors needing specific accommodations should check with local park authorities before visiting. *(Surface type confirmed; accessibility accommodations are not explicitly published.)* [ Affairs Canada](https://veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance/memorials/canada/walk-remember?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
– **Events & reflective visits:** Around **Remembrance Day (Nov. 11)**, the site is a focal point for remembrance activities and quiet reflection. Local coverage highlights the space as a meaningful, low-key place to honour service and sacrifice. [ Advance Times](https://www.langleyadvancetimes.com/community/video-a-quiet-place-to-honour-remembrance-day-7618011?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
– **Evening remembrance walks:** The **Langley Hospice “Walk to Remember”** has hosted candlelight programs that **use the path through the Arboretum**, reinforcing the site’s role in community remembrance. *(Event programming varies by year.)* [ Advance Times](https://www.langleyadvancetimes.com/community/langleys-hospice-walk-to-remember-winds-through-arbouretum-7636128?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

—

### Background & community story

The memorial began with youth-led advocacy. **Michael and Elizabeth Pratt** launched **Langley Youth for the Fallen** in 2010 to fund a tree for each fallen soldier and a permanent commemorative feature. Their efforts drew broad community support and national recognition, including a **Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation**. [ Affairs Canada](https://www.veterans.gc.ca/en/about-vac/who-we-are/department-officials/minister/minister-veterans-affairs-commendation/elizabeth-and-michael-pratt?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

Landscape architects **LEES+Associates** integrated the grove, sculpture, and circulation into the Arboretum’s fabric, using **deodar cedars** to connect symbolically with Afghanistan’s ecology—an example of landscape design reinforcing narrative meaning. [ Affairs Canada](https://veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance/memorials/canada/walk-remember?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

—

### Wayfinding & nearby context

– **Arboretum setting:** *A Walk to Remember* sits within the **Derek Doubleday Arboretum**, close to the **Langley Demonstration Garden** and other learning spaces, making it straightforward to combine a reflective visit with a short educational walk. (https://mapcarta.com/N9575778881?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
– **Trails in the wider area:** If you’re extending your walk beyond the memorial, the Township publishes trail maps for neighbourhoods such as **Walnut Grove**, though those are separate from the Arboretum. (Use official trail PDFs for current routing.) (https://www.tol.ca/en/connect/resources/data-maps-locations/maps/PDFs/Document-Feed-Trails/Walnut-Grove-Trail.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

—

### Responsible, inclusive visiting tips

– **Respectful behaviour:** This is a **memorial** first. Keep voices low, avoid climbing on features, and give space to anyone who’s commemorating a loved one. *(General etiquette for memorials.)*
– **Photography:** Casual photography is typically fine outdoors, but do not obstruct others or photograph private moments of reflection without consent. *(General best practice.)*
– **Mobility & comfort:** The **gravel** surface and outdoor setting mean wheel traction and weather exposure matter—bring appropriate footwear and plan for rain or heat as seasons dictate. *(Surface type confirmed; conditions vary.)* [ Affairs Canada](https://veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance/memorials/canada/walk-remember?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

—

### Key facts (for trip planners)

– **What it is:** A commemorative landscape honouring **158 Canadians** who died in Afghanistan (2002–2011) through a **memorial sculpture** and **tree-planted loop**. [ Affairs Canada](https://veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance/memorials/canada/walk-remember?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
– **Who created it:** Led by **Michael & Elizabeth Pratt** and **Langley Youth for the Fallen**; **LEES+Associates** designed the memorial area (2011). Official dedication: **Nov. 11, 2012**. [ Affairs Canada](https://www.veterans.gc.ca/en/about-vac/who-we-are/department-officials/minister/minister-veterans-affairs-commendation/elizabeth-and-michael-pratt?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
– **Where:** **Derek Doubleday Arboretum**, **21559 Fraser Highway, Langley, BC** (49.0995, −122.6373). [ Affairs Canada](https://veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance/memorials/canada/walk-remember?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
– **Design details:** Steel-ribbon **names** ascending a symbolic trunk; **deodar cedars** along the **gravel loop**; **two lookouts** aided by Rotary funding. [ Affairs Canada](https://veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance/memorials/canada/walk-remember?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
– **Nearby memorials:** **Gapyeong Stone** (Korean War) and **Vimy Ridge Oak** within the same Arboretum. (https://abslangley.ca/war-memorials/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

—

### Recency & data quality notes

– Veterans Affairs Canada’s memorial page lists the **address, GPS coordinates, design credits, deodar cedars, and lookout details**, updated **May 25, 2025**. These specifics are current as of today’s publication. [ Affairs Canada](https://veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance/memorials/canada/walk-remember?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
– Local coverage (2023–2024) confirms **benches**, **quiet reflection use**, and **seasonal visitation** patterns; event programming (e.g., candlelight walks) changes year to year—verify dates on local organizers’ pages before planning around them. [ Advance Times](https://www.langleyadvancetimes.com/local-news/honour-sacrifices-privately-at-the-walk-to-remember-7103834?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

—

If you’re building an itinerary through the Fraser Valley, this stop offers context, reflection, and a short, meaningful walk—anchored by verifiable design and history rather than hearsay.

Key Highlights

Central commemorative feature: A sculptural form symbolic of a life cut short. A steel ribbon wraps the “trunk,” ascending toward the sky while carrying the engraved names of the fallen. oai_citation:3‡Veterans Affairs Canada
Tree-lined path: A gravel loop edged with deodar cedars—chosen because they’re native to Afghanistan—connects the grove. Expect a quiet, contemplative walk rather than a long hike. oai_citation:4‡Veterans Affairs Canada
Viewpoints: Two lookouts were funded by the Rotary Club of Langley; they look north toward where Fraser Creek meets the Nicomekl River. oai_citation:5‡Veterans Affairs Canada
Other memorials in the Arboretum: Nearby are the Gapyeong Stone (Korean War) and a Vimy Ridge Oak, adding historical context across conflicts. oai_citation:6‡abslangley.ca

Location

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A Walk to Remember, Langley, BC — What to Know Before You Go

Summary: A Walk to Remember is a memorial within the Derek Doubleday Arboretum in Langley, British Columbia. It commemorates the 158 Canadian Armed Forces personnel who died during the Afghanistan mission (2002–2011). The site features a commemorative sculpture, a tree-lined gravel loop, and viewpoints funded by community partners. Address: 21559 Fraser Highway, Langley, BC. GPS: 49.0995, −122.6373. oai_citation:0‡Veterans Affairs Canada

Why this memorial matters

The memorial was conceived and led by Langley siblings Michael and Elizabeth Pratt, founders of Langley Youth for the Fallen. Their project established a living grove—one tree for each of the 158 fallen Canadian soldiers—and a central structure listing their names, creating a quiet place for reflection that’s also educational for visitors. oai_citation:1‡Veterans Affairs Canada

LEES+Associates designed the memorial area in 2011; the official dedication took place on November 11, 2012. oai_citation:2‡Veterans Affairs Canada

What you’ll see on site

• Central commemorative feature: A sculptural form symbolic of a life cut short. A steel ribbon wraps the “trunk,” ascending toward the sky while carrying the engraved names of the fallen. oai_citation:3‡Veterans Affairs Canada
• Tree-lined path: A gravel loop edged with deodar cedars—chosen because they’re native to Afghanistan—connects the grove. Expect a quiet, contemplative walk rather than a long hike. oai_citation:4‡Veterans Affairs Canada
• Viewpoints: Two lookouts were funded by the Rotary Club of Langley; they look north toward where Fraser Creek meets the Nicomekl River. oai_citation:5‡Veterans Affairs Canada
• Other memorials in the Arboretum: Nearby are the Gapyeong Stone (Korean War) and a Vimy Ridge Oak, adding historical context across conflicts. oai_citation:6‡abslangley.ca

Exact location & coordinates for mapping:
A Walk to Remember, 21559 Fraser Highway, Langley, BC (49.099503, −122.637339). oai_citation:7‡Veterans Affairs Canada

Visiting experience: practical details

• Atmosphere & layout: The loop is gravel with benches along the path. Expect a calm setting; autumn brings a golden canopy that frames the walk and the commemorative structure. oai_citation:8‡Langley Advance Times
• Accessibility notes: Because the loop is gravel, some mobility devices may find traction or smooth rolling more challenging than on paved surfaces. Visitors needing specific accommodations should check with local park authorities before visiting. (Surface type confirmed; accessibility accommodations are not explicitly published.) oai_citation:9‡Veterans Affairs Canada
• Events & reflective visits: Around Remembrance Day (Nov. 11), the site is a focal point for remembrance activities and quiet reflection. Local coverage highlights the space as a meaningful, low-key place to honour service and sacrifice. oai_citation:10‡Langley Advance Times
• Evening remembrance walks: The Langley Hospice “Walk to Remember” has hosted candlelight programs that use the path through the Arboretum, reinforcing the site’s role in community remembrance. (Event programming varies by year.) oai_citation:11‡Langley Advance Times

Background & community story

The memorial began with youth-led advocacy. Michael and Elizabeth Pratt launched Langley Youth for the Fallen in 2010 to fund a tree for each fallen soldier and a permanent commemorative feature. Their efforts drew broad community support and national recognition, including a Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation. oai_citation:12‡Veterans Affairs Canada

Landscape architects LEES+Associates integrated the grove, sculpture, and circulation into the Arboretum’s fabric, using deodar cedars to connect symbolically with Afghanistan’s ecology—an example of landscape design reinforcing narrative meaning. oai_citation:13‡Veterans Affairs Canada

Wayfinding & nearby context

• Arboretum setting: A Walk to Remember sits within the Derek Doubleday Arboretum, close to the Langley Demonstration Garden and other learning spaces, making it straightforward to combine a reflective visit with a short educational walk. oai_citation:14‡Mapcarta
• Trails in the wider area: If you’re extending your walk beyond the memorial, the Township publishes trail maps for neighbourhoods such as Walnut Grove, though those are separate from the Arboretum. (Use official trail PDFs for current routing.) oai_citation:15‡TOL

Responsible, inclusive visiting tips

• Respectful behaviour: This is a memorial first. Keep voices low, avoid climbing on features, and give space to anyone who’s commemorating a loved one. (General etiquette for memorials.)
• Photography: Casual photography is typically fine outdoors, but do not obstruct others or photograph private moments of reflection without consent. (General best practice.)
• Mobility & comfort: The gravel surface and outdoor setting mean wheel traction and weather exposure matter—bring appropriate footwear and plan for rain or heat as seasons dictate. (Surface type confirmed; conditions vary.) oai_citation:16‡Veterans Affairs Canada

Key facts (for trip planners)

• What it is: A commemorative landscape honouring 158 Canadians who died in Afghanistan (2002–2011) through a memorial sculpture and tree-planted loop. oai_citation:17‡Veterans Affairs Canada
• Who created it: Led by Michael & Elizabeth Pratt and Langley Youth for the Fallen; LEES+Associates designed the memorial area (2011). Official dedication: Nov. 11, 2012. oai_citation:18‡Veterans Affairs Canada
• Where: Derek Doubleday Arboretum, 21559 Fraser Highway, Langley, BC (49.0995, −122.6373). oai_citation:19‡Veterans Affairs Canada
• Design details: Steel-ribbon names ascending a symbolic trunk; deodar cedars along the gravel loop; two lookouts aided by Rotary funding. oai_citation:20‡Veterans Affairs Canada
• Nearby memorials: Gapyeong Stone (Korean War) and Vimy Ridge Oak within the same Arboretum. oai_citation:21‡abslangley.ca

Recency & data quality notes

• Veterans Affairs Canada’s memorial page lists the address, GPS coordinates, design credits, deodar cedars, and lookout details, updated May 25, 2025. These specifics are current as of today’s publication. oai_citation:22‡Veterans Affairs Canada
• Local coverage (2023–2024) confirms benches, quiet reflection use, and seasonal visitation patterns; event programming (e.g., candlelight walks) changes year to year—verify dates on local organizers’ pages before planning around them. oai_citation:23‡Langley Advance Times

If you’re building an itinerary through the Fraser Valley, this stop offers context, reflection, and a short, meaningful walk—anchored by verifiable design and history rather than hearsay.