July 1 has a double significance for Newfoundlanders, it is also Beaumont Hamel Day. On July 1, 1916 the Newfoundland Regiment went over the top on the first day of the Battle of the Somme. On July 2, out of over 800, only 68 men were able to answer roll call. The issue of whether Canada Day or Beaumont Hamel Day should take precedence on July 1 was controversial for many years, and probably still is for many.