The Battle of Dunkirk, known as the Evacuation of Dunkirk began on May 24th, 1940 when 338,2264  men of Allied countries evacuated the Dunkirk shore and headed towards Britain, seeking for relief from advancing German Forces. Although most troops were able to escape, the remaining French soldiers of approximately 40,000 people surrendered to the Germany army. (France Surrenders) Much of the equipment including tanks and airplanes were left behind on the beaches as the Allies endured heavy casualties and fell back into British territory. Canada, being an important ally of Britain contributed in the miracle evacuation of Dunkirk. During this event, Robert Timbrell of Canada was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, bringing pride and the sense of nationalism to Canada.