History buffs to assess war memorabilia

Matthew Rothenberger, a Parks Canada interpretation co-ordinator,
dons a helmet, binoculars, and a Second World War soldier's uniform.

By Austin Grabish, The Selkirk Record

The stage is being set for stories behind First and Second World War relics tucked away in basements and attics to come alive this Sunday at Lower Fort Garry. 

Historians are going to be on site evaluating war memorabilia and family heirlooms as part of an event entitled ‘We’ll Meet Again.’

The history buffs won’t be giving the estimated financial value of items, but will rather tell the story behind the relics. 

“It’s simply to tell people the story behind the item that they bring in,” explains David Lavallee, a Parks Canada spokesperson. 

Lavallee said everyone is being encouraged to check attics for old war items like medals, pieces of uniforms, or soldiers’ badge’s, and bring them on Sunday to the Fort to learn about the item’s history. 

“We will have a team of experts who can look at the items and tell people the story behind them,” he said.

“Our people will be able to tell you about it.”

Sunday’s event is part of a broader effort by Parks Canada to commemorate both World Wars, and is being made possible due to partnerships with organizations like the Royal Canadian Artillery Museum.

“It’s a collaborative effort and we’re hoping to see a lot of people out there that day,” Lavallee said.

The event’s name ‘We Will Meet Again’ is borrowed from the famous 1939 British song by Dame Vera Lynn, which at the time resonated with many since so many soldiers didn’t get to meet their loved ones again after the war. 

Vintage military vehicles will be display on Sunday, and there will also be war-themed women’s fashion show, as well as live music from a jazz band that will perform war-dated tunes. 

“There’s lots of different stuff for people to enjoy even if they don’t have a family heirloom from either of the wars that they can bring in,” Lavallee said.

We’ll Meet Again takes place this Sunday at Lower Fort Garry from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 

Regular admission fees to get into the fort apply. 

 -- First published in the Selkirk Record print edition July 23 2015 p.7