December 17, 2009 – Toronto - Starting today, through The Memory Project: Stories of the Second World War, Canadians can learn about how some of our veterans celebrated the holidays away from home and on the frontlines. The stories from veterans coast to coast are available online at
www.thememoryproject.com/holidays and accessible in both official languages.
Between 1939 and 1945, more than 1 million Canadians and Newfoundlanders served either on the home front or overseas, fighting for King and country. During that time, most would spend the holidays on the frontlines of war rather than at home with their families.
“In Canada, we have so much to be thankful for at this time of year,” said Project Manager, Jenna Misener. “Holidays at War is a unique opportunity for all Canadians to remember and reflect on the service and sacrifice of our veterans made more than 65 years ago.”
The Memory Project: Stories of the Second World War is creating an unprecedented record of Canada’s participation in the Second World War as seen through the eyes of thousands of men and women who were there. The Project will provide every living Second World War veteran with the opportunity to preserve their memories through recorded interviews and digitized memorabilia.
The Memory Project: Stories of the Second World War is made possible through a contribution from the Government of Canada through the Celebrations and Commemorations Program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. ?
The Historica-Dominion Institute is a national charitable organization that was launched on September 1st, 2009 through the amalgamation of two existing organizations: The Historica Foundation of Canada and The Dominion Institute. Its mandate is to build active and informed citizens through a greater knowledge and appreciation of the history, heritage and stories of Canada. Some of its signature programs include: Encounters with Canada, The Memory Project, Passages to Canada and The Canadian Encyclopedia. You are invited to discover the Historica-Dominion Institute at
www.historica-dominion.ca.
To arrange an interview with a veteran, contact Jenna Misener at 1.866.701.1867, ext. 232, or
jmisener@historica-dominion.ca.
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Media Contact:
Jenna Zuschlag Misener
Project Manager
The Memory Project: Stories of the Second World War
1.866.701.1867 x: 232
jmisener@historica-dominion.ca