The opening ceremony of an exhibit to commemorate the 75th anniversary of D-Day set for Thursday, June 6 at the Elman W. Campbell Museum is being described as a labour of love for the dedicated staff and volunteers who put it together.
Newmarket historian Richard MacLeod said that while some people view history as being “a bit dry”, when guests attend the local exhibit they will hear people speak with passion about how much Second World War veterans mean to the community.
“For me, this plays right into what I see history as being, which is a celebration of those people who came before us and upon whose shoulders our whole society is built,” MacLeod said. “You will be taken back to what it was like for these men and women during the war.”
The event kicks off at 2 p.m. and will feature a colour party entrance and bagpiper by members of the Newmarket Legion and Newmarket Veterans’ Association.
At least seven Second World War veterans, all Newmarket residents, are to attend the ceremony.
“We’re really honoured to have them in attendance to celebrate the 75th anniversary of D-Day,” said museum programmer Deanna Smith.
The exhibit is curated by Rod Bruton, along with volunteers Malcolm Watts and Ron Atkins, and other volunteers and friends of the museum.
June 6 marks the 75th anniversary of D-Day, the landing of Allied Forces in Normandy in 1944. One of the largest military assaults in modern history also signifies the beginning of the end of the Second World War.
A wide range of artifacts, including photographs, items from private collections, medals, books, uniforms, music and videos of the period will be on display. As well, Newmarket resident, artist and Second World War veteran Robert Locke is exhibiting two of his prints that capture his memories on the war when he was going over on D-Day.
“Local resident Robert Locke is displaying two prints, the originals are at the War Museum in Ottawa, that he painted when he was in his 80s,” said curatorial assistant Whitney Broydell. “He’s 91 and he went to war when he was 17. It’s going to be a really nice celebration for everybody to get together and remember the past and honour those who aren’t with us today.”
One highlight for guests, said museum staff, is a poster on which people can write thank you messages to veterans and family members to honour and remember those who served on the home front or in the war itself.
Women are remembered in the exhibit, as well, for their role in the Armed Forces and in providing nursing care at home and abroad.
The 75th anniversary of D-Day Commemoration Exhibit opening ceremony is on Thursday, June 6 at 2 p.m. at the Elman W. Campbell Museum, 134 Main St. S., Newmarket.
The public is invited and you are asked to carpool if possible and park in one of the municipal parking lots off Main Street.
For more information, call 905-953-5314 or email [email protected].
