The Government of Canada Honours Dunkirk Piermaster Commander J. Campbell Clouston as a Hometown Hero at the Lachine Canal National Historic Site

September 21, 2017                                 Montreal, Quebec                              Parks Canada


Canada’s national parks, historic sites and marine conservation areas enable Canadians to experience their rich and varied history in a special way. To celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation in 2017, the Government of Canada invites Canadians to experience nature and learn more about our history. Parks Canada places reflect the rich and varied heritage of our country and provide an opportunity for Canadians to learn more about our diversity, including the history, cultures and contributions of Indigenous Peoples.

Today, at the Lachine Canal National Historic Site, Parks Canada honoured Montreal-born Commander J. Campbell Clouston of the Royal Navy as a Hometown Hero. The commemorative ceremony was attended by the late Commander’s son from England and grandson from Australia. In keeping with navy traditions, the ceremony included a military band, the firing of a cannon, a minute of silence, the ringing of a ship’s bell, and the tossing of flowers into the water.

The Government of Canada is committed to connecting Canadians to the significant events that contributed to our country’s rich history and heritage, particularly as we mark the centennial of the First World War, the 75th anniversary of the Second World War and the 375th anniversary of the city of Montreal. In 1940, Commander J. Campbell Clouston played a pivotal role during Operation Dynamo in the evacuation of trapped British, French and Belgian troops from the beaches of Dunkirk, France. The majority of the 338 000 troops that were saved from Dunkirk embarked from the east mole under Clouston’s command. His personal example of courage was largely responsible for the maintenance of discipline and efficiency in the successful operation.

Commander Clouston joins a growing list of Canadians who have been recognized for their achievements during the First World War or the Second World War. Launched by Parks Canada in 2015 as a community-based initiative, Hometown Heroes honours and tells the stories of ordinary citizens, both civilian and military, who contributed to Allied efforts during the two world wars and also provides Canadians with unique opportunities to connect with history. To date, more than 100 Canadians from across the country have been recognized through interpretive panels displayed on the Parks Canada website and at national historic sites in their hometown. By sharing these exemplary stories with Canadians, we express gratitude for their service and sacrifices.

This year also marks the centennial of national historic sites and Parks Canada invites Canadians to discover and be inspired by the stories of the people, places, and events that shaped the Canada of today. Take advantage of free admission to Parks Canada national historic sites in 2017, and discover truly Canadian places and stories.