The Government of Canada Honours Hometown Heroes from Nova Scotia

Ceremony held on the grounds of Admiralty House National Historic Site

September 29, 2018                                          Halifax, Nova Scotia                                         Parks Canada

Today, Parks Canada, in collaboration with the Royal Canadian Navy, held a ceremony to honour Hometown Heroes from Nova Scotia recognized for their efforts and achievements while serving in the Royal Canadian Navy, Canada’s Merchant Navy, and in Canadian shipyards during the Second World War.

The individuals recognized are:

• Mr. Norman Crewe: A Merchant Navy veteran of the Second World War, Mr. Crewe joined in 1940 and made at least 14 round trips in enemy-infested waters delivering to Britain essential goods such as food and ammunition. He has actively served as a member of the Royal Canadian Legion for more than half a century.

• Vice-Admiral Harry DeWolf: A famous Commander in the Royal Canadian Navy during the Second World War, the late Vice-Admiral Harry DeWolf is one of the most respected naval officers in Canada’s history. Bedford’s DeWolf Park and the Royal Canadian Navy’s new Harry DeWolf-class Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessels underscore his legacy.

• Women shipbuilders as represented by Mrs. Martin (Malti): During the Second World War, courageous women filled the labour shortage by entering traditionally male-dominated jobs, including in Canada’s shipyards, where approximately 4,000 women went to work building crucial naval and merchant vessels. Female workers such as Mrs. Martin (Malti), a member of the Mi’kmaq Nation, were praised for their tenacity and work ethic despite the numerous challenges that they faced, including gender biases, lower wages, and a pressing need for childcare.

The commemorative ceremony was held on the grounds of Admiralty House National Historic Site, home of the Naval Museum of Halifax. In keeping with navy traditions, the ceremony included a military band, the firing of a cannon, a minute of silence, and the ringing of a ship’s bell.

The Government of Canada is committed to connecting Canadians to the significant people, places, and events that contributed to our country’s rich history and heritage, particularly as we mark the 75th anniversary of the Second World War and the Battle of the Atlantic. During the war, Canadians from all provinces, and Newfoundlanders, served in the navy, merchant marine, air force, and shipyards, all contributing to the Allied victory of 1945. Many are unsung heroes who, in the face of adversity and uncertainty, resolutely accomplished extraordinary feats.

The honoured individuals join 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 military and civilian, who contributed to Allied efforts during the two world wars and also provides Canadians with unique opportunities to connect with their history. To date, more than 120 Canadians from across the country have been recognized through interpretive panels displayed on the Parks Canada’s website and at national historic sites in their hometown. By sharing these exemplary stories with Canadians, we express gratitude for their service and sacrifices.