Station Arts Centre exhibit with military history club pays tribute to veterans

This vintage poster from the Second World War gives an idea of the constant threat civilians were in under in Europe. A gas mask from the day is displayed with it. (Jeff Helsdon Photo)

Robin Krafft, Post Correspondent

Members of the general public are invited to view the Tillsonburg Military History Club's annual Week of Remembrance exhibit at the Station Arts Centre from Monday, Nov. 9 to Saturday, Nov. 14.

The Tillsonburg Military History Club was founded in 2006 by Robin Barker-James. He and club member Jerry Turner initiated the first exhibit, with the intention of bringing a message of remembrance to the public through a special display.

"For a number of years after the club’s founding in 2006, the Week of Remembrance was held as a display at the Tillsonburg Town Centre," said Randy Wallis, Vice President of the Tillsonburg Military History Club. "At that time, Robin Barker-James displayed many items from his extensive collection of militaria for the public to view. Along with this display, Jerry Turner would also show his ongoing research into Tillsonburg and Oxford County military history."

The Station Arts Centre has been hosting the Week of Remembrance exhibit for the past 10 years.

"Through their generous support, they have offered us an entire room to display our message of remembrance," Wallis said. "Since the passing of Robin Barker-James and Jerry Turner, I along with Diane Ladoucer, have taken on the ongoing message of the Week of Remembrance. Our goal is to honour the sacrifice and remember the service of Canada’s soldiers and our allies through actual historical artifacts used during the conflicts in our history."

The displays now come from Wallis' own collection of militaria. He has been an avid collector for over 50 years.

"During the Week of Remembrance, I try to incorporate as many Tillsonburg and Oxford County related items as possible," Wallis said. "We also try to include many items that relate to the service and sacrifice of all branches of Canadian and allied military. We try to bring into focus the home front effort during wartime as well."

A collection of commonwealth bravery medals will be featured this year, with their origins and military significance.

"I will also display original World War 2 Canadian uniforms and equipment," Wallis said. "I will have a memorial to two young Canadian soldiers who gave their lives in World War 2, and another in World War 1. Everyone is welcome and we are looking forward to your visit."