To mark the 20th anniversary of the Canadian War Museum on LeBreton Flats, and inspired by the exhibition Last Voices of the Second World War, these lectures will delve into the post-war experiences of Canadians who served during the Second World War. Historians from the Canadian War Museum will explore the emotional journey of veterans and how they make meaning of their wartime experiences. Through first-hand accounts and historical interpretation, this discussion will shed light on the challenges, rewards and legacy of military service in Canada.

Dr. Michael Petrou, Historian of the Veterans’ Experience at the Canadian War Museum, will be our emcee. Dr. Petrou is currently the lead historian for In Their Own Voices, a War Museum oral history project that explores the experiences of Canadian veterans and their families, from the Second World War to the present day.

Dr. Mélanie Morin-Pelletier, Historian of War and Society at the Canadian War Museum, will present the context of the development of the Last Voices of the Second World War exhibition and the strengths and challenges that come with using oral history as the main source for the project. Dr. Morin-Pelletier’s current research focuses on the human experience of war, whether on the battlefield, in military hospitals, or on the home front.

Dr. Teresa Iacobelli, First World War Historian at the Canadian War Museum, will offer a deeper exploration into some of the stories, objects and artifacts from the new Last Voices of the Second World War exhibition, exploring what these have to say about the broader history of the Second World War and the veterans’ experiences. Dr. Iacobelli’s research examines the relationships between war, national identity, and social memory.

Marie-Louise Deruaz, Creative Development Specialist for the Last Voices of the Second World War exhibition at the Canadian War Museum, will offer a behind-the-scenes look at the development of the exhibition, the interpretive strategies, and the visitor experience. Ms. Deruaz has developed engaging visitor experiences for a number of exhibitions, with a special interest in multi-sensory and interactive experiences.

Read more about the Museum’s historians.