Second World War
The Navy Ashore  - The Navy and the Home Front

The Royal Canadian Navy became a strong presence on Canada's home front during the Second World War. Naval imagery appeared in fundraising and propaganda materials, while Canadians built equipment for the navy, or were encouraged to support it through volunteer work.

Fifth Victory Loan, 1943

In this October 1943 photograph, a Royal Canadian Navy band and honour guard help promote the Fifth Victory Loan.

While the band stands on the steps of Toronto's city hall, the honour guard stands to either side of the city's cenotaph (centre right). Large signs on the city hall report on Victory Bond sales, while two 20mm Oerlikon cannon (centre left, with gun shields) are displayed as examples of naval equipment. The Royal Canadian Navy took part in many events like this, designed to encourage public contributions to financing the country's war effort.

George Metcalf Archival Collection
CWM 20000224-041