The Lethbridge Military Museum is introducing a new tour called “Highlighting Herstory” to showcase the contributions of women from southern Alberta who enlisted in the military to keep Canada free. Despite providing support in the first World War and earlier conflicts, Canadian women were not allowed to enlist until the second World War. Wendy Aitkens, the assistant curator of the museum, was inspired to create the tour after reading a second World War era booklet that showcased the various roles women played in the war effort, such as packing parachutes and serving in different divisions.
The tour aims to shed light on the important roles women played in the military during times of conflict and the challenges they faced in gaining recognition for their contributions. It highlights the fact that it was not until 1987 that Canada introduced a pilot program to allow women to work in combat units, signaling a slow progression towards gender equality within the military. The tour will also honor those women who stayed home to support the war effort through fundraising, volunteering with organizations like the Red Cross and Salvation Army, and keeping Canada running.
One veteran involved in the tour, Lee Willoughby, emphasizes that all military members, regardless of gender, are equally important and should have the opportunity to serve their country. He expresses admiration for the women who worked alongside him, noting their impressive skills and dedication to their roles. The tour will provide a platform to recognize and celebrate the contributions of these women, who often went unnoticed and underappreciated in the past.
The new tour at the Lethbridge Military Museum will offer visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the untold stories of women in the military and the significant impact they had on Canada’s history. By showcasing the diverse roles and responsibilities women took on during times of war, the tour hopes to educate the public about the important role women played in safeguarding the country’s freedom and security. It also aims to inspire future generations to appreciate and honor the contributions of women in the military.
Through the “Highlighting Herstory” tour, the Lethbridge Military Museum will provide a comprehensive look at the experiences of women in the military, from enlisting during the second World War to gaining recognition and acceptance in combat units. The tour will also highlight the efforts of women who supported the war effort from home, showcasing their dedication and commitment to serving their country in various capacities. By launching this tour, the museum is taking a significant step towards acknowledging and honoring the often overlooked role of women in Canada’s military history.
Overall, the launch of the new tour at the Lethbridge Military Museum represents a significant milestone in recognizing the contributions of women in the military and celebrating their important role in Canada’s history. By shedding light on the untold stories of these women, the tour aims to educate and inspire visitors while paying tribute to the sacrifices and efforts made by women who served their country during times of conflict. It is a reminder of the vital role women played in defending Canada’s freedom and security, and their legacy continues to be honored and remembered through initiatives like this tour.
