YourStory

How do we remember what’s important about Canada and the Second World War?

There are about 33,000 Canadian veterans still alive who served in the Second World War. That might sound like a lot until you realize that about 1.1 million people joined up over the course of the war. And then there are all those who were very young when they lived through the war — they're well into their 80s now. Of course we honour those who sacrificed during the war every Remembrance Day, but how will we remember the war when those who experienced it first-hand are gone?

Why is it important to remember the Second World War?

Ask older people in your family about their experience during the war, or what they heard their parents talk about. If someone from your family served in the war, are there any of their things still around that are connected to the war, like a uniform or medals? Are there any diaries or photographs? These stories aren’t just part of your family history — they’re part of Canada’s history.

What do you think is important to remember about the war? How can you help keep those memories alive?