BRANDON, MB – The untold stories of the men and women from Brandon College (now Brandon University) who took part in World War l are chronicled in a new public exhibition, Brandon College and the Great War, on display at Brandon University (BU).
“500 students, staff and alumni, including two from the very first year of classes at the College in 1899, joined the Great War effort,” says exhibition creator Suyoko Tsukamoto, a BU alumna who started the project in 2012 in preparation for archeological research at Camp Hughes, the WWl training base east of Brandon.
Tsukamoto says the exhibit rediscovers details about local residents during one of the world’s deadliest conflicts, some of whom served with distinction. “William Leary was a Brandon College student who enlisted at the age of 19,” she says, “and was awarded the Military Cross on two separate occasions for bravery, including a daytime raid on enemy forces.”
Brandon College and the Great War is on display in the Tommy McLeod Curve Gallery in the John E. Robbins Library at Brandon University until December 31st. A reception to officially open the exhibition will be held Friday, September 12, starting at 7:00 pm. Everyone is invited to attend.
“We are pleased to host an exhibition that will bring the community together to share stories that demonstrate the historic connection between the University, the city, and all of Canada,” says University Librarian Betty Braaksma. “Congratulations to Ms. Tsukamoto for creating this important retrospective.”
“World War I shaped the foundation of our nation and countries around the world,” says Dr. Gervan Fearon, BU President and Vice-Chancellor. “As a democracy, we ask our men and women to serve their country, many of whom were from Brandon College. This exhibition is an opportunity for Brandon University to honor their service.”
Brandon University, founded in 1899, promotes excellence in teaching, research, and scholarship; educating students so that they can make a meaningful difference as engaged citizens and leaders.
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