Memorial seeking input for First World War commemoration planning

Established as a living memorial to those Newfoundlanders who fought and died in the First World War, Memorial University wishes to mark the 100th anniversary of the war through a series of commemorative activities that will take place from 2014-2018.

“As the province’s university and a living memorial to our war dead, it is important that Memorial do its part to remember the sacrifices made by the residents of this province,” said Dr. Sean Cadigan, co-chair of the First World War commemorations steering committee. “We are asking for input from the public so that our remembrance activities reflect the values and wishes of the broader community of which Memorial is a part.”

Individuals who want to provide input can do so by visiting www.mun.ca/commemoration to fill out an online form by Sept. 15, 2012.

Dr. Cadigan, head of the Department of History, said the university is open to considering ideas ranging from commemorative events and academic offerings, to legacy projects such as structures or scholarships.

“With these suggestions in hand, we’ll be able to develop a full plan for the period to put forward to the university for funding,” he said.

The First World War commemorative program will be in addition to Memorial’s current remembrance activities, such as the annual Ceremony of Remembrance held each November and the laying of wreaths at war memorials on Nov. 11 and July 1.