There must be a concerted and totally focused movement to withdraw control of the National War Museum totally away from the Museum of Civilization, and ensure that a restructured War Museum be under the control of the serving and former Canadian military.
My recommendation is the model of the Imperial War Museum, well known to my associates and I. The Army, Navy and Air Force
Benevolent Funds could be the catalyst in forming an association with DND, all Veterans organizations, public spirited citizens and the private industrial and financial sector. The formula used to create the Canadian Warplane Heritage Foundation (CWHF), the HMCS Sackville Foundation the various private sector museums located across Canada which focus on the use of Tax Credits for funding, plus a Board of Trustees (Directors) with direct links to the Canadian military, and staff dedicated to the preservation of the outstanding military history of our country, without a subtle or otherwise hidden agenda is critically necessary.
I was very apprehensive when it was made known that the Canadian Museum of Civilization, which is not especially significant to Canadian history would be the agency of control over the National War Museum, and our apprehension turned out to be quite correct, as noted by Journalist Peter Worthington and Mr. Clifford Chadderton OC, men whose opinions count. One should visit if possible the Imperial War Museum, and it's Forces museums at RAF Duxford, Hendon, HMS Belfast, etc. - these are total participatory facilities, designed to attract public participation and private sector industry support - flying the Tornado F1 simulator at Duxford is an interesting and compelling experience.
Dr David Baird of Saint John NB former Director the Canadian National Museum of Science and Technology had the right idea - museums are for people and they must reflect in a positive light, a factual and compelling message.
Jack MacLeod
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