Wait For Me Daddy War Memorial Sculpture Unveiled

NEW WESTMINSTER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - Oct. 4, 2014) - Department of Canadian Heritage

The Honourable Kerry-Lynne D. Findlay, Minister of National Revenue and Member of Parliament (Delta-Richmond East), today announced $191,700 in funding through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program in support of the Wait For Me Daddy war memorial and commemorative community activities. Minister Findlay made this announcement on behalf of the Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

Wait For Me Daddy was an iconic image captured by Vancouver Province newspaper photographer Claude Dettloff on October 1, 1940, in New Westminster. The photograph depicts marching soldiers of the British Columbia Regiment and a little boy breaking free of his mother's grasp, rushing up to his father who is one of the soldiers in formation.

To commemorate the 75^th anniversary of this photograph, the Royal Canadian Mint will release a Wait for Me Daddy two-dollar coin. As well, Canada Post will issue a new stamp featuring the photograph.

Quick Facts

• This event commemorates the 75^th anniversary of the taking of the photograph Wait For Me Daddy.
  
• The picture has become one of the most requested images from the National Archives and is reputed to be one of the 30 most popular photographs in the world.
  
• In addition to the memorial statue, the City of New Westminster will offer walking tours, literary readings, community art projects and musical performances as part of its Wait For Me Daddy commemorative activities.
  
• The Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage.

Quotes

"The First and Second World Wars were important events that contributed to the development of a distinct Canadian national identity. Our Government is proud to invest in projects - like the Wait For Me Daddy commemorations - that contribute to our collective identity and define who we are as Canadians."

- The Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages

"Our Government is proud to have helped contribute toward the creation of this war memorial so that Canadians and visitors alike can draw inspiration from it and pay homage to the brave men, women and families of that generation, in honour of the sacrifices they made during World War II."

- The Honourable Kerry-Lynne D. Findlay, Minister of National Revenue and Member of Parliament (Delta-Richmond East)

"Wait For Me Daddy captures a unique moment in Canada's history and highlights New Westminster's place in the narrative of our nation's involvement in World War II. The unveiling of this memorial is indeed a historic and emotional day. We remember all the brave individuals who have served and continue to serve during times of war and peace. We will continue to commemorate the importance of Wait For Me Daddy in the weeks and months to come through community activities. Thank you to Canadian Heritage for its support in helping us create this special place of remembrance and ensuring that the sacrifice of our fallen heroes is never forgotten."

- His Worship Wayne Wright, Mayor of the City of New Westminster

Associated Links

• City of New Westminster

• Wait For Me Daddy

• Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage

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