Lt. GARTH S. WEBB M. S. C. (Ret.'d)

Proud to be called "Garth Webb", see why:

In 1995, D-Day Veteran, Garth Webb, conceived the idea of the Juno Beach Centre, an education centre and memorial to all who served Canada during the Second World War. Unselfishly, Mr. Webb mounted a nation-wide campaign to raise the $12.1 M to build the Centre.

In so doing, he ensured Canadians became more aware and appreciative of the sacrifices made during this period of our Nation’s history to preserve the privileges we enjoy today. After eight years of perseverance, and, in spite of the many obstacles in his path, Mr. Webb’s leadership and tenacity led to his dream being realized on June 6, 2003 with the Official Opening of the Juno Beach Centre in Courseulles-sur-mer, Normandy, France. As a result, Canada’s past presence is not only felt, but also preserved and seen as tangible evidence of our Nation’s sacrifice and pride in its contributions and accomplishments from 1939-45. Further, the Juno Beach Centre has been a catalyst for renewed nation-wide interest in the sacrifices of our Veterans.

Garth’s work was based, not on personal recognition, but upon his undying, unwavering loyalty to his Comrades and fellow Veterans. While honouring them at the Centre, Mr. Webb also envisioned the Centre as a significant educational resource for generations of Canadian youth to learn about Canadians’ contributions to the victory that ensured our freedom. To date, 475 Canadian school groups comprising about 17, 500 students have made the pilgrimage to the Juno Beach Centre. Further, tens of thousands of yearly international visitors gain the same insights through their experiences at the Centre.

With a focus on education and in his role as President of the Juno Beach Centre Association, Mr. Webb had facilitated more than 125 teachers of Canadian history to attend annual Battlefield Tours to France to enhance their understanding and knowledge of our Nation’s participation and contributions to freedom. By sharing this first-hand experience with their students, classroom programs were able to become more relevant, meaningful, and personal. Garth Webb demonstrated qualities of leadership, patriotism, loyalty, and humility. He possessed a unique ability to unify our country to achieving a common goal of building such a wonderful Centre.

Today, the Juno Beach Centre stands as the only place serving both as an education centre and memorial to those who served Canada during the Second World War. Its existence is directly attributable to Mr. Webb and his determination. His outstanding, singular accomplishment ranks him among Canada’s great citizens.

CHRONOLOGICAL BIOGRAPHY, DEGREES AND/OR HONORS:

DOB: December 1918, Midland, ON. Mr. Webb was raised in Calgary, AB. He returned to eastern Ontario to begin his post secondary education and enlistment in the Canadian Army, Royal Canadian Artillery. Following his military service, he resumed his studies at Queen’s University. BCOMM 1947; Queen’s University, Kingston, ON; MERITORIOUS SERVICE CROSS 2003; Governor-General Award “… to individuals whose specific achievements have brought honour to Canada.” KNIGHT OF THE LEGION OF HONOUR 2003; France’s top military award for bravery. VETERANS AFFAIRS COMMENDATION 2004; “… awarded to individuals who have performed commendable service to the Veteran community/or individuals who represent commendable role models for their fellow Veterans.” Deceased May 8, 2012, Burlington, ON.