Heroes abound in Perth County and a tribute plans to shine a spotlight on their accomplishments.
Stratford and District Historical Society is hosting a Remembrance Day tribute Saturday at Stratford Perth-Archives.
Guest speaker Bill Donaldson will delve into the stories of local heroes and share their mementos. Jayne Trachsel, president of the historical society, said that Stratford and area residents will be interested, considering many of them have close, personal ties to heroes on display.
“It’s all part of their local history,” Trachsel said. “And they're probably even related to these people to some degree … people shouldn't be forgotten just because they passed away.”
Donaldson is an expert on the local Perth Regiment and happens to be an avid collector of military memorabilia and that is how he and Trachsel originally crossed paths.
Trachsel has been an accredited appraiser with the Appraisal Board of Canada for over 40 years. Through that time, Donaldson has been collecting memorabilia and gathering information on local military history.
“He is the military expert to go to,” Trachsel said.
The tribute is scheduled for Saturday at 1 to 3 p.m.
Admission is free for members, though costs $5 for non-members.
Trachsel is encouraging Perth residents to check in with their families – especially those of an older generation – to see if they are interested.
“I really think that it's very important that we remember all the men and women,” Trachsel explained. “Because they've taken it upon themselves so that we can live in peace today.”
As always, Trachsel is encouraging those interested in the event to also consider joining the society. Aside from hosting events, the society organizes tours, researches, and produces documentaries hosted on their YouTube page.
For more information on the society, visit its website.
