Community
Sharing the story of a century ago
A local author will share a unique perspective on the Battle of Vimy Ridge at the Red Deer Museum and Art Gallery, Sunday. Sigmund Brouwer’s recently released book, Innocent Heroes, is a fictionalized account of the role animals played in the pivotal battle that many say helped establish our country’s national identity.
“As Canadians we tend to underplay our accomplishments; this was such an incredible victory against all odds that it’s very appropriate for us to look back on it with pride,” Brouwer wrote. The battle, synonymous with sacrifice and national pride, accounted for more than 10,000 Canadian casualties, including nearly 3,600 dead. It marked the first time when all four divisions of the Canadian Expeditionary Force participated in a battle together.
Brouwer focuses on the use of animals in Innocent Heroes, partly to soften the rigors of war for the book’s youthful audience, and to provide context. “I decided that inspiring animal heroes would be appropriate for that audience. They can still learn about the war in the battle without a focus on the horrible things that happened,” he adds.
The book focuses on three young Canadian soldiers and their experiences in the trenches at Vimy. Their bonds to the innocents, the animals they employed in helping their platoons take Vimy Ridge, are at the heart of Brouwer’s story. Released earlier this year, Innocent Heroes is already starting to appear in Canadian classrooms, and benefits from a comprehensive study guide, developed by teachers.
Extensive research into the history of the iconic battle and the letters of soldiers involved, formed the foundation for the fictional accounts in the book. While the characters, both human and animal are fictional, the story is accurate and reflects the tone and atmosphere of the great war a century ago. It’s not entirely coincidence that the author chose the timing and subject of Innocent Heroes. “While the aspect of amazing animal stories intrigue me, I would’ve written the story anyway, I was aware that 2017 would raise awareness of the battle,” he shares.
Each of the stories within the book is followed by a non-fiction section that details the experiences of animals and Canadian soldiers in the conflict. Many readers will be amazed at the sheer number of animals that participated; technology has largely replaced animals in warfare, although there are still roles played by dogs in military conflicts around the planet.
“Most Canadian historians and military people point to this as the moment that defined our national identity. My sense is that we are often taught the facts and the information. I will happily argue that story is the best way for us to absorb important lessons and understandings,” Brouwer tells us.
His multimedia session at MAG begins at 1:30 p.m. and is recommended for ages 8+.
To learn more about Innocent Heroes including an accompanying song and video, CLICK HERE.
Innocent Heroes is available at Chapters and online at amazon.ca
For details on the MAG event CLICK HERE.
L to R: Cindy Jefferies, Susan Knopp, Lane Tomalty, Bre Fitzpatrick
Photo credit: The SnapHappy Photographer
After a decade of leadership under Cindy Jefferies and Susan Knopp, 100+ Women Who Care Red Deer (100+ WWCRD) is proud to celebrate 10 years of supporting local charities and the announcement of Bre Fitzpatrick and Lane Tomalty as its new co-leaders. This marks an exciting new chapter for the group, which has made a significant impact on not-for-profit organizations in Central Alberta.
Cindy and Susan have led 100+ WWCRD with vision, dedication, and a commitment to empowering women to lead and inspire change. Under their stewardship, the organization has raised over $630,000 for local charities by hosting 4 annual 1-hour meetings. Since 2015, more than 36 local charities have received funding through the group.
Reflecting on their tenure, Cindy and Susan stated:
“Leading 100 Women has been an honour and a privilege. When we began this journey, we didn’t know where it would go – we simply loved the simple, elegant, and fun ‘100 Who Care’ concept and thought it was a great fit for our community. We are grateful to the many women who have stood with us. They are the magic of the organization! We are confident Bre and Lane will steward this leadership role well and we look forward to supporting it – just not from behind the microphone!”
Bre and Lane bring a dynamic energy and fresh perspective to the organization. Both have been involved with the group and have been mentored by Susan and Cindy over the past year. They are eager to continue the collaboration, connection, and local support this team of women have established in Red Deer.
In their joint statement, Bre and Lane shared:
“We are humbled to step into this role and build on the incredible foundation Cindy and Susan have laid. Many needs are at the doorstep of our community and in the hearts and minds of our members. We know a powerful, caring, and united group of individuals can play a huge role in driving change and breaking barriers.
To celebrate this milestone and leadership transition, the 100+ WWCRD hosted the final meeting of 2024 on November 25th at the Red Deer Golf and Country Club. The evening featured reflections from Cindy and Susan, the selection of the Salvation Army as the charity of choice, an opportunity for members to connect with Bre and Lane as they outline their vision for the organization’s next chapter, and a toast to 10 years.
For more information, please visit www.100womenreddeer.ca
About 100+ Women Who Care Red Deer
100+ Women Who Care Red Deer is a network of compassionate, empowered, and dedicated women who make a direct, immediate, and positive impact in Red Deer and area. We support local non-profit and charitable organizations that work every day to make our community a better place to live. 100% of funds donated go to the selected charities – there are no
administration fees, and all costs are covered by the generosity of sponsors. Collectively, we make a difference.
The group meets 4 times annually for 1 hour. Non-profit and charitable organizations are nominated by members. After hearing 3 randomly drawn pitches, the members vote to select their top choice. The group with the highest number of votes receives the members’ donations. Each member or team commits to donating $100 at each meeting. Since 2015, the average raised has been more than $15,000 per meeting.
Membership is open to all women In Red Deer and area. We invite you to join us! The first meeting of 2025 will be on Monday, February 3, 2025.
Founded in February 2015, the organization currently has about 150 members. We are committed to uniting this powerful group of 100+ women who care and lifting the amazing non-profits and charitable groups they support.
Festival of Trees tickets are on sale now! Get ’em while they’re hot!
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