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Second World War
The Navy Ashore  - The Navy and the Home Front

The Royal Canadian Navy became a strong presence on Canada's home front during the Second World War. Naval imagery appeared in fundraising and propaganda materials, while Canadians built equipment for the navy, or were encouraged to support it through volunteer work.

"Meet the Navy" Program
"Meet the Navy" Program

War artist Grant Macdonald illustrated this program for the Royal Canadian Navy's musical revue "Meet the Navy".

Created in 1943, "Meet the Navy" was intended to entertain service personnel, aid naval recruiting, and help boost public morale and goodwill towards the navy. The show consisted of a variety of performances, including songs, dance routines, and comic sketches. "Meet the Navy" was presented across Canada in 1943-1944 before going overseas. It toured the United Kingdom from late 1944 to early 1945. Subsequently performed in France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, its last appearance was in Oldenberg, Germany, following the German surrender.

George Metcalf Archival Collection
CWM 19840030-029





$90 Killed this U-Boat!
Fifth Victory Loan, 1943
Seventh Victory Loan, Halifax, 1944
Careless Words may cause Disaster!
Censored Photograph, HMCS Wentworth
What would you do if I quit?
Manufacturing Naval Guns and Mountings
Torpedo Depth and Roll Recorder
Send the boys good Books and magazines
Knit for the Navy and Merchant Navy
Ditty Bags for Sailors
Sailor's Fur Vest
"Meet the Navy" Program
"Meet the Navy" Program
Royal Canadian Navy Certificate of Acknowledgement
Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve Pillow Cover
Cut-Out Allied Naval Units
The Canadian Navy Paint Book
V-E Day, St. John's, Newfoundland
Bedford Magazine Explosion, 1945