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The Canadian War Museum is deeply saddened to announce the passing of our dear friend and colleague Chief Historian and Director of Research, Dr. Tim Cook.

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Medal Set with Photograph

John “Scotty” Laing's Royal Canadian Navy medals are displayed in a wooden frame at the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa.

John “Scotty” Laing served in the Royal Canadian Navy during the Second World War. He was killed at sea on 20 July 1944 when his ship, HMCS Matane, was struck by a glider bomb launched from a German aircraft. His parents, William and Annie Laing, honoured his memory by displaying his photograph and medal set.

Eight of William and Annie’s sons served in the war. John was the only one who was killed, though another, Angus, suffered from post-traumatic stress after the war.

Medals (left to right):

  1. War Medal, 1939–1945
  2. 1939–1945 Star
  3. France and Germany Star
  4. Canadian Volunteer Service Medal