Irma Giovanatti-Bré and her husband Roland, a 35-year veteran of the French air force, were always history buffs. But after spending a week in France visiting the beaches of Normandy and several Second World War cemeteries, an overwhelming feeling came over Irma. Reflecting on the graves of thousands of people who gave their lives throughout the war, she thought, “If only young Canadians had the opportunity to go there, to understand what the miles of crosses represent: a sense of duty and a love of country.”
“There is no greater love than laying down one’s life for a neighbour,” says Irma. “It is important that young people learn about the wars, and about the values and sense of duty those soldiers felt.”
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It is for that reason that Irma decided to leave a gift to the Canadian War Museum in her will.
Irma’s bequest will be put to good use. Through her support of the War Museum’s educational programs, future generations of Canadians will have the opportunity to learn about those who sacrificed so much to serve our country during times of war.
A passionate and devoted supporter of initiatives that preserve Canada’s history, Irma feels that it is our duty to pass on the achievements and legacies of those who served. “We have to make sure that their memory is kept alive, and that young people can learn about the wars, so we don’t repeat the mistakes of the past. We owe it to previous generations who gave their lives to protect our freedoms. We owe it to future generations to share these stories.”
Whether directed to the Canadian Museum of History or to the War Museum, a gift made through your estate will make a significant difference to the continuation of our work. More importantly, it will help provide future generations access to Canada’s social and military history, fostering a sense of empathy, understanding and connection. Together we can encourage intergenerational learning, while safeguarding and sharing the story of Canada for years to come.
To learn more about how a bequest can help the Museums, or to discuss what impact you would like to make through a future gift, please contact Megan Ollivier at 819-776-8336 or megan.ollivier@warmuseum.ca.
