Canadian Military Presence in Newfoundland National Historic Event
Botwood, Newfoundland and Labrador
Infantrymen in Gander, NL, May 1943
(© National Film Board of Canada | Office national du film du Canada. Photothèque / Library and Archives Canada | Bibliothèque et Archives Canada / PA-210166)
Address :
Botwood, Newfoundland and Labrador
Recognition Statute:
Historic Sites and Monuments Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. H-4)
Designation Date:
2000-11-15
Other Name(s):
-
Canadian Military Presence in Newfoundland
(Designation Name)
Research Report Number:
2000-21
Importance:
Canadian military, naval and air presence was a part of the war effort during World War II
Plaque(s)
Existing plaque: Botwood Heritage Society, Airbase Road, Botwood, Newfoundland and Labrador
Canada’s military presence in Newfoundland and Labrador during the Second World War helped draw the dominion into Confederation in 1949. After its first armed forces arrived in June 1940, Canada assumed a steadily growing responsibility for Newfoundland’s defence. The construction of air bases, coastal defences and naval facilities contributed to the Allied war effort and boosted the economy, while acting as a counter to the American presence. Together, these elements created long-lasting personal relationships and official ties between Canadians and Newfoundlanders.