Walkerton, Ontario
“Honour a Hero” is a project which evolved from Mr. Kieffer’s passion and commitment to remembrance. What began as a series of store window displays in the early 1990s is now in its fourteenth year as a one-week, historical exhibit at Branch 102 of the Royal Canadian Legion (Walkerton). The project showcases archival material and personal objects related to the Walkerton area and Canada’s military contributions—from the Riel Rebellion to the current conflict in Afghanistan, amassed by Mr. Kieffer over two decades. Set up annually by him and a group of volunteers, it is available for public viewing during Veterans’ Week. Through school visits, hundreds of local students have also experienced the interactive display, gaining a true appreciation of the meaning of remembrance. School involvement has also evolved to feature students versed on the collection, providing information to visitors. The mission statement for “Honour A Hero” includes: remembrance of those who have made the supreme sacrifice; honouring the men and women who currently serve or have served in the Canadian military; educating youth and the general public about Veterans' contributions, and preserving Canadian military history.