Ottawa, Ontario
Mrs. MacDonald is a civilian with a keen sense of history regarding the role of the Merchant Navy in the Second World War. This was spurred on by her husband's service as a wireless operator on oil tankers crossing the Atlantic to England. She has spent many hours, often at her own expense, to research and assemble materials for Parliamentary presentations on benefits for merchant seamen. Mrs. MacDonald served with the Merchant Navy Coalition for Equality and as national secretary of the League of Merchant Mariner Veterans in Canada. She is currently an honorary member. Her contribution came at an opportune time for the Association as an imposing workload presented a challenge. Mrs. MacDonald was able to use her extensive public service experience and understanding of the media to further the Merchant Navy cause. Her wise counsel is often sought and deeply appreciated. Those who are interested in the Merchant Navy may find their history in the National Archives and Parliamentary Library.