In early 2024 a group of Almonte students demonstrated how a little local history can make a big difference.
Their research uncovered a First World War veteran whose name had been overlooked on the town’s cenotaph.
Their efforts helped ensure his sacrifice was finally recognized, highlighting the value of bringing military history into the classroom. It’s the kind of connection Chief Warrant Officer Mike Wiggins hopes to encourage through his work with local schools.
Wiggins is helping bring military history and the stories of Canada’s veterans into local classrooms, giving students a chance to learn about service and sacrifice beyond the pages of a textbook.
One of the most successful examples came at Almonte’s R. Tait McKenzie Public School, where Wiggins worked alongside Grade 6 teacher Jean Grant-Kearney on a Remembrance Day Real-World Learning project.
Students visited local cemeteries, researched veterans and placed commemorative stones on their graves.
The project led to an unexpected discovery: Private George B. Monterville, a First World War veteran from Almonte, was buried in the community but missing from the town’s cenotaph.
With Wiggins’ support, four students researched his military service and presented their findings to the Almonte Legion in March 2024.
The Legion supported the students’ recommendation, and Monterville’s name was added to the memorial.
A special re-dedication ceremony followed on June 15, 2024. That event has sparked more research by students and adults alike, leading to the discovery of more missing names.
Wiggins’ involvement is part of a broader effort to encourage young people to take an interest in local military history, meet veterans and understand the contributions made by previous generations.
The Almonte Legion has also highlighted student involvement in its veterans’ banner program and other community remembrance initiatives.
The approach gives students something more meaningful than a traditional history lesson: an opportunity to investigate their own community, ask questions and make a difference. Wiggins is proud of that curiosity and actions.
A dozen or so new names have been discovered and the local Legion is working through the process to get them recognized on the Town’s cenotaph.
You can hear our complete conversation with Wiggins below.
Story by Brian Turner