SECOND WORLD WAR
Postwar Transitions and Struggles

1: A Royal Inquiry (CREATING A JUST SOCIETY/CIVIC ENGAGEMENT)

Stage a mock Public Inquiry to examine why Newfoundland Overseas Forestry Unit members did not receive a pension or allowances after their service in the Second World War. What questions would be asked? How might foresters respond? For example, why was this forestry unit not given a uniform? What role did the Commission of Government play in these decisions? Were Canada and the UK providing pensions and allowances to their Second World War forestry units? Following the Inquiry question-and-answer exercise, draft a Preliminary Findings report. Hold a debriefing in which actors and audience members are present and discuss the importance of benefits and support for returning service members.

2: “In My Mind’s Eye, I Can Imagine That . . .” (GRAPHIC ARTS/DRAWING)

Sketch or paint an image or several images based on the songs “Lay That Bucksaw Down” and “Captain John Grieve.”

3: What Our Foresters Need: An Editorial (INFORMATIVE WRITING)

Write an editorial for the Newfoundland Overseas Forestry Association Bulletin addressing issues of concern and points of success involving or about NOFU veterans.

4: “Roll the Dice, Please” (MEANING-MAKING/DISCUSSION)

Create a discussion cube that includes six prompts. Use it to guide a (small) group discussion as a way of consolidating what you have learned after engaging with this theme. In particular, use prompts that explore the work of the NOFU and the way its members were treated when they returned to their home country.

5: “History: It Fits You to a Tee!” (GRAPHIC DESIGN/TEXTILE ART)

Design a tee-shirt commemorating the important role of the NOFU during the Second World War. Consider including the names of people, places, objects and key events. Use imagery derived from historical sources or create your own.

6: NVSM: Acknowledging Civic Engagement (VISUAL ART)

Sketch or paint the Newfoundland Volunteer Service Medal, the honour given to people who volunteered and served in units or organizations that were raised (or maintained) as part of the Dominion of Newfoundland’s contribution to the Allies’ war effort during the Second World War. Consider re-designing/updating the medal if you feel so inspired.