Vincent Massey School Legacy Project Preserves Stories and Honours Service | Remembrance Day
event Published 2026-11-10 20:25:43.623 +0000 UTC
MEDICINE HAT, AB – What began as a classroom initiative has grown into a school wide project that is helping preserve family histories, honour veterans, and connect generations within the Vincent Massey School community.
Now in its second year, the Vincent Massey School Legacy Project invites students, staff, families, and community members to share photographs, memorabilia, and personal stories of veterans connected to their families. Guided by grade 5 teacher, Karleigh Harvey-Zenk, the project aims to ensure these important stories of service and sacrifice are preserved for future generations.
The project was highlighted during Vincent Massey's recent Remembrance Day service, where students and families shared stories that brought history to life and helped expand our understanding of the people behind military service.
At the heart of the initiative is the preservation of oral history. Through family stories and personal connections, students gain an appreciation for the experiences, sacrifices, and contributions of veterans while strengthening connections to their own family histories.
"This project has grown beyond what we originally imagined," said Harvey-Zenk. "Families have embraced the opportunity to share stories that might otherwise be lost over time. It has become a meaningful way for students to honour their relatives while learning about the impact of service on families and communities."
Among the veterans honoured this year were:
 | The great-grandfathers of sisters Carys and Bree Rikstad, whose stories were shared during the Remembrance Day service. |
 | George Aucoin, who served during the D-Day invasion and was honoured by his great-grandson, Marcos Youssef. |
 | Bombardier Steven Curran (Ret.), whose service in the Canadian Armed Forces was recognized through a tribute presented by his daughter, Aoife Curran. |
 | Thomas Derocher, who served on the front lines during D-Day and earned five medals for his valour and service. He was honoured by his great-granddaughter, Raquel Martinez. |
 | Additional veteran submissions were shared by sisters Avery and Allison Dupras. |
As the project continues to grow, it is becoming an impactful reminder that remembrance is not only about historic events, but also about the personal stories, relationships, and legacies that shape our communities.
By preserving these stories today, Vincent Massey School students are helping ensure that the sacrifices and contributions of veterans will continue to be remembered for generations to come.