Vancouver Island Military Museum - VIMM

05/16/2026

On This Day: 16/17 May 1943, 617 Squadron flew a daring mission to destroy hydroelectric dams in Germany’s Ruhr Valley. Amongst them, Nanaimo-born Pilot Officer John Fraser. Learn more about the Dambusters’ raid and Fraser’s unique contribution with a visit to the Vancouver Island Military Museum, situated in downtown Nanaimo.

Image 1: Photograph of Pilot Officer John Fraser in Uniform

Image 2: Photograph of the breached Mohne Dam, with 6 barrage balloons overhead.

05/11/2026

Community historian, Debbie Jiang, will be presenting this Wednesday on the Japanese Canadians who fought at Vimy. In-person is nearly sold out, but you can also join by Zoom. This event is free.

Debbie's fascinating research will also be in VIMM's next Newsletter!

04/22/2026

The City of Nanaimo Local Government had a talented photographer and videographer create a lovely video honouring Brian McFadden at the Culture Awards ceremony last week. It's now online for the public to enjoy!

04/17/2026

Thank you George Anderson for Nanaimo - Lantzville BC NDP for congratulating our President Brian McFadden on his Heritage Award and long-time service in the House of Commons this week!

Introduction of Brian McFadden - April 15, 2026

04/15/2026

The City of Nanaimo Local Government Culture Awards was a spectacular celebration of our City's vibrant Culture, Arts, and Heritage. Congratulations to all the winners - and to our President Brian McFadden!

04/09/2026

This week we’re remembering all those who served and died at Vimy Ridge.

Learn more about Canada’s role in the First World War, and the Nanaimo soldiers who served on the front lines, with our new Object Trail and Workbook.

Image 1: Canadians occupying old German third line trenches, Battle of Vimy Ridge
Image 2: Canadian machine gunners set up in shell holes with Vickers machine guns, at Vimy Ridge.
Image 3: Constructing a railroad through captured territory, April, 1917
Image 4: German prisoners and Canadian Red Cross men assist in the despatching of wounded on a light railway. Vimy Ridge. April, 1917
Image 5: Taking of Vimy Ridge. Wounded coming in. May, 1917
Image 6: Canadians enjoying a game of cards in a shell hole on Vimy Ridge

Credit:
1: W.I. Castle / Canada. Dept. of National Defence / Library and Archives Canada / PA-001101
2: Canada. Dept. of National Defence/Library and Archives Canada/PA-001017
3-5: Canada. Dept. of National Defence/Library and Archives Canada/
6: Canada. Dept. of National Defence / Library and Archives Canada / PA-001181

04/07/2026

Explore the museum with our new Young Explorers Workbook! Follow our Object Trail to discover objects and learn more about Canada’s role in the First World War.

03/19/2026

Our Spring 2026 Newsletter has arrived! If you're not already subscribed, click through to our website to sign up. You can also look through our back issues: https://militarymuseum.ca/newsletters/

03/18/2026

Opportunity for youth to work in the local heritage industry! Nanaimo Museum is hiring for 4 Summer youth positions.

We’re hiring!

Join our team as one of 4 youth positions where you can develop your skills in a heritage and tourism environment. The four positions are: Retail & Guest Services Assistant (youth), Social Media & Marketing Assistant (student), Heritage Interpreter I (youth), and Heritage Interpreter II (student). See link below for more information and application instructions.

These are full time seasonal positions, funded by Canada Summer Jobs and Young Canada Works. 30 hours/week. We’re looking for someone with daytime availability June 1-September 7, Tues-Sat (Tues-Sun & Stat holidays from July 1-Sept 7).

Salary: $18.25/hour

Application deadline: April 6, 2026

bit.ly/NMJobOps

03/16/2026

VIMM is often in the community, supporting community events and initiatives.

This February, VIMM was at the Wounded Warriors Run, who were recognizing Fl./Lt. Fielding RCAF of the 6th Bomber Group.

In March, VIMM was at the Sea Cadets Fundraising Breakfast, with our Vice-President Greg Devenish on grill duty!