Museum Honors Local WWII Pilot with Free Exhibit on Remembrance Day

Brandon’s Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum is offering free admission on Remembrance Day, inviting the public to explore its latest exhibit dedicated to local pilot George Roy Bullion, who died during the Second World War. This open house, scheduled from 13:00 to 16:00 on November 11, aims to foster reflection and remembrance on a day dedicated to honoring those who served.

The new exhibit, titled “From Brandon to Burma,” highlights the life of Bullion, a young pilot from Baldur, Manitoba. He served in the war from 1941 until his disappearance off the coast of modern-day Myanmar in December 1944. At just 22 years old, Bullion was part of the Allied forces during a significant military advance when he went missing.

Lisa Dutton, a volunteer collections and archives researcher at the museum, emphasized the importance of sharing stories like Bullion’s. “It’s 80 years since the war was over, but it affected people, and we need to keep that story going,” she stated, highlighting that Bullion was not a famous figure like others, but rather an ordinary young man. “He could be anyone’s father or grandfather or son,” Dutton added.

The exhibit features various artifacts, including Bullion’s uniform, photographs, letters, and his pilot logbook, aiming to convey the narrative of his life before enlistment, during training, and his experiences overseas. Dutton noted that it is essential to remember not only those who did not return home but also those who survived the war, often bearing lifelong scars. “It’s important that we remember the sacrifice,” she said.

The museum’s director general, Zoe McQuinn, expressed that the open house serves as a crucial opportunity to remember the legacy of those who served. “Brandon and the surrounding area played a huge role during the Second World War,” McQuinn remarked. She pointed out that discussions around history often focus on battles and dates, overlooking the personal impact on families who lost loved ones or had relatives return forever changed.

Families attending the open house will find interactive displays featuring aircraft, fire trucks, and support vehicles, providing a hands-on experience that engages visitors of all ages. “One of the best parts is we have dedicated areas where kids can interact with pieces of history,” McQuinn explained. The museum will also provide refreshments during the three-hour event.

While the museum will close for the season following Remembrance Day, the “From Brandon to Burma” exhibit will remain on display for an extended period, allowing more visitors to learn about Bullion’s story. Dutton, whose family has personal ties to the Second World War, underscored the significance of these remembrances, stating that sharing these narratives helps ensure that the sacrifices made by individuals like Bullion are not forgotten.

The open house on Remembrance Day offers a meaningful way for the community to come together, reflect on the past, and honor the brave individuals who fought for freedom.