1918–2012
Meadowvale Cemetery
Section 12 Lot 2041
Born in Midland, Ont., and raised in Calgary, Garth Webb answered the call to serve in 1942, joining the Royal Canadian Artillery. As a young lieutenant with “C” Troop of the 14th Field Regiment, he landed on Juno Beach on the morning of June 6, 1944 – D-Day. Amid chaos and heavy losses, Webb and his unit pressed forward, advancing through Northwestern Europe and into Germany by 1945.
After the war, Webb returned home, earned a commerce degree from Queen’s University and built a successful career in real estate. Yet his greatest achievement came decades later – not in business, but in memory. Webb was determined that Canada’s role in the Second World War would never fade from history. His vision gave rise to the Juno Beach Centre, a world-class museum and educational facility in Normandy, France, on the very shores where Canadian troops landed. Opening on June 6, 2003, the centre stands as a living tribute to the 45,000 Canadians who gave their lives in the war, telling their stories through interactive exhibits, archival materials and programs that connect new generations to the sacrifices of the past.
For his unwavering dedication, Webb received the Meritorious Service Cross (2003), the Veterans Affairs Commendation (2004) and France’s Legion of Honour (2005). He passed away on May 8, 2012, at age 93, and was laid to rest at Meadowvale Cemetery, a fitting resting place for a man whose life was devoted to remembrance.
Sources:
• Juno Beach Centre – Garth Webb
• Mount Pleasant Group – Webb, Garth S., MSC
• Wikipedia – Garth Webb
• Defining Moments Canada – Garth Webb WWII Veteran Biography
• Veterans Affairs Canada – Garth S. Webb, MSC
• Juno Beach Centre – Legacy of Honour: Garth Webb (1918–2012)
Photos: Junobeach.org
