Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion www.ns.legion.ca 113 continued ... Gertrude Ritchie 1903 - 1998 Born in Annapolis Royal, Gertrude “Gert” Ritchie served in the Second World War and had a successful career with Parks Canada. In 1942, Ritchie joined the Royal Canadian Air Force Women’s Division (RCAFWD), serving as a clerk and equipment assistant. Based on the British model, the RCAFWD recruited thousands of women into trade positions, who were essential to the success of this rapidly expanding air force. After the war, Ritchie worked in the private sector before joining Parks Canada in 1959. She held senior positions at both Fort Anne in Annapolis Royal and the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site in Baddeck. In retirement, Ritchie was active in many community groups, including becoming one of the first women to hold an executive position with the Royal Canadian Legion. She passed away at Annapolis Royal. Margaret C. MacDonald 1873 - 1949 Born at Bailey’s Brook, Pictou County, Margaret C. MacDonald served as Matron-in-Chief of the Canadian Army Nursing Corps (CANC) during WWI. After graduation, MacDonald gained significant international and wartime experience as a nurse. At the outbreak of the Great War in 1914, she volunteered for overseas service and was appointed Matron-in- Chief. From her headquarters in London, she directed all Canadian nursing services in Europe, including clearing stations, hospitals, and medical units onboard ships and trains. She is credited with enhancing the professionalization of the CANC, based upon her earlier training in the British nursing corps. MacDonald was awarded the Royal Red Cross and the Florence Nightingale Medal. The Canadian government also designated her a person of national historic significance, with a plaque at Bailey’s Brook where she is buried. Image: Annapolis Heritage Society Image: Canadian War Museum Nova Scotia War Heroes
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