Safe Return Open House at Maritime Museum

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic in Halifax is hosting a free open house on Sunday, Nov. 25, in recognition of the Canadian sailors who left Halifax harbour in October. The event, called the Safe Return Open House, will take place from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

As the navy ships left Halifax, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic hoisted flags signaling the message Safe Return. On Tuesday, Nov. 20, the museum mounted the same message with a more permanent 28-metre banner of giant signal flags on its outer west wall.

"In an effort to allow the community to share in this message of good will, we invite everyone to come to the museum for this special family event," said Michael Murray, director of the museum. "It is important that our service men and women know that we support them and are thinking about them every day and especially as we approach the holiday season."

The free open house is an opportunity for the community to gather with military families and send videotaped Christmas greetings to our service men and women, wishing them a safe return. About 2,500 guests are expected to attend.

A number of activities are planned for the afternoon, including opportunities to make safe return banners for home window or door display. Visitors can also construct ribbons which symbolize support for Canadian military personnel and their families. This activity will help the Halifax Military Family Resource Centre to build their inventory as demand for the ribbons has recently escalated across the country.

Throughout the afternoon music will be provided by Sea Jam Blue, the jazz component of the Stadacona Band, under the direction of Petty Officer First Class, Jon Cuming. Singer Liz Rigney will join the band later in the afternoon and well known performer Clary Croft will be master of ceremonies for the event.

Fans, young and old, of Theodore Tugboat will be able to visit the Big Harbour Exhibit at the museum which features the actual models of Theodore and friends used in the making of the television show. As well, children will be able to hoist some signal flags and play at the Big Harbour Play Centre.

Cookies and hot apple cider will be provided courtesy of the Halifax Sheraton Hotel. Admission to the event is free compliments of Litton Systems Canada. MTT Aliant Telecom sponsored the production of the safe return banners.

For more information, call the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic at 902-424-7490.