The Kits Point Military History Museum Society was founded September 14, 2009 by Peter Purdy as a BC Society. The role of the Society to is protect,
Gayle O'Hara Service Officer Archivist 2016 - present Director Kits Point Military History Museum Background: Gayle O’Hara is a retired real estate developer, specializing in historic buildings. She currently uses her organizational and stress management skills in private practise. Her volunteerism began at the age of 18 in crisis call centres, subsequently serving on the board of a women’s shelter as a fundraiser and in the shelter; served five years as the chair of the Neuro Oncology Foundation in Hamilton, Ontario, raising funds and awareness for brain cancer research; as a docent at the Museum of Anthropology in Vancouver, British Columbia. Gayle is currently serving with the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 176 as Service Officer and appointed as their Archivist in 2015.
Rob Dodsworth Past President Royal Canadian Legaion #176 Director Kits Point Military History Musuem Background: Rob Dodsworth is the son of WWII RCAF veteran and Royal Canadian Legion member since 1993, Rob is also the Past-President of RCL branch #176. He is a North Shore resident for 62 ½ years. Rob has a keen interest in historical significance of artefacts and memorabilia, as well as a commitment in maintaining the Legion as a place for continuing community service and presence. Rob currently works in private industry as a sales representative, Vancouver Canucks and BC Lions supporter and lover of all animals (especially cats!). He loves the Friday night Roast Beef dinners at the Billy!
Laura Lee Coles Director/Secretary Kits Point Military History Museum Background: Laura Lee Coles is an arts-based researcher, published author and practicing interdisciplinary artist, working in performance art, music, installation [both gallery and site-specific] photography and video. She holds a Master of Arts from Simon Fraser University from SIAT, the School of Interactive Arts and Technology. She is the founder of LocoMotoArt, currently artists-in-residence with Vancouver Park Board at Aberthau Mansion in West Point Grey (2013 - 2018). She has extensive special event, exhibition, and curatorial experience. Laura Lee presents her research at academic conferences internationally: She is a member of the Canadian Academy of Independent Researchers and Community Scholars. She has sat on various boards since 1995, holding the office of President, Chair and Secretary. Retired in 2005, Laura Lee has also has 18-years experience as a civil litigation paralegal with a municipal law background.
Leanne Frid Director Kits Point Military History Museum Background: Leanne graduated from Vancouver Community College – Langara with a Diploma of Fine Arts and Emily Carr College of Art and Design – Diploma of Graphic Design. She has continued to work as Freelance Art Director, Graphic Designer, Illustrator, Home Stager and Garden Designer since graduating from ECCAD in 1984. Her interest in archival material was peaked with two different projects. One was working as the Archivist for Dairyland Foods and the other was doing research for the second edition of RCL #176 branch history. In each scenario she handled, cataloged and researched archival material that dated from the mid to early 1900’s to present day. She learned filing, cataloguing and research practices as she went. Leanne, is passionate about the Legion, what it stands for and is a firm believer than in order to go forward into the future you must know where you have come from.
Andre Bernou Director Kits Point Military History Museum International Architect Background: A.M. Bernou is an international Architect and is a founding member of the Segma Group International, Ltd. In his role as Segma’s Chief Executive President and Chairman, Mr. Bernou oversees concept design, development, financing, and construction management of land development projects in Europe, Middle East, Asia, Africa and South America. With an interest in military history, heritage, and community, Mr. Bernou joined the Kits Point Military History Museum Board of Directors in 2018.
Darryl Montgomery Director Kits Point Military History Museum Background: Darryl Montgomery has extensive experience in building, construction and heritage building preservation. One of Darryl's passions is military history, preservation, and education.
Sid Hayes Director Kits Point Military History Museum Background: Sid Hayes served five-years in 407 sqdn RCAF and 15 years heavy maintenance on Boeing 747s, 737, 727 and DC8s. In addition Sid served 5 years in the CP Airs Training department. has experience in military model making, including restoration of military model airplanes. A long time member of the legion, Sid comes to the board to share his aircraft knowledge, passion and experience in education and military history.
FOUNDING BOARD
DEREK ALLEN, PETER PURDY, ROBERT REDHEAD, HEATHER GARRISON, MARJORIE McHUGH