My background
Commemorating Canada's First and Second World War history in Canada and on the battlefields of Europe
Veteran Affairs Canada - Overseas Operations
Canadian Military Historian - Official & Recognised
Military Museum Researcher, Contractor and Presenter
My background
Commemorating Canada's First and Second World War history in Canada and on the battlefields of Europe
Veteran Affairs Canada - Overseas Operations
Connecting, sharing and perpetuating Canada's military legacy at Vimy Ridge
Canadian Military Historian Official & Recognised
Regimental Historian of the 49th Battalion / Loyal Edmonton Regiment
Military Museum Researcher, Contractor and Presenter
Uncovering the lost stories and ties of military artefacts to Canadian history
My story
My name is Joe MacDonald - founder of Our Heroes Your Heritage. This history has always been personal to me. My great grandfather was amongst the thousands of Canadians that assaulted Vimy Ridge in April 1917. He would be badly wounded by mustard gas only a few months later and ultimately succumb to his injuries. He left a wife, two daughters and a son (my grandfather) behind. It was this legacy that put me on the path to understanding his story, the stories of other relatives, and the legacies of thousands of other Canadians who fought for our freedom.
Growing up, I had the unique opportunity to live in France and in Belgium. Making hundreds of trips to the Canadian battlefields since the age of 11, I have become a renowned expert on Canada's battlegrounds in Europe. Having helped hundreds of Canadians connect to their heritage, it has become my life's purpose, my greatest talent and my biggest passion.
My relative - John James McDonald - who fought at Vimy Ridge in 1917
"I was privileged to join a group led by Joe MacDonald on a World War I battlefield tour and it was a highlight of my 71 years."
"He is an incredibly knowledgeable and passionate historian who cares about families learning more and that those who fought are remembered in their sacrifice."
Our mission is your heritage
Our Heroes Your Heritage was created to bring Canadians closer to their heritage. It is our goal to ensure what these men and women did during the times of our nations greatest conflict is never forgotten, even if they never spoke about it after the war.