The Organization of Military Museums of Canada Inc./L'Organisation des Musées Militaires du Canada, Inc.

Overview

The Organization of Military Museums of Canada Inc. (OMMC) is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and preserving the military heritage of Canada. Established in 1967 by a group of military museums, historians, and military history enthusiasts, it was formally incorporated in 1992. The OMMC operates as an umbrella organization for Canadian museums primarily focused on the preservation and display of military artifacts and memorabilia.

Mission and Vision

The mission of the OMMC is to foster the establishment and operation of military museums across Canada, educate museum staff through various educational programs and workshops, and collaborate with other public and private entities that share similar interests. The vision involves fostering national cooperation in interpreting and preserving Canada's military history within a broader international context.

Programs and Activities

• Educational Initiatives: The OMMC conducts annual training courses and awards small education grants to support the professional development of museum staff. It also publishes a newsletter, The Bulletin, which keeps members informed about recent updates and activities within the organization.
• Inventory of Canadian Military Memorials: As part of a millennium project, the OMMC undertook a comprehensive inventory of Canadian military memorials to record and document these significant historical sites.
• Partnerships: The OMMC partners with the Canadian Museums Association (CMA) and other local heritage organizations to enhance the effectiveness of military museums and promote their role in preserving Canada's history.

Membership and Structure

The OMMC has a diverse membership consisting of over 40 individual and 60 institutional members. These include Canadian Forces museums, Parks Canada sites, as well as federal, provincial, and municipal museums. The organization is committed to maintaining a broad membership base across the spectrum of military museums in Canada.

Financial and Legal Status

The Organization of Military Museums of Canada Inc. is a federally incorporated, not-for-profit organization and a registered Canadian charity. This status reflects its commitment to accountability and transparency in its operations.

Heraldic Symbols

The organization's heraldic arms feature a maple leaf symbolizing the pan-Canadian scope, wavy bands representing naval heritage, and crenellations alluding to fortifications and army heritage. The key in the arms symbolizes the role of military museums in safeguarding their holdings, emphasizing the importance of preservation.

Leadership

As of 2022, Anne Lindsay serves as the President of OMMC Inc., overseeing the organization's efforts to promote and preserve Canada's military history.