Artifact 1: Canadian Propaganda

Citation: Rogers, Hubert. 1942. “Men of Valor : They Fight for You. ‘When Last Seen He Was Collecting Bren and Tommy Guns and Preparing a Defensive Position Which Successfully Covered the Withdrawal from the Beach.’” https://search-ebscohost-com.login.ezproxy.library.ualberta.ca/login.aspx?direct=true&db=edsoai&AN=edsoai.on1105043697&site=eds-live&scope=site.

  Despite the failure of the Dieppe Raid, Canadian propaganda following the raid reframed the event as a critical learning experience, emphasizing its value in planning for future operations.

  Government communications highlighted the bravery and sacrifice of the Canadian soldiers, portraying them as heroes who sacrificed their lives in both death and capture to give the Allied forces a better image of what German defences looked like along the coast. Official statements downplayed the heavy casualties and framed the defeat as a necessary one. Propaganda also sought to rally public support by showcasing the determination and resilience of Canadian troops, reinforcing national pride and the importance of their role in the Allied forces

  This poster in particular highlights the valour of a Canadian soldier who received the Victoria Cross from his valour during the Dieppe Raid. The Victoria Cross is the highest honour that can be awarded by the British Army and was given to the soldier on the poster, Lt. Col. Merritt, for directing his men’s withdrawal even though he was wounded and remaining behind to cover their escape.