2016
Department of Tourism, Culture, Industry and Innovation

Honour 100 commemorates Newfoundland and Labrador’s role in the First World War. Melanie Martin established a comprehensive plan for commemorating a series of anniversaries and events, held from 2014 to 2018, to highlight Newfoundland and Labrador’s involvement in the War. Melanie was integral in assembling a creative and innovative vision for this somber and important milestone in our history. Of particular significance was the commemoration of July 1, 2016, the 100th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme at Beaumont Hamel.

Honour 100’s success lies directly in Melanie’s ability to forge partnerships and engage with key stakeholders such as Buckingham Palace, Veterans Affairs, the Royal Canadian Legion, the Royal Newfoundland Regiment Advisory Council, community organizations, government departments, as well as municipalities across the province. Weaving these relationships she was able to develop cohesive strategies to create meaningful and poignant ceremonies marking significant and emotional First World War stories.

She was instrumental in leading and organizing the Ambassador program for youth to visit battlefields in France and Belgium. This gave younger generations an opportunity to experience history first hand, putting them directly in the places where our ancestors fought for freedom during the First World War.

Melanie was also responsible for planning a visit by the Royal Newfoundland Regiment’s Colonel in Chief, Her Royal Highness, the Princess Royal, with 22 events taking place over four days from June 28 to July 1, 2016. This required a strong attention to detail, intergovernmental and international cooperation, as well as an understanding of protocols beyond the duties normally expected of someone in her position.

Throughout the development and delivery of Honour 100 Melanie worked with a high degree of autonomy showing great leadership, dedication, hard work and adaptability.