Vancouver Island Military Museum

You have to see this gem if you are in Nanaimo. Mr. Greg walked my family and me through the war history that we were more than impressed. But he wasn't giving us the dates of battles; Mr. Greg was explaining us little things like: why cork helmets, why wide Navy pants, what Navy Blue or White bow on the Navy uniform means etc. Absolutely fantastic! Thanks to Mr. Greg and all volunteers!!!

While I thoroughly enjoyed my brief visit to the VIMM, I was disheartened to see yet again that no mention was made of the Gumboot Navy. Nanaimo, of all places, I thought, would have some commemorative piece. Fishermen from this town enlisted in that service. 80 years ago, my father spent his youth on patrol in the roughest waters of the world on small boats, in winter, protecting Canada from a Japanese invasion. I understand that this is politically insensitive, knowing as I do that many of the Japanese internees were shepherded away by the Fishermen's Reserve (under orders), but lives were lost in defense of Canada in this naval organization as they were in others depicted in the museum. Is it not time to acknowledge these people?

Amazing! A must see of Nanaimo! Give yourself time to enjoy, it is very extensive. The "staff" aka volunteers running it are incredibly nice and very informative!

We were impressed! The museum looks small from the outside but it has a great display of the Canadian military history. The staff members are all volunteers. They were very friendly and knowledgeable. I wish the museum had a little gift shop.

I could have many histories about the wars on the displays of visual informations. Especially my husband and two sons were interested in them. My husband contributed the military services in South Korea so that the administration fee was free for him.