Who will you remember at 11 am on November 11? Remembering MGH's support for WWII Veterans.

While doing some research, Museum and Archives Volunteer Wayne MacLean uncovered some interesting facts about the hospital's redevelopment during the 1940s – and how Michael Garron (formerly Toronto East General Hospital – TEGH) stepped up to support war Veterans.

Remembrance Day marks the day World War One ended, at 11 am on the 11th day of the 11th month, in 1918. A two-minute silence is held at 11 a.m. to remember those who lost their lives during times of war.

“This is a perfect time for reflection. The next time you are in the Coxwell Lobby, look up at the Stained Glass pictures and remember the important contribution made by this hospital to our returning war Veterans,” says Wayne.

The stained glass pictures were installed in 1952 in memory of those who lost their lives for our country. They will be preserved and displayed prominently within the redeveloped campus.

More than 5,000 military patients were treated between 1944 and 1947, and during that time, to accommodate the increasing admissions, the Toronto East General Hospital School of Nursing nearly doubled its enrollment. In 1945, The Provincial Department of Health and the Department of Veterans Affairs commended the hospital for the quality of services rendered to Veterans.

As we reflect on Remembrance Day, this walk down memory lane gives us pause to reflect on the legacy of East Toronto and the hospital's deep roots in this community.