Professor Ted Barris awarded Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation

As an author, journalist, broadcaster, public speaker and Centennial College Journalism professor, Ted Barris has dedicated many years to sharing the stories of Canada’s war veterans. When Ted was in school himself, Canada’s war history was not taught like it is today. Inspired by his father, a veteran, Ted's philosophy about writing is, “If there’s a story that’s not been told, tell it.”

In July, Ted Barris received the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation. It is awarded annually to individuals who have contributed in an exemplary manner to the care and well-being of war veterans or to the remembrance of their contributions, sacrifices and achievements. The commendation is traditionally awarded to veterans and is rarely given to civilians.

Over the years Ted has incorporated the voices of veterans into his work. He estimates he has interviewed 4,000 veterans over his career and many of their stories have been recounted in the 16 non-fiction books he has authored to date. “Each veteran invited me into their memories to share with the country their experiences, good or bad. Without their stories, none of what I do is possible,” Ted says. Even when their name isn’t listed in his books, they know they contributed. “When a vet comes up to me, the greatest compliment is when he or she says ‘my name isn’t in your book, but my story is.’”

Receiving the commendation came as a surprise to Ted. He has been leading travel tours of battlefields in Europe for more than eight years, and was on a tour in Germany when he received the news. Being nominated and selected by veterans, the honour carries great weight for Ted: “It was both powerful and humbling.”

He brought his stories and passion with him when he began teaching journalism at Centennial in 1999. Since that time, Ted has raised the profile of Remembrance Day at the college by organizing a full observance including a colour guard from the Legion and a bugler playing the last post. Veterans come to the ceremony to share their stories and answer students’ questions.

Once again, Ted will be leading his special Remembrance Day ceremony at 10:30 am at The Centre for Creative Communications tomorrow.

This announcement was adapted from a story written by Corporate Communications and Public Relations student Will Pennell.