Marching Onward to Share History
– By Suzanne Soto-Davies
The original meaning of a military tattoo dates back to the 17th century, when the British Army was fighting in Belgium and the Netherlands (the Low Countries). Drummers from the garrison were sent out into the towns at 21:30 (9:30pm) each evening to inform the soldiers that it was time to return to barracks. Over the years, the process became more of a show, and one which has extended to the City of Hamilton, home to the Canadian International Military Tattoo: Canada's largest show of military music west of Halifax.
In 1991, to celebrate Canada's 125th birthday, the Hamilton International Tattoo was formed by the tourism branch of the Region of Hamilton/Wentworth. In 1999, with the changes in local government, the Tattoo was in danger of being lost, until a group of volunteers previously involved in the tattoo celebration and passionate with military history, formed a not-for-profit company with the express purpose of carrying on this valuable production.
This year the Canadian International Military Tattoo celebrates its 20th anniversary, and runs on the efforts of over 95 passionate volunteers, many with their own military background connection. "I have a personal attachment to the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders," says Executive Director Joan Balinson. "My husband is a former Regimental Sergeant Major, my son is the Pipe Major, I'm on the Senate for the Argylls – and the Argylls have always been a part of the tattoo."
Joan explains that although Canada is well respected in the world whenever it's involved in peace keeping, we seem to have forgotten the word 'Civic', the meaning of 'Responsibility' or the respect we owe to 'Canadians Who Have Answered the Call'. "This area is rich in military history, but, other than on Remembrance Day, we don’t hold military parades anymore – it used to be a big deal to see our reservists, but now it's not." This is one of the reasons why the Canadian International Military Tattoo is extending its educational reach through school programs and inviting young families to the tattoo productions. "It's part of our heritage, our history, and it's coupled with wonderful generational music and performances that touch so many!"
This year's 20th anniversary show is themed "Welcome them Home", as it also celebrates the end of Canadian combat in Afghanistan, with the last soldier returning in July. Preceding the Tattoo weekend, Hamiltonians are invited to watch a 'Freedom of the City' parade. The Parade will see many Veterans of Afghanistan parading up James Street to City Hall. There they will receive a commemorative pin from Hamilton's Mayor Bob Bratina. "The public will be able to see them march past City Hall – we want you there to show your appreciation!" Joan says enthusiastically.
Another big part of this year's show is an opportunity for people to see the "Portraits of Honour" mural – a 30' wall of artwork created by Ontario artist and Kinsman, Dave Sopha, which depicts the portraits of every Canadian soldier killed during service in Afghanistan. "The portraits are very moving," says Joan, "as he has been able to capture the eyes of each soldier, and we are proud to present it in Hamilton for the public to view."
As part of their lineup, this year's tattoo will include guest bands such as the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing Band from North Carolina, the American Originals Fife & Drum Corps from Washington, D.C. in period costume, the 8 Wing Pipes and Drums from Trenton, Ontario, and the Mackinaw Folklorique Dance Ensemble from Quebec. In all over 450 people will be on the floor at different times during the 2-1/2 hour show. "When soldiers, bands in uniforms and performers unite on the floor, the audience rises to their feet and you can really feel the energy," Joan says with emotion. "It's more than just a show - it's about the recollection, the memories. Not necessarily about the wars and what happened during their service, but about the camaraderie the soldiers felt and unique friendships they made. It's what gave them the strength to continue: To lean on each other."
Joan recalls receiving a phone call a few weeks ago, from a young man who called to inquire about the "Tattoo, with its often misunderstood definition", asking “do you only military tattoos or other kinds as well?" Perhaps we need to use the upcoming Canadian International Military Tattoo as an opportunity to involve our children and grandchildren in the importance of passing on our military history. If not through videos, books or vivid images of war, then perhaps through the music and patriotic emotions that accompany the show, and what it means to the foundation of our Canadian heritage.
Silver and Gold Magazine is proud to support the Canadian Military Tattoo event in June. For more information please click on our latest issue to view details about the event.