For nearly two decades, Mr. Kellens has devoted significant time and effort to educating visitors, students and local communities about Canada’s contribution during the First and Second World Wars. Through his work as a battlefield guide, living history participant, educator and volunteer, he has played a meaningful role in ensuring that the stories of Canadian soldiers continue to be shared with new generations.
Mr. Kellens also plays an active role in commemorative activities throughout the Ypres Salient. He has supported the annual Torchlight Procession held each year on November 10 in Passchendaele, which commemorates the Canadian role in the capture of the village in 1917. Through his participation in these events, he helps ensure that Canadian sacrifices remain visible and relevant within local remembrance activities.
Mr. Kellens has also contributed to projects that preserve and promote Canadian military history through modern media. In 2022, he participated in the promotional campaign for the “Names in the Landscape” project, which commemorates Canadian soldiers who remain missing in the Ypres Salient. This initiative helped raise public awareness of Canada’s wartime losses and the continuing importance of remembrance.
Over a period spanning more than 20 years as an educator and nearly 20 years as a battlefield guide and volunteer, Mr. Kellens has demonstrated an exceptional level of dedication to preserving and sharing Canada’s military heritage.