Lieutenant-Commander Robert Kamphuis (Retired) has continued to serve Canada long after his 25-year career with the Royal Canadian Navy, dedicating himself to preserving the legacy of fallen sailors and supporting Veterans through leadership, advocacy and remembrance.
Robert has been a driving force behind the creation of the Battle of the Atlantic Memorial, a national monument that began humbly in 2010 with a series of stone markers on a hillside—each representing a ship lost during the battle. Over time, the vision expanded into a powerful tribute to the thousands of sailors and airmen who gave their lives and have no known grave.
The memorial, currently under development at HMCS Prevost, will feature a Wall of Honour engraved with the names of over 2,000 Royal Canadian Navy members and 750 airmen of Eastern Command who were lost during the Battle of the Atlantic. These names will be etched into towering six-foot metal panels, surrounded by thoughtfully designed landscaping to create a space of reflection and remembrance.
Robert has been involved since the project’s inception, contributing countless volunteer hours. As project planner, he has overseen every aspect—from design and budgeting to timelines and stakeholder engagement—ensuring the memorial’s completion in time for the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Atlantic in May 2025. He personally designed the commemorative panels, meticulously verifying each name to ensure accuracy and dignity.
In addition to his work on the memorial, Robert has been an active member of the Naval Association of Canada (NAC) for 15 years. He has served as Vice-President and currently holds the role of Treasurer, where he ensures that fundraising efforts for the memorial meet all charitable giving requirements. His leadership has extended to organizing remembrance ceremonies, Veteran funerals and commemorative dinners that honour significant naval milestones.
Through his tireless efforts, Robert Kamphuis has made a profound and lasting contribution to the preservation of Canada’s naval heritage and the recognition of those who served. His work ensures that the sacrifices of the past are never forgotten—and that future generations will continue to remember.