Walter Dermott has been a steadfast volunteer with The Friends of HMCS Haida (FoH) for over 25 years, beginning his journey by offering guided tours to the public.
When the ship was relocated to Hamilton in 2003, Walter expanded his role to include on-board maintenance, all while continuing to share the ship’s rich and heroic history with youth, educators, Veterans and the general public. His engaging storytelling, demonstrations of naval ropework and ship husbandry brought Canada’s naval legacy to life—especially for younger generations, whom he inspired to remember the sacrifices and contributions of Veterans.
In 2012 and 2013, Walter revitalized the ship’s gift shop, optimizing operations and negotiating better supplier terms to significantly increase revenue—funds that directly support the ship’s preservation. During this time, he joined the Board of Directors, taking on responsibility for procurement and the gift shop. He also secured funding to hire a summer student, further supporting the organization’s outreach and operations.
Elected President and Chairman of the Board in 2015, Walter led a strategic renewal of the organization’s mission and vision. To boost youth engagement and public awareness, he collaborated with a local graphic design student to create a mascot—PO Crusher—which became a successful branding and promotional tool. He also secured the patronage of the Lieutenant-Governor of Ontario, significantly raising the profile of HMCS Haida and its historical importance.
Walter has been instrumental in securing funding for numerous improvements to the gift shop and museum, including the installation of an upgraded wheelchair ramp, new HVAC systems, new display cases and structural upgrades. He not only obtained the necessary funds but also coordinated with contractors and tradespeople to complete the work efficiently. These enhancements have created a controlled environment for preserving artifacts and improved the visitor experience.
A passionate historian, Walter has spent countless hours curating artifacts, photographs and equipment for the museum. He collaborated with a creative video company to produce over 24 edited interviews with naval Veterans from the Second World War and Korean War, preserving their stories for future generations and sharing them on the FoH website.
Since 2010, Walter has also been an active member of the Burl-Oak Naval Veterans Group (BONV). He supports the group by sourcing uniforms and supplies—such as embroidered epaulettes, cap badges and blazer crests—and provides one-on-one assistance to Veterans, including transportation to medical appointments and social events.
Walter Dermott exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism and dedication to Canada’s naval heritage. His leadership, innovation and compassion have left a lasting legacy on HMCS Haida, its community and the Veterans he continues to serve with unwavering commitment.