“Every family has stories worth remembering. I created Memory and Valour to help preserve the lives and legacies of WWI and WWII veterans so their courage and sacrifice are never forgotten.” – S.L.G. McCrea
Why I Do This Work:
My passion for history began with my own family’s stories. I realized how easily memories fade if they aren’t written down, and how powerful it is to hold a book that captures a loved one’s journey. As a child, I preferred to listen to the elders chatting about ‘the old days’, and understood innately the importance of our past.
I am Samantha L.G. McCrea, founder of Memory and Valour. Based in Edmonton, I write at the intersection of history and personal reflection, exploring themes of memory, trauma, and identity.
My inspiration is deeply personal: my great-grandfather, Spr. A.R. Milburn, was killed in action in France in 1917, and his remains were never recovered. That loss shaped my commitment to preserving the voices of veterans and their families, ensuring their stories are not forgotten.
I am the author of six volumes in The Great War Series, a body of work that brings to life overlooked stories of the First World War. Alongside my writing, I have been working with genealogy since 1988, and I am currently pursuing studies in Heritage Resource Management at Athabasca University, with plans to continue toward a B.A. in Canadian Military History in 2026.
Through Memory and Valour, I bring together research, storytelling, and design to create Tribute and Legacy Books that honour the lived experiences of veterans and the enduring impact of conflict on mind, body, and community. Every project is a collaboration, and I consider it a privilege to help families preserve their legacies for generations to come.
Founding Memory and Valour was my way of ensuring that veterans’ voices and the voices of their families are preserved with dignity, accuracy, and care.
My Mission:
To preserve the voices of veterans and their families through carefully researched, beautifully designed Tribute and Legacy Books. Each project is a collaboration, built with respect, accuracy, and heart.
What Sets Memory and Valour Apart:
Deep respect for historical accuracy
Personalized storytelling that captures both facts and feelings
Accurate archival and genealogical research that brings stories to life
A commitment to honouring every veteran’s legacy
I’d be honoured to help you create a lasting tribute to your loved one’s life and service. Together, we can ensure their story is remembered for generations.