For Those Who Served: World War II

World War II, 1939-1945

The call to arms was responded to with great numbers, and women once again filled the void left by the men who enlisted. During World War II, female staff members also met the call to enlist. When war broke out, there were 487 women on staff and by 1945 there were 1,837. Staff who were unable to serve overseas also contributed to the war effort by the selling of Victory bonds within the branches.

By the time the war had ended, a total of 950 men and women from The Bank of Nova Scotia enlisted to serve their country - 81 Scotiabankers made the supreme sacrifice.

From the National Trust Company, established in 1898 and acquired by Scotiabank in 1997, the total number of staff who enlisted is unknown, but 9 made the supreme sacrifice.

From The British Mortgage & Trust Company, one staff member enlisted in the war and safely returned home. The British Mortgage & Trust Company was established in 1877 and acquired by Victoria & Grey Trust Company in 1964. In 1984, the National Trust Company acquired Victoria & Grey Trust Company and subsequently in 1997, National Trust Company was acquired by Scotiabank.

For a complete list of all those who worked for The Bank of Nova Scotia and served in World War II, please view our Roll of Honour.