Hamilton — McMaster University will offer free tuition for four years, and provide residence accommodation and a meal plan in first year, to the children of Canadian soldiers who lost their lives in military action.

The University made the announcement the morning of November 11, 2009.

“War takes a terrible toll on families—emotionally and in some cases financially—and we feel a responsibility to both honour the sacrifice and to do our small part in helping a soldier’s family by offering access to a McMaster education,” says Peter George, president of McMaster University. “McMaster is proud to be a part of Project Hero.”

Open to those under the age of 26, students will be required to identify themselves as a son or daughter of a Canadian soldier killed in active duty. The program is open until August 31, 2014, and provides a residence room and meal plan for the first year of study, and full tuition for four years of study. Eligibility will be verified by the Department of National Defense. Details can be found at http://sfas.mcmaster.ca/projecthero.htm

Project Hero was co-founded by Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel Kevin Reed and Retired General Rick Hillier to provide support to the sons and daughters of Canadian military killed while serving in an active mission.