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Unexpected discoveries: A grenade found at Tank 77 Museum in Taber
Last month, the Tank 77 Museum in Taber welcomed a new manager, Taia DeBona, who quickly dove into the challenging task of organizing the museum’s extensive archives. With a wealth of collections to explore, DeBona faced the daunting responsibility of familiarizing herself with the museum’s offerings.
Little did she know, her first month would culminate in an unexpected and thrilling discovery that would capture the attention of the community.
Preparing for the first tour
As DeBona settled into her role, she prepared for her first group tour, which consisted of a lively group of air cadets.
Feeling the pressure to engage a room full of teenagers, she decided to focus on the museum’s war memorabilia, believing it would resonate with her audience. However, the real excitement was yet to come.
The shocking discovery
While sorting through boxes in the archives, DeBona stumbled upon a baseball-sized object that she initially dismissed as a prop.
It wasn’t until a week later, during another round of sorting, that she and her partner took a closer look. To their astonishment, what they thought was a harmless toy turned out to be a real grenade. Panic set in as they realized the gravity of the situation.
“This looks really real,” DeBona recalled, describing the moment they recognized the metal object in their hands.
Community response and safety measures
After consulting with a colleague, who urged them to contact the authorities, DeBona made the call to the Taber Police.
The police responded swiftly, evacuating the area and ensuring the safety of the public. The museum and nearby facilities were closed as bomb disposal experts were called in to handle the situation. The incident quickly gained traction on social media, with local residents eager for updates.
A local hero emerges
Among those drawn to the scene was Jordan White, a local social media personality known for his coverage of community events. With a passion for local happenings, he arrived on his bike, ready to document the unfolding drama. “It’s awesome to know that people in this community support and appreciate my page,” White shared, highlighting the importance of keeping the community informed.
Reflections on a surreal experience
For DeBona, the experience was surreal. “Nobody goes to work and thinks, ‘I’m going to find a real grenade today!’” she remarked. The museum plans to commemorate the event, possibly dedicating a display to the story, complete with a prop grenade. DeBona expressed gratitude towards the Taber Police for their professionalism and swift action, ensuring that what could have been a dangerous situation was handled with care.
As the museum reopened its doors, DeBona reflected on the unpredictable nature of her new job. “Every day is a surprise,” she said, looking forward to what other treasures might be hidden in the archives. The incident not only highlighted the importance of safety but also brought the community together in a shared moment of intrigue and excitement.
