Thirty-one residents of one Selkirk street left their homes to serve in World War II. Now, the street they once called home carries a new name honouring their service.

The City of Selkirk, Man., officially unveiled the honorary designation of “WWII Memorial Drive” on Dufferin Avenue on November 6, recognizing the group known as the Dufferin Gang.

Mayor Larry Johannson joined members of council, representatives from the Selkirk Legion and ANAVETS branches, and family members and friends for the unveiling.

“I’m so proud to once again recognize the 31 individuals who selflessly walked away from their lives in Selkirk to defend their families and loved ones and Canadians from coast to coast to coast,” Johannson said.

The honorary street name builds on other tributes to the Dufferin Gang throughout the city, including murals, monuments, and an interpretive panel.

City council approved the designation through a resolution on June 15, Selkirk Day, following a recommendation from Dufferin Gang family representatives during a workshop hosted by city staff.

The 31 young men and women who enlisted are believed to represent the largest contingent of Second World War recruits from a single street in Canada. While the distinction has not been officially confirmed, it is widely acknowledged.

The new street designation is intended to ensure their contributions remain part of Selkirk’s history, said city CAO Duane Nicol. “Street Naming and honorific naming is a very special honour, reserved for recognizing those extraordinary people who contributed to building our community, and in this case our country.”

The city is also continuing to expand its online Selkirk Museum exhibits dedicated to the group.