Millbrook Legion Awards Chairman Gord Orr and President Diann Corfe at the Legion Remembrance Day Banquet.
Serving customers at one of the popular Legion BBQ’s.
Most residents know the legion for presenting the annual Remembrance Day service.
In July, the Canadian celebrates its 100th anniversary. Its roots began during the First World War, when returning soldiers dealing with trauma and injuries had little support.
A few Veterans’ Associations formed to advocate for care and benefits, many of which merged to form the Canadian Legion in 1926 through an act of Parliament.
As it was in the beginning, the Royal Canadian Legion is a democratic, non partisan, member-based organization striving to improve the lives of Veterans, including military and RCMP members and their families; to support their local communities and our country; and to promote the remembrance of the men and women from all conflicts who put their lives on the line to protect our freedom.
Canadian Veterans have served in a broad range of conflicts and challenging situations, from world wars to peacekeeping missions to crises on the home front. The Legion is committed to honouring all veterans whether they served by keeping the peace or by fighting for it. It acknowledges only the end of conflicts, not their beginnings.
Their 270,000 member volunteers act as cornerstones to their communities across the country, providing essential support to Veterans, seniors, youth, and those in need. Their branches are often hubs where people gather and connect with their neighbours.
Our local legion is twenty years younger, forming in 1946. Their first meetings were held in a small shed near the current Millbrook Medical Centre, relocating in 1965to their current location which had housed the Millbrook Armory since 1913.
The Legion in Millbrook has contributed to the community in numerous ways over its 80 years of operation. Some of the activities and events have changed over the years but many continue to this day. Among the lost features are the Drum Crop, the Seniors Club, Junior Darts and Bingo, but others continue thanks to the efforts of Legion volunteers. They provide opportunities to play Euchre, darts and cribbage; host a monthly Jamboree with music and dancing and bring in a variety of entertainment including DJ’s and live bands. Each year their members collect toys at Christmas, host Breakfast with Santa, hot meals during events such as Christmas in the Village and Maplefest.
Some members have taken on specific areas of responsibility, including the Membership Chairman who oversees member enrollment and records, National Youth Programs leader Debbie Brooks who organizes events to build teamwork leadership, duty and remembrance to local youth. They include the annual public speaking competition, Remembrance Day poster and literary competition and the youth Bursary program.
Veteran Services Chair Elaine Robb provides assistance to veterans and their families, including former service personnel in our area. She helps applicants with their requests for veteran services from Veteran Affairs and for pension and disability claims. Awards Chairman Gord Orr administers the organization’s honour awards, screening applicants and organizing awards ceremonies.
The Ladies Auxillary operates independently, providing financial and volunteer support through funds raised in events including luncheons and private events such as weddings, funerals and fundraisers.
One of the ways our Legion promotes remembrance is through the Honour Our Veterans Banner Program was launched in 2017. These banners fly in downtown in the days leading up to Remembrance Day. There are currently 33 banners representing 31veterans, one tribute and one for the Unknown Soldier. This November, five more banners will be added to this group.
Another local program operating with the support of the legion is Operation Vet Build. This was established in 2022 by retired reservist and military police officer Jason Salo who served in Afghanistan. The concept originated in the UK as a focal point for referral for advice and sup-port for administrative issues for benefits claims and professional emotional support. It is coordinated through the national organization and hosted in Legion Branches across the country.
Most of us are reminded of the Legion during the first ten days of November when members are selling poppy pins to commemorate veterans. Funds collected through these activities are donated to veteran, youth and community support programs including Vet to Vet Peer Support programs and youth bursaries.
Local Legion members invite everyone to join them on Saturday, July 18th from 11:00 a.m. to 2 p.m. for an Open House to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Royal Canadian Legion. The event will feature their popular BBQ menu, entertainment on the patio and the opportunity to learn more about the legion and visit their museum to explore some local history. Take the opportunity to join this year when membership fees are waived in celebration of the milestone.