PREECEVILLE — A century of service and sacrifice is being marked this year as the Royal Canadian Legion reaches a historic 100-year milestone.
July 17 will be a historic milestone for the legion, honouring a century of service to veterans and their families, preserving remembrance, and supporting communities across Canada. The Royal Canadian Legion has been a cornerstone for the past 100 years, a pillar in many communities, helping veterans since the First World War and advocating for veterans’ rights. The legion fosters values that strengthen communities and define Canadians.
It can be said that the Royal Canadian Legion began with the Great War Veterans Association (GWVA), formed in 1917, the day after Canadians and Newfoundlanders began assaulting Vimy Ridge.
The British Empire Service League (BESL) was formed in 1921 and encouraged all veteran organizations in Canada to amalgamate to have a bigger voice.
On July 17, 1926, the Canadian Legion came into being. Its vision was simple: ensure that those who served the country receive the care, dignity and respect they deserve.
It wouldn’t be until July 1960 that the Canadian Legion would be granted Royal status by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
The poppy became a registered trademark of the Royal Canadian Legion, and the legion has been selling them since 1921 to raise funds to help veterans and families in need.
The legion’s purpose has grown over the decades, expanding to advocacy for veterans, community service and education.
The legion works to ensure that the sacrifices of those who served are never forgotten, and that younger generations grow up understanding the cost of their freedom.
One of the most vibrant parts of the legion’s future is its connection to youth. Legions support Cadet Corps, guiding in leadership, citizenship and service. Through poster and literary contests, bursaries, mentorship and track and field programs, the Legion helps instill respect for history and national values in the next generation. The Legion encourages young Canadians to embrace the values of duty, respect and citizenship.
The legion’s ongoing presence serves as a reminder of Canada’s enduring gratitude to those who have served.
The 13-year conflict in Afghanistan brings a new wave of veterans, and the legion will be as important as ever.
Anyone can become a member of the legion. Being a legion member makes you an advocate for preserving Canada’s history and fostering national pride. Membership for 2026 is free for new members. Some of the membership benefits include the opportunity to compete in zone and provincial Legion crib, dart, curling, bowling, 8-ball and golf tournaments. Members will also have access to a long list of discounted products and services through the Legion Member Benefits Package and access to the Legion store. The informative Legion magazine is worth its weight in gold. Joining the Legion is more than an act of belonging. It helps support vital programs, maintain national memory and ensure those who served are never left behind.
To celebrate the 100th anniversary, the Preeceville legion purchased a brick for the Juno Beach memorial at Courseulles-sur-Mer, France. Like Vimy Ridge, the Juno Beach assault on June 6, 1944, by Canadians was another remarkable victory of Canadians coming together. The legion will also host a High Tea on June 6 at Club 60 in Preeceville; advance tickets only.
Our veterans have given us their best, their courage, their sacrifice and their example. Supporting the legion means supporting the heart of Canada itself.
