By Joan Janzen
KINDERSLEY – On Friday evening, October 30, the Kindersley Legion Branch 57 hosted a ham supper to celebrate the Legion’s 100th anniversary. It was a time to honour veterans and support local communities, as they presented awards, socialized and enjoyed a delicious meal.
Murray Ferguson representing Canada Post (right) presents the 100th anniversary plaque from Canada Post to Legion President Roger Strutt. SUBMITTED PHOTO
Legion chaplain Scott Holloway (right) with Dave and Caroline Burke. Their picture was added to the Wall of Honour for those with significant service to the Kindersley Branch. SUBMITTED PHOTO
Meleah Holloway (left) and Melissa Trayhorne received their 10-year pins from Legion President Roger Strutt. SUBMITTED PHOTO
The occasion was marked by a special presentation of a plaque from Canada Post acknowledging the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Legion. It was also the annual awards night, when membership years were recognized as well as committee and executive service.
Herb Cullen was recognized for 70 years as an ordinary member and received a lifetime membership. Tammy Brown was recognized for 40 years and Dale Gilbert for 10 years as ordinary members. Associate members recognized were Richard Lupak and Lorne Staples for 40 years, Roger Strutt for 15 years, and Meleah Holloway and Melissa Trayhorne for 10 years.
The history of the Kindersley Branch is recorded in Kindersley’s history book. Their first meetings were held on 2nd Avenue East in a building known as “The Hut.” W.B. Thomson was the first president of a group organized by eight WWI veterans. It was called the Great War Veterans Association. However, the group changed its name to the British Empire Service League in 1926. In 1960 the name was changed to the Royal Canadian Legion.
During WWII the Legion was active in sending comfort parcels and letters to men serving overseas. After the war ended, the Legion obtained the Orange Hall in 1946, poured a new concrete basement and finished the hall. It became the centre for Legion activities.
In 1947 the Legion auxiliary was formed and worked side by side with the Legion men. Miss Helen Bruce was responsible for forming the auxiliary. Following WWII, the Legion was active in helping veterans become established. Norman Mullock served as the welfare officer for many years.
Throughout the years the Legion has made significant contributions to the community. It assisted with the local swimming pool, furnished rooms in the hospital, sponsored the Boy Scouts and Army Cadets, and supported the Sunset Lodge, Kindersley Band, Kindersley School Patrol, Senior Citizens Hall, West Central Industries and track and field programs, plus much more.
Each year the Legion holds a Remembrance service on November 11, and it continues to be an integral part of Kindersley’s community.