Legion President says remembering is important

By Joan Janzen

Scott Holloway is both the President and Chaplain for the Kindersley Legion Branch No. 57. Together with the Legion members, he works to accomplish the branch’s mission to serve veterans, including the military and RCMP members and their families.

As president, Scott oversees everything that goes on at the local branch. “With the passing of Ernie Krepps, and Dave Burke moving out of town, we need to fill the holes they vacated,” he said. “They both did a tremendous amount of work for the Legion.”

David Burke (left) and the late Ernie Krepps. FILE PHOTO

Kindersley Legion Hall FILE PHOTO

However, all the volunteers are willing to do their part, and new projects are now in progress. “We are starting a research project to get information about people who served in the Kindersley area,” Scott explained. The idea is to provide information about veterans who are buried in the local cemetery. “People could go into the little hut at the cemetery and scan a QR code to find out more information about a certain veteran,” he said.

Legion members attend a meeting on the first Wednesday of each month. “We have people who have moved away but are still active members, and we’re finding ways to include them,” Scott said.

Both the poppy campaign and plans for the Remembrance Day service are underway. This year, the Legion is focusing on all those who were killed in action. In addition to the community service on November 11th, the Legion will be holding services at Heritage Manor and Caleb Village. During the week, they will have representatives present at Remembrance Day services at the schools.

The Legion also helps out at the schools in other ways. “This year, we gave a tour of the Legion Hall to Grade 8 students. It gives them an opportunity to remember those who served,” he said.

On the occasion of Mother’s Day, the Legion had ordered poppy bird baths for a gift idea, which sold out quickly. “We had to re-order them twice,” Scott said. Consequently, the local branch is looking at gift ideas that help people to remember special occasions throughout the year.

There are also recreational opportunities offered by the Legion. This year, Provincial command has once again organized a curling tournament at Moose Jaw. And the local branch is hoping to build a team. There’s also dart night held weekly at the Legion Hall.

Scott wears several different hats at the Legion. As the chaplain, he visits the sick, but different people are finding ways to step up and contribute. One of those helpful individuals is Ellen Krepps.

“Ellen knows everyone and has all the connections. It’s been quite a blessing,” Scott admitted. Ellen has been doing a great deal with the veterans and widows in the area, recognizing them on special occasions and giving them something to show appreciation.

Of course, the Legion always welcomes new members. “Remembering is important so we don’t take our freedoms for granted and don’t lose our appreciation for those who went through very difficult things in order for us to live in freedom and safety,” Scott said.