Cochranites are invited to learn more about the military history of Canada, and support the Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 15 through the newly established National Legion Week, with a Military Day event on Sept. 23.
Andy Bowyer, the Sergeant-At-Arms for the Royal Canadian Legion No. 15, outlines the day will consist of military and more, and will take place at the Legion building on Fifth Avenue from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be refreshments available with the bar opening at noon.
All forms of Canadian military memorabilia, both past and present will be available for display, with veterans who can share their stories, miniature models and displays, and several military vehicles parked in the Legion’s parking lot.
“Our plan is to also have part of a Lancaster bomber outside if all goes well,” Bowyer said. “We’re also going to have two or possibly three cannons, two of which can be fired, so we’ve got a lot going on, and it’ll be a fun day.”
Last year, Bowyer said the event was snowed-out, which cancelled all the outdoor displays. He hopes to see the sunny weather continue into next weekend to ensure all displays will be open to the public.
“I have great hopes that this year, we will have a good show in the Legion and outside,” he said.
Bowyer outlined that maintaining the Legion can be a difficult financial task. He said that during the event, the Legion will be accepting donations to cover costs for both hosting the event and maintaining the building.
Although the main goal of the Legion is to support veterans, Bowyer said the Legion is part of the community and they want to connect with residents through their events.
“We want to be part of the community, we want the community to enjoy the Legion, and get in contact with us all,” Bowyer said.
Through all of next week, the first ever Royal Canadian Legion Week will be taking place. To kick things off before Military Day, the Cochrane Legion participated in the Cochrane Outhouse Races on Sept. 17. The Cochrane RancheHouse will also be flying the Royal Canadian Legion banner on Monday for the entire week.
“We never forget those who have given their all for Canada and for peace,” Bowyer said. “And we must remember the sacrifices that have been made for us over the years, and to support our troops.”
With various forms of support on all levels for veterans, Bowyer said the Legion acts as a beacon that allows veterans to find the help that they need.
On a personal level, as a new Canadian citizen, Bowyer said recognizing Royal Canadian Legion Week and hosting events like Military Day are important because it allows him to put something back into the community in a meaningful way.
“I think the Legion has been supportive to me through bad times, and I’d like to say thank you to all the guys who helped me,” he said. “And I think it is important that the Legion is recognized as part of the community.”
Bowyer would like to thank all of the supporters and members of the community who sponsor and support the Cochrane Legion in their endeavours.
