July 17 2026 will be celebrated as the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Legion. We will bring more about this in coming articles about the centenary. The focus is based on our Vision and Mission Statements:
“Our vision for The Royal Canadian Legion’s Centenary in 2026 is to inspire all Canadians to stand with us in honouring Remembrance, supporting Veterans, and building stronger communities. Together, we will celebrate 100 years of volunteerism, while continuing our proud legacy of honour, advocacy and service to community and country — carrying it forward for the next century.”
“Our mission for 2026 is to present a year-long, multi-faceted campaign that not only inspires Canadians to join the Legion and support our efforts, but also deepens our connection to the sacrifices made by Veterans. By celebrating our 100 year legacy of service and volunteerism, strengthening relationships with Veterans and communities, and promoting Remembrance, we aim to ensure the Legion’s success and Canada’s continued support of Veterans and Remembrance for generations to come.”
I was recently sent a newspaper clipping from Newbury News in the UK. The article was about a memorial service commemorating the March 31 1944 crash of a Lancaster bomber DV290.
It was badly damaged during a raid deep into Germany at Nuremberg. The bomber was crewed by airmen from the United States Air Force, Royal Air Force, Royal Canadian Air Force, and Royal Australian Air Force. All eight crew members were buried at Brookwood Military Cemetery. Family members of one of the two Canadians attended the service. Navigator Warrant Officer Alan Norman Rice and Bomber Aimer Flight Sergeant Irvin Robert McNay. Their crash was one of 108 bombers lost that night in the raid. Both were in their twenties when they died defending our country.
We will remember them.
Join us on Mondays and Thursdays (except the first Thursday of the month) at 1:00 pm for darts, euchre and bridge. It costs $3 to play.
