Forget the picture of old military men sitting around Legions across the country, drinking beer and reminiscing about the war.
TodayB次元官网网址檚 Royal Canadian Legion branches are fast becoming the gathering place for social activities. They are alive with new members of all ages, including children.
LangfordB次元官网网址檚 Prince Edward Branch 91 is one of the busiest and liveliest Legions in the region, a fact due, in part, to the communication and sociability between members and guests.
B次元官网网址淎s we call it, weB次元官网网址檙e the friendliest,B次元官网网址� said branch president, Norm Scott.
Legions have their purpose. They began in the 1920s as a place where veterans could go to unwind and perhaps find help in dealing with red tape and paperwork. TheyB次元官网网址檙e still that, but they are a whole lot more. The Legion still helps when military personnel are outsourcing and they offer an atmosphere of respect for veterans and currently serving military.
B次元官网网址淲ith the Legion today, anyone anywhere can join and they donB次元官网网址檛 have to be members of the military. ItB次元官网网址檚 much more open to receive the general public,B次元官网网址� said Scott. B次元官网网址淲e donB次元官网网址檛 have the retention with the members of the military as we used to have.B次元官网网址�
Added vice-president Terri Orser: B次元官网网址淭his Legion has a lot to offer because of the food bank (located underneath the building at 761 Station Rd.), the Poppy Campaign and the large auditorium. ItB次元官网网址檚 booked a lot. WeB次元官网网址檙e proactive rather than reactive,B次元官网网址� she said.
Branch 91 has more than 1,400 members who participate by volunteering, and engaging in activities such as shuffleboard and pool.
They also have dart leagues and carpet bowling, NASCAR races playing in the lounge, fabulous meat draws and steak nights. B次元官网网址淚f you walk in the door, you will be met with open arms,B次元官网网址� said Scott.
The Legion is a membersB次元官网网址� club and it is licensed to have children on the premises until 10 p.m. From September to June, sports leagues help keep the club busy.
If membership in the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 91 interests you, there are three categories; Ordinary for military personnel, Associate for military families, and Affiliate for the public.
The cost per year is $55. For more information on activities or to join, go online to rcl91.ca or stop by the branch at 761 Station Rd.
editor@goldstreamgazette.com
