An Evening To Remember

A gathering of Veterans from WWII, Korea, Peacekeeping Missions and others were recently honoured by family and friends at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #78, Turner Valley.
Following a hearty dinner prepared by kitchen staff, the Ladies of the branch and others, the Loyal Toast, a toast to all Veterans, as well as one to the widows were offered. The assembly then enjoyed a short musical tribute in the form of a song by a student from Edison School, Victoria Armstrong.
Guest speaker, Bonnie Roddis, herself the daughter of, as well as the wife of a WWII Veteran, spoke movingly of the debt owed to all veterans, a debt that she described as one that “would not and could not ever be marked 'paid in full'.”
Her most eloquent tribute to the sacrifices made in ensuring the maintenance of not only our inherent freedoms but also freedoms around the world was heard in an attentive and appreciative silence. For those who were really 'there,' it re-kindled memories and emotions that are so often suppressed but never really forgotten. It was greeted with a well-deserved standing ovation at its conclusion.
Her presentation was followed up with evidence of how the Legion works with veterans in need. In a current example, we heard from one such man as he explained in a letter read on his behalf by Comrade President Michel Jackson who had known the man during his service years. In the letter, he highlighted how much he owed to his “brothers and sisters” of this branch during his three-year fight back to 'respectability.' Such is our commitment to those who served and come upon hard times in their civilian life. That work is made possible only through the generous support of our Annual Poppy Campaign.
The formal portion of the evening closed with a picture taking session of those veterans present followed with a time of fellowship and camaraderie in a bond so well remembered by those who served.

Serving Veterans, our Youth, Seniors and the Community.
Comrade Malcolm Hughes