Communities across Canada are celebrating a major milestone this past weekend, as The Royal Canadian Legion marks 100 years of service to veterans, military families and Canadians.

Since its incorporation on July 17, 1926, the Legion has played a central role in supporting veterans, serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces, RCMP personnel and their families through advocacy, remembrance and community service.

Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul MLA Scott Cyr, who was recently appointed Alberta’s Military Liaison, joined in recognizing the centennial and the contributions of Legion branches across the country.

A century of service

For generations, the Royal Canadian Legion has been known for initiatives such as the annual Poppy Campaign, veteran advocacy, youth programs and preserving Canada’s military history.

The organization has also provided support to veterans and their families while helping Canadians remember the sacrifices made by those who served.

“As Alberta’s Military Liaison, I am honoured to congratulate every Legion Branch, volunteer, and member across Canada on this historic milestone,” Cyr said.

Supporting Alberta’s military community

Cyr, who is also a member of Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 211 in Cold Lake, said his new provincial role has already provided opportunities to meet with military and veterans’ organizations across Alberta.

Those conversations, he said, have reinforced the important role the Legion continues to play in communities throughout the province.

“The Legion’s longstanding commitment to remembrance, advocacy, and community service makes it an invaluable partner,” he said.

Recognizing local volunteers

Cyr also acknowledged the work of volunteers who keep Legion branches active year-round.

He offered special congratulations to members of Branch 211 in Cold Lake, including Branch President Todd Rorke, along with the executive, volunteers and members who continue supporting veterans and military families.

“Whether leading the Poppy Campaign, supporting veterans and their families, mentoring youth, preserving military history, or simply being there when someone needs help, Legion members continue to make a lasting difference in communities across our country,” Cyr said.

Looking to the future

As Alberta’s Military Liaison, Cyr said he looks forward to continuing to work with military organizations, veterans’ groups and community partners to strengthen supports for those who have served.

He also highlighted several provincial initiatives aimed at supporting military families, including immediate Alberta Health Care coverage for Canadian Armed Forces families relocating to Alberta, expanded access to healthcare services and investments in housing and healthcare capacity.

Honouring the past while building the future

As the Legion begins its second century, the organization continues its mission of supporting veterans, serving members and their families while ensuring future generations understand the sacrifices that have protected Canada’s freedoms.

“Congratulations on an extraordinary first century of service,” Cyr said. “May The Royal Canadian Legion continue to inspire Canadians and serve our country for the next 100 years.”

Lest We Forget.