As the Royal Canadian Legion’s 100th year since incorporation winds down, branches in Winnipeg are busy preparing for Remembrance Day ceremonies. “There’s a lot of preparation involved in getting ready for Remembrance Day,” said Mona Strutt, vice-president of Branch No. 9 in Elmwood. “It’s making sure we have all the wreaths for different families and that we know who will be bringing forth the wreath.” This year, the branch is holding its ceremony with more registered members, thanks to the Legion’s centennial free membership program. “We have had an increase. I believe we’ve had over 100 new members sign up for the free membership this year,” Strutt said. Branch No. 4 in St. James also saw a similar increase, with about 150 people joining this year, but the question of retention remains. “Come 2027 … we’re hoping to retain at least 20 per cent out of those free members who will sign up to be regular Legion members,” said Mike Thayer, past president of the St. James Legion. He said the Legion isn’t just for veterans and is open to everyone, a message Strutt echoed. “(People) thought that it was closed to them, that they would not be able to come in and partake in the activities,” Strutt said. The new members have broadened the age range at the Elmwood branch. “We have some younger parents that even bring their children to the afternoon meat draws that we have on Saturdays, and some of the younger kids are able to participate in different functions that we have,” Strutt said. “That’s starting a trend to bring your kids in and they have a good time.” But with volunteers essential to the day-to-day operation of Legion branches, concern about the future lingers for Thayer. “I’m just hoping, you know, we still get some new members and people will step up to help run the Legion,” he said. “Hopefully (the new members) will be able to volunteer some time and help us out for the different functions that we are preparing for,” Strutt said. For now, the branches will focus on honouring and remembering Canada’s fallen service members. “Just come and show your respect and if you’re not doing anything after the service, go into the Legion. Talk to some of the veterans, there’ll be active military people there. Talk to them,” Thayer said. The St. James branch’s Remembrance Day ceremony will be held Wednesday at Bruce Park around 10:45 a.m. The Elmwood branch will gather at Elmwood Cemetery at 10 a.m.
