EDITOR'S NOTE: This article originally appeared on Aug. 28, 2024.
Legion Week is coming up, and Waterdown Br. 551 is planning a host of activities to celebrate, including snooker and darts tournaments, an afternoon tea party, live music and more.
The local Legion executive members hope residents will attend and learn about all the Legion’s programs, how they support veterans and their families, and how they contribute to the communities they serve.
The Hamilton Street facility has been a hub in town for more than 70 years; since moving to its present location in 1976 it boasts the largest hall in the area, where many private gatherings, fundraisers and local groups have hosted events. It is one of the few local venues with a dance floor and live bands, as well as dart boards and snooker tables; it’s also where members and volunteers cook up a monthly Fish & Chips dinner that draws a crowd. Admission to most events is free, or low cost; typically, a donation for local food banks is requested.
But it’s not just about fun and games. The cenotaph at the front of the property is the site of the annual Remembrance Day ceremony, and members are easy to spot each fall, as they collect for the Poppy Fund. The Legion is also home to the Waterdown Museum of Hope, which engages students and tells the stories of the men and women who have served.
But beyond that, says Br. 551 special events officer and past president Tammy Taylor, there are many benefits associated with the Legion that many aren’t aware of, and there are many misconceptions about Legion membership and what it supports.
“The Legion is one of the Canada's largest veteran support and community service organizations,” she said, noting that benefits for veterans include a wide range of health-related items such as medical equipment and long-term care. There are also a host of banking, insurance and travel discounts available, as well as reduced pricing on items such as eyeglasses, home retrofits and appliances, and more.
Taylor says it’s a misconception that membership requires a connection to the the military; any Canadian citizen age 18 or older can join. While some programs are specifically for veterans, all members receive the Legion magazine, discounts on Legion merchandise, and other perks. They also receive a pin and a membership card. The cost for a membership is $50 per year, with some early bird incentives in September and October.
The Legion also gives back to the local community; recently, the Waterdown branch held its annual corn roast which is open to all residents, and organized its Red Friday event in June. In November, they are planning community craft sale, and a brunch fundraiser with local Rotarians to benefit local families in need through Food4Kids. They are also launching a memorial banner program this fall.
Taylor notes that the number of Legions across the country has dwindled in recent years, and wants people to know how important it is to support the local branch.
“What they don't understand is, if we don't keep it going and we don't support the programs, they'll close. And that's such a loss for that community,” she said.
As part of National Legion Week, Branch 551 will be hosting events from Sept. 14 to 21. The Friday night fish fry will be part of the festivities, and the grand finale will be a comedy show featuring Eric Johnston. See the full schedule here.
For more information on the Waterdown Legion, visit the Br. 551 website. More information about Legion benefits and membership is available at legion.ca.
