On Monday, June 6, approximately 40 people were involved in mini parade and ceremony at the Royal Canadian Legion branch no. 99 in Cowansville. It was the 78th anniversary of the landing of Canadian troops on Juno Beach in France in 1944. This event was the turning point leading to the eventual end of the Second World War in Europe.
During this year a private company was proposing the building of condos on Juno Beach. After much outcry in Canada and Europe the project was shelved. Many Canadian men lost their lives landing on the beach and it just didn’t seem right to put condos on the site.
In Cowansville representatives of various Veteran groups including former NATO soldiers came together to show respect for this important date. The day ended with a light luncheon.
Legions across the province often have trouble keeping afloat. Branch no. 99 has a busy schedule and it is trying hard to stay active in the community.
The next big breakfast is on June 26. It is from 9a.m. to 12:30p.m. and it is a reasonable cost of $10. Every Thursday night there is Bingo starting at 6 p.m. and every Friday from 5 to 7 there are hot dogs and hamburgers for sale.
The Ladies’ Auxiliary of branch no. 99 are sponsoring eight Social Studies book prizes for the senior classes at Heroes’ Memorial School. The Auxiliary believe in promoting the value of Canadian history in our schools.
When possible, we should support our Legions. Canadians have played a significant role in defending democracies around the world in both war and peace times. Their dedication should not be forgotten or go unsupported.
