Royal Canadian Legion Branch 472 celebrated its 75th anniversary of helping veterans and the community in Hawkesbury last weekend with a dinner on Friday and a parade through the streets of the town. The branch was formed in 1947, two years after the end of World War II.
An anniversary dinner was held on September 9, with the celebration taking a more ceremonial form on Saturday, September 10, with a parade from the cenotaph on Cartier Boulevard to the Legion building at 152 Nelson Street East.The parade route from the cenotaph followed William Street south, then west on Main Street to James Street, where preceded south to Higginson Street, then down Stanley, Nelson, and Emerald streets, before ending at the Legion.
The parade included veterans, Legion members, cadets, and dignitaries, led by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Pipes and Drums.
Following the parade, the hall was open for food, socializing, and country music by Norm Campeau.
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 472 has about 180 members and an 11-member executive.
The Hawkesbury Legion’s 75th anniversary parade featured this car driven by owner Raymond Bougie. Next to him is Richard Witham. In the rear seat are George Rawlings (driver’s side) and Mervin Ward. Photo Reid Masson
The parade was preceded by a ceremony at the Cenotaph in Hawkesbury. Photo: Reid Masson
