The Royal Canadian Legion is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026, and Branch 472 in Hawkesbury played a significant role in presenting the Canada Day flag raising ceremony at Confederation Park.
In 1925, the Great War Veterans’ Association and other veterans’ groups met in Winnipeg and agreed to amalgamate and establish the Canadian Legion of the British Empire Service League. In 1960, it became the Royal Canadian Legion.
Branch 472 President Michel Denis, who is an air force veteran, said there are currently about 230 members at the Hawkesbury branch. He said that is an increase from a few years ago when it was down to 170 members.
“We’re getting more this year because of the free membership in 2026,” Denis said.
The Royal Canadian Legion has offered free memberships to all Canadians during its centennial year. This is a reflection of how the Legion has changed from being only a veterans’ organization to one with a broader focus on community service, but still within the context of assisting veterans and their dependents.
Denis named the Hawkesbury and District General Hospital Foundation and Scouts Canada as two local organizations the branch has supported over the years.
Today, Legion members include veterans of all ages and roles who served in the armed forces, and civilians.
“It’s not only for veterans, it’s for everyone in the community,” Denis said.
He added that the Hawkesbury branch offers regular social and recreational activities.
To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Legion as a national organization, Branch 472 is holding an open house on July 17 at its hall, located at 152 Nelson Street East.
