Royal Canadian Legion Still a ‘Staple’ in Canadian Communities After 100 Years
The Legion says 100,000 people joined in the first half of the year as it opens free membership and marks the centennial with events nationwide.
- On Friday, the Royal Canadian Legion marked its 100th anniversary with Governor General Louise Arbour laying a wreath at the National War Memorial in Ottawa, while Canada Post unveiled a commemorative stamp at Ottawa City Hall.
- Formed after the First World War to support injured soldiers needing financial aid and housing, the Legion was officially incorporated in July 1926 and evolved to promote awareness of Canadian military sacrifices.
- The Legion reports about 300,000 members and more than 1,350 branches spanning from Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Newfoundland to Prince George, British Columbia; 100,000 people joined in the first half of 2026 after free membership was offered.
- Legion branches across Canada marked the anniversary this week with local ceremonies, dinners and special events; Bond said membership is spiking and the organization looks "forward to entering the next century with this strong membership."
- Scott Maxwell, chief executive officer of Wounded Warriors Canada, credited the Legion with providing hundreds of thousands of dollars annually in Ontario for veterans' service dog programs, calling it "a pretty significant component of our ability as a nation to remember.
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29 Articles
Ashcroft Legion still going strong after nearly 100 years - The Ashcroft
On July 17, 1926, the Canadian Legion of the British Empire Services League was incorporated. It was not just a place where veterans could be with other who had shared their experiences; it was also an organization that advocated for better care, and benefits, for veterans. On Nov. 10, 1930, the Ashcroft Journal noted that at a reunion banquet for soldiers of Ashcroft and district, the question of forming a local branch was raised. Com. Ray Jone…
Royal Canadian Legion still a 'staple' in Canadian communities after 100 years
OTTAWA - The Royal Canadian Legion is celebrating both its 100th anniversary and what it describes as a surge in new memberships.
The Royal Canadian Legion celebrates both its 100th anniversary and what it describes as an influx of new members.
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