2nd Annual Veterans Appreciation Dinner

Veterans who attended the Appreciation Supper. Photo Lorna Hamilton

On November 8, the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 11 hosted its second annual Veterans Appreciation Dinner to honour the service and sacrifice of veterans in the community—both past and present.

Co-Chair and Master of Ceremonies, Rhonda Hayduk, warmly welcomed everyone to the evening’s event, saying, “I really appreciate all of you for making it here.” After a few housekeeping notes, she introduced Chairman Comrade Wayne Feestone, who officially opened the evening and led the Act of Remembrance.

“Before we proceed to the consideration of the business which has brought us together, let us pause to think reverently of those of our comrades who, by sea, by land, and in the air, laid down their lives for their Sovereign and country,” said Feestone. “Their sacrifice will ever inspire us to labour on, to the end that those who survive and need our aid may be assured of assistance, and that the country in which we live and for which they died may ever be worthy of the sacrifice they made.”

The Last Post was then played, signifying that the duty of fallen soldiers is complete and that they may now rest in peace. A two-minute silence followed, allowing time for reflection on the sacrifices made. The Rouse concluded the vigil, calling the living back to their duties.

First Vice President Comrade Darlene Carrier then led the recognition of veterans. “We started tonight by recognizing the sacrifice of those who are not with us,” she said. “Now, I have the privilege to recognize the veterans among us. A veteran is any person who is serving or who has honourably served in the Canadian Armed Forces, the Commonwealth or its wartime allies, as a regular member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, or as a Peace Officer in a special duty area or operation, or who has served in the Merchant Navy or Ferry Command during wartime. Will the veterans who are with us tonight please stand, if you are able, and be recognized.”

Co-Chair Comrade Peter Clark reviewed the evening’s program, followed by a toast to the King delivered by Sergeant-at-Arms Comrade Ed Reddy.

Second Vice President Comrade Rhonda Hayduk then presented a poignant tribute to fallen comrades, explaining the symbolism behind the empty table set for one. “It represents the fragility of our comrades in the face of oppression,” she said. “The white tablecloth symbolizes the purity of their intentions when they answered their nation’s call to arms. The red rose represents the families and loved ones who continue to keep the faith by recalling their sacrifices. The yellow ribbon around the vase signifies determination — the determination to give body and soul for a just cause. A slice of lemon reminds us of the bitterness of battle, and the salt symbolizes the tears of the families left in mourning. The glass is inverted because they cannot feast with us. The chair is empty. They are absent. Remember them.”

Following this tribute, Second Vice President Comrade John Thompson offered a toast to fallen comrades, and Branch Chaplain and Service Officer Comrade Gordon Hills said grace before the buffet-style roast beef dinner.

After supper, Comrade Robert Snelgrove provided an update on ongoing work at the Veterans Cemetery to ensure those who served are honoured appropriately.

“The Legion continues to honour and remember the sacrifices of those who fought and died in World War One, World War Two, and the Korean War,” said Comrade Darlene Carrier in closing. “Today’s Legion recognizes the sacrifices of modern veterans—those who have served or continue to serve in the military, the RCMP, police services, the coast guard, and with our NATO partners. We understand that today’s veterans may have different needs than those who came before, and we are adapting to welcome and support them. Tonight has been an opportunity to bring you together and show our appreciation for your service and dedication to Canada, both abroad and at home.”

The evening was filled with camaraderie, reflection, and heartfelt appreciation for those who have served Canada.