3rd Annual Veterans Appreciation Dinner

The Royal Canadian Legion Field Marshal Alexander Branch 11 hosted its third annual Veterans Appreciation Dinner on November 7, bringing together veterans, families, Legion members, and community supporters for an evening of remembrance and appreciation.

Co-Chair and Master of Ceremonies Comrade Peter Clark welcomed guests before opening the evening with the Act of Remembrance, honouring those who sacrificed their lives in service to their country.

“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,” said Clark.

Before observing two minutes of silence, Clark remembered fallen comrades, including the four Canadian Armed Forces members killed in the tragic October 17 incident at CFB Wainwright: Sgt. Morgan Wong, Pte. Shaun Farrell, Pte. Aidan Goulding, and Pte. Hayden Lykkemark.

He also honoured Constable Scott Barry, 27, who was electrocuted while assisting an injured woman at a motor vehicle collision near Clandonald on June 29, 1986.

Branch President Comrade Darlene Carrier welcomed guests on behalf of the Legion Executive and its more than 100 members.

“The recent events at CFB Wainwright remind us that even on our home soil, those who serve are not exempt from death and serious injury,” said Carrier. “We will remember those who lost their lives, and our thoughts are with everyone whose loved ones will need support along the way.”

Carrier acknowledged first responders who may carry unseen emotional injuries and thanked veterans’ families, friends, and community members for their continued support. She also expressed appreciation to those donating time, equipment, and materials to maintain the Legion building, and encouraged everyone to attend the upcoming Remembrance Day ceremony at the cenotaph.

During the recognition of veterans, Carrier explained that the Legion recognizes both serving and retired personnel, regardless of Legion membership. Veterans include those who have honourably served in the Canadian Armed Forces, Commonwealth forces or wartime allies, the RCMP, qualifying peacekeeping or special duty operations, and the wartime Merchant Navy or Ferry Command.

“If you are a veteran, even if you do not belong to the Legion, the Legion is here to support you,” she said, inviting veterans to stand and be recognized.

Clark then reviewed the evening’s program, followed by a toast to the King delivered by 1st Vice President Comrade John Thompson.

Co-Chair Comrade Rhonda Hayduk presented a moving tribute to fallen comrades, explaining the symbolism of the empty table set for one.

Hayduk explained that the table represents the fragility of comrades in the face of oppression, while the white tablecloth symbolizes the purity of their intentions when answering their nation’s call to arms.

The red rose represents families and loved ones who continue to keep the faith by remembering 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 those gathered of the bitterness of battle, while the salt symbolizes the tears of families left in mourning.

“The glass is inverted because they cannot feast with us,” Hayduk explained.

“The chair is empty. They are absent. Remember them.”

Following the tribute, Thompson offered a toast to fallen comrades, and Branch Chaplain and Service Officer Comrade Gordon Hill delivered grace before guests enjoyed a buffet-style roast beef dinner.

Following supper, District Commander Comrade Bruce Marriott delivered his remarks before 2nd Vice President Comrade Lester Perrot officially closed the evening.

“May we ever strive to promote unity and the spirit of comradeship,” said Perrot, reminding members of their solemn obligations to the Legion, their comrades, country, and Sovereign.

He concluded, “Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet. Lest we forget, lest we forget.”

The evening served as a heartfelt reminder of the sacrifices made by veterans and the importance of remembering, honouring, and supporting those who have served.