RCL is celebrating 100th Anniversary!

The Royal Canadian Legion's 100th Anniversary is a once-in-a-generation milestone that celebrates a century of service to Canada's veterans, serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces, RCMP, their families, and communities across the country.

Some of the reasons why the 100th anniversary is so significant include:

• 100 Years of Service (1926–2026): The Royal Canadian Legion was founded in 1926 through the amalgamation of several veterans' organizations following the First World War. For a century, it has been Canada's leading advocate for veterans and their families.
• Supporting Veterans: Throughout its history, the Legion has worked to secure better benefits, healthcare, housing, financial assistance, and transition support for veterans returning from military service.
• Remembering Those Who Served: The Legion has played a central role in preserving Canada's military history and leading annual Remembrance Day ceremonies, ensuring the sacrifices of veterans are never forgotten.
• The Poppy Campaign: Since 1921, the poppy has become Canada's national symbol of remembrance. The Legion has administered the National Poppy Campaign for decades, raising millions of dollars to support veterans and their families.
• Community Service: Beyond veterans' programs, Legion branches have become important community hubs, hosting charitable initiatives, youth programs, seniors' activities, emergency assistance, educational scholarships, sports, and countless local events.
• Volunteerism: Thousands of volunteers across Canada have donated millions of hours over the past century, making the Legion one of the country's largest volunteer-based organizations.
• Looking to the Future: The centennial is not only a celebration of the past but also an opportunity to renew the Legion's commitment to supporting today's veterans and serving future generations while remaining relevant in communities across Canada.

For Billy Bishop/Kerrisdale Branch 176, the 100th Anniversary is an opportunity to:

• Celebrate being part of a national organization with a remarkable 100-year legacy.
• Showcase the branch to the Kitsilano community and welcome new visitors.
• Honour local veterans and long-time members.
• Highlight the many community programs the branch now offers, including Seniors & Veterans programs, museum tours, live entertainment, charitable initiatives, and community events.
• Build awareness that today's Legion is much more than a veterans' organization—it is a welcoming community gathering place that continues to evolve while honouring its traditions.

Our July 18th Centennial Celebration is especially meaningful because it not only commemorates 100 years of the Royal Canadian Legion but also demonstrates how Branch 176 continues to fulfill the Legion's mission by supporting veterans, strengthening community connections, and preserving Canada's military heritage for future generations.