The Duncan branch of the Royal Canadian Legion is still alive and kicking. That's the message Maggie Chambers and her committee of about a dozen stalwarts want to get out there to the approximately 300 members of Branch 53, and they're encouraging as many as possible to attend a meeting Sunday, Sept. 14 at 2 p.m. at Duncan United Church to talk about the future.
"The main focus to keep it going right now is for the Remembrance Day services," Chambers said, referring to the annual observance that draws thousands of people to the Duncan cenotaph in Charles Hoey Park.
"Then we'll go from there," she said. This summer, the branch had to close up their rented premises in Duncan due to cost. They did not give up their charter, however, Chambers said, and Legion Command appointed two trustees to help the branch members redefine themselves and get back on their feet.
They'd love to find a benefactor that would donate some space to them, where they could set up some social activities.
Chambers joined the Duncan legion nine years ago when she moved to the area, and, all told, she's been a member of the organization for 20 years. The legion is too vital an institution to see die, Chambers said.
"To continue to support the veterans, and assist them in any way possible," she said.
Branch 53 has maintained a service officer to help those who need it. They also contribute greatly to the community through things like student bursaries.