The Royal Canadian Legion Agassiz Br. 32 honoured and celebrated Canada's Armed Forces Veterans with their annual Veterans Dinner on May 7.
Good food, music, camaraderie and sing alongs filled the Legion Hall throughout the evening. Bagpipes and drummer from both the Harrison Highlanders and the Fraser Cheam Regional Pipe Band were on hand to pipe in dessert following the dinner.
As their melodies filled the hall, memories of fallen friend and comrades in arms who shared their military service to Canada were reflected on many faces. Although each year the ranks of Second World War and Korean War veterans are diminished, it was very gratifying to see our community honour and salute our local veterans.
The evening was a great success due to the combined efforts of Agassiz Legion volunteers, including president Roy Wright, past president Betty Brewer and directors Jim Johnson and Dave Smith. The kitchen talents of Adam, Rilla, Greg and Justin Sandar assured that everyone had lots to eat. ACE students Keith Henry, Austin Klotz, Mia Thompson and helpers Gordie, Angel and Cadence served an waited on tables, bringing smiles to the face of many of the veterans.
Both men and women present enjoyed the evening music, provided by Bill and Marie of Sweet Water. Legion Padre Rev. Mary Duncan blessed the evening starting with grace and acknowledgement of the sacrifices from our military veterans and peacekeepers.
As always, a highlight of the evening was the bagpipes, and the Highlanders and the Fraser Cheam band performed to the delight and appreciation of about 90 people who attended.
Our thanks go out to Deb and Allan Wiles for the set up, and to pipers and drummers, Frank Frose, Rick Carswell, Jake McRae, Hugh Jack, Roy Booth, Jim Waldron, Bill Waldron, Sheila Campbell and Brian Campbell.
Thank you and congratulations to the veterans from Glenwood and Cheam Vilalge and the facility's staff who assisted in helping them get to the dinner event.
A big round of applause and than you went out to the businesses and individuals who graciously donated all the door prizes for the evening.
A great evening dedicated to our veterans through funding from the Legion Poppy Fund.
Dave Smith
Royal Canadian Legion Agassiz