A new social afternoon for veterans has been started at the Weyburn Legion Hall as a way to reconnect with the Legion’s original purpose, and to provide a way to show appreciation to veterans.
The afternoon event was the idea of the Legion’s chaplain, Marjorie McLeod, with a partnership with the Care-A-Van to help transport any who might need a ride.
The monthly social time is funded through the Poppy Fund, which raises funds through the sale of poppies for Remembrance Day each year.
“I don’t think we show our appreciation to veterans or peacekeepers like we should,” she said, with the idea to hold the social afternoon on the fourth Monday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m.
The afternoon is available to any veterans of war or of the Armed Forces, as well as vets from the RCMP, peacekeeping forces, the Fire Department or city police, along with the widows or partners of veterans.
The social will be held in the South Saskatchewan Regiment lounge in the Legion, and each guest will receive a drink and a treat along with the fellowship.
“This place used to be full of veterans,” said McLeod, adding it was nice to see a nice crowd out on Monday afternoon, when the first social time was held.
“We want the opportunity to bring them together and share their stories,” she added. “The Legion was started so veterans could get together for fellowship. It’s turned out to be really good.”
McLeod wants this time to include the widows of veterans, and their wives also.
“We’re sort of resurrecting the camaraderie of the veterans. Any service personnel would like can attend on the fourth Monday of every month,” she said.
If anyone needs a ride, they should contact the Care-A-Van the week before in order to arrange for free transportation to the Legion.
