Celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Royal Canadian Legion

23 July 2026

This year, Canadians across our great country are celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Legion. This is truly an extraordinary milestone of this important and storied Canadian pillar. For a century, the Legion has stood as a symbol of service, sacrifice, remembrance, and community. As we mark this historic occasion, we have an opportunity not only to reflect on the remarkable legacy of the Legion, but also to recommit ourselves to supporting those who have worn Canada’s uniform and those who are currently serving in Canada’s Armed Forces.

The Royal Canadian Legion was established by an Act of Parliament on July 17, 1926, in the aftermath of the First World War. It was founded with a simple but profound mission: to advocate for Veterans, support their families, and ensure that the sacrifices of those who served would never be forgotten. One hundred years later, that mission remains as significant and as relevant as ever.

Generations of Canadians know the Legion through the annual Poppy Campaign, one of the country’s most recognizable symbols of remembrance. Every November, millions proudly wear the red poppy with respect and a commitment that we will never forget those who paid the ultimate price so that we can live in a peaceful and free society.

The Legion’s work extends far beyond Remembrance Day. Across Canada, over 1,350 Legion branches serve as pillars of their communities. They provide assistance to Veterans navigating the challenges of returning to civilian life, offer support to military families, help seniors and create gathering places where friendships are forged and service is honoured. Whether in large cities or small towns, Legion volunteers strengthen the fabric of our communities through countless hours of generous service.

I have had the privilege of attending Remembrance Day ceremonies, visiting local Legion branches, and speaking with Veterans whose stories remind us that freedom has never come without sacrifice. Their courage on distant battlefields, their commitment during peacekeeping missions, and their continued service here at home deserve not only our gratitude but our unwavering support.

We have a responsibility as Canadians to ensure that Veterans receive the care they have earned, that military families receive the support they deserve, and that future generations understand the price that has been paid for the rights and freedoms we too often take for granted.

Founded to serve First World War Veterans, today the Legion proudly supports Veterans of every generation—from the Second World War, Korea, Afghanistan, to deployments in peacekeeping missions in troubled regions of the world. It welcomes Canadians from all walks of life who believe in preserving our military heritage and serving their communities.

As Canada’s Veteran population changes, so too must our commitment to ensuring organizations like the Legion remain strong and vibrant for the next century. The challenges facing today’s Veterans—from mental health support to successful transitions into civilian careers—require the same spirit of service and compassion that has defined the Legion since 1926.

Canadians have long believed that honouring those who serve our country is a solemn responsibility. Respect for our military, our Veterans, and the institutions that support them should never be partisan. It is a shared Canadian value that unites us across generations and political differences.

Here in Aurora, our local Legion Branch 385 was established in 1946 and is celebrating its 80th anniversary. Our community knows it more than just a building on Industrial Parkway. It is a remarkable community anchor. Legions are where neighbors connect, where seniors find companionship, and where our youth learn to respect those who fought for the rights and freedoms that define our democracy and that we all enjoy today.

As a Member of Parliament, I want to say thank you. Thank you to the Veterans, the members, the volunteers, and the Ladies’ Auxiliaries. Your advocacy in our nation’s capital and your leadership and compassion right here at home remind us of the value and the power of selfless service. Government programs can provide resources, but only community can provide a home.

As we look back on 100 years of profound service, let us also look forward. Let us recommit ourselves to supporting the Legion just as fiercely as they have supported our brave men and women. Let us continue to support our local branches, participate in acts of remembrance, teach our children the stories of those who served, and stand beside our Veterans—not only in moments of ceremony, but every day of the year.

Lest we forget.