While the Lynn Valley Legion branch may be temporarily shuttered and a Remembrance Day ceremony cancelled, its members remain very active-serving veterans.
That was the message from the branch’s leadership in a presentation to District of North Vancouver council Monday night.
“Our focus is on the poppy campaign and service to our veterans, their families, seniors, youth and the community at large,” said Jim Phillipson, management committee chairman.
The poppy campaign, which starts on the last Friday of October, serves as a visual reminder and solemn recognition of those who have served, and donations collected are used to support veterans and their families.
Branch 114 members will lay a wreath at the Victoria Park cenotaph on Nov. 11. and following the ceremony, the community is invited to the Lynn Valley branch for an alcohol- free reception.
Phillipson said the Lynn Valley Legion is in a “time of transition” and that, before long, things will be back to normal.
“It is a disappointment to say the least that we have had to step away from holding a Remembrance Day service in Lynn Valley this year.
“The primary reason is lack of volunteers stepping forward from our membership. We understand this hesitation as there is a divide within. There is a small number of members who are causing dissension in the ranks. With the aid of B.C./Yukon Command, we are taking steps to address those issues,” he said.
“Contrary to what is out in social and print media, there is a strong core of dedicated members working diligently to prepare the branch for reopening. We’re looking forward to welcoming all of our membership very soon to a fully functioning branch.”
The delegation, which included a presentation of poppies to elected members for this year’s poppy campaign and a parade from the honour guard, was well received by council.
“I would say that the legion has a very strong presence on the North Shore in West Vancouver, North Vancouver City and in Lynn Valley,” Mayor Richard Walton said, encouraging residents to attend ceremonies scheduled for Victoria Park, the West Vancouver cenotaph and Cates Park/Whey-ah-Wichen.
“There are opportunities for people and their families to come out and express their thanks, Nov. 11 across the North Shore and we thank you for your ongoing contributions to remembering our veterans.”
