1 June 2015
The Rev. Art Turnbull, Branch 15 Chaplain

The activities of the Legion commemorations, of the Canadian memorials, and of worldwide needs, have been a source of a busy season just past.  As we now engage in the life of the Summer months we look for a slowing of pace; yet even now we shall remember.

June has presented us with the 52nd Convention of the BC/Yukon Command, of the Royal Canadian Legion.  This is in our own city.  The memorial and dedication is on our own Thunderbird Square, our own Cenotaph. This is probably the last time we will be the home hosts of such a gathering.  Never again will there be that many Legion veterans and members assembled on our sacred ground. What we need to keep in mind this summer is that we will keep on remembering our own for times yet to come.  Even as our numbers grow smaller on each parade, “we will remember them”.

  Read more

1 May 2015
The Rev. Art Turnbull, Branch 15 Chaplain

The recent Ypres recognition at the Abbotsford Cenotaph was an important moment.  Though very small in turnout the significance of the Second Battle of Ypres on the days of 22 to 26 April are a Canadian moment in history that must not be forgotten.  It was very good of Mr. John Durham to arrange for the memorial as a tribute to his father who fought in the battle, was gassed and wounded twice, and then taken prisoner for three years by the German army.   Like so many WW 1 veterans, Pte. Edwin Durham came home, put on his civvies and went to work building his family and Canada.  Yet Edwin did not forget his battle.  Every anniversary was remembered.  Thanks Mr. Durham for inviting some of us from the Legion to take part this year of the 100th anniversary.
Read more

1 April 2015
The Rev. Art Turnbull, Branch 15 Chaplain

April is that month that is put to music.  “April showers” come our way bringing flowers in May.  The tune is one of those that stick in the mind.  It can be hummed anytime.  The words can be sung along in the morning shower.

April showers in World War One brought the devastation of war in Europe to a greater depth.  The rallying of the troops for the Empire in 1914 led to drenched and stinking reality  in the trenches of warfare.  The 2nd Battle of Ypres in April 1915 found the Canadian soldiers being drenched with chemicals in the gas attacks from the enemy lines.  The promise of “May flowers” was a long time coming.

Read more

FIREFOX and GOOGLE CHROME are the best browsers for the Legion Website.
Read more

1 March 2015
The Rev. Art Turnbull, Branch 15 Chaplain

We have been blessed with such a mild winter in our region. Warm weather and lots of sunny days. Winter has not impacted upon our daily life. We are even sounding a bit smug in messages we send to friends back east. Yet we must remember that we do not control the weather nor do we live here as a given right. Tomorrow may be our turn.
Read more