Virden Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 8, Ladies Auxiliary has been steadfast in providing help to veterans, their families and other community groups and individuals over the past 90 years. Saturday, Sept. 9, the Ladies Auxiliary (LA) celebrated their 90th Anniversary.
Legion Ladies Auxiliaries date back to WWI when the members at the time rendered great service to the men overseas with many food and comfort parcels sent to the men at the front, or to those in hospitals.
During other wars and in times of peace the Virden LA has been there to help by fundraising, lunches, Rememberance Day events and the symbolic adoption of our older vets.
Elsewhere in the community LA’s efforts can be seen in the schools with awards and bursaries, the local music festival, science fairs, senior home visits and equipment for these homes.
One would not have to go far to find young people who have enjoyed the support of the LA at the Royal Canadian Legion band and sports summer camps.
Virden Legion Ladies Auxiliary 90th celebration began with an afternoon come and go tea that saw a large crowd in attendance. The ladies in full LA uniform served tea using a few real sterling silver tea pots for the occasion, with plenty of a specially prepared anniversary cake for the event.
The celebration held a successful auction with many of the items donated by local and area businesses. One of the more unique items was free session with the local lawyer.
That evening, the hall was transformed into a dining room where a banquet supper was catered by T's Dining & Lounge.
There was a display of LA memorabilia and photos of the years of service. Emcee for the event was Legion member Greg Tough who gave a brief history of the Auxiliary; then grace was said by the Legion branch Chaplain.
During the happy hour, before the supper the guest and members were treated to background music by Omar Hanson.
Following the meal there were a number of greetings brought by local officials, Legion and Ladies Auxiliary officials; presentations were made to recognize the 90th anniversary and the cutting of the special anniversary cake by the two oldest members of the LA - Helen Lodder and Georgina Coulter – who, together, have well over a hundred years of service to the LA.
Following the banquet meal and ceremonies, the evening turned to one of fellowship and visiting while being entertained with background music. In the hall that night were three area WWII vets that added to the event.
Virden Ladies Auxiliary President Chris Dunning said about the evening, “We are so pleased with all the members and guest who were able to come out to help us celebrate this special occasion. Thanks to all those who volunteered their help to make it a success. I and our members look forward to our 95th anniversary and continual service to the community.”
A certificate of recognition is presented to Virden Legion Ladies Auxiliary Chris Dunning, District Commander Shirley Kamula presenting ; it reads -The Provincial Council Ladies Auxiliary to the RCL Manitoba Northwestern Ontario Command congratulates Virden Legion Ladies to the RCL No.8.
Legion branch No. 8 Ladies Auxiliary members Helen Lodder (l) and Georgina Coulter cut the 90th Anniversary cake, Sept. 9 in Virden’s Legion Hall.
RCL Branch No.8 Legion Ladies Auxiliary members celebrate the 90th anniversary of this branch auxiliary.
Ladies Auxiliary to RCL No. 8, the 90th Anniversary cake.
