The Royal Canadian Legion Saskatchewan Command LEST WE FORGET 299 Coleville Branch received its charter on October 13, 1955. That year saw the commencement of many traditions, which are carried on to this day, including the Annual Poppy Campaign, the School Remembrance Service, and the community service and parade on November 11th. That year, the Branch, in conjunction with the Coleville Kinsmen, sponsored Santa Day at the school. Although the Kinsmen no longer exist in the community, the Legion still has Santa Day. Over the years, the Branch has sponsored many youth activities, including Scouts and Cubs, Track & Field Camp, assistance to the Recreation Committee to support children's activities, and most recently, sponsorship of the Sparky Ament Air Cadet Squadron #365, located in Kindersley. In November 1955, the Branch purchased the Eureka School and subsequently moved it to land provided by the Village of Coleville. The Hall still stands today, although it has been added to and renovated many times, most recently after a devastating flood in 1996. Since 1995, the Cenotaph for the Village sits outside the hall. That year also saw the development of the Memorial Garden at the cemetery. The garden and its monuments to the sacrifice of the Veterans and the dedication of the Pioneers is second-to-none. The Branch maintains the garden and ensures that all Veterans and Legion members’ graves are marked with a Maple Leaf and Canadian Flag. The Ladies’ Auxiliary to Branch 365 received its Charter in August 1957. They were a hard-working crew that assisted the Branch for thirty-seven years. As well, they supported the Veterans and the youth of the area. The Auxiliary started an annual Seniors’ Christmas Dinner, which the Branch maintains. Unfortunately, due to low numbers and the passing of time, the Auxiliary ceased operating in December 1994. Most members then joined the Branch and continued to carry on their good work. It must be said that the contribution of the Ladies’ Auxiliary was of great importance to the success of this Branch. The Branch remains active in sporting events at all levels, as well as attending Zone, District, Provincial and Dominion conventions. The Branch is very proud of the fact that over the years many Zone, District, Provincial and Dominion leaders have come from Coleville. COLEVILLE BRANCH 365 A general meeting of ex -servicemen of Lockwood was called on December 5th, 1956 for the purpose of forming a Branch of the Canadian Legion. Due to severe cold weather, only thirteen men were present. Speaker Mr. Cameron, Zone Commander from Raymore, could not be present for the same reason. The provincial slate of officers elected were: President, Norb Joa; and Secretary, Evan Garry. On January 30th, 1958, officers were elected as follows: President, N.A. Joa; 1st Vice-President, Don Lynch; 2nd Vice-President, J.L. Ritz; Sergeant-at-Arms, Joe Birtles; and Secretary/Treasurer, E. Garry A Social and Entertainment Committee was formed: O. Pederson, E. Garry, G. Birtles, and H. Coleman. The Welfare and Sick Committee consisted of L. Ritz, D. Lynch, and B. Forner. Charter members were: J.L. Ritz, N. Joa, G.A. Forner, R.A. Coleman, H. Coleman, R. Shearer, G. Ewen, H. Hurley, E. Turner, E. Kabernick, D. Williams, C. Buckmaster, J. Blackport, W. Coleman, M. Wood, L. Magnes, Garry Wood, W.J. Ritz, O. Pederson, D. Lynch, J.A. Birtles, and E. Garry. Honorary Members were: Leonard Funk, Art Joa, M. Ruedig, and M. Ritz of Armstrong, Ontario. Work of canvassing for the Rheumatism and Arthritic Society was carried out annually. Generous donations were given to the skating and curling rinks and to minor ball. Prizes were given for the Remembrance Day Essays, and Wreaths for Remembrance Day services were LOCKWOOD BRANCH 368 ~ Closed (Cont’d...)
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