The Royal Canadian Legion Saskatchewan Command LEST WE FORGET 301 Simpson Branch 375 was formed in December 1966. The Charter began in January 1967. There were sixteen charter members. In November 1968, the village leased the town hall for $1.00 for 25 years. The building was renamed Simpson Legion Hall No. 375. In 1971, the Hotel closed. The Legion opened sixty-six Saturdays as a bar for the community. Proceeds went toward renovations. The building was moved in 1978 across the street onto a new foundation. The total cost from 1969-1980 was approximately $30,000.00. In 1983, picnic tables, horseshoe pits and barbeques were acquired. Also, a doctor came once per week to our hall with a total of 409 patients seen. In 1986, the Cenotaph was dedicated on Remembrance Day. The Cenotaph is built from the native stone of the District. Three of our WWI headstones have been incorporated into the wall of the Cenotaph. A time capsule was also added and is to be opened on November 11th, 2036. The Branch also has a pictorial gallery of over two hundred photographs of Veterans and service personnel from our area who served their country. The Branch was very active in the Literary and Poster contest in the school. They helped support cadets from 553 Sherlock Squadron. Their participation in our Remembrance Day Services made the Veterans proud. They supported many groups with donations, such as the Veterans Affairs Hospital X-ray machine combined appeal, etc. The Branch did many things to raise funds, from turkey shoots to bingos, barbeques, reverse draws, and old-time music nights. They held Santa Day for the children, and also had a Seniors drop-in centre. On June 5th, 1987, Legion members participated at the Arrival of Prince Phillip for the dedication of a plaque to Canada Wildlife. The community has enjoyed attending the Branch’s pool and shuffleboard tournaments. Veterans buried in Simpson are remembered with Maple Leaf Grave Markers. The Branch also takes care of the Veterans’ grave markers. In September of 2000, we bought a brick in memory of Juno Beach, France. In July of 2001, Comrade President Fred McElree had the honor of presenting Comrade George Easton with the Peace Keeper’s Medal in recognition of service in the U.N. Peace Core in Egypt on the Gaza Strip. The United Nations flag was also installed in 1995 in his honor. The Simpson community has been a great support to the Branch in keeping the Legion going. The Branch members held many community events. The school has closed and the community has lost many of its people. The Legion Hall was closed as of October 2006. Remembrance Day Service will be held at the community hall and Imperial Hospital. Once again, Lilly Ellams will place the Silver Cross Mother’s Wreath. This will be her 40th year in doing so. We will close At the end of 2006, Simpson Branch 375 turned in its charter, after hosting a Christmas Party for members and friends. At that time, they had 30 members: 2 Life members, 3 Ordinary members, 20 Associate members, 3 Affiliate voting members and 2 affiliate non-voting members. All the Branch’s archives are on display at the community hall. “Lest we Forget.” SIMPSON BRANCH 375
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