Goderich Legion Branch 109 celebrates a century of service, remembrance and community

By: Kathleen Smith

Founded in 1926 following the First World War, the Royal Canadian Legion was born through the amalgamation of several veterans’ organisations.

Royal Canadian Legion Branch 109 in Goderich was officially chartered in 1926.

It served as an organisation to welcome home veterans returning from war, including the Second World War and provided a place of camaraderie, remembrance and support.

Over the past 10 decades, Branch 109 grew alongside the Goderich community and what began as a place for veterans to gather has evolved into a vibrant community space that welcomes everyone while honouring and supporting veterans.

Throughout its history, Branch 109 has remained committed to preserving remembrance traditions through annual ceremonies, educational initiatives and support of local schools and youth programs.

“Most importantly, Branch 109 strives to provide a welcoming space where friendships are built, volunteers make a difference, and community connections continue to grow,” said President Randy Carroll.

“Today, the Legion remains a place where generations come together, honouring the past while building connections for the future.”

Branch 109 supports the community in countless ways including annual Remembrance Day ceremonies, advocacy for veterans and their families, financial support for local initiatives, youth programs and scholarships, fundraising events, programming for seniors, weekly social activities, Café 109, support for local charities and service clubs and partnerships with businesses and organisations throughout Huron County.

In a message from President Randy Carroll, he explains that for generations Branch 109 has stood as more than a building, but also a place of remembrance, fellowship, service and community.

Carroll says this anniversary gives the community the opportunity to look back with pride on the stories, photographs, milestones and memories that have carried Branch 109 forward through the decades.

“Every event held, every poppy distributed, every veteran supported, every volunteer hour given, and every act of kindness has added another chapter to the legacy of Branch 109,” explained Carroll.

To commemorate this historic milestone, Branch 109 will host its ‘We’ll Meet Again’ Centenary Gala on Friday, July 17.

The Legion will be transformed into a 1940s wartime dance hall, complete with live swing music by the Lighthouse Swing Band Orchestra.

Vintage vehicles, historical displays, period-inspired décor will assist with the Legion celebrating the people who shaped Branch 109 over the past century.

The event aims to honour not only veterans, but volunteers, members and community supporters who helped make Branch 109 what it is today.

Celebrations are also for the 100th anniversary of The Royal Canadian Legion. Branch 109 has proudly carried that mission forward, rooted in the values of service, remembrance and community.

From Branch 109’s members, to Ladies Auxiliary, volunteers, staff, community partners and supporters, the dedication over the past 10 decades has allowed Branch 109 to preserve its traditions while growing and adapting for the future.

“As President, I am proud of what this Branch has accomplished, but I am even more excited about what lies ahead,” added Carroll.

“Our responsibility is to ensure that the sacrifices of the past are never forgotten, and that our veterans continue to be supported and that Branch 109 remains a strong and welcoming part of the Goderich community for generations to come.”

The Centenary Gala ‘We’ll Meet Again’ is on Friday, July 17 and will include a champagne reception, cocktail hour by Part II Bistro, professional reception photography, Lighthouse Swing Band Orchestra, dancing until midnight, and Second World Was displays.

For more information follow Goderich Legion on Facebook, or email goderichlegion@gmail.com