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Without the women of the Canadian Legion Auxiliary, it is
doubtful that the branches would function as they do.
Since 1927, the women, many of whom were in the service during
wartime, have dedicated their time and energies in the support of
Legion branches throughout Canada, Ontario, Bruce County and their
communities.
On Saturday, May 23rd, the Paisley Legion Women's Auxiliary
celebrated its 50th Anniversary and honoured many of the women who
have given 10, 25, 40 and 50 years of service.
The role of the Auxiliary is to work as a team in providing service
to Veterans, communities and youth. "Our mission," said Joan Fenech,
Ontario Command President of the Laidies' Auxiliary, "is to assist
in many endeavours, such as the Remembrance Day Poppy Campaign, to
raise funds to provide comfort for our Veterans in hospitals and
long term care facilities and to donate money to a wide range of
communities causes such as youth track and field as well as giving
student bursaries."
The Auxiliary has seen a decline in membership over the years due to
age and a changing demographic. "Our membership may be smaller,"
said Fenech, "but if we continue to work hard together, we will
continue to make a difference."
Fenech reminisced about the years spent in camaraderie. "The younger
members wonder how we worked in the early years without all the
amenities we have today in the kitchen but, it was a time of sharing
and friendship, as it still is. We must work toward recruiting
members today so that we will continue into the future in our chosen
role of serving as we have done in the past."
Among the dignitaries were MPP Bill Murdoch and former Bruce County
Warden Ron Oswald.
Oswald said that Bruce County is fortunate in having very strong
Legion representation. "Paisley, Tara and Chesley are among the most
supported and supportive Legions in Bruce County," he said. "Chesley
recently celebrated its 80th anniversary and here we are in Paisley
celebrating their half a century of service. Congratulations." (next column)
25/05/2009 12:06 AM
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Margaret Spracklin (green) is recognized for 46 years of service
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President Marg Smith and husband Brian, Vice-President Ontario
Command
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Marj Campbell is honoured for her 50 years of
service
Aaron-Elderslie Mayor, Ron Oswald brings greetings
to President Marg Smith
MPP Bill Murdoch brings greetings from the Province
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Branch President, Diane Gottschall (L) presents
flowers to Marg Smith
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