Veterans’ Week in Canada runs from Nov. 5 to 11, inviting all Canadians to pause and reflect. It’s a time set aside to honour the courageous individuals who have served our nation throughout history.
In Stonewall, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 52 kicked off the week with its annual Veterans’ Dinner — a cherished event that serves as both tribute and reminder that every person who has served deserves recognition and appreciation. Last Saturday, community members gathered in solidarity and respect for those who have donned the uniform.
Branch 52 president Ken Power welcomed guests and introduced the Colour Party, led by sergeant-at-arms Howard Hilstrom. Following the Last Post and a moment of silence to honour fallen comrades from land, sea and air, guests were introduced to veterans, widows and branch executives before enjoying a roast-beef dinner served by legion volunteers.
Power acknowledged Ivannia and Paul Pelletier for maintaining the flowerbeds surrounding the legion and Emmy Byle and her crew for crafting the striking poppy nettings that decorate the hall.
Local representatives — Selkirk–Interlake–Eastman MP James Bezan, Lakeside MLA Trevor King, Rockwood Reeve Wes Taplin, Rosser Coun. Angela Emms and Stonewall Mayor Sandra Smith — expressed gratitude for those who have put their lives on the line.
Bezan, the Conservative shadow minister for national defence, said the event holds a special place in his heart.
“It is the most important time for us to pay tribute and give thanks to those who serve and who have served. There is no question that our freedom and our rights have been protected and enforced around the world,” he said.
“Canada’s contributions to peacekeeping and standing up against terrorists are because of those great women and men who put on a uniform to defend those who cannot defend themselves. Thank you to every one of you who puts on a uniform and serves our communities and our country.”
He also thanked families of those who serve.
“Thank you for sharing your loved ones with us to make us a better nation,” he said. “Every time the doors of this legion are open, it’s a chance for us to connect with those who have served.”
King thanked the legion for providing a welcoming space and for helping younger generations understand the sacrifices that protect their freedoms.
Taplin noted that the annual dinner not only brings the community together but also honours those whose courage and resilience continue to inspire others.
On behalf of the RM of Rosser, Emms expressed gratitude to those who served and reminded guests that remembrance extends beyond Nov. 11, living in the peace and respect Canadians uphold daily.
Smith thanked veterans and widows for their service and sacrifice. Having had family members serve in both world wars, she said she understands the effects first-hand.
“An uncle who was deeply affected by his experience had PTSD, and it wasn’t something that was talked about,” she said. “It is so important that when family members come back from service, we are there to support them. We need to do what we can to support them when they return because they have sacrificed so much.”
Newly appointed Manitoba District 5 Commander Janet Raymond said she was honoured to attend the dinner.
“This dinner is more than a meal. It’s a moment to pause, reflect and thank the veterans who have given so much in service to our country,” she said. “Your courage, your sacrifice and your continued presence in our communities are deeply valued. We see you; we honour you.”
Spiritual leader Rev. Mona Denton read two scriptures and extended her appreciation to veterans and their families. She reflected on how war touches all aspects of life, noting that more than 500 major-league and 4,000 minor-league baseball players served during the Second World War.
“It reminds us how much of day-to-day life was affected by the war effort,” she said. “As wars rage around the world still, remember not only the loss of life but the loss of human potential, too.”
Denton added that as Second World War veterans become fewer, their stories must continue to be shared.
“In our video-driven and digital world, it’s too easy not to experience the human tragedy of war. May it never seem distant to us as we share the stories of sacrifice we know.”
Following the formalities, guests moved into the clubroom where a band provided entertainment for the remainder of the evening.
A Remembrance Day service will take place at the Stonewall Legion on Tuesday, Nov. 11. Doors open at 10 a.m., with the service beginning at 10:45 a.m., followed by a light lunch. All are welcome to attend and honour Canada’s heroes.
