Legion puts best foot forward to mark 90 years

By Tim Kalinowski
The Redcliff Legion commemorated 90 years of veterans and veterans’ services to the community with a solemn ceremony at the Redcliff Cenotaph in Legion Memorial Park on Saturday.
The weather was sunny, with the crisp fall air and golden leaves spread about adding greatly to the occasion.
Unfortunately community participation for the event was low, with only about a dozen non-Legion members showing up to help mark the occasion. But that did not stop Redcliff’s veterans and Legion members from putting their best foot forward to honour their fallen comrades or remember those who have come before to help build the community.
It was great to see WW2 veteran George Hope walking arm-in-arm with his wife Ruth down Third Street toward the park. And former Redcliff Legion president Al Massine, who has been battling serious health issues the past year, was also on hand for the occasion.
Eric Keane of the South Alberta Pipes and Drums led in the parade, and was in fine form on the day. Trumpeter Catherine Scott also lent her talents to the occasion. Bill Fardy acted as Sergeant-at-Arms and Legion president Dennis Rathwell served as Master of Ceremonies. Coun. Jim Steinke represented the Town of Redcliff and MLA Drew Barnes laid a wreath on behalf of the provincial government.
After the ceremony, both Legion and community members present retired to the Legion Hall for some imbibing and socializing. Celebrations concluded later in the day with a supper and dance in honour of the Legion’s 90th anniversary in Redcliff. The Sword Room was done up in festive colours for the occasion.

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