As the Legion’s 100^th anniversary year continues, July 17 marks a significant date in our shared history. This month’s Branch update includes timely reminders, resources, and opportunities to help Branches mark the occasion, share the Legion’s story, support our Veteran community, and continue honouring Canada’s Fallen. Every Branch has a role to play in this historic anniversary year and in helping Canadians connect with the Legion’s century of service.

With July 17 approaching, Branches are encouraged to continue preparations to mark the Legion’s 100^th anniversary. Branches may choose to host a commemorative ceremony, hold an open house, or take part in other activities that recognize this historic milestone and connect with their communities.

As part of the national Don’t Forget to Remember initiative, Branches will soon receive a kit containing sticky notes, display materials, instructions, and return packaging. Branches are encouraged to invite members and visitors to write messages of Remembrance that will be collected and included in the national commemorative mural honouring the Fallen. Completed notes are to be returned by July 31.

Details on the initiative are available at: portal.legion.ca/centenary-2026. For questions or additional information, please contact remember@legion.ca.

A new self-running video version of our Legion history website is now available for Branches to play on TVs or display screens.

Each page is shown for approximately 30 seconds, making it an easy way to share key moments from our history with members, visitors, and the public. Branches can play the video on a loop during displays, open houses, commemorative events, or other activities.

Find this and more at: portal.legion.ca/centenary-2026

New guidance is available to help Branch Service Officers understand their role when supporting Veterans and their families with Veterans Affairs Canada disability benefits. These documents explain what Branch Service Officers can and cannot do, outline important privacy obligations, and reinforce when referrals must be made to Provincial or Dominion Command Service Officers for secure, professional support.

Amendments have been made to the General By-Laws. Please review the amendments and download the updated manual.

Royal Canadian Legion members can help honour the fallen of the Commonwealth by joining the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s National Volunteer Program. On June 1, the program launched in Quebec and New Brunswick, completing its national footprint. Volunteers are needed in Quebec, New Brunswick, and in rural communities across the country.

CWGC Volunteers visit their assigned war graves in local cemeteries twice a year to report on their condition, and if needed, perform light cleaning using approved methods. By giving a little of your time, you can help care for war graves and ensure the stories of the fallen are never forgotten.

On July 6, 1921, The Great War Veterans’ Association, the precursor to the Canadian Legion, adopts the Poppy as the symbol of Remembrance.

Download the 2026 calendar and start planning the dates and activities your Branch will promote, commemorate, celebrate or raise awareness of over the coming year.

Forward this email to your Branch Executives, Committee Members and other Members to keep them up-to-date on important updates and information.

All Branch emails are also available on the Member Services website.