In this time leading up to Remembrance Day, the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 188 will be carrying on with some traditions that have long been in place. However, the Legion has also found it necessary to make some changes this year due to COVID-19.
As of October 30, their poppy boxes have been put out in local stores. On November 6 and 7, Legion members will be in some stores distributing poppies. Strict social distancing protocol will be observed. Branch masks and poppy bracelets can be purchased as well. As in past years, public support in this campaign is vital.
The Legion will not be holding their annual parade, however. And while they will be available to assist in any school services where they are asked to do so, the Legion will not be taking part in any of those services.
On November 11, at about 10:55 a.m. the Legion will hold a modified version of the traditional ceremony. Wreaths can still be purchased by people and businesses, as in past years. And the wreaths can still be placed for loved ones or organizations.
But this year, those wreaths will have already been placed on the cenotaph ahead of time. Names will be read out as has been done in past ceremonies. However the Legion asks that people come to view them after the ceremony has concluded, and at a later time through the day.
The Legion branch, as well as levels of government and municipal services like police and fire departments will be placing wreaths during the ceremony. But instead of a parade going to the cenotaph, officers will be paraded to their posts. Because of restrictions for safety’s sake, no cadets or school band will be present at the ceremony.
No one will be allowed into the building other than to use the facilities and there will be no gathering after the ceremony. Only 50 people are permitted inside the branch at a time.
The annual dinner has also been cancelled.
“We are strongly encouraging the public to observe remembrance at home or work this year since we are only allowed 100 people outside per the WECHU. We are hoping to be able to live stream the ceremony over various social media platforms,” President Lynne Crawford told the Kingsville Times.
“We are working as hard as possible to make this a memorable day, as always, and hope that our veterans and community will understand and accept the changes that have been made.”
The Royal Canadian Legion, Kingsville Branch 188 is located at 145 Division Road South, Kingsville.
Legion phone number: (519) 733-5162
Source:
Email interview by Leslie Gontarde with Lynne Crawford, President of Royal Canadian Legion, Kingsville Branch 188
Photos of Legion and Cenotaph provided by Lynne Crawford