Photo from the Royal Canadian Legion / Facebook

The Royal Canadian Legion is marking its 100th anniversary in 2026 by offering free membership to all new members who join this year. They will become part of an organization whose primary mission is to serve veterans and their families.

“We are so proud of this organization and its members and thrilled at the prospect of welcoming new members from all parts of Canada to our ranks during our centenary year, many of whom we hope will be with us for a long time to come,” says Berkley Lawrence, Dominion President. “Among them will be great volunteers, fresh ideas, and all of them will truly strengthen our dedicated and growing membership of over 270,000 people.”

Founded in the aftermath of the First World War and incorporated in 1926, the Legion continues to advocate for Veterans and their families, act as a guardian of Remembrance, and contribute to communities across Canada. Queen Elizabeth II granted the Legion the word “Royal” in 1960, and Canada’s Governor General remains the viceregal patron of the organization.

Over the decades, the Legion has provided support during two World Wars, other major military operations, peacekeeping missions, and national crises, including the recent global pandemic. Millions of Canadians have been affected by the organization’s programs and services, with members and volunteers playing a key role in its ongoing work.

Throughout the year, the Legion will hold special events at the national, provincial, and local levels, and will announce new projects that will mark its entry into the next century. The Legion’s official anniversary on July 17, 2026, will also be highlighted with events in Ottawa and across the country.

Locally, Cold Lake Royal Canadian Legion Branch 211 continues this tradition of service and community involvement. The branch is located at 1007 7th Avenue and welcomes both new and returning members. For details on events, activities, and how to join, visit their Facebook page at facebook.com/coldlakelegion.