By Jill Hayward
The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 242 in Barriere celebrated their 65th anniversary on Saturday, June 2, with many members, guests, and dignitaries attending.
Dignitaries included Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo MP Cathy McLeod, Kamloops North Thompson MLA Peter Milobar, District of Barriere Acting Mayor and Councillor Pat Paula, and Thompson Nicola Regional District (TNRD) Director for Area “0” Bill Kershaw.
Veteran Keith Moore, upon entering the Legion Hall, received a standing ovation from all those in attendance as he is the last remaining charter member of Branch 242. Moore was seated at the head table and recognized for his contributions in helping to get the Legion in Barriere started and for consistently participating over the past 65 years in the organization, many times serving as president or on the executive.
The Branch received their Charter on Feb. 3, 1953, and Moore is the only one of 43 original members left.
During the celebration, a letter was read from Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau congratulating the Legion on their 65 year milestone.
After a great dinner, recognitions and congratulations to Branch 242 took place. MP Cathy Mcleod presented a plaque to the Legion with Branch 242 president Glenn Reid accepting. Area MLA Peter Milobar congratulated the Branch and also made a presentation. Bill Kershaw presented on behalf of the TNRD, and Frank Gordon made a presentation on behalf of the Barriere Lions Club.
A thank you was extended to all who helped and attended, and a special thank you was given to Eileen Miers for all her hard work on the event.
“Without Eileen this wouldn’t have happened,” commented Reid.
Special thanks were also given to the North Thompson Star/Journal for the media coverage and the special edition feature in the newspaper. Denise Howe was thanked for putting on the dinner, and the Rocky Mountain Cadets for serving and cleaning up the event.
“A final big thank you to all the others who helped and all those who supported our 65th Anniversary of the Barriere Legion Branch 242,” said Reid.
