Every year the Legion hosts a dinner to remind us that an essential part of Remembrance Day is thanking our veterans for their service and efforts.

On Saturday evening, 45 guests were in attendance for the first remembrance dinner since 2019, featuring food, friends and a unique guest speaker.

“Every year, we invite veterans and supporters of the Legion to come and have dinner with us,” said branch president Al Howse. 

“Many of the people here have particular memories of a fallen grandfather or father.”

Before dinner began, the night started with introductions, an opening ceremony, O Canada and a blessing. 

For dinner, guests enjoyed a caesar salad, short ribs, gnocchi, fall vegetables, mini tarts and a big cake for dessert. 

The meal was free to all veterans as well as any caregivers who attended with them. For all others, the cost was $20, which was simply to cover the cost of the meal. 

“We aren’t making any money from this particular activity. It’s just a social time to gather and have good conversations,” said Howse. 

Following the meal, guest speaker Ron Dale, a regular Lake Report contributor, shared stories about some of those whose names are listed on the town’s cenotaphs. 

His ongoing series, The Monuments Men, appears weekly in The Lake Report and tells the story of everyone commemorated on the war memorials.

The evening gave NOTLers a chance to share memories and connect with each other over why the Legion exists and what Remembrance Day is all about. 

Retired Lt.-Col. Doug Johnson, the branch’s sergeant-at-arms, especially enjoyed the conversation.

“It was a great night! I sat across from a young fella who was a commanding officer for the air cadets, so we got talking,” said Johnson. “It brought back all kinds of memories. It was really fun.”

Johnson also liked the dessert.

“The cake was pretty good. I was surprised when the lemon popped in.”