There's been a changing of the guard at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 183
Members of the board elected a new president and vice-president during their Dec. 13 meeting.
“Every two years we need to elect a president and vice-president. With our previous president moving to Victoria, B.C., we needed a new one. Fortunately, we had enough people decide to step up and run,” explained Bonnyville legion manager Duane Hite.
Previous president Ron Fox will return for a second term, while long-time legion advocate Jamie Beaupre will take over the role of vice-president.
Fox brings experience both as a retired military captain, and in the role he'll once again fill. He's also spent time with the provincial and federal legion, making him a prime candidate.
“I think they're both going to do a heck of a job for the legion. Ron is a retired captain. He's been away from the position for a few years now, but took the initiative and stood for president.We couldn't be happier to have him,” detailed Hite.
Originally, there was concern with the lack of candidates coming forward to take on the role. According to Hite, there was a real possibility the branch would shut down if they couldn't find willing candidates.
When Fox heard the legion was in need, he decided to come out of retirement for at least the next two years.
“The legion performs a very important part in our community. They keep in touch with veteran affairs, coordinate the town's Remembrance Day ceremony, and support community initiatives,” said Fox. “I just had this strong sense of community. I have a history with the legion and we wanted to keep it vibrant, functioning, and performing its purpose in the community.”
While Beaupre hasn't served himself, he's been a strong voice for the legion due to his family's history in the military. He'll use the term to learn all he can from Fox, before eventually taking over the role of president.
“Jamie's father and grandfather served. He stands behind the legion and is forever trying to get people to support us. He'll be able to learn and gain experience for the next two years before he has to take over as president,” said Hite.
Despite filling their vacant positions, the legion would still like to see increased membership in 2018. Fox and the board will continue to work diligently to get the message out, in an effort to strengthen ties with the community.
“We have to ensure the viability of the branch. It's important to have a legion branch operating well within the community. I think that has to be our biggest focus going forward,” expressed Fox.
