Legion Members celebrated with annual awards ceremony

The Estevan Legion held their annual awards this weekend to celebrate long-time members and exemplary service.  

Frosty Forest, a member of the Estevan Legion said that the awards are a way to recognize the people who have contributed and served the Legion and community. The ceremony featured Craig Bird, who talked about the battle of Vimy Ridge which celebrated its anniversary on Saturday. During the awards, legion members are awarded based on years of service in 5-year increments. 

“This was my 50th year in the Legion. We had a couple of 45-year ones. Then we give all other awards that just go above and beyond the call,” said Forest.  

Quentin Dosch was presented with Legionnaire of the Year. “Quentin Dosch has been looking after our housing maintenance program and made some good improvements and repaired stuff in the buildings and was on top of stuff and just spent countless hours of it, so we honoured him with the Legionnaire of the Year Award.” 

Mel Murray was honoured with a lifetime membership. “Mel's been a member for 42 years and he's the guy that's down here at 4:00 in the morning shoveling the snow. He calls our Bingo for us. He's instrumental in making our truck raffle a success every year, so it was really, really important to recognize that service,” said Forest.  

Marlys Collins was awarded a certificate of merit for her ongoing contributions to the flower beds at the soldier's tree. 

Floyd Vincent and Suzie Woods also received a certificate of merit for their contributions over the past two years. 

Tom Woodhouse (not pictured) was awarded with a certificate of appreciation. Woodhouse was instrumental in the removal of snow at the cenotaph and the soldier tree.  The award was accepted by Heather Woodhouse. 

He added that the evening featured a good meal and was filled with camaraderie. “Just really an enjoyable evening, and it’s something very important to us to recognize the people that serve.” 

The additional award winners are listed below: 

The Estevan branch of the Royal Canadian Legion has been in operation since 1926.