Veterans honoured at Legion luncheon

Jun 28, 2016 | 12:48 PM

KAMLOOPS — Veterans and their families in Kamloops, were honoured at a special luncheon Tuesday afternoon. 

Soup, sandwiches and drinks were on the menu at the Royal Canada Legion’s annual lunch at the Kamloops branch downtown. Veterans representing 3 wars and other peacekeeping missions were recognized for the sacrifices they have made.  

“Well it’s just a recognition to give thanks to our veterans, they run from anywhere from Second World War all the way up to our peacekeeping and right up to Afghanistan, and in some cases members of the armed services or the RCMP, they’re all considered veterans and it’s just a thank you on behalf of Branch 52,” says Clarence Schneider, Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 52.

Many of the veterans joined the army reserves as teenagers, and have fought overseas on more than one tour. Today was a chance for these men and women to sit back with friends, and reflect and exchange stories. 

“It’s pretty nice to have the new veterans remembered for what they’ve done, and it’s nice to come and hang out with the older guys too, to hear their war stories.”

“The honour was mine to serve my country, to come and meet people who did the same is a lot of fun, I’m a member of the Legion so I get to come here every Thursday and put on our helmets and talk army stories,” says Howard Hewlett, Veteran.