Canadians can now commemorate a century of service by The Royal Canadian Legion through a newly released Canada Post stamp marking the organization’s 100th anniversary.<\/p>\n
The stamp was officially issued July 17 and recognizes the Legion’s long-standing role supporting veterans, military families and remembrance initiatives across the country.<\/p>\n
Canada Post said the issue celebrates the Legion’s “enduring legacy and its continued role in Canadian life.”<\/p>\n
A century of service to veterans<\/p>\n
The Royal Canadian Legion was established on July 17, 1926, when several veterans’ organizations joined together through an Act of Parliament to form the Canadian Legion of the British Empire Service League.<\/p>\n
The organization was created following the First World War, as veterans sought stronger advocacy, improved support services and recognition of the sacrifices made by those who served.<\/p>\n
In 1961, the organization adopted its current name, The Royal Canadian Legion.<\/p>\n
Continuing a legacy of remembrance<\/p>\n
Today, the Legion remains one of Canada’s best-known veterans organizations, operating approximately 1,350 branches nationwide.<\/p>\n
Among its most recognizable initiatives is the National Poppy Campaign, which raises funds to assist veterans and their families while promoting remembrance leading up to Remembrance Day each year.<\/p>\n
For readers in southeast Saskatchewan, the milestone highlights the work local Legion branches continue to carry out through community events, support programs and remembrance services.<\/p>\n
Details of the commemorative stamp<\/p>\n
The stamp features The Royal Canadian Legion’s banner alongside the dates 1926-2026 and the words “100 Years.”<\/p>\n
It was designed by Blair Thomson of Believe in, using photography by Jo Thomson, and printed by Colour Innovations.<\/p>\n
The stamp issue includes a booklet of six Permanent domestic-rate stamps as well as an Official First Day Cover cancelled in Ottawa, home of the Legion’s national headquarters.<\/p>\n
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Why the anniversary matters<\/p>\n
The anniversary serves as a reminder of the Legion’s ongoing role in supporting those who served in Canada’s military.<\/p>\n
While the organization’s membership has faced challenges seen by many volunteer-based groups across the country, the Legion continues to be a key voice for veterans and a focal point for remembrance activities in communities large and small.<\/p>\n
Canada Post said the commemorative stamp honours both the organization’s history and its continued commitment to veterans, their families and Canadian communities.<\/p>\n
The stamps and Official First Day Cover became available July 17 through Canada Post retail outlets and online at canadapost.ca, giving collectors, Legion members and supporters a chance to mark the organization’s centennial year.<\/p>\n
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