The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 254

When we lived on New Street , Dad  and Mum , who were both veterans of WWII , were able to become actively involved in the Legion . Through our whole childhood , the Legion was ever present (next to the CPR).

Many people frowned on the place thinking it to be just an excuse for veterans to get together , talk war and drink . Yes - it was that sometimes and some vets drank more than others . But , there was no real support for soldiers returning from war . They suffered all the symtoms of what now is called Post Traumatic Stress Disorder . Many ended up in the veteran's hospital far from home or in the OH (Ontario Hospital) near North Bay- husks of the viable seeds they once were . Getting together was their group therapy and 'beer tears' simply a coping method .