Two crosswalks to see dedication to Royal Canadian Legion

By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 10 in Strathmore presented as a delegation before Town of Strathmore council, Dec. 4, to petition for a crosswalk to be dedicated for the centennial of the Royal Canadian Legion in Canada. 

“We are endeavoring to do everything we can to make ourselves and our duty and our role with the community as enhanced as possible,” said Donovan Arnaud, president of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 10. 

The crosswalks in question would be located at the intersection of Second Ave. and Third Street, suggested to be painted in the Legion’s colours, being white and red. These would be the crosswalks on the south and west sides of the intersection adjacent to the Legion building.

Also included in the suggested design would be the words “Lest We Forget,” as well as a stylized silhouette of a soldier. 

“I like the idea of recognizing and paying tribute to the veterans in our community and having some sort of a remembrance for the people in our community,” said Coun. Jason Montgomery. 

Coun. Richard Wegener was also on board.

“I do agree that we have to show honour to the veterans and what made this country what it is today. The thing I like about this is that we are under the understanding that the Legion assumes responsibility for both the initial costs and upkeep which is great,” said Coun. Wegener. 

Wegener also asked for a clarification regarding the duration suggested for the crosswalks to be painted.

Arnaud clarified to council it is the intent of the Legion to have the crosswalks be painted and upkept in their colours indefinitely. 

“I really appreciate all that you have brought to our community over 100 years – it is remarkable what you have done and in light of the fact that Strathmore is the only community in Canada where every able-bodied man signed up to fight in WWI, it is a remarkable thing that I have always found touching and humbling,” said Coun. Denise Peterson. “I think that this is a wonderful addition to our community. I think that it will bring awareness especially to younger people, I think it will be a really good thing. I think that it could act also as a mechanism to boost membership within the Legion.”

Immediately following her statement, she motioned for council to direct administration to bring information and proposal to council at the next, most appropriate meeting regarding the subject.

Council voted unanimously in favour to pass the motion following discussion. It was not specified exactly when the matter would be returned before council with a report.