Important Dates & Remembrance
Throughout the year, there are moments that invite us to pause, reflect, and remember.
At Branch 44, these dates represent more than history—they are opportunities to honour service, recognize sacrifice, and keep remembrance active within our community. We share these moments not only in reflection, but through continued support for veterans and their families.
Key Dates We Observe:
January
January 24 – First Legion Dominion Convention, Winnipeg (1927)
A significant moment in Legion history, marking the early formation and national organization of the Legion.
February
February 15 – National Flag of Canada Day (1965)
Celebrating the symbol of our nation and the unity it represents.
February 28 – Gulf War Ends (1991)
Recognizing the service of Canadian Armed Forces members during the Gulf War.
April
April 1 – Royal Canadian Air Force Founded (1924)
Honouring the history and contributions of Canada’s air force.
April 4 – NATO Accord Signed (1949)
Marking Canada’s role in international cooperation and collective defence.
April 9 – Battle of Vimy Ridge (1917)
A defining moment in Canadian history. Legion flags are lowered to half-mast in remembrance.
May
First Sunday in May – Battle of the Atlantic (1945)
Honouring those who served in the longest continuous campaign of the Second World War.
May 3 – John McCrae wrote In Flanders Fields (1915)
Remembering the poem that became a lasting symbol of remembrance.
May 4 – Royal Canadian Navy Founded (1910)
Recognizing the service and history of Canada’s navy.
May 5 – Liberation of the Netherlands (1945)
Honouring the role of Canadian forces in the liberation of the Dutch people.
May 8 – Victory in Europe Day (1945)
Marking the end of the Second World War in Europe.
May 19 – Canadian Army Founded (1855)
Recognizing the long-standing service of Canada’s army.
May 21 – National War Memorial Unveiled (1939)
Honouring the significance of Canada’s national place of remembrance.
May 28 – Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (2000)
A symbol of all Canadians who have served and sacrificed without recognition.
June
June 6 – Normandy Invasion (D-Day) (1944)
Commemorating the Allied invasion that helped turn the tide of the Second World War.
July
July 1 – Canada Day
Celebrating our country and reflecting on the freedoms we enjoy.
July 17 – Legion’s 100th Anniversary (1926)
Recognizing a century of service, advocacy, and remembrance.
July 27 – Korean War Armistice (1953)
Marking the ceasefire that brought active conflict to an end.
August
August 8 – Canadian Peacekeepers’ Day
Honouring Canada’s role in international peacekeeping efforts.
August 15 – Victory over Japan Day (1945)
Marking the end of the Second World War.
September
September 2 – Second World War Ends (1945)
Reflecting on the conclusion of a global conflict.
September 21 – International Day of Peace
A reminder of the importance of peace and the role we all play in maintaining it.
October
Last Friday in October – Start of the Poppy Campaign
The beginning of the Royal Canadian Legion’s annual campaign supporting veterans and remembrance initiatives.
November
November 11 – Remembrance Day / Armistice Day (1918)
Honouring all who have served and sacrificed for our country.
Lest we forget.
November 30 – John McCrae’s Birthday (1872)
Remembering the author of In Flanders Fields and his lasting contribution to remembrance.