Meet a Veteran - Don Purdy
Don is a longtime member of the Royal Canadian Legion, first joining in 1973 while stationed in Winnipeg Manitoba. He was a member of the Army Reserves in 1970 while in High School in Hamilton Ontario.
He joined the Regular Force in 1972 after High School Graduation as a Mobile Support Equipment Operator (MSE Op). During his time serving he had postings CFB Winnipeg Manitoba, UNEFII Ismailia Egypt, 4 Service Battalion S&T Company Lahr Germany, CFB Detachment Vancouver & 12 Service Battalion, 4 Service Battalion S&T Company Lahr Germany and CFB Chilliwack. He retired in 1993.
He comes from a Service Family. His Grandfather was in WW1 with the Canadian Overseas Expeditionary Force and he fought in the Battle for Vimy Ridge. His Dad was with the West Nova Scotia Highlanders in WW2 and was part of the forces that landed in Normandy. His Dad was wounded in action while fighting in Belgium.
Don was a member of the Legion in Winnipeg, Lahr Germany and Vancouver. Don rejoined RCL Branch 88 in 2018. He also joined the Colour Party and Honour Guard. He was appointed Sergeant at Arms of the Maple Ridge Legion in 2023.
Don Officially Retired as a Professional Driver in 2022 after 52 yeas. Now that he is Retired, he likes to Read, Travel, Hike and Swim.
On 18th September 2024, Branch 88 will be hosting our annual dinner to honour Veterans.
On Saturday June 4th members of the RCL Branch 88 had the pleasure of attending the 15th Ceremonial Review of the 354 RCSCC Invincible Sea Cadets. Following the General Salute, the Inspection of the Guard and Ships Company, there was a March Past complete with band.
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There were also several displays made by the Cadets, and on display was this cougar skin that is part of the traditional ceremonial uniform worn by the base drummer. This cougar was the last one legally shot in Maple Ridge. Unfortunately the skin is large, and the cadets are not so tall, it’s also very hot to wear so it isn’t usually worn now.
I have been a Member of Legion 88 since 2009. I went to the first meeting in January to pledge my allegiance to the Legion. I stayed for that first meeting and saw how the Legion was run.