The Hawkesbury Royal Canadian Legion Branch 472 confirmed that there will be no official ceremonies or parades or luncheons for this year’s Remembrance Day on November 11. The decision was made to respect the provincial pandemic protection guidelines against large gatherings.

Instead, the Legion will arrange placement of wreathes on each of the municipal cenotaphs in Hawkesbury, Vankleek Hill, L’Orignal, and in Alfred on November 11. Anyone who wishes to place their own wreath or leave a Legion poppy on the cenotaph may do so on their own initiative but they are asked to observe the social distancing guidelines and also wear a mask if they see anyone else at or near a cenotaph.

On November 11 the Hawkesbury Legion branch club room will be open at noon for Legion members only to receive and honour all veterans. Social distancing guidelines will be in force.

The annual Legion Poppy Campaign has begun. There are poppy donation boxes at some stores and restaurant outlets. The Legion is also taking orders of Remembrance Day wreaths by email to poppychair472@gmail.com. Details on the size and cost of a wreath are also available through that email address.

The annual Poppy Campaign is a major fundraiser for the Legion to maintain its aid fund for veterans and their families. Anyone who wishes to donate to the campaign can do so by e-transfer to treasurer472@gmail.com.