Veterans' Week begins this week and it is time taken to recognize the contribution of a diverse group of veterans that have served our country.  Service Officer with The Royal Canadian Legion, Debra Mayfield- Russell explains, "Veteran’s week is from Nov 5th to Nov 11th and throughout that week it is to recognize the service of those who have contributed their time and effort to this nation. To clarify what a veteran is in the terms of the Veteran’s Affairs Canada and the Royal Canadian Legion; a veteran is somebody who has served or is serving with distinction and they can be regular force or reserves. Members of the RCMP or the Peace officers who have served in special operations under the UN or NATO, and of course the Merchant Navy which dates to the Second World War.”  

Cochrane is home to a number of veterans as Mayfield-Russell points out, "In our community alone, there are several individuals that have served in various operations and we still have some individuals who have actually lived through the 2nd world war and then have served with Canada in the military. We have numerous RCMP officers who have retired from service or are still active and we have a large reserve community."   

Mayfield-Russell explains as Service Officer with the Royal Canadian Legion, it is her job to ensure, "That the needs of veterans are taken care of. That they are directed to the proper resources as they need be." If you are a veteran that needs help whether it be financial supports, medical support, or any other need you are invited to contact Service Officer Debra Mayfield-Russel through the Cochrane Legion or email at serviceoffrcochranelegion@gmail.com.  

Royal Canadian Legion Branch 15 in Cochrane invites veterans and their spouses or partners to a Veterans' Social which will be held at the Cochrane Legion on Nov 9th. The evening starts at 5:30 and a ham and scallop potato dinner will be served free of charge however a donation to the poppy campaign will be gratefully accepted. Space is limited so you are encouraged to pre-register early. You can do so by dropping into the Cochrane Legion where there is a sign-up sheet.  To access Cochrane Legion website, click here.