The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #122 marks its 95th year in the community in 2026—a milestone that reflects nearly a century of service, remembrance, and unwavering commitment to veterans, military personnel, Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) members, and the people of Golden. What began as a gathering place for those returning from war has grown into one of the community’s most enduring pillars, offering support, connection, and a sense of belonging across generations.
The Legion’s core mission has always been to support those who have served—whether in the Canadian Armed Forces, as peacekeepers abroad, or as RCMP members working in communities across the country. Betty Watson, a retired RCMP member, has been volunteering at the Legion for three years. She emphasizes that this mandate remains as vital today as it was 95 years ago.
“We still have military personnel who are sent overseas, peacekeepers, paramilitary, RCMP who do peacekeeping in other countries, in and outside of Canada,” she says. “The Legion is here to support them.”
This support includes emotional connection, a place to gather, and the reassurance that their service is honoured and remembered.
While the Legion’s roots lie in supporting veterans, its branches reach deeply into the broader community—especially its young people. Watson explains that youth engagement is a priority because it helps pass down the values of remembrance, service, and community responsibility.
Over the last few years, the Golden Legion has contributed to Golden’s youth through bursaries and supporting sports activities and more. Their contributions reflect their commitment to supporting the community and cultivating youth engagement. In 2024, $10,000 was donated to local bursaries, sports clubs, and the Golden Food Bank; In 2025, $6,000 was donated, and in 2026 (to date), $4,560 has been donated.
“We are doing well,” Watson says.
Funds help youth pursue education, participate in sports, and access essential community services. The Legion also supports local cadets, helping nurture leadership, discipline, and civic engagement in the next generation.
Each fall, the Legion’s annual poppy campaign becomes a community-wide effort to honour those lost in war and raise funds that keep the Legion’s doors open. Last year, the branch introduced a Remembrance Day poster competition in local schools, inviting youth to create artwork that reflects the meaning of remembrance.
“These types of activities help teach the importance of what the Legion does,” Watson says. “We want to pass down the mission.”
The Golden Legion is more than an organization—it’s a social hub, a place to gather, connect, and belong. After relocating and renovating its space, the branch has become a lively venue where people of all ages can gather. Regular activities include Meat draws and raffles, drop-in crib and other games, seasonal viewing of curling in winter and skateboarding in summer; snacks and beverages, with proceeds supporting community donations.
“We want to get people in the door,” Watson says. “You don’t have to be a member to come to the Legion.”
The branch is also working toward installing a kitchen to expand food services and enhance its role as a community gathering place.
Ed Coon, who has served as president for several years and has been involved with the Legion for 24 years, brings a deeply personal connection to the role. Many of his family members served in the military, and although he did not serve himself, he was inspired to join after discovering his father’s discharge papers.
Today, he helps lead a membership of more than 100 people—each contributing to the Legion’s mission of remembrance, support, and community service.
The Golden Legion’s importance extends far beyond its walls. It is a guardian of remembrance; a support system for veterans, military families, and RCMP members; a champion for youth; a social anchor that brings people together; a fundraiser that reinvests directly into the community.
As the branch celebrates 95 years, its legacy is clear: the Legion has shaped Golden’s identity, strengthened its social fabric, and ensured that the sacrifices of those who served are never forgotten.
And with its ongoing programs, youth engagement, and community spirit, the Golden Legion continues to build a future as meaningful as its past.
For more pics and information on what the Legion has been up to, check out their Facebook page.
