Smithers Legion Branch 63 unveiled a brand-new painted crosswalk on Friday to celebrate the Royal Canadian Legion’s centennial.
The new veterans crosswalk is located on First Avenue at the Main Street intersection.
“We are also gathered not just to unveil a new piece of infrastructure on our street, but to reveal a lasting symbol of our community’s gratitude and remembrance,” said president Kristal Grenkie.
At the event, the official first crossing of the crosswalk was held with local Legion lifetime members, veterans, and other currently serving members joining.
Several community members attended the event, along with elected officials.
“To me, a 100th anniversary of anything is a very significant event and every time I go to Remembrance Day festivities in town, I’m always amazed at the sacrifices made for my generation and the generations after me,” said Coun. John Buikema.
Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako Electoral Area A director Stoney Stoltenberg also attended.
“It is rather historic in that the legion started after the First World War, continued through the Second World War, Korean War, and various different battle fronts around the world since then,” he said.
“We need to pay tribute to the people who didn’t come home, and to the people who survived.”
Stoltenberg added that as a veteran himself, he thought the crosswalk was a positive addition to the community.
Bulkley Valley-Stikine MLA Sharon Hartwell said, “When you’ve had family and friends that have been involved in either the First and/or Second World War, this is quite a tribute and long overdue.”
She added she was glad to participate in the event and honour veterans.
“Not only are we recognizing those that served in different World Wars, but also those serving right now, and we’re talking about the history of Canada,” said Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Ellis Ross.
“I think the sacrifice has got to be acknowledged by the generation of today, and tomorrow because Canada wouldn’t be what it is if it wasn’t for these brave people that served in wars,” he added.
Following the unveiling, a barbecue was held at the Legion along with a toonie auction.
Pleasant Valley Legion Branch 249 in Houston held a steak and prawn dinner Friday evening, followed by a community barbecue on Saturday to celebrate the centennial.
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