The Royal Canadian Legion, Truro branch, is hosting the 52nd Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command biennial convention, which expects to attract about 200 registered delegates from the province and Nunavut on May 16 to 18.
"This is a really big event and is very advantageous for this branch to hold. It brings a lot of commerce to town and the county," said Ron Trowsdale, president of the Nova Scotia Nunavut Command.
"The purpose is for Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command to set its business strategy, policies and agenda for the next two years and elect new officers for 2015-2017," explained Trowsdale of the event that brings delegates from 106 legion branches throughout Nova Scotia and Nunavut.
Guests will also come from New Brunswick and PEI.
"It brings together a large number of legion numbers ... for comradeship and direction and it's one of the biggest events that comes to town so we want the public to know about
it."
One of the main topics to be covered at the convention is setting policies on "how to better serve" veterans and youth in the various communities, said Trowsdale.
Increasing memberships in legions is expected to be another highlight.
"Membership is declining because of a loss of our Second World War and Korean veterans," said Murray Dawson, the local convention arrangements chairman.
"We need to find new ways to revitalize our membership and volunteers; we need to find ways to bring in families" to the legion, which is "self-sustaining and not for profit."
The gathering will also bring awareness to veterans and youth programs as well as showcase this town, added Gerry Tucker, president of the Truro legion.
"Visitors will stay at local hotels ... and they will learn about local groups, organizations and services. I think this is big for the town," said Tucker.
The men hope residents will support the initiative by attending the public opening ceremonies on Sunday. A parade to the Cenotaph will begin at 9 a.m. and go from Victoria and Young streets to the Cenotaph on Prince Street. The parade will be followed by a brief wreath-laying ceremony.
"We would really appreciate the public coming out to see our parade," said Trowsdale, adding if there is inclement weather, the march will be cancelled and the wreaths will be laid inside the legion.
A more formal meeting for members will continue at 10:30 a.m. in the legion.
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