Haliburton Legion president Mike Waller has issued a rallying cry to the Highlands community, calling on people to show their love and support for local veterans at an upcoming weekend tradition.
The legion is hosting its annual Remembrance dinner this Sunday (Nov. 8), with Waller saying it’s the perfect opportunity for those not able to attend a service on Nov. 11 to still pay their respects.
“This is a special night – it’s a small way of honouring and giving back to the people who served, because, if it wasn’t for them, we wouldn’t be here doing what we’re able to do today,” Waller said. “It’s just a way we can show our appreciation.”
Tickets are $40, which gets you a roast beef dinner with all the fixings. There will be live music by Bill Candy and speeches from MP Jamie Schmale and a Dysart et al council representative. While Waller won the Ward 2 seat in last month’s election, he won’t be sworn in until later this month – so it won’t come from him. Doors open at 4 p.m., with dinner served at 5 p.m.
Waller said he’s expecting 30-40 veterans to attend, with a spouse or guest – with all eating for free. There will be three veterans of the War in Afghanistan in attendance.
“That’s huge, because for a long time so many of those veterans didn’t want to be part of anything. So, it’s nice to have them come and be recognized,” Waller said.
It’s been a busy few weeks for the legion president – while organizing both Sunday’s dinner and the Nov. 11 ceremony in Haliburton village, Waller has also been expanding the banners program launched last year to commemorate the Highlands’ military men and women.
Debuting with 24 flags last year, which were hung around the downtown, Waller said he has nine additions.
Waller said the program has really taken off, with more people reaching out this year than he could accommodate. He already has a waitlist forming for 2027.
Asked what it meant to him to see the banners flying on Remembrance Day last year, during his march from the legion on Mountain Street to the cenotaph at the corner of Highland and York streets, Waller said it was emotional.
“The veterans always hold a special spot in my heart and to see the flags was amazing – I can’t really find the words to explain what it meant to me, the families, it was overwhelming. But lots of great comments from people and lots of recognition,” Waller added.
Remembrance Day
Waller said there will be a small mass at the Haliburton Legion at 10 a.m. Nov. 11, with the parade to the cenotaph to begin around 10:30 a.m. The service will be led by chaplain, Garry Swagerman, with speeches from other dignitaries and laying of wreaths. There will be a luncheon at the legion afterwards.
“Everyone is welcome for that – it’s an important day for reflection. It’s important to come together as a community,” Waller said.
Tomorrow (Nov. 6), Waller said he’ll be visiting Highland Wood, Extendicare and Gardens of Haliburton with Swagerman and the legion’s colour party to conduct small services.
Minden Hills’ Nov. 11 Remembrance Day service will begin at the County cairn by the village green at 10:30 a.m., with formal proceedings beginning at 10:45. Highlands East’s service takes place in Wilberforce, by the cenotaph outside the municipal offices (2249 Loop Rd.). All services are organized by the local legions.
