​Crowd gathers for New Year’s Levee at Kincardine Legion

About 75 people gathered at the Kincardine Legion, Wednesday afternoon, to raise a toast to 2025 at the annual New Year's Levee.

Legion president Jim McDonald welcomed everyone, including a contingent of 22 members of the Brussels Legion, led by District chairman Eric Ross.

McDonald pointed out that the levee is a military function, a friendly get-together, with refreshments, to get the year started off on the right foot. He told the crowd to leave the craziness of the world outside, and talk to each other and enjoy the camaraderie.

"Happy New Year," he said. "I wish you all good health, happiness and prosperity in 2025!"

Jon Shaw raised a toast to the Fallen Comrades, and Dave Carson offered a toast to the King.

Among the dignitaries, were Zone C-1 commander Jon Corbett, District C commander Dean Weir, Kincardine mayor Kenneth Craig, and Bluewater District School Board trustee Jan Johnstone.

Corbett thanked the Kincardine Legion for the invitation to the event.

He brought thanks on behalf of Ontario Command and Derek Moore, noting that Glenn Booker, public relations officer with the Kincardine branch, had produced a video based on the branch’s survey facts.

“That video showed what the branches do in Ontario and was a great tribute to the work being done by our Legions,” said Corbett. “The Kincardine branch is what every Legion should aspire to. That video was forwarded on to Dominion Command for its use across Canada.”

He was also thrilled to see members of the Brussels branch at the Kincardine levee. “Branches supporting other branches; we need more of that.”

Weir was pleased to be in Kincardine for the event, noting that more and more branches are getting back to hosting New Year’s Levees.

“I bring you greetings from the 49 branches in District C,” he said. “Thank you for providing services to our veterans, their families and your communities.”

He also pointed out to Corbett that there are several branches in District C that are flagships and pillars of their communities, including Goderich, Lucknow, and Clinton, as well as Kincardine and Brussels.

“To the executive members and volunteers at the Kincardine Legion, you are quite busy, and we appreciate your efforts,” said Weir. “Have a great afternoon.”

Legion chaplain, Rev. Eric Williams, said grace, and the crowd enjoyed a delicious lunch.