Cochrane’s Legion Week celebrations will begin Friday with a flag-raising at the Station at Cochrane Crossing Civic Plaza, followed by the return of the annual Legion Show on Saturday.
Mayor Jeff Genung will raise the Royal Canadian Legion flag at 3:30 p.m., where it will remain throughout the week. Residents are welcome to attend the ceremony.
On Saturday, the Legion Show opens to the public at 10 a.m., with the official opening and flag-raising at 10:30 a.m. by Banff-Airdrie MP Blake Richards, who has also agreed to fire a cannon to mark the occasion.
Organizer Andy Bowyer says this year’s show includes rare military vehicles, rope-making demonstrations, model displays, and activities for children.
“We try to get something special every year,” Bowyer said. “This year, we’ve got a four-wheel drive 1918 vehicle coming from Pioneer Acres in Irricana. It’s a rare machine—only three of them in the world are still in running condition.”
Visitors can expect historical and modern military displays, including one from the 10th Brigade. Calgary-area model clubs will also participate.
"They'll be bringing models of battleships, airplanes, tanks, other military items, and a few more light-hearted items for the kids to enjoy," said organizer Andy Bowyer.
If all goes well, a metal-detecting game will be available for children.
The Golden Guns of the West from Calgary will also have a display and will provide demonstrations in both the morning and afternoon.
Bowyer says the event is designed to offer something for everyone while honouring veterans and sharing history with the community.
That includes the return of operating cannons from the mid-to-late 1800s, sure to turn heads in downtown Cochrane.
“We do like to make a bit of noise and attract attention,” he said. “There’ll be lots to keep people interested both inside and outside the Legion.”
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The show runs until 5 p.m. Veterans Way will be closed during the event, with army and air cadets helping to welcome visitors.
The Legion bar opens at noon, and appropriately, their guest beer is Tailgunner. People can enter the regular Saturday meat draw, and music and socializing will continue into the early evening, both inside and on the large deck.