The Drumheller Legion has invited a special guest to their Veterans Dinner on Saturday, January 14. The Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, the Honourable Colonel (ret’d) Donald S. Ethell, will be attending the dinner.
“I’ve been at meetings with him, so I knew him,” said Bob Hannah, president of the Drumheller Legion. “It’s something for Drumheller and especially the Legion.”
This will be the most distinguished guest ever to have been invited and attended the annual event.
“It’s historic because we’ve never had a Lieutenant Governor here before,” said Hannah.
Ethell was named Lieutenant Governor of Alberta on May 11, 2010. His appointment followed a distinguished career in the Canadian Armed Forces, civilian service as a military advisor, and a volunteer with humanitarian causes.
Colonel Ethell is a veteran of 14 peace support operations, including his last missions to Croatia and Bosnia in the early 90’s. Colonel Ethell retired from the military in 1993 and is one of the most highly decorated officers in Canada.
It is thought that the presence of Ethell and his storied career will prove to be an inspiration to the cadets who will be serving the meal, veterans, and guests present at the dinner.
“He’s the one of the most highly decorated peacekeeping officers in Canada,” said Hannah. “The cadets will love it.”
The veterans dinner is an annual event meant to honour the veterans in the Drumheller area. This year is especially important considering the bulk of the Canadian Armed Forces in Afghanistan were withdrawn as of July, 2011.
“We have four Afghanistan veterans in this area. The whole dinner to honour them, and our other veterans and peacekeepers for all they’ve done,” said Hannah.
For the event, the Legion will be serving a traditional roast beef dinner. The dress for the dinner is semi-formal. To attend the Veterans Dinner please contact the Legion at 403-823-5611.