ANAVETS Club: a place to honour veterans and socialize

Whether you are a veteran or not, the ANAVETS club is an ideal place to socialize. The ANAVETS (Army, Navy, & Air Force Veterans in Canada) is the oldest veterans club in Canada, with a history that dates back to the War of 1812. According to unit president Dave Low, there are approximately 230 members currently in the club. He said, of that total, there are dozens that visit the club on a regular basis. “It is a club for the veterans to come and enjoy,” said Low. “We just try to keep it going so that for the veterans that are left; we can appreciate what they did for us.” Low adds that it is a myth that you have to be a veteran to join the organization. He says that is not true and anyone wanting to join is welcome and encouraged to do so. Low adds that there are some policies that members have to abide by, and points out that, out of respect, hats are not allowed to be worn in the building. “We have some new and younger people that are starting to join,” said Low. “Some people even now think that they have to be a veteran, but you don’t have to be a veteran.” Low says he would encourage anyone to check out the club and think about joining, as he says he really enjoys being part of the ANAVETS. “I like it because you can come down and socialize,” said Low. “We have different socials throughout the year. We try and have a supper here once a month and we will have barbecues. We want to keep people coming so that they don’t forget.” The ANAVETS are located at 279 High Street West. For more information on the ANAVETS, call 6924412 or visit www.anavets.ca