Bob Thomas on 100 Years of the Royal Canadian Legion and What Veterans Need
Canadian Army veteran and former police officer Bob Thomas joins Neil Silvert to mark the Royal Canadian Legion's 100th anniversary. Thomas recounts joining the militia at 15, serving on peacekeeping missions in Cyprus, Egypt, Gaza, and Lebanon, and explains how the Legion supports veterans and their families today.
Key Takeaways
- Bob Thomas joined the militia at age 15.
- He served on Canadian peacekeeping missions in Cyprus, Egypt, Gaza, and Lebanon.
- The Royal Canadian Legion marks its 100th anniversary in 2026.
- The Legion helps veterans navigate Veterans Affairs and supports military families.
- The episode covers proper poppy-wearing protocol.
- The Legion functions as a community hub open to non-veterans, not just a veterans-only space.
Guest
Royal Canadian Legion
Bob Thomas is a decorated Canadian Army veteran and former police officer who joined the militia at age 15 and served on peacekeeping missions in Cyprus, Egypt, Gaza, and Lebanon. He is a recipient of the Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers and the King Charles III Coronation Medal.
In This Episode
- 0:00Welcome to Your Grey Matters
- 0:24Meeting Bob at Remembrance Day
- 2:35Bob Thomas: A Life of Service
- 3:56Joining the Militia at Age 15
- 6:19Living Two Lives (The Age Secret)
- 7:18Canadian Peacekeeping Missions
- 11:46When You Lose Your Poppy
- 14:21Cyprus, Egypt, Gaza & Lebanon Stories
- 17:36John Beliveau in the Middle East
- 19:48What Does the Royal Canadian Legion Do?
- 24:42Supporting Veterans & Families
- 28:23Are Non-Members Welcome?
- 31:50Poppy Protocol: When to Wear It
- 33:04Thank You for Your Service
