The Branch received its charter on March 23rd 1976 and began with 20 WWII veterans and military members meeting in a basement. We have grown to be a Branch of some 270 members from all walks of the community; enjoying friendship and social activities in a multi purpose building located at 6644 Highway #7 in Gaetz Brook.
Our name represents the area we serve – the Eastern Shore and Marine Drive – a large, diversified locale, running from the Ross Road, east along the #7, #107 and #207 Highways to the junction of Highways #7 and #107 outside Musquodoboit Harbour. Our area encompasses some 17 communities.
Our building is a two story structure offering a wide range of amenities available to members and the public:
Upstairs is a community hall capable of auditorium style seating for 198 people or banquet seating for 160 and available for rent on a non-interference basis. The hall offers:
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a wheel chair access ramp and a stair lift
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a kitchen
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a licensed bar
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a stage with sound system
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a computerized bingo system
Downstairs is our games room and lounge. This area is for members only and their invited guests. It offers:
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a licensed bar
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a canteen operating at specific times and special events
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cable TV
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2 regulation pool tables
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10 dart boards
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4 Video Lottery Terminals
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an ATM and debit machine
Outside, there is:
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a licensed patio with a BBQ
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a large parking lot with 5 accessible parking spaces
The Branch, with the support of other community groups such as the Lake Echo Lions, maintains the Porters Lake Cenotaph and Remembrance Park. The Park is located on Highway #7 and features a Gate of Remembrance; crafted by local blacksmith and artisan, Tony Grady. We observe two Acts of Remembrance here each year:
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VJ Day on the second Sunday in August, when we remember those who served in the Pacific and Burma Theatres and at Hong Kong during WWII
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November 11th, our national day to remember everyone who served or is serving their country
In addition to the Cenotaph Park, there is a commemorative garden at the Branch containing trees and shrubs dedicated to events that must never be forgotten.
The Branch is totally self-supporting; money to operate the Branch, and for donations to community groups, comes from the business and social activities of the Branch. NONE of the money raised in our annual Poppy Drive is used for the Branch..
The annual Poppy campaign creates awareness of what Canada's veterans accomplished and raises funds for projects supporting veterans in our communities. Your generosity during the Poppy campaign ensures that our veterans live with dignity and in comfort.