Robert James (Bob) Brady was awarded the Palm Leaf for the Meritorious Service Medal at the BC/Yukon Command biannual convention on June 6 at the Ramada Conference Centre in Abbotsford.
Bob joined the army cadets at age 12 and later, the Royal Canadian Army Service Corps, serving for six years. He joined the Royal Canadian Legion in 1969.
Bob has been actively involved in his community for many years. He coached minor sports, was an Abbotsford alderman in 1975-76, Abbotsford Masonic Lodge #70 member for many years and Worshipful Master in 1981-82, member of Gizeh Shriners Scooter Corps and is seen in many parades. He was an Aldergrove Lions club member and director for many years and President in 1976. Bob is also a member of the Aldergrove Elks and Abbotsford Eagles.
In 2002 he received the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal for community service.
Comrade Brady has held many Legion positions, including branch executive, President in 1993-1996, Fraser Valley Zone Commander 1995-2003, BC/Yukon Command executive 2004 to present.
In 2000 Bob was awarded a Legion Life Membership. He assists with initiation ceremonies, poppy campaign, veterans’ dinners, Remembrance Day ceremonies and wrote the poem “Why Wear A Poppy”. He is also part of the Honour Guard for members’ funerals.
Bob received the Meritorious Service Medal from the Aldergrove Branch in 2009.
Bob can still be seen in the Legion kitchen lending his experience with meals, such as the monthly smorgasbords on the third Fridays’ of the month, which is open to the public.
The Palm Leaf is the highest award given to a Legion member.