BILLY BISHOP / KERRISDALE LEGIONB.C./Yukon No.176
BILLY BISHOP / KERRISDALE LEGION - B.C./Yukon No.176
BILLY BISHOP / KERRISDALE LEGION

Our Branch Executive at Victory Square Cenotaph November 11, 2025

by Billy Bishop
Our Branch Executive at Victory Square Cenotaph November 11, 2025
Our Branch Executive at Victory Square Cenotaph November 11, 2025
Branch President Dan Thomas and Director Josh Muir both attended the City of Vancouver Remembrance Day Ceremony at Victory Square November 11th, 2025
Dan laid a wreath on behalf of RCL Br. 176 Billy Bishop/Kerrisdale and Josh laid a wreath on behalf of the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada Regimental Association. 

Lest We Forget

Renovated Patio Summer 2025

by Billy Bishop
Renovated Patio Summer 2025
We hope you have been enjoying the newly-renovated patio! The Branch Executive extends a heartfelt thank-you to Universe786 and Home Depot (Terminal Ave) for their donations and labour, to Kitsilano Neighborhood House for the flower grant, and finally to all volunteers, members and executive members who helped make it happen!
Bring on the sun! 

Remembrance Day 2025

by Billy Bishop

 “Scarce heard amid the guns below”

 

We invite all members, guests and friends of the Billy Bishop/Kerrisdale RCL #176 to honour Canada’s veterans and remember those who have given their lives in defence of our freedom and democracy on Tuesday November 11th.

Branch doors open at 10:00 AM.
Complimentary coffee/tea & muffins are available to those wishing to watch the televised Remembrance Day Services with us.
Bar service commences downstairs following the Ceremony of Remembrance at Victory Square (approximately 11:30 AM), and upstairs starting at 3:00 PM.

Entertainment schedule

Downstairs Lounge

  • Christopher Hernandez: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
  • Norwegian Blues: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
  • Chapter 11: 8:00 PM – close

Upstairs Lounge

  • Mrs. Howl: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
  • Bluesparks: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM 

Remembrance Day Pricing
The branch is using a pre-purchased ticket system for Remembrance Day. All food and drink options can be purchased according to a specific number of tickets. Tickets can be purchased a designated areas in the branch.

Ticket pricing

  • $4.00 each
  • $20.00 for 5
  • $38.00 for 10

1 Ticket purchases:

  • Pop, juice, coffee, tea
  • Pepperoni pizza slice
  • Beef hotdog
  • Mini-donuts
 2 Tickets purchase:

  • 1 oz. bar well drink (Rye, Vodka, Rum, Gin, Scotch)
  • Wine white (chardonnay) and red (merlot), 6 oz.
    Draft beer (Russel Lager, Red Truck Amber Ale, Lonetree Cider)
  • Heineken 00 bottles
  • Auxiliary side Bars in the branch (cans only)
    Russel Lager, Red Truck Amber Ale, Coors Lite, Nutrl Lime Vodka Soda, Lonetree Cider

3 Tickets purchase:

  • Guinness draft
  • Double bar well drink (2 oz.)
  • Premium drinks, 1 oz. (Fireball, Jamieson, Glenfiddich, Tequila, Spiced Run, Jack Daniel’s)

We look forward to seeing you here with us and sharing in our remembrance.

Ways & Means at the Billy Bishop/Kerrisdale Legion Branch

by Billy Bishop

Ways & Means at the Billy Bishop/Kerrisdale of Legion Branch

At the heart of every Legion branch lies the responsibility to serve veterans, honour remembrance, and strengthen the local community. At Branch 176, our Ways and Means, or Gaming, plays the central role in fulfilling this mandate. Ways and Means is completely volunteer driven. It oversees fundraising activities that not only bring members and neighbours together in fellowship but also ensure that we have the means to support local veterans, first responders, and associated charitable organizations. Our time-honored traditions like meat draws and bingo generate vital funds that directly sustain both our Branch and the broader community.
If you’ve ever dropped by the branch on a Sunday afternoon, chances are you’ve seen the fun atmosphere surrounding the meat draw, especially when Jesse Arens is delighting us all on the piano. At “the Billy”, it is one of our most popular recurring events.
Meat draws are about more than just meat; they’re a piece of living history. The idea first took root during wartime Britain, when communities pooled rations and held small draws to help neighbours put food on the table. The tradition came to Canada and quickly found a home in Legion branches, where they’ve been a fixture for decades.
Over the years, the format has evolved — butcher-wrapped roasts have often given way to themed holiday prizes and the inclusion of gift cards – The COVID years saw changes to its presentation— but the heart of the draw remains the same: neighbours gathering, friendships forming, and the community rallying together for a good cause.
Each ticket sold is more than a chance to win—it’s a contribution to local charities selected by the membership supporting veterans, first responders, and seniors.
Our branch also hosts Bingo nights—a lively and social way for members and guests to support our mission; as those who attend can attest to. What makes our bingo unique is the prize structure: winners receive Branch food and drink gift cards, encouraging them to celebrate their good fortune right here at the Legion.
This creates a cycle of community support: funds raised through bingo support our charitable work, while prize winners enjoy fellowship in our lounge. Bingo is not only fun—it’s another way our Branch helps keep the Legion spirit alive and thriving.
Funds raised through Ways and Means activities go directly toward charities that make a meaningful difference in the lives of veterans, first responders, and their families. At Branch 176, we are proud to support the following organizations chosen by the membership:
BC & Alberta Guide Dogs – This charity breeds, raises, and professionally trains guide dogs for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, autism service dogs for children with autism, and PTSD service dogs for veterans and first responders. Their programs help clients gain independence, safety, and companionship.
Citadel Canine Society – Dedicated to supporting veterans, first responders, and others dealing with PTSD, Citadel Canine trains and provides service dogs that offer both emotional support and practical assistance in daily life.
Hero Dawgs – Provides pet therapy to first responders and hospital healthcare workers in critical care units across BC, including Burn, Trauma, ICU, and Emergency wards. These therapy dogs bring comfort, stress relief, and healing connection to those serving on the front lines of health care and public safety. 
Shoulder 2 Shoulder – A program of BC Adaptive Snowsports, this initiative offers all-inclusive four-day retreats for ill or injured veterans and first responders, along with their support person. Skilled volunteer instructors provide adaptive recreation and personal support, creating a safe place for healing, resilience, and renewal. 
Honour House Society – Honour House offers a free “home away from home” in Metro Vancouver for Canadian Armed Forces members, veterans, emergency services personnel, and their families while receiving medical care. Its companion facility, Honour Ranch, is a tranquil 120-acre retreat near Kamloops where guests can learn strategies for managing operational stress injuries such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Every meat draw ticket purchased, every bingo card played, and every visit to our Branch strengthens the community we serve. Ways and Means at the branch ensures these small acts of participation grow into meaningful impact — sustaining our veterans, supporting local charities, and preserving the Legion’s role as a cornerstone of fellowship and remembrance.
We invite you to join us at Billy Bishop/Kerrisdale Legion Branch 176 — come for the fun, stay for the cause, and help us continue making a difference.

Apologies to Carey McBeth, Founder and Executive Director of Hero Dawgs for not having a photograph.

Volunteer and Staff Appreciation Event

by Billy Bishop
Volunteer and Staff Appreciation Event
The Branch Executive hosted a holiday party Monday December 16th, 2024 or all volunteers and staff who have helped our beloved Billy over the past year, generously donating their time and efforts and so helping the Branch improve. We had a great time and are glad you could join us last night! Wishing everyone safe and happy holidays!
Below are some pictures from the event. Click on any image to enlarge the display.
People enjoying each other's company in the Billy Bishop/Kerrisdale Legion Branch lower lounge.
A table with delectable food offerings.
People enjoying each other's company in the Billy Bishop/Kerrisdale Legion Branch lower lounge.

Upstairs Hall Refresh – while in Progress

by Billy Bishop
During the 2024 summer season, our Upstairs Hall and adjoining Bar went through an overhaul refresh.  Our Branch is one of few spaces in the neighbourhood with a flexible rental space with tailored packages at affordable rates. 

Our Kitchen and Marketing Chair, Natasha Smiljanic tenaciously spearheaded the project, accessing great discounts and donations on supplies. With the help of a contingent of volunteers in many capacities, making a variety of contributions the upstairs hall was refreshed, upgraded and brightened, making it an inviting prospect for a wide variety of different events.

Below are pictures of the space when almost complete. Click on any image to enlarge the display.
RCL #176 Upstairs Hall set with a variety of table settings.
RCL #176 Upstairs Hall set with a variety of table settings.
RCL #176 Upstairs Hall set with a variety of table settings.
RCL #176 Upstairs Hall set with a variety of table settings.
RCL #176 Upstairs Hall set with a variety of table settings.
The space is now just waiting for some finishing touches to be considered complete – for this phase at least. 
Stay tuned for new marketing materials and photos promoting the space with a campaign worthy of its new look and added functionality.

Executive Election Slate November 23rd, 2025

by Billy Bishop

Branch Executive Nominees for 2026

As a Branch member, your vote determines the Executive Board—the elected member volunteers responsible for guiding Branch priorities, managing governance and finances, and ensuring the effective operation of our Legion Branch on behalf of all members.
Further nominations may also be made from the floor during the election proceedings.
Table Officers
Click on each Title and Name for additional information about the nominee
The positions of Treasurer and Recording Secretary are appointed, not elected.
My military experience and first work experience was in the seventies and eighties. Serving with the 30th Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery. A reserve unit in Ottawa. Also know by the regiments historical name as the Bytown Gunners.
Naturally a combat arms unit based in Ottawa found itself performing lots of ceremonial functions. Lots of 21 gun salutes. Even one summer with the Ceremonial Guard on Parliament Hill.
Eventually I found myself drawn towards the Airframe world. Especially sheet metal and machining. Much of which cumulated into my current role at YVR doing Quality Assurance.
Military history always fascinated me from my earliest days. I continue to find fascinating reads about Canada’s military history.
Personal:
I am fortunate to live and work in this beautiful city, and province. I moved to Canada at the age of 14, to a small town, Guelph, Ontario, and later to Toronto where I lived for 11 years before moving to Vancouver in 2016. I love spending time with friends, cooking, traveling, reading, boating and enjoying the stunning nature around us.
Work experience:
I am an experienced project manager and business analyst, with history of operations management and business development. Since moving to Vancouver, I have been working in Real Estate. While working with Christie’s International Real Estate affiliate, I marketed some of the most unique and extraordinary properties in Vancouver’s West Side, recreational, development land. After, I have joined Oakwyn Realty Ltd. top performing team, where I continue to build my experience with broad spectrum of property and business sales as an independent Real Estate Advisor. I currently continue to help clients sell their current properties and find their dream homes within Greater Vancouver area.
Work with Legion:
During COVID I joined my local Legion branch, Billy Bishop/Kerrisdale No 176, in hopes to apply my acquired skills towards Legion’s daily operations. I currently hold the position as the First Vice-Presidenton the Executive as as well as the Chairs of Marketing and Kitchen. Since, I enjoyed being involved in operations, special planning and budgeting, while also overseeing the marketing team, and executing all advertising initiatives. For the benefit of Billy Bishop/Kerrisdale Legion longevity, I make all efforts to build strong relationships with local business and community.
When I moved into the Kits Point neighborhood 6 years ago, I knew I wanted to get involved with the Billy. I’d been to the branch for social gatherings and liked the atmosphere and the people. I have volunteered on Remembrance Days and met veterans and first responders. I was a Director on the Executive last year and I hope to continue to apply my 40+ years of business experience to explore more ways the Billy can serve the community as we continue to recover from Covid challenges.
Current Executive Members seeking
re-election as Directors
Bill is a long-term Branch member and recently retired from the Vancouver Fire Department after a long and proud tenure.
I have been involved in volunteer activities for many years. Before the Legion, I was with Scouts
Canada. I am also involved in Motor Sports. I am a life member of the Sports Car Club of BC and help
out with activities at the race track at Mission BC. I work as a turnworker primarily.
I have been with the Legion on and off since the 1990’s. When affiliates were allowed to be on the
executive I ran for that office at the Kerrisdale Legion. I was the 2nd Vice President there. I
concentrated on being in charge of communications to our members. I have been on the Billy Bishop/Kerrisdale Legion executive board several times.
I am currently the Entertainment Chair at the Billy Bishop/Kerrisdale Legion. I have been involved in
the music scene in Vancouver for over 50 years. Church music is where I got my start and I am still
there. I got involved with karaoke about 15 years ago and it continues now.
With our Saturday entertainment program we have had many groups appear at the Billy this season including: Chapter
11, Jacynthe Beaudoin, Cabin Jam, Guilty Pleasure, Soda Crackers, Blackthorn Blossoms, Bluesparks
Band, Norwegian Blue, Midnight Lace, Willy Blizzard, Pat Chessell, Mrs Howl, Fairweather Blues Band,
Pitman Potter, Tiffany and de Spectacles, Christopher Hernandez, Hudson Street Jazz Orchestra,
Wrothgar Jackson and we are getting more groups coming as well.
We need to have a variety of groups come to our branch so our members and guests can enjoy and
buy food and drink so we can support our charities. I am open to hearing about bands and singing
groups that we can book.
I have been a proud Legion member for almost 20 years and am very passionate for what the Legion stands for.
For 42 years I have worked in Vancouver as a licensed contractor/builder specializing in Heritage Restorations. I am also a Building Maintenance Specialist.
My partner Debbie and I live in Kitsilano and I am the father of 2 sons.
Currently, I am the House & Grounds Chair for the branch and have spearheaded a number of projects including the restoration of the branch’s south wall, putting a plan in place to replace our aging shed, prioritizing building maintenance issues and assisting with regular building maintenance.
As a member of the Kits Point Military History Museum Society, I have assisted in the curation of the upstairs hall displays and was involved with the Defining Moments Afghanistan project. This project involved working with our local Afghanistan veterans in putting together a banner of remembrance.
It is my pleasure and honour to serve on the 176 Executive.
Josh Muir was born in Winnipeg Manitoba. After high school, he joined the Army Reserves, serving the Queens Own Cameron Highlanders. After two years with that unit, Josh moved to BC in 1996 to study on the island at camosun college. He transferred to the Canadian Scottish Regiment, and served with them for approximately two more years, before moving to Vancouver and transferring again, this time to the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada. Releasing from the primary reserve in 1999, Josh pursued education and worked at YVR for several years.
Always missing his time in the Army, Josh re entered the Primary reserve in 2006, again with the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada. After some re training, Josh deployed twice to Afghanistan with 1PPCLI. Task force 1-08 and then 3-09. Josh was wounded in an IED ambush in early 2010.
Returning to Canada post deployment, Josh found his injuries worsening. Josh worked full time with the Army until his release of medical grounds in 2014. Since then he has undergone approximately 8 surgeries.
Josh continues to remain active with veterans advocacy and awareness, and has served for over half a decade as President of the Seaforth Regimental Association. He has also been a member of your local branch and was previously on the Executive Board for for two years.
Josh lives in Vancouver, and has a 10-year-old son named Max.
 A BC-native, Michael was born in Chilliwack, BC and studied Classics and Classical Archaeology at the University of British Columbia and Cambridge University.
He currently works in corporate communications and investor relations for a boutique Vancouver agency specializing in the junior mining sector.
He lives in Yaletown with his partner Tania and their black cat Jinx. He enjoys cooking, reading, hiking and cycling.
Michael was inspired to serve as a Director of the Branch by his great uncle Doug who served as a member of the Canadian Scottish Regiment during the Second World War.
Michael has served on the branch executive for 3 terms. 
Members seeking terms as Directors
Sue is a long-term Branch member and active volunteer when needed. She has helped on countless occasions with event and seasonal decorating, and keeping our patio flourishing with gardening tasks.
Born, raised and educated in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). 18 years military service as a commissioned officer in Africa and the Middle East.
With my family, drove from Zimbabwe, through Africa, to and around Europe.  After arriving with my family in Canada in 1989, spent the next 13+ years with a Vancouver B.C. telecommunications company in various international management positions and roles and lived and worked in Saudi Arabia, India, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, and Shanghai.
With the relocation of the telecommunications company to the USA, opted to remain in Canada and provided specialized telecommunication consultancy services for the North American operations of a United Kingdom security organization. During this same time, I also conducted a private venture and purchased and established a business in the south of France
For the last 12 years of my professional career, worked in a Vancouver software company managing the delivery and implementation of Workforce Management Systems to various utility companies in North America. In 2017 I retired and since then I have kept myself busy with self interests, hobbies, part-time and charity work including serving on the Branch Executive in previous years.
Served in the Royal Navy for 22yrs before moving to Canada in 2001.
Started career as a Marine Engineering Mechanic (Electrical), completed career as a Chief Petty Officer Marine Engineering Artificer (Electrical). A career that started with simple electrical circuit troubleshooting and maintenance; and finished by being responsible for all aspects of maintenance, control, repair and operation of a nuclear reactor and the associated propulsion systems.
Served on HM ships HMS Hermes, HMS Intrepid (during the 1982 Falklands War), and HMS Ark Royal. Spent two years at Royal Navy Engineering College after which I joined Submarine Service. Served onboard SSN submarines HMS Spartan, HMS Superb, and SSTBN submarine HMS Vigilant.
Emigrated to Canada in 2001 as a permanent resident. Become a Canadian citizen in 2004.
I joined the Legion 176 Billy Bishop in 2001, however, new employment and work commitments kept me to very sparse visits. Mainly Remembrance Day.
I retired in 2019 and renewed my membership to the Legion. Since 2019 I have been an active member and volunteer at the Billy. I have acted as Sargent at Arms for two years. I volunteered and helped lay the flooring and painting in the upper main hall. I was also active in the refitting of the kitchen; and outside digging drainage ditches before the new patio was laid. For the past two years I have delivered and collected Poppy trays on various routes, as well as represented the Legion at the Bentall 5 tower during Poppy week.
My wife Liz and I volunteer and are often seen serving dinners at the Billy events.
I am very happy with the friendships I/we have at the Billy. I really enjoy the sense of community and fun. Karaoke and Bingo are my particular favourites, but the whole place is/has become my home from home.