Royal Canadian Legion expels members for wearing unearned military commendations

OTTAWA — The Royal Canadian Legion says it has expelled two members for wearing military commendations they did not earn.

The landmark decision comes as the 95-year-old veterans’ organization tries to crack down on instances of so-called stolen valour.

Thomas Irvine, the legion’s Dominion president, says the group has been rightfully criticized in the past for not doing enough to stop its members from wearing unearned medals and other military commendations.

He says those who make illegitimate claims to service or sacrifice degrade the honour of those who’ve served — and tarnish the legion’s reputation.

That is why he pushed for new bylaws to punish those who do, including automatic expulsion for any members convicted of unlawfully wearing a military medal or uniform, which is a crime in Canada.

The legion won’t identify the two members kicked out the organization.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 23, 2020.

The Canadian Press