T he B E S L was formed to prevent the collapse of the veteran's objectives. This occurred at a meeting in Capetown South Africa, in 1921, at which the Canadian GWVA was accepted as a member with about 50,000 members. The name in Canada became the Canadian Legion of the British Empire Service League.

In 1925 the BESL met in Ottawa, and its president, Field Marshal Earl Haig, toured Canada to encourage all Canadian veteran groups to combine, so that there might be uniformity throughout. Unity was endorsed as the most effective way to succeed. However, the Army and Navy Veterans Association (with about 12 branches) and the Amputees Association chose not to join.

The year 1926 had several major milestones. The Ladies Auxiliary was formed at Dominion Command level.
The first Poppy Day was also held to raise funds for assisting veterans in need.
On April 24, 1926, the last issue of The Veteran, the official organ of the GWVA was published.
On May 15, the first edition of the Legionary magazine was published. The ‘Legion’, as we know it, was born!

On December 19, 1960 Queen Elizabeth granted 'Royal' (a mark of special distinction) and the name was changed to the Royal Canadian Legion.

The Legion has always recognized and appreciates the role of women in the organization. Their help and participation in Auxiliaries and Branches is without equal. The success of the Legion is due in part, to their dedication. The Royal Canadian Legion, with the support of the Ladies Auxiliary, continue to intercede on behalf of all veterans in the areas of their health, welfare, family, pension and numerous other needs and benefits. The Ladies Auxiliary is also involved in Community support.

The mandate of the Legion has been and will continue to be one of caring for
the veteran,
the family,
and the community.