International Legion convention being held in St. John's

Thousands of delegates from Legion branches across Canada, Europe, the U.S. and Mexico are in St. John's this week for the 46th Biennial Dominion Command Convention.

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The meeting, taking place from Saturday to Wednesday, is a major event for the Legion and a chance for legionnairesfrom multiple countries to display their banners and choose a Dominion Command president.

On Sunday, a parade and wreath-laying is being held in downtown St. John's, and the convention itself will be officially opened at 1:00 p.m., at the St. John's Convention Centre.

The event carries special significancethis year, as Newfoundland and Labrador recognizes 2016 asthe 100th anniversary of the Battle of Beaumont-Hamel.

The event was originally slated to take place in Winnipeg, but the citystepped aside until the next convention so Newfoundland and Labrador could host it on the anniversary.

The convention will be focused on reviewing legion business and making resolutions on initiatives like the annual poppy campaign and providing support for veterans.

A new national executive will also be elected at the convention, as is done every two years, which will include new Dominion President David Flannigan from Labrador City.