Towards the end of 1916 the CO of the 49th Battalion CEF, Colonel WA Griesbach, asked that an association be formed to assist Battalion soldiers returning from WWI with reintegrating into civilian life. The 49th Battalion Association was formed in 1917 and has been supporting the soldiers and families of the Regiment continuously since that time.
Today’s Association carries on the important role of supporting the veterans of the Loyal Edmonton Regiment, along with the Regimental family, perpetuating the duty laid upon us by Colonel Griesbach.
What We Do
For Members: The 49th Battalion Association is dedicated to fostering Fellowship and Remembrance within the Regimental Family. To this end we sponsor on-going events, including the annual fall dinner, a summer BBQ, and, publish the FortyNiner Magazine. The Association also funds the Regimental Kitshop which is located in Battalion lines a the Jefferson Armoury, 11630 109th Street NW Edmonton, Alberta.
For Families: At the request of families of former members of the Battalion, The 49th Battalion Association will arrange for a military presence at a funeral and pallbearers if desired. We will also provide a simple wreath and flowers for the funeral. Please contact our Association President for further information on how we can support your family.
For Our Community: The 49th Battalion Association has provided funding to numerous community groups and projects over the years. If your group is in need of project funding please contact the Association Secretary to see if we can help.
The Association also offers an annual bursary program for individuals pursuing post-secondary education in Alberta. Please see our Bursaries page for details on how to apply.
To contact the Association please email president@49ler.com – or – secretary@49ler.com.
JOIN THE ASSOCIATION
The Association exists due to its membership, which has traditionally been strongly supportive. This is a call-out to all Eddies, past and present, to keep in touch with the Regimental Family and to support Association initiatives through your yearly membership dues. Download the membership form here or buy your membership at the Kitshop.
Family members of Eddies, friends of the Regiment, or other interested people, can also join as associate members of the Association. Associate members can attend Association functions but not vote at the annual general meeting.
JOIN THE EXECUTIVE
The Association is able to offer support to the Regimental Family due to the efforts of many volunteers who give their time to conduct Association business and make events run smoothly. We are always looking for interested and energetic Eddies to be a part of the Association Executive. If you would like to make a difference for the Regimental Family, whether a serving or former member, please email president@49ler.com – or – secretary@49ler.com.