Under the banner of the British Empire Service League, Bedford (NS) Branch No 95 was formed under Corporate Seal of the Legion on April 2, 1946. The founding members (approximately 46) were previously Veterans of WWI and WWII, a few who had service in both, who came not only from Bedford but surrounding communities. The Ladies Auxiliary was formed July 6, 1948 and for 45 years the members were very active and provided great support to the Legion in its growth and projects.

The original building was moved from the Bedford Firing Range to our current location (1772 Bedford Highway, Bedford, NS) in 1957. Membership grew to a maximum of approximately 500 members in the 1970s. In 1978, an extension enlarged the facilities and added a ramp for physically handicapped Veterans. Over the years our membership has diminished somewhat due to the loss of our WWI, WWII and Korean War veterans; our current membership is approximately 150 members. The current two-storey building is approx. 9000 sqft and can serve up to 200 people for dinners and up to 300 people for dances.

Supporting veterans and the community are cornerstones of the Legion ’s mission. Our members provide assistance to veterans and their families as well as local groups and clubs by volunteering their labour/skills as well as financial support to these worthy causes. During the year funds are raised by the Bedford Legion through the weekly Bingo and the Poppy Campaign. In 2022, the Bedford Legion raised approximately $60,000.00 during the Poppy campaign which has been used to support the following charitable entities:

• Cobequid Medical Centre Foundation: $10,250.00
• Camp Hill / QE II Foundation: $5,000.00
• NS/NU Command Benevolent Fund: $5,000.00
• NS/NU Command Outreach Program: $5,000.00
• Bedford Lions Air Cadets / Squadron 342: $5,000.00
• Paws Fur Thought / Wounded Warriors: $2,000.00
• Bedford/Sackville Meals on Wheels: $2,000.00
• Heroes Haven of Hope Halifax: $1,920.00
• Heroes Mending on the Fly: $1,500.00
• Six $1,000.00 bursaries for students attending secondary education centres

To date the Branch has had 27 Presidents (1 female, 1 Associate and 1 RCMP). Our current president is Comrade Joyce Pitcher who has been the Branch 95 Bedford President since 2017.