Hundreds gathered at Cloverdale Legion as a 56-ton Centurion tank crushed cars during National Legion Week, celebrating veterans and community spirit.
Centurion Tank Thrills Crowd at Cloverdale Legion
Community Draws Together for a Powerful Celebration
A roaring crowd gathered at the Cloverdale Legion Branch No. 6 on September 27, as a 56-ton Centurion tank flattened three cars in spectacular fashion. The event marked the close of National Legion Week, which ran from September 21 to 27 across Canada, celebrating the work of the Royal Canadian Legion in supporting veterans and their families.
An Unforgettable Display of Strength and Support
The open house event saw hundreds of spectators cheer as the vintage Centurion tank rolled over cars, crushing them into mangled steel. For many attendees, the thrilling display was both a tribute to military heritage and an exciting community spectacle. “Overall, it was a great day,” said Scott MacMillan, past president of the Cloverdale Legion. “People enjoyed the tank crushing and were itching to get a ride on the tank when it crushed the cars.”
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
More than a dozen visitors had the rare opportunity to ride atop the tank as it completed its crushing passes. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience to ride on a tank and crush a vehicle at the same time,” MacMillan said, noting that it had been about six years since the Legion last hosted such a display.
Showcasing Military Heritage and Community Involvement
The open house featured displays from the 15th Field Artillery Regiment Museum, including a 25-pound howitzer and vintage military vehicles. The B.C. Vintage Truck Museum also showcased restored vehicles, while Clover Towing provided—and later removed—the cars destined for demolition.
Youth Cadets and Volunteers Lend a Hand
Members of the 2277 Seaforth Highlander Army Cadets played an important behind-the-scenes role, helping with cleanup and crowd management. “They’re always helping us out with a lot of events, especially Remembrance Day and the poppy campaign,” MacMillan said. “We’re very thankful for their help.”
Looking Ahead to Next Year’s Bigger Event
Encouraged by the strong turnout, the organizing committee is already planning for 2026. MacMillan hinted at even larger attractions next year, including a possible Air Force flyby. “We’ve got big plans,” he said. “It’s going to be bigger and better next year.”
For more information about upcoming events at the Cloverdale Legion, visit rcl6.ca
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