The Royal Canadian Legion has written Memorial University President Neil Bose expressing its desire to have the Ode to Newfoundland restored at convocation ceremonies.

President Gerald Budden says Memorial is the province’s public university and describes it as a “prized jewel.” Memorial was founded in 1925 and dedicated as a living memorial to the Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who died in WWI, and rededicated to pay tribute to those who paid the supreme sacrifice in the Second World War.

Budden says as the Ode is the province’s anthem, owned by the people of the province and adopted as such by government legislation, they believe that all recognized organizations within the province should respect the Ode and give it the respect that it is due.

He tells Bose “To you the torch was thrown in 1925,” and “it is your responsibility and ours and all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to make sure we keep it high.”