The Royal Canadian Legion is busy putting the final pieces in place ahead of the repatriation of the remains of an unknown Newfoundland soldier later this month.

Legion spokesman Gary Browne says the project, including the refurbishment of the National War Memorial, has been about five years in the making.

He calls it a “huge, complex project,” but one that they will be very proud of.

He believes the finished product will be “outstanding” but they still have a lot of work to do between now and Memorial Day on July 1st.

Browne says he is “honoured” and “humbled” to be a part of the initiative.

“I think we’re all going to be so proud, so moved. It’s going to be exceptionally emotional,” he said.

He hopes people come out and partake in the ceremonies of remembrance.

Four events, including a ceremony commemorating the centennial of the Newfoundland National War Memorial on July 1, will be held in the coming months:

• May 25 : Transfer of remains ceremony, Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial in Auchonvillers, France;
• May 25 : Arrival of the remains of the unknown Newfoundland First World War soldier in St. John’s. Upon departure from the airport, the hearse containing the unknown soldier’s casket will pass several locations with historic significance to Newfoundland and Labrador’s First World War contributions. The public are invited to pay their respects as the hearse makes its way through the city, en route to a secure site;
• June 28-30: Lying-in-state of the remains of the unknown soldier at Confederation Building;
• July 1: Ceremony commemorating the centennial of the National War Memorial and laying to rest the remains of the unknown soldier.

The province says more details on the events and how the public can participate, including broadcasts and livestreaming, will be released as plans are confirmed.