Joyce Samms

Port aux Basques, Newfoundland & Labrador

Mrs. Samms served in the Women's Royal Naval Service in England during the Second World War. She moved with her family to Newfoundland in 1952 and a few years later became a member of The Royal Canadian Legion. She was the only female member at Branch 11 at the time. She has served in a variety of roles for many years such as President, Secretary, Poppy Chair, Honours and Awards Chair and she is currently Membership Chair. Mrs. Samms also organizes Remembrance Day school programs each year and is guest speaker at two schools. She was the first woman to be elected as District Commander and ten years later became the first woman in Canada to be elected Provincial President. Mrs. Samms has received the Meritorious Service Medal and the Palm Leaf'the Legion's highest honour. Mrs. Samms is a Life Member of the Legion and a recipient of the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal.