The Edmonton United Services Institute (EUSI) has a long-standing history in the City of Edmonton as an advocate and voice for the military community and the defence of Canada.

The EUSI was originally formed and incorporated under the Statutes of Alberta as the Edmonton Military Institute on February 16, 1912. The original sponsors were LCol Robert Belcher, CMG; LCol Frank Ford; and LCol William F.W. Carstairs. At some point, the name was changed to the Edmonton United Services Institute, and it was known by this title until 1959. On the June 17, 1959, through the Alberta Department of the Provincial Secretary Companies Branch, the EUSI was incorporated to combine the Garrison Officer’s Club, the Edmonton United Services Institute, and the Garrison Officer’s Mess. The organizations had previously been separate but all operated out of the Prince of Wales Armoury. They incorporated and renamed the organization the Garrison Officer’s Club at a cost of $8.00. The Club was registered under the Alberta Societies Act (1955) as a “Society” but retained the use of the term “Club”. With membership of over one thousand and an operating budget of just under $600,000 (in today’s dollars), it was a very busy organization. The Board of Directors included representatives from the Royal Canadian Navy, the Canadian Army, the Royal Canadian Air Force and the Militia.

In 1994, the ownership and stewardship of the Prince of Wales Armoury were transferred to the City of Edmonton. The cost to carry on the operations under this new agreement became prohibitive. On November 4, 1994, the name was again changed to the Edmonton United Services Institute.

The original logo first appeared in records in 1963. It was a simple design using the Saint George crown surrounded by a laurel wreath. At some point, this was changed to the current logo, which features the Saint Edward crown.
The EUSI has supported and promoted the military services of Canada since its inception. The primary aims of the Institute are:

a. to support the Canadian Armed Forces (Regular and Reserve) in preserving their traditions and the developing their capacity to fulfill their roles;

b. to act as a link between the Canadian Armed Forces and the general public so that the role and requirements for adequate armed forces can be better understood and supported; and

c. to keep its members informed on current military affairs and developments.

These aims are achieved primarily through our annual Defense and Security Symposium which allows the Institute to speak in support of the Forces in a genre not readily available to our serving military. This event meets the EUSI Mission “To promote the welfare of veterans and all those who serve Canada. To help raise awareness about national defence topics among ALL Canadians by conducting educational presentations, events, and symposiums. To preserve and commemorate awareness of significant and historic national military events and their impact on Canada and Canadians.” The EUSI also provides speakers to other organizations to speak on military and international affairs, Cadet activities, and other endeavors which strengthen the ties between the military and civilian communities. The Institute is also dedicated to commemorating significant military events that have shaped Canada’s history.

Membership consists of approximately 90% active or retired military personnel, including members of the RCMP, Edmonton Fire Department, and other service organizations like the Royal Commonwealth Society of Canada and Edmonton Salutes. Membership is open to citizens of all backgrounds, and Corporate Membership is available to private industries wishing to support this organization.

The EUSI is a registered charity with the Canada Revenue Agency. Tax-deductible receipts for any corporate or personal donations are available. As a non-profit organization with a zero-assets structure, the EUSI operates on a financial “as-needed” basis. We recognize donations made toward EUSI projects through our newsletter and website.

The EUSI is governed by a twelve-person board, including the President, Vice-president, Treasurer, Secretary, and eight directors with various operational responsibilities.

For information on how to become involved or support the EUSI, please contact me at president@eusi.ca. To become a member, please message secretary@eusi.ca.

Captain Andrew Gordey, CD
President
Edmonton United Services Institute
president@eusi.ca