The military man in charge of 9 Wing Gander has a plan to revitalize an aging Royal Canadian Legion, and it starts with Friday night parties.

Lt.-Col. Pierre Haché was interviewed by Central Morning after news that the Ladies Auxilary in Gander is folding after 63 years, because of a lack of new recruits.

Legions and auxillary groups around the province have the same problem, he said.

Haché described the military "as a total way of life," and called the Legion "a safety net" that helps with the eventual transition to civilian life.

Thousands remember on Nov. 11, but Legion branches around the province are struggling to keep going. (Eric Bartlett)

Haché says it's unfortunate that the Legion has a low profile, apart from days like Nov. 11 and July 1.

He said veterans and people currently serving in the military have to come together earlier to "renew the ties."

"We have to take baby steps, to encourage a cross-pollination of our social hours," Haché said.

The Gander Legion sheltered stranded Americans during 9/11. (Rob Gillies/Associated Press)

It starts with Friday night parties, now held at the all-ranks mess hall.

"At the end of the day, we strongly encourage enlisted active members and their wives to come and enjoy a soda, or something else, to mingle," he said.

"At the Legion, they hold similar events. I want to hold them together."

Haché said the mess recently hosted a joint social, and the Legion will reciprocate in January.

"It's a network of connections, knowledge and advice," he said, adding that the Legion also keeps the memory of military sacrifice alive.

Busy lives, he said, often keep younger military from connecting with veterans groups.

"But we have to educate the younger generation, to remind them of the important role of these organizations. That is what I am going to strive to do at 9 Wing."