For years, Canadian war veterans have gathered at the Billy Bishop Legion in Vancouver's Kitsilano neighbourhood to share stories, honour fallen soldiers and share a pint or two.
"Here, soldiers and those who served in the air or on the sea are able to talk in ways that they intuitively understand," said Capt. Paul Beckhingham, the Legion's chaplin. "That social support is very important."
But the Legion, named after Canada's most famous World War I fighter pilot, is in danger of closing by month's end because of a lack of members.
It also has $20,000 in property taxes to pay.
The city is considering what it can do to ease that burden.
"There are quite a few worthy causes which would like tax breaks. You have to figure out, in the context of things, is this good policy or not," said city Councillor Suzanne Anton. "I'm inclined to think it is, but we're waiting to hear recommendations from city staff."
Others say there's a simpler fix - just buy a $60 annual membership. You don't have to have a military background to join.
Adriane Carr, deputy leader of the Green Party of Canada, renewed her membership.
"It's an institution of public service. And acknowledgement and recognition of what our troops have done overseas," Carr said.
Air cadet James Robertson said he plans to sign up when he turns 19 later this year.
"If the Billy Bishop goes under, then a piece of my history will be gone too, because two generations of my family have been a member here," he said.
With a report from CTV British Columbia's Peter Grainger
