Chris Clegg
South Peace News
The man commonly and affectionately referred to as “Sir George” in High Prairie received a King Charles III Coronation Medal during a ceremony at the High Prairie Legion Hall Feb. 19.
George Bennett, 102, was recognized for a lifetime of volunteer service to the High Prairie community.
High Prairie Royal Canadian Legion president Don Ebbett applied for the medal for Bennett and says he fit all the criteria.
In May 2023, to mark the coronation of His Majesty King Charles II, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the government’s intention to award 30,000 Coronation Medals to Canadian citizens “who have made significant contributions to the country, a province, territory, region or community, or an achievement aboard that brings benefit or honor to Canada.”
The medal is a way to recognize outstanding individuals of all ages and from all walks of life who have made a difference in their communities.
Before presenting the medal, Ebbett noted only a few of the achievements and community service by Bennett, a former flying officer with the Royal Air Force, serving from 1941-47.
Bennett came to High Prairie in 1954 to visit his sister and never left. He adapted to life in High Prairie and became involved in many business ventures and community organizations.
He was treasurer at Pleasantview Lodge, St. Mark’s Anglican Church and the Legion for 18 years, not giving up the post until he was 101. He is still a lifetime member of the Legion, virtually never missing a meeting or function.
Bennett’s passions spread into other areas of the community, including recreation. He was treasurer of the High Prairie and District Golf Club for many years. The annual senior’s golf tournament is named in his honour. He also joined the High Prairie Regals executive and often kept scoresheets during games.
The High Prairie Legion endorsed Bennett’s medal application.
