The province presented Prince George resident John Scott with its newest honour, the Medal of Good Citizenship, during the opening ceremony of the Celebrate Canada Festival at L’heidli T’enneh Memorial Park today.
After the ceremony, Scott had few words but lots of emotion.
“It’s very emotional and heartfelt. I’m just overwhelmed with the good feeling the community has given me.”
Scott is one of just over a dozen British Columbians to receive the honour for their exceptional long-term service, and contributions to their communities.
MLA Shirley Bond presented Scott with the medal.
“John Scott is, I think, exemplary of British Columbians – the fact that they give of their heart, their life, their time. What the committee found very powerful was that John served his country but he’s gone on to serve his community and his province. I am so proud of the fact that we have someone in Prince George that earned the Medal of Good Citizenship so a very special day today.”
Mayor Lyn Hall added that everyone knows how generous Scott is with his time.
“John definitely epitomizes volunteerism. He is so absolutely dedicated to this city, dedicated to the Royal Canadian legion and dedicated to veterans. He just volunteers for everything. He’s kind of the go to guy.”
Scott joined the Canadian military at 16 as an apprentice soldier and is a supporter of veterans as well as a volunteer with local Cadets and Scouts. He has volunteered with the Legion for years and is currently vice president of BC/Yukon Command.