Prince George’s very own John Scott has been selected to join an elite group of British Columbians – recipients of the province’s Medal of Good Citizenship.

More than 220 people were nominated.

“I was so absolutely taken aback and amazed” says Scott. “It moved me to tears. It was just a wonderful thing. I’m so very humbled and grateful for the recognition that I really didn’t see coming.”

Slightly more than a dozen residents have received the award since it was launched last year. It goes to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the well-being of their communities through exception long-term volunteer efforts.

John Scott

John Scott

Scott certainly fits that bill. He has volunteered for local organizations including the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 43, the 2618 Canadian Army cadets, the Connaught Youth Centre, the Cadet League for Cariboo North and the Nechako Scout District. He’s been described as instrumental in helping revitalize the VLA and getting new facilities for Legion Branch 43.

Scott joined the army at 16, as an apprentice soldier, and credits his experience there for his service-oriented career.

“We were taught by Second World War veterans and Korean veterans and they always said, ‘You’ve gotta pay back.’ I guess they’d been through war and they knew what was expected. They were certainly big on teaching us young fellows you always say thank you for what you get, be grateful for what you get and pay back.”

Currently, Scott is president of the prince George and Northern BC CHapter of the Canadian Association of Veterans in United Nations Peacekeeping. He is also the Vice President of the Royal Canadian Legion BC/Yukon Command.

“I’ve been the service officer for the Legion branch here for a number of years. I get to help the veterans and their families, their wives. Every time I help a veteran, whether it’s a younger veteran or an older veteran, it makes your heart sing. It’s a great thing to do.”

His ties to the city are deep and Scott is confident that others will continue the work he’s spent decades doing.

“I’m just hoping that I’m leaving people that come after me – that they aspire to help people out and to serve veterans and serve the community. I believe in the community. I love Prince George. I love serving Prince George and you know what? The more you pay into Prince George, the more it pays you back.”

Scott will receive his medal during a ceremony at the Celebrate Canada Festival in Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park on July 1.

You can learn more about BC’s medal of Good Citizenship here.