Terry Chester has been volunteering for most of his adult life.
The Comox resident, a former member of the Royal Canadian Air Force, has donated time to the Cubs and Scouts, the Air Cadets, the Comox Valley Community Foundation, Boomer’s Legacy, the Walk for Alzheimer’s, the Air Force Museum and the 55+ BC Games. He spearheaded the reconstruction of the Mark IX Spitfire that returned in summer, 2018 to Comox.
At a ceremony Sept. 5 in Victoria, Lt.-Gov. of B.C. Janet Austin awarded the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers to Chester and other recipients. The citation recognizes exceptional volunteer achievements of Canadians in a wide range of fields. In Chester’s case, it highlights his efforts to commemorate the contributions of the Canadian Armed Forces.
“One does not do this sort of thing for recognition,” said Chester, 73, who knows plenty of volunteers who prefer to remain quiet about their work. “Their reward is just knowing they are helping and contributing to their community. But, when this sort of acknowledgment is forthcoming, it sends a signal to all of us who do this work that our efforts are appreciated. Perhaps in this way, others might be motivated to give the gift of their time.”
He was surprised to discover he was the only North Islander to receive the award this year.
“I know there are lots of folks who do far more than I do. It’s just a matter of getting people recognized.”
To nominate a volunteer for a Sovereign’s Medal, visit bit.ly/2pmoUAc.