Whitehorse, Yukon
Mr. Knutson’s dedication in preserving the story of Canada’s veterans is inspired by his father and five uncles who served during the Second World War. He has been a member of the Royal Canadian Legion for 45 years and has served 30 years with Whitehorse Branch 254. This included four terms as President and seven terms as Chairman of the Poppy Campaign. In recognition of his work on behalf of Veterans, he was awarded a Life Membership in 1993 and the Meritorious Service Medal in 2000. Mr. Knutson also played an instrumental role in several important commemorative projects. In 1990, he was able to secure funding for a new central cenotaph in Whitehorse, and in 2005, he was successful in having the cenotaph plaza named "Veterans Square." He has been active in organizing Remembrance Day Parades and Veterans dinners as well as contributing to the Christmas Hamper program which assists needy Veterans and spouses.