Upper Clements, Nova Scotia
Kenneth Ilnitski has been an active member in many capacities with The Royal Canadian Legion for over 50 years.
Described as reliable, enthusiastic, passionate, a great leader and a dynamic role model, Kenneth Ilnitski has held many roles and strived for the betterment and wellbeing of Veterans and their families for over five decades. Among his many roles, he has served as Service Officer, President, and the chair of many committees including the Poppy Campaign, Finance Chair, Honours and Awards Chair, Maintenance Chair, Strategic Planning Chair, By-Laws Chair, Student of the Term Chair, Fund Development, Training Officer and the Entertainment Committee.
Kenneth is keen and possesses a caring willingness to help. He is always the first person to jump into the breech and fill in for an absent committee chairperson or executive committee member. He has been a guiding light to younger members with his experience and knowledge of Legion guidelines, policy and procedures. As for Legion events and initiatives, he was instrumental in organizing and maintaining the Student of the Term Awards Program at the local community college. He introduced the students to the importance of remembrance with the understanding and appreciation for Veterans and their sacrifices, allowing everyone the freedom they enjoy today. As Chair of the Honours and Awards Committee, he ensured that members of the Branch received recognition for various achievements within the Branch and that presentations were made to local businesses for their support during various functions by the Clementsport Legion. He coordinated and had a supporting role in the Sunset Ceremony and Ceremony of the Flags Parade during the recent Dominion Convention in Halifax. He was instrumental in preparing and organizing a presentation of medals to the Korean Veterans of Clementsport Legion. He thoroughly researched the list of recipients, arranged a colour party including naval sea cadets and ensured the local community received notice of the very important event.
Kenneth is also involved with Veterans’ seniors programs in the greater area communities of Cornwallis, Clementsvale and Deep Brook, including the Cornwallis Military Museum (now closed), HMCS ACADIA Cadet Training Centre Cornwallis, the Navy League of Canada, VP National Council and Life Member, Nova Scotia Mainland Division, past 1st VP, Training Officer, VP of the Sea Cadets, Membership Chair, Valley Region representative plus trustee for the Halifax Navy League Branch, and he continues as a Division Director.
Kenneth is known for his attitude of “service before self”. He’s carried out all his executive positions with, as one nominator describes, “enthusiasm and with the best interest of the Veteran membership of the Branch… he does not hesitate to offer his assistance and advice when requested.” He has been known to have paid for yearly memberships of other members and has gone to bat for members to ensure they are recognized.