Hamilton, Ontario
Mr. Kennedy is a retired Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Reserves soldier with more than 43 years of service. A dedicated community volunteer and a contributor to many local and national organizations including the Metis Nation of Ontario Veterans Association and the Clear Water Metis Council, he is a strong advocate for Aboriginal people and Veterans. Mr. Kennedy was instrumental in organizing the military component for the opening of the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum. In 2012, he was Registration Committee chair of the Hamilton Light Infantry 150th Anniversary, a 3-day event which included the “Trooping of the Colour” for HRH, The Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex. Mr. Kennedy was one of the Korean Veterans Association (KVA) Unit 26 Republic of South Korea (ROK) Memorial Project Committee members which raised funds to erect the RCN Ships in Korea Monument in Burlington, Ontario. He was involved as a committee member in numerous Veterans Affairs Canada events to celebrate “The Year of the Korean War Veteran” and “The Year of Korea” in 2013. Mr. Kennedy was inducted as an Honourary Korean War Veteran by the KVA for his advocacy. He received The 31 Canadian Brigade Group Commander’s Commendation in 2006, the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry Commanding Officer’s Commendation in 2007, and the Commanding Officer’s Commendation for 2008. In 2012, Mr. Kennedy was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.