A Veteran of the Second World War and the Italian campaign, Mr. McKinnon has earned an outstanding reputation for his inspiring leadership and tireless efforts on behalf of Veterans in his community and across Ontario. In recognition of his longtime service to the Royal Canadian Legion in Bracebridge, including his work as the 1st Vice President, he was presented with his Life Membership in 2001. He is also a Life Member of the Veterans Club of Barrie and a member of the Barrie Canadian Airborne Forces Association. Mr. McKinnon joined the Army, Navy and Air Force Veterans in Canada (ANAVETS), Barrie Unit 365, in 1966. After serving in increasingly important positions on the executive committee, he was elected Unit President in 1974 which he occupied for the next 30 years. He has also contributed as a Director to support the Royal Victoria Hospital, the Barrie Food Bank and the Victoria Village. In recognition of his community service, Mr. McKinnon received the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal and in 2003, he was named Barrie's Citizen of the Year. Mr. McKinnon has received many other honours and awards in recognition of his selfless dedication to Veterans including the ANAVETS Order of Merit, the American Legion Friendship Award and the Order of St. John. In 1992, Mr. McKinnon was chosen to represent ANAVETS and he joined other Canadian Veterans who returned to Italy to pay tribute to their fallen comrades.