Maple Ridge, British Columbia
A Merchant Navy Veteran of the Second World War, Mr. Smith has been a volunteer in several community-based organizations dedicated to improving the lives of Veterans. Upon moving to Vancouver in the late 1970's, Mr. Smith immediately joined the Executive of the Canadian Merchant Navy Veterans Association and over the next 11 years, served as its Treasurer, Vice-President and President. Early on, he recognized the need to assist less fortunate Veterans in obtaining benefits to which they were entitled. Mr. Smith drove them to medical appointments and held fundraisers to purchase medical equipment and wheelchairs. Mr. Smith has been active in numerous Poppy Campaigns, the Sick and Visiting Committee, school visitations, and provided support and assistance to Veterans' families in difficult times. Mr. Smith formed a Speakers' Bureau to inform students of Veterans wartime service and participated in a bursary program for children of needy Veterans. Mr. Smith is a Board Member of the Ridge Meadows Fall Prevention Committee and Veterans' Commemoration Committee of British Columbia. He continues to serve Veterans with unselfish devotion and unceasing dedication.