One of the main reasons the Bonnyville Legion is still operating is thanks to the hard work and dedication of Duane Hite.
The local member has been a part of the Royal Canadian Legion for the past 50 years and an integral part of the local Branch 183 for over 20 years.
“Certainly one of the reasons why this legion still exists is due to the work of guys like (Hite),” said Bonnyville Branch President Dan Gates.
“He puts in more hours than anyone. He is always here doing something.”
Hite was recognized for his 50 years of dedication and service to the Royal Canadian Legion last week when he received a Meritorious Service Medal.
“It is the highest honour anyone in the legion can get,” said Hite. “Everybody strives for it, but not everybody gets it. It is something I will treasure for the rest of my life.”
The MSM is very prestigious award as only those who have been made lifetime members are eligible for the honour.
Members aren't even considered for a lifetime membership until after they have been a part of the legion for 15 years.
In order to receive the award one has to be nominated by their local branch and then pass through several levels of review.
Gates wrote up a biography and nominated Hite for the honour, which was passed by the local branch. The application was then sent to the Zone committee, passed on to Districts, then on to a Provincial level before finally getting approved at the National (Dominion) level.
A group of legion delegates in Ottawa have the final say on handing out the Meritorious Service Medal and approved Hite for the Royal Canadian Legions highest honour.
“It is a pretty significant award,” said Gates. “There are different medals the legion issues, such as a Branch Service Award, but there are none higher than the Meritorious Service Award.”
After serving in the military for 35 years, Hite continued to serve his country by being a leading representative of the local legion. He is involved in everything the local branch does and has been the building manager since 1993.
In 2013 he was instrumental in seeing the legion successfully relocate into the old Anglican Church on 51 Ave.
“It is not just about working with the legion,” said Gates. “It is also about the work you do in the community. (Hite) is a member of the Lion's Club. When there is anything going on with the service clubs he is the guy.”
Hite works on getting new members for the legion, hands out school awards, and makes sure the new building is looked after.
When asked why he does what he does Hite responded, “It gets me out of the house.”
