BARRHEAD -When it came to who Athabasca-Barrhead-Westlock MLA Glenn van Dijken should give the King Charles III Coronation Medal to, the first and only name that came to mind was Herman Barkemeyer.
That is what van Dijken told Barkemeyer and a small group of his family members, including his wife Inga, his daughter and son-in-law Cindy and Randy Jackson, and his grand-daughter Megan Jackson, during a private ceremony on Jan. 31 at the MLA's Barrhead constituency office.
The medal is a new award to celebrate King Charles III's coronation as the King of Canada. It is given to residents who have made a significant contribution to Canada, their province, or their communities.
"As an MLA, we were given the opportunity to recognize a constituent that we felt deserved this recognition, and Herman's name came to mind immediately," he said. "Medal recipients lead, don't wait to be led. They tackle challenges head-on and see problems as opportunities instead of obstacles."
Barkemeyer, 91, is a Canadian Armed Forces veteran who served 10 years with the Royal Canadian Air Force and the army, with the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI), including an 18-month tour during the Korean War. He is also a long-serving member of the Royal Canadian Legion, joining shortly after his return from Korea.
"[It is through the Legion] that Herman generously dedicates his time and energy supporting fellow veterans [as long-time Legion service officer]," van Dijken said. "He is also involved in the schools, imparting valuable insights from a veteran's perspective, helping educate youth and the next generation."
He added that although Barkemeyer's efforts are known and recognized in the Barrhead area, his influence extends far beyond.
"It is a special day for our recipient, Herman Barkemeyer, and the family and the whole community. His unwavering commitment and devotion are a beacon that is recognized throughout the province. We are here today to recognize a true provincial leader," van Diken said.
Barkemeyer said he was very humbled to receive the award.
However, Barkemeyer said he would not have been in the position to do the things he has been able to and receive the accolades he has, including receiving the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal medal, in 2023, if it had not been for his wife, Inga.
"She's there the entire time and deserves this medal as much as I do," he said, noting they would soon be celebrating their 70th wedding anniversary.
Barry Kerton, TownandCountryToday.com
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