An NWT man has received federal recognition for his work to ensure Indigenous veterans who pass away receive a proper headstone with inscription.
Floyd Powder has volunteered with the Last Post Fund since 2020 to locate the graves of those veterans and work with their families.
The federal government says he has so far “identified 27 unmarked graves, many of which were Indigenous veterans,” while also serving institutions like the Métis National Council, its Métis Veterans Legacy Program, and the Atlas Institute for Veterans and their Families.
He was awarded the Minister of Veterans’ Affairs Commendation last week by the incumbent minister, Ginette Petitpas Taylor, during her visit to Yellowknife.
The commendation “is awarded to remarkable Canadians who have contributed in an exemplary manner to the care and well-being of veterans or honoured their sacrifices and achievements,” the federal government stated.
Advertisement.
Advertisement.
Powder was born and raised in Fort Smith and served for 32 years in the Royal Canadian Regiment, an infantry unit in the Canadian Forces, before his retirement in 2013.
He was appointed sergeant-at-arms of the Legislative Assembly in late 2022.
“His countless hours of work and efforts not only allowed veterans to have a proper service but it also helps advance the reconciliation efforts and enhanced the exposure of the contribution and sacrifices of Indigenous veterans,” the federal government stated.
“Floyd is a true leader and example of ensuring Indigenous veterans receive the honour and recognition they deserve.”
