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Diamond set against gold for war-hero work

Three aboriginals given Queen's Jubilee medals

By: Matt Preprost

Posted: 08/19/2012 1:00 AM | Comments: 0

Canadian Aboriginal Veterans president Richard Blackwolf pins a Diamond Jubilee medal to Donald Mackey’s blazer. (MATT PREPROST / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS ) Photo Store

IT might be the last medal pinned to Donald Mackey's blazer, but at least he can say he's one of a rare few who have a matching set.

Mackey was one of three aboriginals who received a Diamond Jubilee medal Saturday afternoon at a ceremony at the Freight House community centre.

The new hardware will go right next to the Golden Jubilee medal he was awarded in 2002.

"It makes me feel proud. Not everyone gets that," said Mackey, who's Métis.

The jubilee medals are handed out to Canadians who make a significant contribution to their country or community.

Mackey served in the military from 1951 to 1965, making stops in Germany, Halifax, Winnipeg and Regina as part of the Canadian Provost Corps.

He was recognized for his efforts to promote and preserve the legacy of Tommy Prince.

"I remember watching a documentary (on Tommy Prince) on the History channel, and all I could remember is Tommy Prince ending up as an alcoholic on skid row," Mackey said.

"After that, I said I would do something (to recognize him)."

Since retiring in 1992, Mackey has been instrumental in helping launch five aboriginal murals in the city, including the Tommy Prince mural on Selkirk Avenue. He also helped build the Tommy Prince Plaza and established the 553 Sgt. Tommy Prince MM Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps, which runs out of the Freight House on Isabel Street.

"I started it in the core area, right in the middle of three gangs," Mackey said.

Over the years, Mackey also has received commendations from the minister of veterans affairs and earned the Canadian Forces Decoration.

Sgt. Ron Anderson and Tommy Prince Jr. also received medals at the ceremony.

Prince said he was surprised to receive one.

"It is a big honour and very overwhelming," he said.

His efforts to improve his community include working as a volunteer counsellor at the Aboriginal Council of Winnipeg and for the Bear Clamp Patrol in the North End.

He believes problems faced by aboriginal youth have taken a turn for the worse recently, due in part to a lack of recreational programming and a justice system that's far too lenient in its treatment of violent youth.

He hopes the recognition of a trio of aboriginals in the community will be a positive influence.

"It shows young people they can become someone and make something of their lives," he said.

Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition August 19, 2012 A5

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