Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honour Mr. Walter Burchnall, a Second World War Royal Canadian Air Force veteran who served as a pilot in Burma. Mr. Burchnall was recently awarded the Minister of Veterans Affairs commendation medal for his years of selfless devotion to Canadian veterans.
After retiring from the Canadian armed forces in 1969, Mr. Burchnall devoted his time to the Royal Canadian Legion, where he has served in various roles, such as a branch president, and on various committees. He has even helped construct a new community cenotaph. Beyond that, Mr. Burchnall serves families of veterans on a more personal level, helping them apply for services and benefits, and even assisting in funeral and memorial planning.
Walter was also instrumental in initiating charitable casinos, which generated considerable revenue for his Legion branch and subsequent local charities it supports.
Mr. Burchnall has dedicated his life to our great country, and for that we are all eternally grateful. I know I can speak on behalf of all members of the House when I thank him for his years of service and congratulate him on receiving the prestigious award.