At the True Patriot Love Foundation tribute dinner last week in Calgary, Lt.-Col. J.H. Harry Quarton of Summerland was honoured for his service.
Quarton participated in the Normandy invasion of Europe 70 years ago.
He served in the Canadian Armed Forces for 48 years.
He joined the South Alberta Regiment, 29th Canadian Armoured Regiment and H.Q. 4th Canadian Armoured Division during World War II.
On his return to Canada in 1946, he joined the 19th Alberta Dragoons and later commanded the Loyal Edmonton Regiment and was the first Canadian Regiment of the Reserve to qualify as parachute troops.
He also served as senior aide de comp to five Alberta Lieutenant-Governors.
The tribute dinner was attended by 1,200 people.
The event raised $1.2 million to support Canadian military families in need.