In the story ‘ Burns Lake veteran to receive the highest honour ‘ published in the Lakes District News’ Jan. 28, 2015, Burns Lake resident Alan Blackwell was about to receive the highest expression of national appreciation given by the Congress of the United States – the congressional gold medal.
The leadership of the U.S. House and Senate presented the congressional gold medal in Washington on Feb. 3, 2015. However, Blackwell was not able to attend the ceremony due to health reasons.
After a few months wait, Blackwell is finally in possession of his prestigious award. The congressional gold medal has recently arrived by mail to his Burns Lake address.
“The medal is very impressive,” he said proudly. “It’s a pretty prestigious thing to have.”
Among the people who have received such unique distinction are George Washington and Mother Teresa of Calcutta.
The 91-year-old war veteran was honoured for his time serving in the First Special Service Force, commonly known as the Devil’s Brigade. The Devil’s Brigade is notorious for its 100 per cent success rate, as well its “impossible missions” to defeat the German Nazis during World War Two.
The Devil’s Brigade was formed in 1942 and was in operation until 1944. This elite special operations unit consisted of 1800 soldiers from the U.S. and Canada. Approximately 200 members of the Devil’s Brigade are still alive, including 50 Canadians.
On Feb. 26, 2015, Judith Guichon, Lieutenant Governor of B.C., congratulated Blackwell personally at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 50 in Burns Lake.
“I’m very proud to have this medal,” said Blackwell.
