A Nova Scotia veteran was awarded a Vimy medal Friday for his ongoing support of veterans through the organization Veterans UN-NATO.
“Members tell me … that this group has saved their lives,” said Gus Cameron, who is part of the local branch of Veterans UN-NATO.
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The organization seeks out retired veterans who may be feeling isolated.
Cameron, who served many years in the Royal Canadian Navy, was awarded the medal by veterans advocate and former MP Peter Stoffer at Steak and Stein restaurant in Halifax.
Cameron joined the group in 2012 and has organized breakfasts for members every Saturday at Steak and Stein.
“He served … for many years in the navy, and now he’s continuing that service, making sure that all veterans and their families and that of the RCMP are together, that no one’s left behind,” said Stoffer, who was awarded a patch the same morning for his own work supporting veterans.
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Cameron said the first breakfast attracted nine members; nowadays, 50-90 people attend them.
“It’s just nice to know that we’re doing the right thing, and we’re having fun,” he said.