The parade, established in 1921, is a volunteer-run event organized by those with military backgrounds. It is held every August at the Canadian National Exhibition first to honour those who fought in the First World War and later to honour all serving members and veterans.

“Of course, a lot of them cannot march," Hymers said of the elderly veterans. "They still want to participate so we usually have a whole group of vintage vehicles, MG sports cars and vintage military vehicles that we arrange for rides so they can ride along the parade route."

Thomas served in the Canadian Armed Forces starting in 1958 and joined the regular army in 1960. While working as a peacekeeper, he served in Cyprus, Egypt, Gaza and Beirut. One of his duties included working to hold the line during the Six Day War in the Middle East in 1967.

In fact, one of the medals he wears on his uniform includes the Canadian Peacekeeping Service Medal, given to all peacekeepers in 1988 for their services since 1947. The medal is still given out for peacekeeping missions.

Along with his military career, Thomas has dedicated his life to helping veterans. He volunteers with the Waterdown Legion as a veterans’ officer and helps those in need.

This past year alone, he has helped veterans get to medical appointments, helped families with funeral arrangements and provided transportation for veterans to CFB Borden events. He also visits schools on a regular basis to teach children about the importance of remembrance, in addition to helping veterans navigate the bureaucracy of Veterans Affairs Canada to receive aid such as new wheelchairs, hearing devices and glasses.

“If we didn’t have volunteers, could you imagine what our quality of life would be like,” Thomas said.

Despite receiving the medal, Thomas has no intention of retiring from volunteer service.

“We don’t do volunteer work for 'atta boys’ or pats on the back,” Thomas said. “It’s a real honour, but yeah, I’ve got lots of life left in me yet and as long as I can do work, helping other people, I’m going to continue."