Two deserving Cochrane volunteers were surprised by the presentation of Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Award pins by Banff-Airdrie MP Blake Richards during CultureFest on Sept. 18.

Jag Thind and Paul Singh were recognized for assisting with many community causes and for selflessly lending support to others in their times of need.

Jag Thind, a generous local business owner and a cornerstone of the Cochrane Chamber of Commerce, has long been involved in promoting local food banks, especially during seasonal food drives. Jag’s work helps to ensure that in-need families in Cochrane are not left empty-handed when they cannot afford groceries.

Paul Singh has served as an active member of the Cochrane Immigrant Service Committee (CISC) for many years, volunteering countless hours to provide newcomers the services and support they need to be successful in their new life in Canada. Beyond his work with CISC, Paul also volunteers with the Boys and Girls Club and countless other community initiatives.

"It feels great," says Thind. "Unfortunately, it's sad news, but I can say I received one of the last awards from the Queen, so it's a big thing that I'll remember for the rest of my life. I think it will push me to do more and more."

"Cochrane is full of volunteers, this is what we're known for," says Singh, "and I'm thankful to the Member of Parliament and the people who nominated me for saying I'm doing a little bit for the community. I'm thankful and honoured."

The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Award pins, celebrating the 70th year of Queen Elizabeth’s reign, are representative of the Queen’s lifelong commitment to service and are distributed by Members of Parliament to deserving members of their communities.

Given the Queen’s recent passing, these awards are especially important reminders of the Queen’s lifelong commitment to duty.