The District of Kitimat and the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 250 re-dedicated the community cenotaph, which has recently been beautified under a two-year municipal program at Centennial Park.
The event brought to the forefront the memory of one of Kitimat’s early pioneers, Fire Chief Aubrey Creed.
Creed designed the cenotaph, which was completed in 1972, the year after Centennial Park was opened in 1971.
Creed based his design off of the Bronze Star award given to him by the United States, awarded for valour during the Italian campaign in World War II.
Retired Fire Chief Bill Dawson remembered Creed in his speech to those gathered at the event August 6. He remembered Creed for establishing Kitimat’s emergency services program, including ambulance service which began with a single Ford van.
Creed was also instrumental in the development at Bishop Bay and Weewannie for their hot springs.
Creed also was distinguished with a knighthood.
“You will always be remembered here,” said Dawson about Creed and the cenotaph.
Creed’s children Kim and Ingvar were also on hand, and spoke in thanks for the beautification project and the importance it has to their family.
Speaking on behalf of Kitimat Council, Rob Goffinet noted the extensive work that has happened in the park, which includes new gardens, walkways and a flag pole, in addition to the new plaques on the cenotaph itself.
He said it was in partnership with the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 250 that council, in 2013, were able to repair and update the cenotaph area of the park.