Arthur Shussler of the Battlefords, recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, was presented the award by Saskatchewan Lt. Gov. Vaughn Schofield at the Delta Bessborough Hotel in Saskatoon Dec. 16.
Schussler enlisted in the Canadian Air Forces in 1954 and retired in 1978. He worked in the Data Maintenance Co-ordination Centre with a rank of sergeant. He was awarded the Maple Leaf Bar, the Rosette Clasp and received medals and other commendations from the Air Force. He also received the Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee Medal in 1977.
He served in various provinces across Canada and Minnesota, U.S.A., served as mayor of the RCAF base in Yorkton and White Spruce and was in charge of Boy Scouts and Girl Guides.
Schussler served in the RCMP from 1978 to 1996 in Battleford, as a telecommunication officer.
He and his wife Wilma, a former military commissionaire, have been married for 55 years. They have one daughter, two sons, two grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Besides his accomplishments, Schussler will be remembered for his ready humour and kindly gestures. He is a dynamic and extremely conscientious Royal Canadian Legion member who mentors new executive members. He has a high degree of moral courage, absolutely trustworthy, yet too often does not receive, nor seek credit.
Arthur has volunteered for many organizations: Big Brothers and Big Sisters, annually taking part in the Bowl for Kids Sake Fundraiser; kettle drive, a program for the Empty Stocking Fund; regularly enters card and bowling tournaments; coached T-ball and little league softball.
He has always sought out possibilities to benefits others, driving them to medical appointments, shopping trips and visiting when they are ill at home or in the hospital.
Schussler has served many terms as president of the Royal Canadian Legion, Battleford Branch No. 9, assisting with Remembrance Day, acting as chairman for several committees and serving in various positions over his 34 years as a member. He has received the Legion Certificate of Appreciation numerous times and was granted life membership in 2006.
