Prince Albert minister receives military honour

By Aaron Stuckel

paNOW Staff

In the horrors of war, Minister Sandy Scott provided spiritual guidance in a world where right and wrong too often blend together. And on Thursday morning in Ottawa, he was recognized for his outstanding service with a Meritorious Service Medal.

Scott spent over 6 months in Afghanistan between September, 2009 and April, 2010 as a chaplain for the Canadian Armed Forces. He provided spiritual and personal support to soldiers on how to make sense of their role and their purpose in the country.

“The leadership and the soldiers particularly look to the chaplain for moral support (and) for some answer for this challenge of battle, injury and death,” he said.

The Meritorious Service Medal is awarded to individuals who have carried out meritorious acts that bring honour to the military. Scott and another chaplain from his team are the first chaplains to ever receive the medal. One other received the Chief of Defence Staff Commendation.

“It’s very, very unusual for any chaplain to get a medal, let alone recognized,” said Scott. “It just reflects how good of a team we were on.”

Scott experienced many challenges with soldiers who were struggling with the loss of fellow soldiers and friends. But in the midst of horror and death, Scott never questioned his role or his faith.

“In those times when there is chaos and things seem to be beyond us or out of control, that’s the moment that people are willing to hear a word of comfort. ‘My peace I give to you, my peace I leave you,’” said Scott, quoting the book of John. “Not the way the world gives you peace but the peace of God and Christ.”

Scott was informed that he would be receiving the medal in July. He said he has been mulling over the reason why he was chosen but was humbled at the honour.

“For soldiers that have been decorated with the Star of Bravery or the Star of Valour, those are soldiers who really understand what it means to make sacrifices,” he said. “I was just doing my job.”

Scott is the Minister of St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church in Prince Albert and still serves as deputy area chaplain for the Canadian Armed forces in Western Canada.

“It was a great honour to be with young Canadians who were serving their country. And to be also with the Afghans that we were able to work with,” Scott said. “We loved our jobs.”

The medal ceremony took place at Rideau Hall in Ottawa on Thursday, where 38 other members of the Canadian Armed Forces received honours.

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