Sandy Lake Canadian Rangers honored with headstones

Two former members of the Canadian Rangers were recognized for their service in a ceremony today in Sandy Lake.

Delilah Meekis and Frederick Meekis both served in the Canadian Forces as members of Sandy Lake Canadian Ranger Patrol Group before passing away.

"This is historically significant", said Capt. Bob Munroe, adjuctant for the Canadian Rangers. 

This is the first time in Canadian military history that a Canadian Ranger has been given recognition on their headstone for their service in the Canadian Forces, said Capt. Munroe.  The honor has traditionally been reserved for members who fought in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War.

Delilah Meekis, who was just 33 years old when she was tragically killed in April 2001, had been an original member of the Sandy Lake Canadian Ranger Patrol when it first started in February 1995.

Frederick Meekis joined the Canadian Rangers in December 1996 and was awarded a Special Service Medal during his service.  Fred passed away in November 2003 when he was 63 years old.

The 3rd Canadian Ranger Patrol Group were contacted by Sandy Lake Patrol Sgt. Carson Fiddler and Judy Meekis, Fred's granddaughter, with the idea of getting headstones to honor their years of service.

Thank you to The Last Post Fund for providing the headstones and the Canadian Rangers for their support in getting the headstones to Sandy Lake.