Herbert was host to the family and friends of Joseph Hildebrand, as his family was presented with the Ukrainian Canadian Medal of Sacrifice.
Hildebrand was a veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces, having served with the 3rd Battalion of the Princess Patricia Canadian Light Infantry in Afghanistan and Iraq. He was killed while fighting for Ukraine as a member of the Foreign Legion in 2022. His last act was an attempt to rescue a comrade during the battle for Bakhmut, making the ultimate sacrifice.
Hildebrand's three brothers, Mark, Jacob, and Luke, were presented the medal alongside their mother, Shelley. The many kind words highlighting Hildebrand's sacrifice resonated with the family.
"I think we really appreciated that they did this ceremony to keep the memory (of Joseph and his actions) alive," said Jacob. "Joseph was incredibly brave and sacrificed his life for other people. It's nice to see that kind of sacrifice respected and appreciated, and that what he did will not be forgotten."
The medal was presented by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress and the Ukrainian Canadian War Veterans Association. It features the Tryzub, the official coat of arms for Ukraine, joined to four maple leaves of gold, which rest over four maple leaves of red. It signifies a unity of both nations and cultures, honouring the sacrifices of those who "demonstrate unwavering commitment and selflessness in the face of adversity", per the official description.
Jacob revealed that he has kept in contact with one of the individuals who served with Hildebrand in Ukraine. In his communications, he has enjoyed hearing of how his brother was constantly saving those who needed rescue.
"They said that that day, they would go out and grab whoever they could bring back with them to a safe area for medical attention," said Jacob. "He said every time they'd be tired, but they would look back and there would be Joe, heading back in again for another round, to get another guy. He kept going back every time, he said. That Joe never stopped."
Hildebrand was highlighted to have been a leader. When his father unexpectedly passed away during Hildebrand's enlistment with the Canadian Armed Forces, he made the decision to return home to run the family farm. His brothers referred to him as the 'glue guy'.
"When he got that energy, you'd just have to follow someone like that," said Mark. "He's a natural leader, someone you want to follow."
Various members of government spoke at the meeting. MP Jeremy Patzer, MLA Blaine McLeod, and Mayor Ron Mathies all spoke about the significance of Hildebrand's sacrifice. Mathies went as far as to present a personal note to the family, highlighting Hildebrand.
For Shelley, her son's actions to serve others and protect them are a mark of pride. She misses him dearly, but was happy to see so many people attend the event in his honour.
"I'm very proud of the sacrifice Joseph made," said Shelley. "The impact his life had on a lot of people, and his lasting legacy."
The ceremony was hosted by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress of Saskatchewan in the Herbert School gymnasium. The medal presentation was sponsored by the Regina branches of the Ukrainian Women's Association of Canada - Daughters of Ukraine Branch, the Ukrainian Men's Association of Canada (TYC), and the Ukrainian Society of Prosvita.