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It's hard to live in Strathmore without knowing the name George Freeman, but who was he?
Freeman, who has a school and road in Strathmore named after him, lived in town for decades working alongside groups such as Ducks Unlimited and the Royal Canadian Legion in Strathmore.
According to Jenny Schumann, treasurer with the local Legion, Freeman was a veteran, who stormed the beaches of Normandy during World War II.
"The mural at the Legion, George can remember being in that boat landing on the beaches of D-Day, just as clear as that mural was."
Schumann, who joined the Legion 34 years ago, said that Freeman was a mentor to her.
"He showed me the way of the Legion and that type of thing. How it runs, and more so the humanity and humility of everything. He was a good guy and a friend to everyone."
The Legion helped Freeman get awarded as a Knight in the French National Order of the Legion of Honor for his service overseas.
"The representatives from the French consulate brought champagne and wine to the Legion, and it was such a joyous occasion for George to get this huge recognition," added Schumann.
Freeman also served as Director of the Calgary Zoo for 19 years and volunteer fire chief in Strathmore for 17. He also helped to create 'Strathmore: The Village That Moved', a novel that explores the history of the town.
There were several causes around town that Freeman supported, such as the Strathmore Handibus and the Christmas Hamper Society.
"There's just so many things that George was involved in. He was always there, and he was the face of the Legion."
Freeman passed away on Nov. 6, 2017, at the age of 94.