Nunavik men honored by national award

IQALUIT — On September 10, in Quebec City, Governor General Roméo Leblanc will present three Nunavik men with meritorious service medals.

Peter Taati Airo of Salluit, Moses Idlout of Inukjuak and Paulusie Padlayat of Salluit will receive the medals for their involvement in the 1997 “Suicide Awareness Journey.”

The 73-day snowmobile trek began on March 3 in Ivujivik and ended when the trio returned to Salluit.

“The men tested their endurance on a daily basis, and routinely travelled 14 to 18 hours a day to reach isolated Arctic destinations. They visited 35 Arctic communities and covered 8,850 kilometers to speak with members of the communities on suicide prevention,” reads the announcement of the award.

“As a result of their efforts and the willingness of the people and Nunavik, various action and counselling groups have been formed throughout the North to help communities work together to strengthen the family unit.”

Unlike the Order of Canada which focuses on lifetime achievement, a meritorious service decoration honors a single achievement or an activity over a specified period.