Member of the Order of Canada

• Awarded on: December 21, 1987
• Invested on: May 06, 1988

He has been a catalyst in enhancing pride and dignity among the Indian Nations and has enriched their lives by encouraging them to design community programs consistent with traditional spiritual and cultural values. The first honorary lifetime Grand Chief of all the First Nations of Manitoba and author of the "partnership concept" between Indian Nations and the federal and provincial governments, he has contributed to increased mutual understanding and respect between the First Nations and other Canadian citizens.