Nicola Meadows resident Ron Edwards doesn’t feed the ducks near the local retirement home for accolades, but that’s exactly what he was surprised with on Friday, Feb. 27.

Fellow resident Leo Past crafted a custom wooden medallion with a mallard inscribed on it for Edwards. The medallion, complete with a ribbon attached to the top, is reminiscent of a war medal — something veteran Edwards is no stranger to.

Past said he wanted to recognize Edwards for feeding the ducks every day before breakfast no matter the weather and let him know this small act of kindness is appreciated by the home’s residents.

Each morning and the occasional afternoon, Edwards calls the mallards using his duck call and throws them some grain and seeds.

Some days, he attracts as many as 100 ducks.

Rain or shine, sleet or snow, he’s out there to feed the birds, Past said.

“From the kindness of his heart, without fail, rain or shine, he’s out there feeding these feathered friends of ours,” Past said on behalf of his neighbours. “It’s quite a sight to see.”

He presented the token of appreciation to Edwards on Friday at supper time in front of all the residents, staff and guests who came down for dinner.

“We thank you for the memories that this brings to us,” Past said.