Image: District of Kent / Neil Brewer (centre), honoured by the District of Kent for his outstanding contributions to the District due to his role as a 35-year manager for Kent Harrison Search and Rescue and several other efforts. District of Kent Mayor Sylvia Pranger (left front) presented the award to Brewer on behalf of the district. 

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Search and rescue manager recognized

Agassiz-area search and rescue manager earns highest award from District of Kent

Feb 26, 2025 | 9:15 AM

AGASSIZ — Neil Brewer has practically seen it all and done it all in his 35 years as a manager with Kent Harrison Search and Rescue.

Brewer has been involved in more than 600 search and rescue tasks and logged countless hours helping to secure funding for essential equipment for search and rescue groups across the province.

In light of his his hard work and dedication towards constructing a new Kent-Harrison Search and Rescue building in 2017, and his dedication to KHSAR, Brewer was recently recognized with the Freedom of the District of Kent Award, the honest honour the municipality can bestow upon an individual or organization.

In a news release from the district, the Freedom of the District of Kent recognizes individuals and groups of exceedingly high merit who have made outstanding long-term contributions to the District of Kent. Recipients of this honour must have made outstanding long-term contributions to the district, made a significant improvement to district life and culture and be recognized by their peers and outside of the district.

Image: District of Kent / Freedom of the District of Kent Award, presented to Neil Brewer.

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Since joining the Kent-Harrison Search and Rescue Team, Brewer has received awards and recognition for his exemplary contributions, including Certificate of Achievement Award, the Search and Rescue Volunteer of the Year Award, and the B.C. Medal of Good Citizenship. The district says these awards were presented to Brewer based on recommendations from Provincial Search and Rescue Groups who have recognized his determination, skill, and exemplary leadership.

“Through unwavering dedication, remarkable achievements, and a commitment to the values of our District, Neil has significantly enhanced the lives of both our residents and visitors to the area, as well inspiring others to strive for excellence,” District of Kent wrote in a statement. “In recognition of his outstanding impact and service to the community, the Freedom of the District of Kent was awarded to Neil Brewer on February 24, 2025.”