Honours and Awards

Issued to Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) Members

VANDER-HAEGEN, George Charles

British Empire Medal

VANDER-HAEGEN, George Charles, CPO2, RCN, HMCS Athabaskan

Issued: 6-Feb-1954, Canada Gazette

"During the action at Chop-To on the 31st March, 1953, CPO Vander-Haegen was at the helm of the ship while traversing dangerous waters under enemy fire. His coolness, and promptness in answering helm and engine room contributed greatly to the success of the operation. At all times this Chief Petty Officer has shown outstanding devotion to duty, and has set a fine example in the best traditions of the Royal Canadian Navy. On two occasions when HMCS Athabaskan destroyed enemy trains, on the 24th and 30th June, 1953, CPO Vander-Haegen, by his steadiness and efficiency was an inspiration to the ship's company, and contributed greatly to these successes."