MONTREAL – Canadiens forward Brendan Gallagher received the title of Citizen of Honour from the City of Montreal during a ceremony presided by mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada at city hall on Thursday afternoon.
The distinction is awarded by the city to people who have improved the well-being of Montrealers through their actions, art and commitment.
A fifth-round pick (147th overall) at the 2010 NHL Draft, Gallagher is the longest-tenured Hab on the active roster. The native of Edmonton, AB, hit the 900-game plateau with the Canadiens earlier this season and ranks 13th overall in franchise history in that category.
“Montreal is an incredibly special place to me,” acknowledged Gallagher. “I’ve been part of this city since I was drafted at 17 years old, and I’m now 34. Over these years, Montreal has given me the opportunity to live out my childhood dream.”
During his 14 seasons in Montreal, the winger has touched the hearts of fans with his on-ice performances and off-ice contributions, including associations over the years with Shriners Hospitals for Children – Canada, the Canadian Cancer Society's Jacques-Cantin Lodge, Movember, Héma-Québec, and more.
“Everything Groupe CH does in the community, whether it’s at blood drives, BLEU BLANC BOUGE rinks, or hospital visits [...], Brendan has always been there for us, and for Montrealers, as a man [committed to] his community,” underlined Geoff Molson, Owner, President and Chief Executive Officer, Groupe CH.
The connection to the community has always come easily for the NHL veteran.
“I think the reason I was able to connect so deep with Montreal is because the city is so relatable. It reflects the values I admire most: hard work, passion, resilience and pride. And I got to see that every single day with the Montrealers that I got to meet and connect with over the years,” added Gallagher.
In recognition of his legacy in Montreal, Gallagher becomes the 43rd recipient of this award and the first hockey player to receive the title.
