Fort Simpson (Feb 20/04) - Fort Simpson's Lee Cazon has set a new standard for volunteers across the NWT and, perhaps, even Canada.

The 24-year-old was honoured by RCMP brass Thursday for logging more than 3,600 hours as an auxiliary constable in 2003, an average of nearly 10 hours per day.

"Lee is an exceptional young man. We're extremely appreciative of his efforts," said chief superintendent Everett Summerfield, commanding officer of the RCMP in the NWT. "It's absolutely remarkable."

But Cazon, who works full-time as a guard in the RCMP holding cells, down-played his accomplishment.

"I've got a lot of time on my hands," he said.

"I'd rather stay busy than not do anything at all."

Officially, Cazon totalled 3,612 hours of volunteer service with the Fort Simpson detachment.

His tasks included everything from patrolling the village on foot to travelling with regular members to communities like Wrigley.

Auxiliary constables don't carry a gun, but otherwise have the same equipment as regular RCMP members. They are provided with training by the force, while the territorial government covers the cost of uniforms.

The program was established to provide extra manpower to local police forces and give residents a chance to help their fellow community members.

Volunteers are required to put in a minimum of 100 hours per year, with anything more than 300 considered to be high, said Cpl. Al Shepherd.

"That helps put (Cazon's accomplishments) into perspective," he said.

Cazon began volunteering with the RCMP in 2001 while living in Fort McPherson. After a few ride along trips, the soft spoken Cazon said he fell in love with the job.

"Every day is like a new adventure," he said. "And it's nice knowing that you're making a difference in the community."

At times juggling work, family and volunteering can be challenging, said Cazon.

"I can't imagine doing anything else," he said.