Inuvik - Two old friends saw each other for the first time in over 60 years during the anniversary party this past weekend.

For Tommy Tucker of Kugluktuk and Robert Alexie Sr. of Fort McPherson, this past weekend will remain in their memories for years to come.

Tommy Tucker, left, and Robert Alexie Sr. are two former Aklavik students who have not seen each other in 63 years. They were reunited during the homecoming celebrations this past weekend. - Dez Loreen/NNSL photo

"This is the greatest thing that has happened to me in my life," said Alexie, hours after meeting up with his school-time friend.

The men said their meeting was arranged by Nellie Cournoyea, who knew that both were in town for the anniversary. As boys in 1945, both were enrolled in the All Saints Anglican school in Aklavik.

"That was the last time we saw one another," said Alexie.

The two friends said they went separate ways after they finished school. Alexie said Saturday afternoon was a very happy moment for him.

"I knew he was coming from Coppermine," said Alexie.

"I ran into him downtown at lunch time."

Tucker said it had been so long since he had seen his friend, they had a tough time recognizing each other.

"'Who are you,' I said to him," said Alexie.

Although the reunion was a short one, only for the weekend, both men said they were happy to see each other and spend some time talking about their shared memories.

Alexie said the gathering for the anniversary was a good one with many familiar faces from long ago.

"I try to keep in touch with as many people as I can," he said.

Tucker said he is grateful to Cournoyea for setting up the meeting.

"When I got in, she asked if I wanted to see an old schoolmate, I didn't know it was him," said Tucker.

"It's been a great time."

Cournoyea also spoke about the men and their longtime reunion during her speech in front of the Jim Koe Park audience.