Dowagiac man honored by Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians

DOWAGIAC, Mich. -- A man from Dowagiac was honored by the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians for his volunteer and humanitarian efforts both locally and around the country.

Brian Antisdel was honored by the Elder Council and was presented with an eagle feather in an official ceremony, according to the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi.

Antisdel was given the high honor for his strength, bravery, and respect for traditional teachings while participating in numerous volunteer projects.

He has been praised for helping local children pay for school lunches and also handing out heaters during the dangerous Polar Vortex.

But his humanitarian aid reaches farther than that. Antisdel has delivered water to Flint, volunteered at Standing Rock Sioux, and has been active in disaster zones including the wildfires in California.

“I see lots of things that break my heart,” Antisdel said. “In California, I have never in my life witnessed such death, loss, being alone, searching night and day for anything alive. Being there with goods the community sent or a hug or a smile was the most amazing thing I had ever felt, that's when I knew what I was supposed to do.”

Antisdel was commended for his kindness, activism, and for being someone who will step in whenever he is called on.

“Brian has voluntarily put his own safety at risk to come to the aid of others,” said Judy Winchester, Elders Council Chair. “He has chosen a path consistent with the Seven Grandfather teachings of the Pokagon Band. We honor him as an example that only what is done for others will last.”